In this issue, you will find information on why your feedback is so important, the latest venues where you can access our benefits services and updated important information on financial help from the Government. |
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A Message from our CEO The news recently has been fairly gloomy and, while we don't want to add to this, there are a number of important updates that we will be bringing your attention to in this newsletter and in future issues. And we are really keen to hear from you too so please read our article below and get in touch with us. On a happier note, we have had confirmation that our Benefits Advisor has helped clients to collectively secure almost £90,000 in benefits such as PIP in the last 6 months alone! If you would like benefits advice, please see below how you can make an appointment. |
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You may remember that we invited you to have your say on important matters in the previous issue of our newsletter. And it is now more vital than ever to share your point of view with us to ensure the needs of disabled people are not overlooked. As a disabled persons user-led organisation, everything we do is guided by you. But to best represent the views of disabled people across Kent, we need to hear from you. Our latest post explores why having your voice heard is so important so please click the button below to read our short article. And, as always, we invite you to get in touch with us about any issues you may be experiencing. |
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In-person benefits advice We can help you through the whole process, from filling in the forms to appeals or tribunals where necessary. Our advisor can give you guidance in person and is available to assist you BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. Please contact us to book in a session. If you are unable to travel to these locations, please get in touch with us to discuss alternative options. |
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Appointments are available in the following locations: Asda in Folkestone, every other Tuesday (4th and 18th October) 10am and 4pm Westwood Cross Shopping Centre in Broadstairs on Friday 7th October. Please contact us for times. St Luke's Lighthouse Church in Hawkinge, every other Wednesday (12th and 26th October) 10.30am - 2pm One You in Park Mall Ashford, every Thursday 9.30am - 4.30pm Asda in Canterbury, every other Monday starting on the 17 October. Please contact us for times.
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The Government’s £150 cost of living payment for those receiving disability-related benefits have started to be distributed. The majority of payments will be made by mid-October so if you have not received it by then, please make sure you check you are eligible first and then contact the DWP if you are but haven’t received the payment. We will all need every penny of this payment to meet the rising cost of living and higher energy prices which are being applied from 1st October. For information and advice on actions you can take to prepare, please read our Cost of Living Crisis guide on our website by clicking the link below. | | |
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Please be aware that there are an increasing number of scams circulating recently which claim to be from the Government. The latest is a text message scam which invites you to apply for the £400 energy bill support. This support does not require you to apply but will be paid automatically so please do not respond to these text messages. It can be confusing to keep track of the various Government support schemes but please be extra vigilant as there is increased fraudulent activity occurring. |
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In our last newsletter, we shared information about a Sevenoaks Access All Areas event taking place on 16th October at White Oak Leisure Centre. Unfortunately, the event has been cancelled but it is hoped that it will be rescheduled for early next year. We will share any information about the new dates in a future newsletter so please keep an eye out if you are interested in attending this event. |
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Get to know Disability Assist! Each month, we're introducing you to a different member of our team so that you know who you are speaking with when you contact us. This time, it's the turn of our Information Officer, Angie Berkley. |
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Angie has been working with the charity for 6 years. She has over 30 years’ experience in social care working for local authorities including KCC. Angie is keen for disabled people to live as independently as they wish and to ensure the rights of disabled people are fair, equal and that our voices are heard. Angie’s impairment has never held her back from whatever she sets her mind to. Over her 33 year's she has worked within the Deaf/deaf, severely sight impaired and physical impaired communities; and is fluent in British Sign Language. She recently was the only hearing sign language user available on board a cruise ship of nearly 5,000 people and it was her who helped out when there was a problem and has now made two new friends as a result! |
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If you would like to find out how we could help you or someone you know, please get in touch with us using the following link or via the contact details below. | | |
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