CPAG in Scotland online training 22-23 Proof 1

ONLINE TRAINING COURSES 2022/23 SCOTLAND WELFARE RIGHTS ONLINE TRAINING

CPAG IN SCOTLAND Child Poverty Action Group works on behalf of the one in four children in Scotland growing up in poverty. It doesn’t have to be like this. We use our understanding of what causes poverty and the impact it has on children’s lives to campaign for policies that will prevent and solve poverty – for good. Throughout the pandemic, we have been making the case for a social security system that supports people when they need it.

We have expanded our online training and online library of publications and resources at AskCPAG to make sure advisers have resources at hand to help low-income families access financial support.

Please consider making a donation or becoming a member.

CONTACT CPAG CPAG news and events Sign up to get our ebulletins and news at cpag.org.uk/signup/scotland CPAG in Scotland 0141 552 3303 cpag.org.uk/scotland Training enquiries 0141 552 3303 pchalmers@cpagscotland.org.uk Publications enquiries bookorders@cpag.org.uk Membership enquiries membership@cpag.org.uk

Advice line Free, independent, expert and up-to-date advice on benefits and tax credits for frontline advisers and support workers in Scotland Phone 0141 552 0552 Monday to Thursday 10am to 4pm and Friday 10am to 12 noon Email advice@cpagscotland.org.uk Follow CPAG in Scotland on Twitter on @CPAGScotland

ONLINE TRAINING CPAG in Scotland online training courses are delivered via Zoom. For course information, or to book a place on a course please go to our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training.

BEFORE THE COURSE You can join from any internet-enabled device, although we strongly advise against using a mobile phone. You should be able to join using your usual web browser, however, you may be prompted to update to the latest version of Zoom. We recommend doing so before the day of the course.

If you have not used Zoom before then try out your set-up at zoom.us/test. Check that your connection, audio and video all work. During the test, have a practice at opening documents on your computer so you can see both at the same time, as you may want to do this during the course to look at course materials.

JOINING THE COURSE You will receive an email a few days before the course with a link to our AskCPAG eLEARNING platform. The course page on AskCPAG eLEARNING contains; ■

A link to join the live session on Zoom

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The course materials

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The course evaluation form, to be completed at the end of the course

COURSE SCHEDULE Half day courses are usually scheduled to run from 10am – 1pm with a 30 minute break at 11.15am. To avoid lengthy screen time, we have split online courses over two consecutive mornings that we would normally deliver in person in a full day. Our Introduction to welfare rights course on page 8 will be delivered over six non-consecutive mornings.

DURING THE COURSE Choose somewhere to join the course that is comfortable, has good internet connection and has minimal distractions.

AT THE END OF THE COURSE You will be asked to complete the online course evaluation form.

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CONTENTS Fees and booking information In-house online training Webinars Elearning

4 5 5 7

ONLINE TRAINNG COURSES Introductory courses Introduction to welfare rights Adult disability payment Attendance allowance – an introduction Benefit basics in Scotland Benefits overview Care-experienced young people and the benefits system Claimants and custody How to unlock your training potential Kinship carers and the benefits system Payments for children in Scotland Scottish social security – an introduction Students and benefits the basics Universal credit – an introduction

8 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Standard courses Benefits for EEA nationals Benefits for non-EEA nationals Benefits for rent Capital and universal credit Challenging decisions – mandatory reconsiderations and other tactics Challenging Scottish benefit decisions – what’s the difference?

Child disability payment Income maximisation for older people

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

CALENDAR OF COURSES Limited capability for work in universal credit Looking up the law online Mental health and benefits Overpayments of benefit and tax credits Preparing an appeal submission for a First-tier Tribunal QBC – making the most of your calculator Students and benefits – eligibility Universal credit and students Universal credit – transferring from benefits and tax credits 2

30/31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

Experienced courses Appeals to the Upper Tribunal Benefits for EEA nationals – advanced Social security law update Students and benefits – an update Universal credit for ill health and disability Universal credit update and tactics

