Promise for a better future

Maximising benefits

How Islington has put £16million extra into people’s pockets at a crucial time

The benefits system can be confusing, which is why Islington Council set up the Income Maximisation team (IMAX) to ensure residents get everything they should. In the last two years, IMAX has put almost £16million of extra benefits payments into the pockets of people who hadn’t known they were entitled to it.

Across Islington, people are making the Islington Promise –pledging to help create a better and more equal borough for us all. The Islington Promise tells you what to expect from Islington Council, and also what we are asking from you and all our residents.

We promise to: y Relentlessly tackle inequality in everything we do, from waste collection, to social work to community events y Always be on your side, by putting our residents first y Being bolder and more innovative, to break down barriers and create new opportunities y Provide accessible help and support that works for all y Invest in the local economy y In return, we ask that you: y Get involved by participating and playing an active role in your community y Speak up by challenging inequality in your community and networks y Be part of the solution by helping us shape local schemes and projects, tell us when we ge it right and importantly how we might improve y Invest in Islington by shopping and spending locally to support small businesses y Be proud of our borough by helping us look after this borough we all call home

Many people have made promises already – from pledging to buy more from local shops and businesses, to volunteering the time they can, to giving more support to homeless people and asylum seekers.

What might your Islington Promise be?

Find out more and make your promise: islington.gov.uk/ promise

Advisors will check if you’re receiving everything you should be and appeal benefit decisions for you – even going to court if necessary. “So many families are struggling,” says advisor Patric. “Helping to relieve people of the pressure of where they’re going to find the rent money this week brings me a lot of enjoyment. I grew up here, so it’s good to feel like I’m giving back.”

One person received a backdated payment of £25,000 and an extra £70 per week after IMAX found they should have been receiving a severe disability premium for the last eight years. A family of seven with a disabled son was helped to claim the right benefits, increasing their income by £291 per week. Their Universal Credit payments were also increased by £1,600 per month. “My advice to anyone struggling is to get in touch!” says Patric. Call