Sir John Whittingdale visited Chelmsford JobCentre Plus at The Gemini Centre in New London Road, Chelmsford. Sir John talked to staff members and advisers as well as receiving a briefing from Essex Service Leader, Dave Cope. Sir John was updated on progress to transition existing claimants to Universal Credit and also met advisers on disability employment advisers and housing. Sir John also discussed the campaign to increase take up of Pension Credit which is particularly important as a result of the Government’s decision to scrap the Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners.
Sir John said: “It was good to meet DWP staff at the JobCentre who do a fantastic job themselves in helping claimants to find work. I also very much welcome the renewed effort to encourage all those eligible to claim Pension Credit. I know that the Government’s removal of the Winter Fuel Payment will hit many older people hard and I hope that all those on low incomes will check whether they can receive Pension Credit , not only to top up their weekly income but to continue to receive the Winter Fuel Payment worth £200 or £300”.
Sir John is pictured with Dave Cope and other staff members.