41 42 43 44 45 46

MEMBERSHIP Become a member of Child Poverty Action Group CPAG membership form

47 48

SUBSCRIPTIONS CPAG subscriptions

49

PUBLICATIONS CPAG publications Publications order form

53 57

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FEES AND BOOKING INFORMATION FOR ONLINE COURSES Voluntary organisations

Statutory/other organisations

Half-day course

£91.50

£128

Full-day course*

£131.50

£186.50

£390

£550

Fees 2022/23

Three-day course*

CPAG members get a 5% discount on our public programme training courses. *Please note that to avoid lengthy screen time, courses with content normally delivered over a full day will be split over two mornings online. Our three-day courses will be delivered over six mornings.

Cancellations Cancellations should be made in writing. Our cancellation policy can be found at cpag.org.uk/scotland/training/events-booking.

Booking You can check availability and book a course online at cpag.org.uk/scotland/training.

You will get an email to confirm your booking has been received. If you have an enquiry about your booking please contact training@cpagscotland.org.uk or call 0141 552 3303.

Course materials We can provide course materials in large print. Please indicate when booking online if you have any other needs, or contact us.

Additional training dates New courses and course dates are added to our programme throughout the year. For the latest information, sign up to our mailing list at cpag.org.uk/signup/scotland.

The use of breakout rooms was great, I’d never done that before and I think it worked really well Training was very well organised and zoom-ing was very smooth

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IN-HOUSE ONLINE TRAINING Do your staff need an overview of benefits? Do they need to support low-income families to manage benefit change? Do staff need specialist training on benefits for their client group?

All of our online training courses can be delivered to your organisation. Or we can help you to design a tailored training package for staff, from awareness sessions for any frontline staff to training for specialist advisers.

We work with many organisations throughout Scotland every year to design and deliver in-house learning.

Why choose in-house online training?

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Get more cost-effective training

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Tailor training to your own learning objectives

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Choose when to have the course

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Benefit from CPAG’s expert training and course materials

For more information, see cpag.org.uk/scotland/training/house-training or contact Pauline Chalmers on 0141 552 3303 or pchalmers@cpagscotland.org.uk.

This was valuable training with good opportunities for discussion and every question we asked was answered thoroughly.

Thankyou!

WEBINARS We run webinars which offer up-to-the-minute insights on social security developments and topics of concern.

Details of upcoming events are on our website at cpag.org.uk/scotland/training.

An epic webinar, thank you. Feel primed for the queries now!

Clear, detailed and informative advice as always from CPAG 5

TRAINING COURSES CPAG’s experience in the welfare rights field is renowned. Our rights handbooks are the definitive guides for those working in advice, support and advocacy nationwide. Our training uses all this experience and expertise to bring you high quality courses on all aspects of benefits and tax credits.

Level of course It is important that you choose the right level of course. We grade our online courses at three levels.

INTRODUCTORY

For people new to benefit advice work, or who have little or no experience of the subject covered by the course.

See page 8.

STANDARD

For people with a working knowledge of the benefit system, or the subject covered by the course. These are suitable for people wanting a refresher, or to update skills or information.

See page 22.

EXPERIENCED

For more experienced benefit advisers, who are confident about covering issues in more, and sometimes complex detail.

See page 41.

Scottish National Standards Organisations using these standards for information and advice providers need to make sure staff have the knowledge to meet the needs of service users. CPAG’s training courses help you do this by covering knowledge requirements in the Competences for Advisers.

A suggested package of courses for agencies seeking accreditation or working to the national standards is: ■ Introduction to welfare rights ■ Adult disability payment ■ Attendance allowance – an introduction ■ Income maximisation for older people For Type II and III advisers, add on the following courses: ■ Challenging decisions – mandatory reconsiderations and other tactics ■ Challenging Scottish benefit decisions – what’s the difference?

■ Looking up the law online ■ Overpayments of benefit and tax credits To add on other specialist areas, there is a course to suit most requirements. And you can keep up-to-date with our courses Universal credit update and tactics and Social security law update.

On our website, you can find more details to help you decide which courses you need, and a link to the Scottish National Standards, cpag.org.uk/scotland/training.

