Around 1,000 vulnerable people in Islington will be helped out of poverty thanks to new funding for a benefits and debt advice charity.
Islington People’s Rights, which has been working in the borough for more than half a century, helps people to access the welfare benefits they’re entitled to and to manage debt.
Its IPR Assist project is a free advice service targeted at vulnerable and isolated groups including disabled people and those from black, Asian, minority ethnic and refugee communities.
The scheme is being funded by a new £107,360 grant over two years from City Bridge Trust – the City of London Corporation’s charity funder.
City Bridge Trust Chairman Giles Shilson said:
“For over 50 years, Islington People’s Rights has provided a lifeline to people who often struggle to cover basic everyday costs such as food and fuel.
“The advice they receive can have a profound impact on people’s lives, lifting a weight from their mind, helping them access benefits they’re entitled to and free themselves from the shackles of debt.”
Based in Manor Gardens, Holloway, Islington People’s Rights has been working to reduce poverty and the effects of debt in the borough since it was founded in 1969.
It says many residents risk being pushed further into poverty by the economic impact of the Covid pandemic and the cost of living crisis.
Islington People’s Rights Chief Executive Gerard Omasta-Milsom said:
“We deliver targeted, specialist welfare benefits and debt advice to some of the most vulnerable people in society, who are often not aware of the benefits they’re entitled to or how to access them.
“The support we provide enables people to manage their debts and have more money for simple things such as buying new clothes, putting food on the table or heating their homes, which has a massive impact on their lives.”
