Stephen Metcalfe, local MP
for South Basildon and East Thurrock, has hailed the success of welfare reform
measures after a recent visit to Basildon Jobcentre.
On his visit, Mr Metcalfe met
with the Manager and Social Justice Advisor who informed him of how welfare
changes have led to many success stories in the local area.
The role of the Social
Justice Advisor is to review people’s benefit entitlements to ensure that they
are getting the fairest deal possible. In a recent review, it was found that
one of Mr Metcalfe’s constituents was caught in a benefits trap.
The constituent in question
was paying over the odds for sub-standard accommodation and as a result, could
not afford to look for work. As a result of welfare reforms, her case was
flagged up and the Social Justice Advisor was able to help them escape the
vicious cycle they were trapped in. The constituent is now paying much less for
much improved accommodation and can afford to look for work – a result they are
delighted with.
Mr Metcalfe commented: “The
benefits cap will inevitably present challenges and it has received a good deal
of bad press. But, my visit to the JobCentre highlighted to me how these
reforms can change people’s lives for the better.”
“I heard fantastic examples
detailing how the latest welfare reforms are helping people get back into work
and improving their life opportunities. The role of Social Justice Advisor’s
are vital in this process and I am delighted that there are people in the local
area reaping the rewards of this new policy.”
“I will continue to remain in
close contact with the Jobcentre to keep up to date with how the benefits cap
is affecting the people of South Basildon and East Thurrock and I look forward
to seeing more positive results in the future. I would also like to thank those
working hard there to ensure that my constituents get the fairest deal
possible.”