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ELEARNING Try CPAG’s essential practical learning and resources on social security benefits for children and families. There are short, interactive learning resources you can access from your tablet, phone, laptop or PC. Try our popular elearning course, Universal Credit, for anyone who works with lowincome families. Coming up, elearning courses designed to help you get to grips with new Scottish benefits so you can help the people you work with access important financial support.

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NEW ELEARNING Scottish Social Security NEW ELEARNING Scottish Child Payment NEW ELEARNING Child Disability Payment NEW ELEARNING Your Scottish Benefit Appeal

A brilliant way of learning Superb, quick and effective Loved the videos Create an elearning account for free at elearning.cpag.org.uk and see what other courses are available.

Local authorities Do you want staff across your local authority to be more aware about benefits? Elearning is a cost-effective way to do it. We can tailor elearning for your local authority. Contact us for more information at training@cpagscotland.org.uk.

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INTRODUCTION TO WELFARE RIGHTS DATE DATE

6 – 8 and 13 – 15 September 2022 17 – 19 and 24 – 26 January 2023 See detailed schedule below

This is essential training if you are starting out as a welfare rights adviser or need a good understanding of the benefits system. It introduces you to the social security system and important concepts to help you maximise benefit entitlement. You will gain a detailed knowledge of the core benefits and assessments involved in welfare rights advice – universal credit, the assessment of limited capability for work and the assessment of adult disability payment which replaces personal independence payment in Scotland. . You will learn how to maximise entitlement and deal with problems.

INTRODUCTORY

The course covers: ■

Benefits overview - The structure of the benefits system - The range of benefits available in different circumstances - Key concepts in income-related benefit entitlement

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Universal credit - Who is entitled to universal credit - Helping people claim and manage the system - The transfer from legacy benefits - The amounts that make up universal credit - How universal credit awards are calculated

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Work capability assessment - What the work capability assessment is for - Who has limited capability for work, and limited capability for work-related activity - The process of going through an assessment

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Advising about legacy benefits - What are the legacy benefits that universal credit is replacing and who gets them - Common issues, avoiding pitfalls and maximising entitlement

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Adult disability payment - Who is entitled to adult disability payment - Understanding the assessment - How to claim

This course is aimed at new advisers and frontline workers who have little or no experience of the benefits system.

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 8

This ‘3 full day equivalent’ course will be delivered online via Zoom. In order to avoid lengthy screen time, the delivery of the course will be spread across six mornings as follows; September 2022 course 6, 7 and 8 September 2022 13, 14 and 15 September 2022 January 2023 course 17, 18 and 19 January 2023 24, 25 and 26 January 2023

As this was my very first touch with welfare rights and the benefits system, the course really helped me to get to a good start.

Level - Introductory Tutor - Moira Escreet, Mark Willis, David Kelly, Alison Gillies Time - 10am - 1pm each day

CPAG publication Welfare benefits and tax credits handbook

INTRODUCTORY

Available to buy in print or online at cpag.org.uk/bookshop

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 9

ADULT DISABILITY PAYMENT DATE DATE DATE

19 – 20 May 2022 6 – 7 October 2022 9 – 10 February 2023

Adult disability payment (ADP) is a new Scottish benefit aimed at supporting workingage adults who have extra care needs or mobility difficulties because of a disability. It is replacing personal independence payment in Scotland, starting from 2022. Getting an award of ADP can significantly increase income and so it is a crucial benefit for advisers and others to know about. This course will give you an understanding of the main rules and help you to identify people who may be entitled. The course will also look at how the roll-out of ADP in Scotland will impact on people who already get personal independence payment.

The course covers: ■

Who is entitled to ADP

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How to claim

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How the ADP assessment works

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How personal independence payment claimants will be transferred to ADP

INTRODUCTORY

Level - Introductory Tutor - Alison Gillies Time - 10am - 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 10

ATTENDANCE ALLOWANCE – AN INTRODUCTION DATE DATE

26 August 2022 3 March 2023

Attendance allowance (AA) is the main disability benefit for people who have reached pension age. Getting an award of AA can significantly increase income and so it is a crucial benefit for older people. This course will give you an understanding of the main rules and help you to identify people who may be entitled. The course is aimed at advisers with little or no experience of AA.

