On Tuesday 9th April Hilary Benn MP, the Shadow Northern Ireland Secretary of State, paid a visit to Advice NI to discuss the role of the independent advice network and the challenges faced by the advice services assisting those most in need across Northern Ireland.
The Shadow Secretary had the opportunity to meet and talk to staff including Advice NI Helpline staff and staff from various teams across the organisation.
At the conclusion of the visit the Shadow Secretary said, “I would like to thank the staff in Advice NI and right across the independent advice network for their commitment to assisting people with a whole host of queries including social security benefits, debt and housing. I know people are really struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, interest rate hikes and generally making ends meet. Independent advice services provide a vital lifeline for people struggling with these challenges.”
Advice NI
Advice NI and the Independent Advice Network in Northern Ireland dealt with 241,088 enquiries in 2022 – 2023.
Advice NI Chief Executive Bob Stronge added, “The Shadow Secretary was keen to learn more about the work of the independent advice network, the issues faced by clients needing help and the support functions of the organisation including training, digital inclusion work, immigration work, policy and information. We outlined the vital work in assisting clients deal with their issues but we also outlined what we are doing ‘upstream’ to try and address the root causes of poverty.”
Contact Advice NI by calling the Freephone helpline on 0800 915 4604 to speak directly to an adviser between 9.00am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday for impartial advice on benefits, HMRC products & services, EU Settlement Scheme as well as personal and business debt.
