A SERIES of events will support residents in a North-East borough preparing for the imminent introduction of Universal Credit.

Beyond Housing will host three sessions for those in Redcar and Cleveland claiming Universal Credit instead of Housing Benefit, Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment Support Allowance, Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit from Wednesday.

Joanne Dunn, head of income management and employability, said: “In our experience, most people have a five-week wait between making a claim and receiving payment for Universal Credit. The payment goes directly to the individual, whose responsibility it is to meet outgoings, including rent.

“We are concerned that anyone making a new claim from November 28 is unlikely to receive a payment before the New Year, making it a tough Christmas. There is an advance available to cover essential costs including food and rent during the wait period, but this is a loan repayable over 12 months."

An event will be held in the Wykeham Court Community Centre, Skelton, on November 29, between 10am and noon, followed by the Birkdale Community Centre, Grangetown, on December 4, between 10.30am and 12.30pm. A session will run from 1pm until 3pm in the Steel Gala Suite, The Dunes, Redcar on December 6.