Scam warning over benefits advice

PEOPLE on benefits in Hull are being warned about a scam which is charging to provide advice on making claims.

A number of complaints have been made about a company with a PO Box in Preston, which is charging its clients 45 per cent of any back pay they receive.

Hull's Community Legal Advice Centre has received several calls about the firm – with one person reportedly paying 1,500 – and urged people to seek free advice which is available.

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Welfare benefits caseworker John Norris said: "This is a really worrying development.

"At a time when people are vulnerable and in need of all the financial support they're entitled to, it is shocking that an organisation would seek to make significant profits by taking large amounts of money from people who really can't afford to pay it.

"Under the legal help system, those on low incomes are entitled to free professional advice about welfare benefits."

He added: "The company we have been made aware of operate from a website and a PO Box address in Preston, and when contacted they offer a home visit."

Anyone in need of welfare benefits advice can call Hull CLAC on 01482 317420.

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