Crucial updates for job seekers and Tax Credit recipients: Closures and changes ahead (BSL videos)

We have two important announcements to bring to your attention, so keep reading.

Additionally, for Deaf British Sign Language (BSL) users, we have provided helpful videos resource. Stay informed!

DWP announces closure of 26 JobCentres

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is closing 26 JobCentres, mainly those set up temporarily during the pandemic for social distancing.

This move is part of a plan to reduce its presence on the high street, but the DWP assures that service levels will not be affected.

The closures will not impact access to face-to-face appointments, and customers will revert to their original JobCentres.

The decision is attributed to the fact that the temporary sites are no longer needed. The DWP operates 639 permanent JobCentres and aims to provide better service by merging some centres. The list of JobCentres set to close includes locations like Barnsley, Basildon, Exeter, and others.

Check the list and read more here: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12524013/Thousands-Universal-Credit-JobCentres-closed.html

What to do now?

We strongly advise you to:

1. Make an appointment with your DEA now

2. Get information on how to contact them in the future. It's important not to leave without an email address of DEA or your new JobCentre

3. Make sure you know they know that you are Deaf and that means NO PHONE CALLS.

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Tax Credits are stopping

By the end of 2024, tax credits will be replaced by Universal Credit.

The DWP said "Tax credits are coming to an end, and most people will need to apply for Universal Credit instead."

Customers who receive tax credits will receive a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions telling them when to claim Universal Credit, or from the Department for Communities if they live in Northern Ireland.

Full information from the Government here: https://www.understandinguniversalcredit.gov.uk/tax-credits-customers/tax-credits-are-ending/

What to do now?

Contact your tax office:

• Telephone: 0300 200 3300

• Relay UK: dial 18001 then 0300 200 3300

• Other contacts: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs/contact/income-tax-enquiries-for-individuals-pensioners-and-employees

If you don't have a Government Gateway Account yet, get one sorted now!

Visit: https://www.gov.uk/log-in-register-hmrc-online-services/register

WATCH BSL VIDEO: