A COLLEGE is helping students and benefit claimants to understand changes the Government’s new Universal Credit scheme will bring.

The Universal Credit Hub, at East Durham College, aims to ease the worries of people relying on benefits and help them to understand the effects of those changes

Universal Credit, which is being rolled out by the Government, aims to encourage claimants to be more active finding work, while bringing all existing benefits into a single monthly payment.

Barbara Archer, employability programme leader at the Peterlee college, said many local people were unaware of Universal Credit and the changes it will bring.

“Our new Universal Credit Hub is designed to give people a comfortable, safe environment where they can learn about the changes and how it affects them.

“We will also offer support to help their applications for Universal Credit.

“The hub has several computers with internet access.

“We’ll be working with those who aren’t comfortable using computers to ensure they understand the process, how to apply and how to manage their finances.”

The college is to host regular events at the hub and will work with people in the area, as well as JobCentre Plus, to help people to find work.

Anyone interested in the scheme can email Barbara.Archer@eastdurham.ac.uk, or ring 0191-518 8390.