Spotlight on Boosting Advice for over 65s
Boosting Advice is a dedicated service offering generalist and social welfare advice for anyone aged 65 and over living in Leicester City. Our adviser Amelia breaks down what kind of work she does with Boosting Advice clients and how she helps people across Leicester who often struggle with digital exclusion and long-term health conditions on top of their financial difficulties.
“Empowering clients to navigate systems that can often feel overwhelming”
“A key part of the project has been taking advice out into the community. So far, I’ve been delivering regular outreach sessions at Wesley Hall once per month, alongside visits to various libraries across the city which I have really enjoyed. Meeting people in familiar, accessible spaces has really helped me connect with those who may not otherwise seek support, and it’s been encouraging to see such a positive response and great outcomes for clients!
One of the main challenges I see is digital exclusion. Many of the people I support find it difficult to access services that are now largely online such as filling in benefits forms, which can create significant barriers. Through Boosting Advice, I’m able to offer face to face support while also helping to build confidence and signpost to digital skills support where possible. This feels like an important step in empowering clients to navigate systems that can often feel overwhelming.
The uptake of the service so far has been great, and it’s clear there is a real need for this kind of accessible support. Boosting Advice is still growing, and I’m looking forward to continuing to develop the service, reaching more people, and helping to break down barriers and maximise income for clients across Leicester City!”
– Amelia, Boosting Advice Adviser
Support from Boosting Advice can make all the difference to people like Judy*
Judy is a 69-year-old Leicester resident living alone on a low pension. Her visual impairment and arthritis affects her ability to read and carry out daily activities independently. When she first came to us, a shortfall between her rent and Housing benefit, furniture in poor condition and noisy neighbours were adding more and more financial and emotional pressure.
Until she spoke to our adviser Amelia, Judy was not aware that she might be entitled to more support.
Amelia took the time to listen and understand Judy’s situation, clearly explaining the landlord’s responsibilities and her rights as a tenant, ultimately advising her to send a formal complaint, offering support in drafting it. She also explained how to escalate the matter to the local council if the landlord failed to act, and explored options for raising a complaint against the noisy neighbour.
Judy was also made aware that she could be eligible for Attendance Allowance because of her health conditions, and was advised to apply for charity support to replace essential furniture. Amelia was on hand to help with these applications over the phone and during home visits.
Thanks to the support she received, Judy was awarded Attendance Allowance, reducing financial pressure and helping her to live more independently. She was also awarded a new bed and mattress as a result of her charity application.
The work Amelia does for our Boosting Advice service can make all the difference to those over 65 who are often struggling with digital exclusion on top of financial hardship and long-term health conditions. It can help clients have a better quality of life and, crucially, a clear understanding of their rights and what they can do next.
* Name changed to protect client anonymity