MORE than £4.6m of previously unclaimed financial support has been accessed by people in the borough as a result of the Here for You campaign.

The council’s flagship cost-of-living crisis support campaign, which was launched in 2022, includes a regular community event schedule helping raise awareness of what benefits residents may be entitled to.

370 people have now claimed £2m of Attendance Allowance and more than 160 pensioners are now receiving a share of nearly £800k through regular Pension Credit payments.

Cabinet member for welfare, Councillor Susan Gambles, said: “We couldn’t be prouder of our teams’ efforts to raise awareness of what our residents are entitled to and offer expert guidance and support.”

Council officers such as welfare support, housing and community teams work together with residents to identify cost-of-living crisis related issues as part of Here for You.

Colin Taylor, who recently attended a Here for You event with his wife, Linda, commented: “We didn’t think we qualified for anything and so we were reluctant to go along.

“After only an hour of our time I was walking down the hill in Believe Square with tears running down my face knowing that financially, my life had just changed.

“I feel like a human being with dignity again and I’d recommend anyone who can attends an event, even if you don’t think you’re entitled to anything.

“You aren’t going to come out with less than you went in with.”

A private space in Wigan Life Centre has opened this month to continue the authority’s efforts and response to the cost-of-living crisis, where residents can get advice from officers – including tips on money management, energy saving advice, and mental health support.

Councillor Gambles added: “One of the most fulfilling aspect of this campaign is the impact it has had on the lives of residents like Colin and Linda.

“Hearing many stories like theirs makes us even more determined to continue our efforts, helping our communities through the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis.”

To find an event near you, visit: https://www.wigan.gov.uk/Resident/Benefit-Grants/Here-for-You-Income-Maximisation-events.aspx