Families benefit from credit crunch roadshow

Twelve families are better off after visiting Oldham Council’s credit crunch roadshow and learning about benefits they did not know they were entitled to claim.

The roadshow was held in the town centre and Council leader Councillor Howard Sykes said as a result 12 families were able to claim thousands of pounds in benefits.

They were among dozens of people who attended the six-day event in October, aimed at helping residents battle the economic downturn.

As well as giving out advice on benefits, council officials were on hand to offer advice about jobs, housing, and childcare.

Councillor Sykes, Chair of the Council’s Credit Crunch Cabinet, said: “These figures show the roadshow was a success and has helped families who were losing out on what they were entitled. In the current financial climate every pound counts and I am happy we were able to help these families out.”

Following the success of the first roadshow more are now planned for different parts of the borough.

Oldham’s Credit Crunch Cabinet (CCC) was set up a year ago and representatives include Oldham Council, Oldham Sixth Form College, Oldham Partnership, Greater Manchester Police, Groundwork, Jobcentre Plus, the Learning and Skills Council, and the Royal Bank of Scotland.

The group meets bimonthly to review the latest economic intelligence and identify emerging issues and solutions.

Anyone who has any financial concerns can seek help by emailing credit.crunch@oldham.gov.uk.