The course covers: ■

Who is entitled to AA

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How to claim

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Some ‘knock-on’ effects of getting an award of AA

The course was presented very clearly and all information provided was relevant and straightforward to understand.

INTRODUCTORY

Level - Introductory Tutor - Alison Gillies Time - 10am – 1pm

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 11

BENEFIT BASICS IN SCOTLAND DATE DATE

26 – 27 April 2022 6 – 7 December 2022

You do not need to be a benefit expert to make a difference. This course is for anyone working with people on low incomes or with additional needs. You will learn the basics of social security and be able to identify which benefits are available to the people you work with. You will understand the key life events that can have an impact on benefit entitlement and recognise when someone should make a new claim or report a change in circumstances.

The course covers: ■

The UK and Scottish social security systems

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Universal credit basics

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Disability and carers’ benefits in the UK and Scotland

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Knowing who can help

This introductory level course is aimed at advisers and support workers with no knowledge of benefits.

The best course I have attended I’m new to benefits so it was a good place to start

INTRODUCTORY

Well-presented, clear, easy-to-follow information on complex subject matter Level - Introductory Tutor - Alison Lord Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 12

BENEFITS OVERVIEW DATE DATE

21 June 2022 2 March 2023

Most people will claim a social security benefit at some point in their lives. This course is for anyone new to helping people navigate their way through the benefits system or who want an overview of the system. The course gives an introduction to the benefits system looking at what it is, who it is for and how it all fits together.

The course covers: ■

A brief introduction to social security

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The structure of the benefits system

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Means-tested and non-means-tested benefits

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How benefits interact with each other

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How to do a benefit check

I have a better understanding of a number of issues I will be able to do my job in a better informed way Great training, friendly attitude

INTRODUCTORY

Level - Introductory Tutor - Alison Lord Time - 10am – 1pm

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 13

CARE-EXPERIENCED YOUNG PEOPLE AND THE BENEFITS SYSTEM DATE

3 November 2022

Many young people who have been ‘looked after’ by the local authority are affected by special social security rules. Some are excluded from income-related benefits like universal credit and instead the local authority is responsible for supporting them. Some are entitled to a ‘care-experienced bursary’. This course looks at the special benefit rules for this group of young people and provides the opportunity to consider other support available.

The course covers: ■

The special benefit rules affecting 16 and 17-year-olds leaving care and in continuing care, including young people who have been living with kinship carers

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Local authorities’ powers and responsibilities towards care-experienced young people

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The impact of universal credit on care-experienced young people

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The care-experienced bursary and its interaction with the social security system

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Other help available to care-experienced young people

Has given me a greater understanding of the complexities of the benefits system and an appreciation for those who have to claim benefits/ help others to claim

INTRODUCTORY

Level - Introductory Tutor - Alison Gillies Time - 10am – 1pm

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 14

CLAIMANTS AND CUSTODY DATE

2 September 2022

A period in custody, whether on remand or serving a custodial sentence, impacts on benefit entitlement. Problems often arise when a person released from custody tries to claim the benefits they are entitled to. This course will help you understand what happens to benefit entitlement when someone goes into prison. It provides an opportunity to discuss some of the issues that come up when someone is released.

The course covers: ■

What happens to benefits when someone goes into prison

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Sorting out benefits on release from custody

I really enjoyed this course, this was my first Zoom course with CPAG and the delivery was great More confident advising around prison and benefits

INTRODUCTORY

Level - Introductory Tutor - Barbara Donegan, Alison Gillies Time - 10am – 1pm

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 15

HOW TO UNLOCK YOUR TRAINING POTENTIAL DATE

10 – 11 November 2022

This interactive and practical course is designed to increase your skills and confidence if you are new to training, and to enable you to update and refresh your style and methods if you are a more experienced trainer.

