A benefits advice service which supports housebound and vulnerable residents in Epping Forest has received a £5,000 boost.

Voluntary Action Epping Forest (VAEF) Benefits Advice helps Epping Forest housebound residents claim benefits due to them, such as Council Tax reductions, Blue Badge applications, Pension Credit and Housing benefits.

From April 2015 to March 2021, VAEF Benefits Advice has advised and supported 1203 people and £1,777,947.40 has been awarded in benefits.

This grant has been funded by the Joseph and Lilian Sully Foundation (£2,500) and another fund which is administered by Essex Community Foundation.

Jina Symes, from VAEF, said: “This grant of £5,000 will go a long way in helping us assist the vulnerable people in our district.

"We help people claim benefits in the region of £300,000 each year, which has a massive impact on the health and wellbeing of these individuals and their families.

"We are really grateful to the Essex Community Foundation and The Joseph and Lilian Sully Foundation for this funding."

Voluntary Action Epping Forest Benefits Advice service is also available to support people living in Epping Forest who have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and need benefit advice or support. This work supports the Epping Forest District Community Hub.

If you would benefit from this service, VAEF's trained advisor is available to assist with advice and application support.

For more information call 07835 310 550 or visit VAEF's website www.vaef.org.uk.