Mastering Mechanics & Practical Support for Claimants

Universal Credit (UC) offers new opportunities to welfare claimants but one in five new claims are reportedly delayed or fail altogether, triggering rent arrears and debt, anxiety and fears of homelessness. With millions of vulnerable claimants, (including those with mental health issues), due to transition over the coming years, it’s time for support workers everywhere to get up to speed.

This introductory workshop for non-welfare and non-finance specialists is delivered over two half-day sessions. (There’s a lot to take on board.)What are the pitfalls claimants face? What are the advantages of UC? What are the soft and hard skills non-specialist advisors need to support people through this transition? And what are the ‘3 Bs’?

Upcoming course(s):

📍 Location: Online

📅 Dates: 18th and 19th November 

⏰ Time: 9:30am – 12:30pm

The full training course is made up of two morning sessions. Session 1 will take place on Wednesday the 2nd October and session 2 will take place on the following Wednesday, 9th October.

Session 1: Universal Credit: Mastering the Mechanics  

Session 2: Practical Steps: Helping Claimants Navigate UC  

In today’s evolving landscape, understanding Universal Credit is not just beneficial, it’s essential. As the welfare system scales up significantly to now encompass the most vulnerable, frontline workers play a pivotal role in supporting benefit claimants through the transition. Our comprehensive workshop offers a deep dive into the intricacies of Universal Credit, empowering you to guide claimants effectively and mitigate potential hardships.

Session 1: Universal Credit: Mastering the Mechanics

Dive into the technical aspects of Universal Credit with our expert facilitators. Gain a comprehensive understanding of how the system operates, from application processes to payment schedules. Did you know research found one in five new UC claimants faced delays and failed claims? Uncover the common pitfalls and challenges that claimants encounter, arming yourself with the knowledge to anticipate and address their needs proactively.

Session 2: Practical Steps: Helping Claimants Navigate UC

Explore preventative steps with our interactive afternoon session. Collaborate with fellow frontline workers to develop practical strategies for supporting claimants on the ground. Learn how to empower individuals to manage their limited budgets, navigate rent payments, and reduce reliance on debt and crisis services. Together, participants will identify ways to nurture greater resilience and financial stability for vulnerable people.

Testimonials

“Your expertise and ability to break down complex topics made the learning process much easier and enjoyable. It was evident that both of you are deeply passionate about the subject, and that enthusiasm was contagious.

You have equipped our team with the knowledge and confidence to help others with any challenges they may face. We now feel much more prepared to support others in navigating the Universal Credit system, and we know the skills and insights we’ve gained will be incredibly beneficial in our work moving forward.”

“This is the best training I have been on in a long time. The material was focused, clear and presented in a systematic and methodical way. Incredibly useful, thank you!“

Key Takeaways

• Deep understanding of the Universal Credit welfare system
• Insight into claimants’ challenges and vulnerabilities
• Practical tools for mitigating risks and supporting resilience
• Strategies to prevent rent arrears, debt, and financial instability
• Empowerment to make a meaningful difference in your community

Programme Design

• The workshop is brought to you by the Quids in! Professional Network
• The programme has been designed to accommodate the needs of frontline workers from advice, community and housing support settings
• Digital delivery eradicates travel time and costs and we have built in regular screen breaks to reduce fatigue and aid concentration
• Participants can attend one or both sessions, although full attendance will maximise the value of the workshop.  If there is demand, we will repeat the workshop and attendees of just one session can book the other in future
• Delivery is by an experienced tutor, who is a member of the Quids in! Money Guidance team

Enhance your professional skills, broaden your knowledge, and make a positive impact where it matters most. Register now to secure your spot and embark on a journey towards transformative change!

To register interest, contact Lisa Woodman, here.

Booking & Pricing

Organisation	Per Course – two half day sessions Non-subscribers	Per Course – two half day sessions Subscribers*
Not-for-profit organisations (turnover up to £1 million per annum)	£160	£140
Not-for-profit organisations (turnover above £1 million per annum)	£210	£180
Corporate rate	£230	£200

About the Provider

Quids in! Money Guidance is a programme delivered by Clean Slate Training & Employment CIC, helping people on low incomes across the UK to escape hardship and the risk of homelessness. Quids in! publishes accessible information and materials designed for social tenants, benefit claimants and long-term unemployed people. Our money guidance support is delivered by money coaches remotely, working with people in hardship referred by landlords, health services and Jobcentre Plus. Quids in! Centres offer drop-ins for face-to-face support in the West of England, Gloucestershire and East London. Over 2,000 members of the Quids in! Professional Network receive monthly briefings on the issues facing people in poverty, and access to discounted professional training and events.

For details of forthcoming sessions, information on bespoke events and for booking details, see our Forthcoming Programmes page here.