The course covers: ■

Research-based strategies for effective training

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Steps to design and prepare inspiring training

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Methods and techniques to make training interesting, memorable and enjoyable

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How to use effective questioning to check knowledge

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How to evaluate a training session

You will be invited to deliver a brief training session in a small group during the course, allowing you to both practice what you have learned and to increase your confidence in your skills as a trainer.

INTRODUCTORY

Level - Introductory Tutor - Barbara Donegan and Kat Turner Time - 10am - 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 16

KINSHIP CARERS AND THE BENEFITS SYSTEM DATE

18 November 2022

‘Kinship care’ is the situation in which a child goes to live with a member of their extended family or with a family friend. This course looks at benefit issues that arise for kinship carers.

It provides an opportunity to consider local authorities’ responsibilities in relation to kinship care assistance and a chance to look at what universal credit means for kinship carers and for local authorities.

The course covers: ■

Benefit rules for kinship carers

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How local authority support to kinship carers interacts with the social security system

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The impact of universal credit

This half day introductory level course is ideal for advisers and others such as social workers, who are supporting kinship carers.

Exceptionally good, concise training Level - Introductory Tutor - Alison Gillies Time - 10am – 1pm

CPAG publication Children’s Handbook Scotland

INTRODUCTORY

Available to buy in print at cpag.org.uk/bookshop and online at askcpag.org.uk/publications/scotland

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 17

PAYMENTS FOR CHILDREN IN SCOTLAND DATE DATE

17 June 2022 8 February 2023

A range of new support has been introduced for children in Scotland alongside the UK system in recent years. The Scottish child payment is already available to an estimated 194,000 children under six in Scotland, but a concerted effort will be needed to maximise take-up when it is extended to older children by the end of 2022. Best Start grants and Best Start foods can make a big difference in the early years. In most cases, qualifying for these devolved benefits depends on securing entitlement to UK benefits, which remain the primary source of support. While new Scottish payments will help reduce child poverty, some families in Scotland may see their overall income reduced by the two child limit and benefit cap rules in UK benefits. This course provides an overview of the support available from pregnancy to school age.

The course covers: ■

Scottish child payment

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Best Start

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UK-wide payments for children

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Two child limit and the benefit cap

This half-day introductory level course is aimed at advisers and other workers who have little or no knowledge of benefits.

Level - Introductory Tutor - Mark Willis Time - 10am – 1pm

CPAG publication Financial help for families: what you need to know

INTRODUCTORY

Available to buy in print at cpag.org.uk/bookshop and online at askcpag.org.uk/publications

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 18

SCOTTISH SOCIAL SECURITY – AN INTRODUCTION DATE DATE

18 August 2022 28 March 2023

This short course provides an introduction to benefits delivered by Social Security Scotland.

It is aimed at advisers and other workers who have little or no knowledge of benefits.

The course covers: ■

What benefits are being delivered by Social Security Scotland and who is entitled

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The latest on child disability payment and adult disability payment

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Who is entitled the Scottish child payment

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What is next on the Scottish benefit agenda

I loved the polls in between the sections…so useful to check learning and understanding I loved the course and learned so much. I feel more confident and equipped to support parents and carers in relation to these new benefits

INTRODUCTORY

Level - Introductory Tutor - Alison Gillies Time - 10am – 1pm

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 19

STUDENTS AND BENEFITS – THE BASICS DATE

12 May 2022

This half-day course provides a basic overview of social security benefits, and which further and higher education students might be able to claim them. The course is for student advisers and other frontline workers who are new to benefits.

The course covers: ■

A brief overview of social security benefits

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Which groups of students can claim benefits

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The impact of student support on benefits

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Signposting students for help with benefits enquiries

I got exactly what I wanted from this course a good grounding in the basics and where to go to check or for further info Level - Introductory Tutor - Angela Toal Time - 10am – 1pm

CPAG publication Benefits for Students in Scotland Handbook

INTRODUCTORY

Available to buy in print at cpag.org.uk/bookshop and online at askcpag.org.uk/publications/scotland

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 20

UNIVERSAL CREDIT – AN INTRODUCTION DATE DATE

26 October 2022 23 March 2023

Universal credit is the main working age, means-tested benefit throughout the UK. It was intended to simplify the social security system and provide an incentive to work, but its monthly assessment and online process can seem daunting for clients and advisers alike.

