Benefit Assessment and help with completing forms

Whilst we appreciate that navigating your way around the benefit system can be extremely complex, our friendly and experienced advocates and volunteers specialise in advice & information, and support with the completion of a limited number of benefit applications. They will ensure all applications are completed in line with official guidance, whilst listening to, and relaying the information provided by the clients.

For any benefit applications that do not fall within our remit, we will signpost you to the most suitable professional.

Advice and Information

We provide free, confidential and impartial advice and information, in a range of ways to suit the needs of clients looking for support. This advice can be given over the phone, or with clients’ consent, to friends, family members, or professionals. We are often able to resolve queries over the phone or, if appropriate, we will be able to sign-post a client to a more suitable local service. Where issues are more complex we would be happy to offer an appointment for a face-to-face meeting either at our office, or at the client’s home.

Statutory Advocacy

This includes:

  • IMCA
  • Care Act Advocacy
  • IMHA
  • Paid Representative

For information relating to types of the above statutory advocacy, please click HERE to access our Hub website directly.

SEAS Services Abuse

Financial Abuse

We have experienced advocates who specialise in supporting clients who have been the victims of financial abuse. Cases can be referred to us by individuals, family members, friends, carers or professionals and with each new case we will ensure all further risks of abuse are removed. Advocates will then assist with the investigation working alongside other professionals to bring about a possible prosecution.

SEAS Services Tribunal

Appeals and Tribunals

We can support clients who choose to appeal against a benefit decision. Our advocates and specialist volunteers will meet with clients prior to attending their appeal/tribunal hearing and discuss their individual situation. Our assistance can not only ensure that a client feels supported during this process, but also ensure that their voice is heard, thereby giving a client the very best chance at overturning the previous decision.

Social isolation of the elderly

The ‘Hello Life’ project aims to help and support local people living in the Southend Borough, over the age of 60, that are experiencing loneliness and feeling socially isolated. Please click HERE for more information.