Income Maximisation Project

IMP is a citywide project initiated by the Citizens Advice Bureau, Liverpool Social Services and Mersey Care (NHS) Trust and funded through Social Services Mental Health Grant.

The service was established in December 2000 in response to research identifying that people with mental health problems fail, in significant numbers, to obtain their entitlement to benefits. This dedicated and targeted service enhances the income of people experiencing mental distress and therefore their quality of life.

The project provides advice and information and representation to clients with severe and/or enduring mental health needs. It focuses its provision on Income Maximisation with particular reference to:
• Welfare and Disability Benefits - including applications, renewal claims, reviews and appeals.
• Housing – issues of disrepair, arrears and entitlement to benefit.
• Debt (Consumer and Utility) – liability, priority, non-priority, negotiation of affordable repayments and write offs.

There are three caseworkers based in the Citizens Advice Bureaux of Garston, Anfield and Toxteth. The project started in December 2000 and service delivery takes place via the Day Hospitals of Park Lodge, Arundel House and Windsor House and Broadoak. A home visiting service is also provided or the client can choose an alternative venue including a CAB.

Note : Clients can only access the service through referral from Psychiatrist, Social Worker or Community Psychiatric Nurse

Garston CAB : Karen Carfoot
Anfield CAB : Tony Wade
Toxteth CAB : Carolyn Whitehead