The current cost of the living crisis is at the forefront of key priorities for the Council and, as
recovery is not expected to be swift, the potential economic impact and scarring on residents
experiencing financial pressures created or exacerbated by
the Covid-19 pandemic is likely to be long term.
Recognising the importance of access to high quality, appropriate advice, and the importance of early
intervention in preventing negative outcomes for residents, Lambeth Council has committed to increased
funding for advice services, ensuring that residents
are supported to build their financial resilience as effectively as possible.
The Council is offering grant awards for four areas of advice services for two years from 1 Apr 2024 –
31 March 2026, with the option to extend for an additional 1 year to March 2027.
We are seeking to commission a range of high-quality, broad reaching advice services for residents
spanning keys areas including:
- Welfare benefits advice
- Debt advice
- Legal advice
- Immigration advice
- Income maximisation
- Housing advice
- Support with claiming Council benefits (e.g. Council Tax Support)
- Form filling
- Consumer
- Relationship and family.
- Other areas relevant to Advice Services
While the Council aims to shift the balance of our advice provision towards prevention and early
intervention, we know that unprecedented numbers of residents need help and support to manage existing
and often complex issues also. We want to help residents
build their skills and confidence around money and personal finance, so they are equipped to manage
their personal circumstances effectively, be financially resilient, and able to progress towards a more
positive position.
Advice needs continue to change and evolve, with people seeking advice in a range of complex situations.
Therefore, we need providers who are responsive, flexible, and who can adapt their services according to
resident priorities and requirements.