Our Services
Free, confidential advice on money, benefits, housing and work, available inside your GP practice.
What we can help with
Our advisers deal with the practical problems that often sit behind a health concern. They do not give medical advice. Instead they help you understand your position, work out what to do next and, where needed, write letters, contact organisations or speak on your behalf.
The four areas below cover the majority of what people bring to us. If your problem does not fit neatly into one of them, ask at reception and we will find the right route.
Debt and money advice
Falling behind on rent, council tax, utility bills or credit repayments can cause real distress. We look at the whole picture, including income and essential spending, and help you agree manageable plans with creditors.
- Budget planning and income checks
- Negotiating with creditors and collectors
- Information on formal debt solutions
Benefits and tax credits
Benefit decisions can be hard to read and easy to get wrong. We check whether you are receiving everything you are entitled to, help you complete claim forms and support you through reviews and appeals.
- Checking entitlement and claim eligibility
- Completing forms and gathering evidence
- Preparing for reviews, mandatory reconsiderations and appeals
Housing and tenancy problems
Repairs that are not carried out, threatened eviction, and disputes over deposits all put heavy strain on health. We explain your rights as a tenant or homeowner and help you decide whether to write, negotiate or seek further support.
- Repairs, damp and unsafe conditions
- Notices, possession action and rent arrears
- Deposits, rent increases and tenancy agreements
Work, pay and employment rights
Problems with wages, sick pay, redundancy or unfair treatment at work can leave people unable to plan. We explain what your employer must do, how to raise a concern and what options exist if the matter is not resolved.
- Unpaid wages and holiday pay questions
- Sick pay, adjustments and time off for treatment
- Redundancy and dismissal guidance
Booking and what to bring
Appointments are short and free. You can book at reception or ask a clinician to refer you. Please bring any letters you have received, along with details of income, outgoings and any deadlines you have been given.
- Letters, notices and court papers, even if you think they are out of date
- Recent bank statements or payslips where you have them
- A note of any dates by which you must respond
If you are facing an immediate deadline, such as a court date or a cut-off of essential services, tell the reception team when you arrive so that the adviser can see you first.