You do not need to be an expert to make a difference. This course aims to equip you with the practical knowledge you need to help your service users navigate universal credit and avoid potential pitfalls.

The course covers: ■

What is universal credit and who can get it

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Helping people manage the system

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Maximising incomes – understanding universal credit amounts

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Dealing with problems and knowing who can help

The information was put across perfectly, there was plenty opportunities for questions and the overall session was very engaging Level - Introductory Tutor - Mark Willis Time - 10am – 1pm

CPAG publication Universal Credit: what you need to know

INTRODUCTORY

Available to buy at cpag.org.uk/bookshop

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 21

BENEFITS FOR EEA NATIONALS DATE DATE

10 – 11 May 2022 23 – 24 November 2022

The requirement to have a right to reside for key benefits such as universal credit, continues to be the most significant barrier to EEA nationals accessing these benefits. However, increasingly advisers also need to understand how the immigration status of EEA nationals arriving in the UK more recently can affect their entitlement to the main benefits.

This standard level course offers a step-by-step approach to enable advisers to ask the key questions and gather the information most useful when assisting EEA nationals to obtain their benefit entitlements.

The course covers: ■ ■ ■

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The requirements that restrict access to benefits for EEA nationals in the UK The main groups that can satisfy the right to reside test How benefit entitlements are affected by getting leave under the EU Settlement Scheme The key questions to determine access to benefits for EEA nationals arriving in the UK recently

This ‘one-day equivalent’ standard level course is aimed at those who advise European nationals on their benefit entitlements. If you also advise non-European nationals you should also book on the course Benefits for non-EEA nationals on 16 – 17 November 2022, see page 23.

Level - Standard Tutor - Rebecca Walker Time - 10am – 1pm each day

CPAG publication Benefits for Migrants Handbook Right to Reside flowchart

STANDARD

Available to buy in print and online at cpag.org. uk/bookshop

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 22

BENEFITS FOR NON-EEA NATIONALS DATE

16 – 17 November 2022

Advisers can find it difficult and intimidating to advise non-European nationals on how their immigration status affects entitlement to benefits.

This standard level course offers an opportunity for advisers to gain knowledge and confidence by taking a step-by-step approach, and looking in-depth at how the rules apply to different scenarios.

The course covers: ■

Who is a ‘person subject to immigration control’

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Which benefits they are excluded from and the exceptions

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When a ‘no recourse to public funds’ restriction is relevant

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How a change in immigration status affects entitlement to benefits

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The benefit entitlements of someone living with a partner or child with a different immigration status

This ‘one-day equivalent’ standard level course is aimed at those who advise nonEuropean nationals on their benefit entitlements. If you also advise European nationals you should also book on the course Benefits for EEA nationals on 10 – 11 May 2022 or 23 – 24 November 2022, see page 22.

Level - Standard Tutor - Rebecca Walker Time - 10am – 1pm each day

This was an absolutely brilliant course – essential, I think, for all benefit advisers

STANDARD

Very useful course delivered in a way that made very complex information understandable For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 23

BENEFITS FOR RENT DATE

8 – 9 March 2023

Annually - in normal times - around two thousand tenants in Scotland are evicted by social landlords for rent arrears, with an unrecorded number of private tenants also losing their homes. Many of these arrears can be traced back to issues about under claimed or disputed amounts of housing benefit or the housing costs element of universal credit. This practical course is aimed at housing workers and advisers who need to understand how to manage UC to minimise arrears and reduce the threat of eviction and how to maximise and retain HB where possible.

The course is aimed at those with a working knowledge of HB and UC. covers: ■

Migrating to UC or staying on HB, including the mixed-age couple rules

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Where entitlement in UC or HB can be missed or disputed including rules on temporary absence, two homes, non-dependants

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Overpayments of HB and UC and recovery from landlords and tenants

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UC assessment period issues and the effect of deductions on the UC housing costs element

This standard level course is aimed at those with a working knowledge of HB and UC.

