EFFORTS are in place to assist residents following the Government's 'daunting' changes to universal credit.

Warrington moved to the Government's full service universal credit arrangements last Wednesday, February 22.

The council is working with its partners to make people aware of the move.

The change will affect the majority of working age customers, who would have previously applied to the council for help with their rent, as they will now need to apply for universal credit instead.

Customers making new claims will be expected to fill out the application online or visit their local Jobcentre Plus office for further advice.

Warrington Citizen's Advice Bureau is on hand offer advice and support to people who encounter difficulties with benefits claims.

Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, executive board member for public health and wellbeing, said: "The changes to universal credit will affect people making new claims and I want to encourage anyone affected or concerned to make sure they know where to get help and not to delay in getting advice.

"The changes to the application process may be daunting for some people, so if you're in any doubt about how to make a claim or need help with managing an existing claim then it's absolutely fine to ask for support and it's not something you should put off."

Golden Gates Housing Trust (GGHT) is also working to help tenants.

Carmel Morris, senior financial inclusion officer at GGHT, said: "The changes to universal credit will affect new claims initially, so if you make a new claim for benefits and are of working age you will automatically be put onto universal credit.

"Many people will need help getting to grips with universal credit.

"Not everyone has access to the internet or the digital skills required to make and manage a claim online.

"Managing a monthly benefit and taking responsibility for paying the rent is also a big change.

"That's why we've created a dedicated universal credit support team."

For help visit warrington-advice.co.uk or e-mail ucsupport@gght.org.uk