Support4Life (S4L) is one of many projects within Dumfries and Galloway Citizens Advice Service (DAGCAS) that assists people across the region.
It helps people with Long Term Conditions, illnesses and disabilities (including those with terminal illness) identify and claim the benefits they are entitled to.
During the pandemic, the project adapted to helping people with their benefits over the phone, through email and face to face once again. This multichannel approach allows it to be more accessible to the people who need the support.
Over the year, the S4L team has supported clients to maximise their benefits and other entitlements putting £2,573,217.40 into their pockets to support them and their dependents through this most difficult time.
The assistance has a positive impact on a client’s quality of life allowing them to focus on their health and wellbeing, as well as giving reassurance at a time it is most needed.
Emma Munro, Welfare Benefits Coordinator, pictured, said: “My team are all highly experienced and proficient in their role. They have adapted quickly and efficiently to the ever-changing situation over the last 18 months and continue to support those who really need us through face to face meetings or by telephone.
Client testimonials recently received include:
‘D&G CAS are like the 4th emergency service who ask for nothing but give all’
‘This is going to take some time to sink in, it changes things a lot for me. Thank you so much for all your help’.
If you, a relative, friend or even a neighbour could do with help, please contact them for free, impartial and confidential advice.
The service can be accessed by:
• Telephone at 0300 303 4321 (Free from Landlines but from mobile may vary). Advisers are available 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Thursday and to 4.30 pm on Friday
• Email: fill out and send the enquiry form on their website at www.dagcas.org