Level - Standard Tutor - David Kelly Time - 10am – 1pm each day

CPAG publication CPAG’s Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction Legislation

STANDARD

Available to buy at cpag.org.uk/bookshop

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 24

CAPITAL AND UNIVERSAL CREDIT DATE DATE

31 May 2022 22 November 2022

Not having too much ‘capital’ is a basic condition to get universal credit. Capital can include property, savings, investments or lump sum payments. However, whether or not your capital affects your entitlement to universal credit depends on if it can be disregarded and what value it has. Capital can even affect your entitlement if you no longer have it. This course aims to help advisers understand these rules.

This course covers: ■

How capital affects universal credit entitlement

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What counts as capital

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How capital is valued

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When and what capital can be disregarded

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What happens if capital is spent or given away

Level - Standard Tutor - Henri Krishna Time - 10am – 1pm

STANDARD

Course material was very relevant to real life situations

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 25

CHALLENGING DECISIONS – MANDATORY RECONSIDERATIONS AND OTHER TACTICS DATE DATE

20 – 21 September 2022 28 February 2023 – 1 March 2023

If you need to get a universal credit or other benefit decision changed, this course aims to gives you the essential knowledge to do it. To successfully challenge a decision, knowing what type of decision to ask for can make all the difference. This might be a mandatory reconsideration, a revision or a supersession. In some cases complaints, disputes or judicial reviews might be the appropriate course of action.

This course explains the jargon and takes a practical, problem-solving approach to help advisers identify the right way to get decisions changed and get processes unblocked, and so get the best outcome for claimants.

The course covers: ■

Understanding the jargon

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When to ask for revisions and supersessions

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When mandatory reconsideration rules apply

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When to use complaints, disputes and judicial reviews

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Practical considerations and tactics

Note that this course does not cover decisions for Scottish benefits.

Very useful and practical course Explaining the jargon was very helpful

STANDARD

Level - Standard Tutor - Henri Krishna Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 26

CHALLENGING DECISIONS ON SCOTTISH BENEFITS – WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? DATE DATE

28 – 29 September 2022 2 – 3 February 2023

Social Security Scotland now delivers a range of benefits for people who live in Scotland.

You may already be familiar with the processes involved in challenging DWP decisions. The terminology, rules and processes for Scottish benefits are different. This course gives you the knowledge you need to challenge decisions on Scottish benefits and get better outcomes for your clients.

The course covers: ■

Understanding the terminology

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The stages in challenging a decision

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How, when and where to appeal

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Important time limits

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Determinations without applications

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Appealing ‘process decisions’

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Further steps if unsatisfied with the outcome

STANDARD

Level - Standard Tutor - Moira Escreet Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 27

CHILD DISABILITY PAYMENT DATE DATE

20 – 21 April 2022 1 – 2 November 2022

Child disability payment (CDP) is a new Scottish benefit that helps meet the additional needs of disabled children. It replaces disability living allowance (DLA) for children living in Scotland.

This course gives you a practical insight into the main CDP rules and will provide an understanding of the different components of the benefit. It will give practical advice on claiming and on how to demonstrate that a child meets the qualifying criteria. The course will also look at some special rules specific to child disability payment, highlight further benefits of a successful claim and consider what to do if you are not happy with the outcome of a claim

The course covers: ■

Who is entitled to CDP and how to claim

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The different components of the benefit

■

How CDP for a child can increase benefits for the family

■

Some special rules

■

An overview of the process for challenging decisions

This one-day standard level course is aimed at advisers with little or no knowledge of these benefits.

STANDARD

Level - Standard Tutor - Moira Escreet Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 28

INCOME MAXIMISATION FOR OLDER PEOPLE DATE

31 January 2023 - 1 February 2023

Older people commonly do not claim all that they are entitled to. This course provides an introduction to pension credit and aims to help you with effective benefit checks to maximise income.

