A COUNTY Durham based housing developer has saved customers thousands after giving advice on benefits during lockdown.

Welfare benefits experts at Believe Housing have helped customers access £391,660 in unclaimed benefits during lockdown.

The housing association has seen a significant increase in the number of customers looking for help as the impact of the coronavirus pandemic is felt on their finances.

One customer is more than £35,000 better off after a full benefit check was carried out. It was discovered that the customer was entitled to a severe disability premium.

Their claim was made thanks to a conference call and the backdated benefits have now been paid.

Tenancy Sustainment Manager, Jayne Adamson of Believe Housing said: “I’d really urge anyone who has concerns about their benefit claims, or finances in general to get in touch and let us see if we can help.”