What is social policy?

Campaigning for change

All of us are affected by rules and principles which shape the services and benefits that we all rely on. Sometimes these rules and principles are applied unfairly and sometimes discrimination is an unintended consequence.

Tackling problems at source helps everyone. Some policies affecting CAB clients are national, such as social security, employment and immigration. Others are national but administered according to local policies and practices such as housing benefit, community care, housing, health and education.

One of the aims of the CAB service is 'to improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives' and this is what is known as 'social policy work'.

National campaigns

Plug the Debt: Are you falling behind with your energy bills? Click here to read more...

Recent energy price rises, along with other rising costs and falling incomes, have left many people struggling to pay their energy bills. With the extra cost of winter heating bills ahead we’re worried many more people may go into debt to their energy supplier. This can be a daunting reality, with many consumers unaware of their rights and what their next steps should be. If you are worried about not being able to pay your energy bill you should know that your supplier has to help you to work out an affordable way to pay back the money you owe. 

plug_the_debt_imageThe following five tips from our ‘Plug the debt’ campaign can help.


What to do if you fall behind with your energy bill:
●● Contact your energy firm as soon as you realise you might have trouble paying your bill –
debts will be harder to pay off if they grow.
●● Tell your supplier what you can afford to pay –
they have to take this into account in agreeing your repayments.
●● Ask your energy company, your local advice centre or the Home Heat Helpline
0800 33 66 99 to find out about other free energy help available.
●● Even if you are in debt you may be able to switch to a cheaper deal with your current supplier, especially if you pay by cash, cheque or pre-payment meter.
●● Find out if you are missing out on financial help that could make it easier to pay your bills by contacting your local advice centre (follow this link to find your local centre: AdviceSheffield).

Your advice centre can offer impartial information, advice and help if you are struggling with your energy bills. Advisers may be able to help you to find out:
●● whether you qualify for a discount off your bill or free insulation to help stop your home leaking heat and cut your bills
●● if you are missing out on extra financial helpFurther independent advice on energy issues is available from Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or 01604 640 371.
To find out more about the plug the debt campaign and other energy help available visit Consumer Focus’ website -
www.consumerfocus.org.uk/plugthedebt

- link to Citizens Advice Campaigning for Change website 

- link to websites of other organisations (will be added as appropriate)

TTC_Supporting_Logo_Red-1

 Local campaigns and action

The new work capability assessment - click here to read what we think about it!

Sheffield Mental Health Citizens Advice Bureau shares national concerns over benefit reforms. Recently an open letter in the national press from leading Mental Health Experts such as MIND, ReThink and the Royal College of Psychiatrists highlighted the flawed nature of the Work Capability Assessment (WCA), used to assess claimants for Employment and Support Allowance which is gradually replacing Incapacity Benefit. This national view is consistent with the experience of people in Sheffield. Sheffield Mental Health Citizens Advice Bureau has had direct experience of clients with mental health problems suffering through this assessment. In one case a client with a history of depression  resulting in a recent hospital admission, was found fit for work against the advice of her GP. The ruling is now going to appeal, but due to the stress of this her health has got worse which will be detrimental to her recovery. The reassessment of claimants moving from Incapacity Benefit to Employment and Support Allowance is proving to be the most damaging of the government’s welfare reforms. Sheffield Mental Health CAB therefore supports criticism over both the WCA’s methods and impact. Those suffering from mental health problems are among the most vulnerable in our society, and must be supported accordingly.

Direct feedback to government

  • View our response to the Disability Living Allowance consultation here:
    • link to document (to be added)