Rob's Story - Universal Credit and Benefit changes

Rob's Story - Universal Credit and Benefit changes

With the news of my new job everything seems to be moving so fast.

We have found a property to rent in Preston and trying to get everything organised before we go.

My wife is seven months pregnant and we want to make sure she has the medical support she needs in Preston.

A family member suggested that we ring up the local GP surgery and book a 'New patient Medical' this way we can be referred to a new midwife that my wife can visit.

This was simple enough but as my wife gave up work to focus on the baby we only have one income, so I can also claim Working Tax Credit.

I had seen in the news a lot of opinions on the new Universal Credit but didn't really understand what that means for me and my family moving to a new area.

I thought it would be best to wait till I moved into my new property in Preston to call HMRC and let them know of my change in address. They informed me that I would have to make an appointment with the Job Centre and I could use the computers there to apply for Universal Credit.

The following day I visited the job centre, I was little uneasy and worried what people might think of me and the assumptions that would be made.

The atmosphere wasn't as hectic as I thought it would be. A gentleman asked me how he could help and I explained why I was there. He showed me to a corner of the building which had multiple computers some already being used.

I felt confident using the computers but it was good to know that if I did get stuck there was someone there to help me.

I didn't realise you could go to the job centre for support in applying for Universal credit and any advice you needed.

Job Centre Plus

The Department for Work and Pensions are responsible for a range of services including encouraging people into employment.

Visit the Department for Work and Pensions website

The characters stories are based on real life events of individuals in Preston and the services that have helped them. 

Do you have a story to tell?

If you have a story or a personal challenge you have overcome or are currently facing and would like to share it with us, please email us on info@helpinpreston.com we'd love to hear from you. 

All stories and case studies will be made anonymous.