May 21, 2018
On Friday 11th May we hosted our 7th Networking Event around the theme of Universal Credits. Held at the Unity Centre in Rotherham, representatives from a range of organisations across South Yorkshire and the Humber attended the event to network, hear guest speakers and participate in workshops.
Target and St Martins partnership officer Sirea Jabar opened the event discussing Target and the Frontline Network. Sirea discussed how the Frontline Network exists to harness the ideas, energy and experience of those at the frontline working with homeless and vulnerably housed people.
Our first speaker of the day Nigel Coleman from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) outlined to the audience what Universal credits is, how to access it, and guildelines for frontline workers working with individuals who are trying to claim UC.
Following Nigel to speak was Glennis Leathwood from RMBC. Glennis gave an outline of how RMBC are preparing for Universal Credits and how it will be rolled out across the borough. She gave time for questions to be asked an answered by the frontline workers who attended.
Our last speaker of the day was Carly West from St Ledger Homes in Doncaster. With Universal Credits already rolled out across Doncaster, Carly gave an example of how her organisation has dealt with UC and how they have helped service users access it. She gave best practice examples and answered questions from the audience.
After all speakers were done attendees broke out into workshops, enabling them to thoroughly go through their concerns and questions regarding universal credits. The event was wrapped up with a light lunch.
