Finance-help scheme 'unlocks £1.4m' for Wolverhampton residents

More than 200 people in Wolverhampton have accessed unclaimed benefits and grants through the council's new Boost scheme, unlocking nearly £1.4m in total. The project, which launched at the start of the year, also helped residents save £64,468 a year in reduced bills and spending.

Citizens Advice Dudley and Wolverhampton has now joined as a partner. The council expects the move to increase the number of people reached. The scheme aims to help people take better control of their finances.

"Boosting income can transform lives, it creates life opportunities and helps people thrive not just survive," said Stephen Simkins, the city council leader. He said the figures showed how many residents were missing out on income they were entitled to. "Boost is there for everyone, people who work hard, people who've paid into the system for years and people who just don't realise what they're entitled to have," he added.

Nikki Saunders, director of services at Citizens Advice Dudley and Wolverhampton, said they saw first-hand the difference that accessing the right support can make. "Too often, residents miss out on benefits and financial assistance simply because they are unaware of what they may be entitled to, or find the process difficult to navigate," Saunders said. She added that the organisation was pleased to be part of Boost and hoped to help even more residents.