News
Citizens Advice at hand to help with Universal Credit rollout
PEMBROKESHIRE CITIZENS ADVICE is helping people get ready for Universal Credit which rolls out across Pembrokeshire this September
Universal Credit is a new benefit which helps people on a low income or not in work meet their living costs. It combines six benefits, including Housing Benefit and Working Tax Credit, into a single monthly payment.
By 2022, Universal Credit is expected to affect 10,500 households across Preseli Pembrokeshire and 9,500 in Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire.
To help people prepare for Universal Credit, Pembrokeshire Citizens Advice is highlighting how it differs to previous benefits.
Three key changes the charity wants people to be aware of are:
- Universal Credit payments are made in arrears once a month, rather than every week. The date you get paid will depend on when you make your claim.
- Payments will go straight into your bank account. This means you may need to set up standing orders for expenses, like rent, if it was paid directly to your landlord under the old benefits system.
- New Universal Credit applications, and any change in your circumstances, need to be made online.
Pembrokeshire Citizens Advice is expecting the bulk of queries on Universal Credit to focus on people who want to know how they make a claim, and if they are eligible to do so.
Last year, the government made a number of changes to Universal Credit to help people avoid financial difficulty while they wait for their first payment. This includes the removal of the seven waiting days before a claimant can apply for Universal Credit.
Nikki Neufeld Advice Service Manager at Pembrokeshire Citizens Advice said: “Universal Credit is the biggest-ever change to the benefit system, so it’s important people get support while they get used to it.
“We can help at every stage of the process – from guiding someone through the online application form, to offering budgeting advice and helping people best manage their monthly payment.
“If people have a question about Universal Credit they should get in touch with us at the earliest opportunity so unnecessary delays or complications with their claim can be avoided.”
News
Tigers second division Cup Champions
In a thrilling Pembrokeshire Division Two Cup final under the floodlights of Bridge Meadow Stadium, fans witnessed an epic battle between Monkton Swifts reserves and Johnston. Despite Monkton Swifts reserves being touted as favorites, Johnston proved their mettle from the outset.
The game kicked off with a burst of energy as Johnston’s center half, Craig Bendall, seized an early opportunity to put his team ahead just ten minutes into the match. However, Monkton Swifts’ prolific Scotsman, Davis, swiftly responded with an equalizer, showcasing the resilience of the favourites.
The momentum shifted again when the dynamic duo of Alfie and Scott Crawford of Johnston orchestrated a beautifully executed goal, putting Johnston back in the lead at 2-1.
As the game progressed, Monkton Swifts brought in reinforcements, including Ben Steele, to regain control. Their efforts paid off when Jordan Kilby leveled the score at 2-2 with just under 20 minutes remaining.
But the Crawfords had other plans. Combining once more, Scott provided the assist for Alfie, who coolly finished to put Johnston ahead once again.
With time running out, Monkton Swifts launched a relentless onslaught in search of an equalizer. However, Johnston’s defense held firm, defying the odds to clinch the Division Two Cup title in a memorable victory.
The match showcased the passion and determination of both teams, with Johnston emerging as deserving champions in a fiercely contested final at Bridge Meadow Stadium.
Crime
Police investigating attempted burglary at Haverfordwest shop
POLICE in Pembrokeshire are investigating an attempted burglary at No.37 Food and Wine shop on High Street, Haverfordwest, at about 3am on Wednesday, April 3.
A window was smashed and the door handle broken.
Police said: “If you have any information that could help enquiries, please get in touch with PC 195 Tayler, either by: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.
“Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.”
News
Don’t forget to vote on Thursday, May 2
THURSDAY, May 2 is your chance to vote for the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner.
Don’t forget to use your vote and head to your local polling station between 7am and 10pm.
They are elected by the public to hold Chief Constables and the police force to account on their behalf.
A Police and Crime Commissioner’s job is to set the police budget and make sure it is spent effectively, appoint the local police forces Chief Constables, set police and crime plans in collaboration with residents and work closely with the local council and other organisations on these plans.
This is the first election in Wales where you will need photographic ID to vote.
Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
Or you may have applied for a Voter Authority Certificate which is also accepted.
If you plan on taking your Postal Vote to a polling station or County Hall main reception remember to fill in a vote return form. Without the completed form those postal vote(s) will be rejected.
You can only hand in your own postal vote, and postal votes for up to five other people.
You can find out more about the Police and Crime Commissioner Elections online (opens in new window).
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