The East Midlands Advice Alliance have recently produced a briefing paper aimed at raising awareness of the benefits of independent advice.
The paper outlines the many ways that independent advice services, including debt advice, can help public bodies such as local authorities to achieve their objectives, particularly in the current climate where they are dealing with significant financial constraints.
Research undertaken by AdviceUK highlights that 31% of problems presenting for advice were the result of public service failures, for example with benefits, housing or tax credits. The research highlighted that by acting as a critical friend and sharing evidence of where problems arise, Advice services can support service improvements, reduce the cost of administration and help produce better outcomes for local people.
The paper also highlights that the need for good quality advice remains critically important as local people continue to deal with the ongoing effects of the recession and the pressure this is placing on jobs, income and family finances.
To download a copy of the paper click here.
To find out more about the East Midlands Advice Alliance click here.