The course covers: ■

State pension

■

Who is eligible for pension credit

■

How to work out guarantee credit entitlement

■

Claiming pension credit and getting paid

■

Benefit checks for older people and ways to maximise income

■

How income and pension pots affect pension credit

■

How universal credit affects benefits for older people

■

How disability benefits are affected as state pension age rises

STANDARD

Level - Standard Tutor - Will Hadwen Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 29

PAGE

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

INTRODUCTORY COURSES Introduction to welfare rights

8

Adult disability payment

10

Attendance allowance – an introduction

11

Benefit basics in Scotland

12

Benefits overview

13

Care-experienced young people and the benefits system

14

Claimants and custody

15

How to unlock your training potential

16

Kinship carers and the benefits system

17

Payments for children in Scotland

18

Scottish social security – an introduction

19

Students and benefits – the basics

20

Universal credit – an introduction

21

19-20

26-27 21

17

12

Calendar of courses April 2022 to March 2023

STANDARD COURSES Benefits for EEA nationals

22

Benefits for non-EEA nationals

23

Benefits for rent

24

Capital and universal credit

25

Challenging decisions – mandatory reconsiderations and other tactics

26

Challenging Scottish benefit decisions – what’s the difference?

27

Child disability payment

28

Income maximisation for older people

29

Limited capability for work in universal credit

32

Looking up the law online

33

Mental health and benefits

34

Overpayments of benefit and tax credits

35

Preparing and appeal submission for the First-tier Tribunal

36

QBC – making the most of your calculator

37

Students and benefits – eligibility

38

Universal credit and students

39

Universal credit – transferring from benefits and tax credits

40

10-11

31

20-21

22

17-18

28-29 13-14

EXPERIENCED COURSES Appeals to the Upper Tribunal

41

Benefits for EEA nationals – advanced

42

Social security law update

43

Students and benefits – an update

44

Universal credit ill health and disability

45

Universal credit update and tactics

46

30

24-25

1 3-4 15-16

JULY

AUG

SEPT

OCT

NOV

DEC

6-8,13-15

JAN

FEB

MAR

17-19,24-26 6-7

9-10

26

3 6-7 2 3 2 10-11 18 8

18

28

26

23

23-24 16-17 8-9 22 20-21

28

28-29

1

2-3 1-2 31

1

23

7 16

31

1

12-13

21-22

24-25

16-17 22-23 4-5

19

21

7-8 30

1

27-28

29-30 15 8-9 11-12

14-15

31

LIMITED CAPABILITY FOR WORK IN UNIVERSAL CREDIT DATE DATE

23 August 2022 7 March 2023

This course looks at how limited capability for work rules affect universal credit. The outcome of the work capability assessment has a crucial role in determining claimants’ work-related requirements as well as the amount of money they get.

The course covers: ■

How to start the work capability assessment process in UC

■

Who has limited capability for work/limited capability for work-related activity in UC – the work capability assessment test

■

How to challenge decisions on limited capability for work

■

How limited capability for work/limited capability for work-related activity can affect the amount of UC as well as the claimant commitment

This standard level half day course is aimed at advisers with a working knowledge of UC.

I really enjoyed the course. It was at the right level, the presenter was excellent, and the pace of the course was just right

STANDARD

Level - Standard Tutor - Will Hadwen Time - 10am – 1pm

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 32

LOOKING UP THE LAW ONLINE DATE DATE

22 June 2022 16 March 2023

Build your skills with this practical course on effective legal research for benefit casework.

Competent casework starts by knowing the right questions to ask your client. Whether you are helping clients decide on the right course of action or supporting them with an appeal, the facts relevant to the case depend on the law. This course is a guide to finding the relevant law online, essential for anyone working at home without access to the usual resources.

The course looks at: ■

Explaining the building blocks of the law - Acts, regulations and caselaw

■

Skills in researching law and guidance relevant to a case

■

Where to find the law and guidance online, and effective use of these resources

■

An introduction to CPAG’s benefit case diagnostic tools and template submissions to aid effective and accurate casework

This standard level course is suitable for advisers who undertake benefit casework.

Useful to get hints and tips on how to effectively utilise gov.uk site quicker and more effectively

STANDARD

Level - Standard Tutor - Judith Paterson Time - 10am – 1pm

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 33

MENTAL HEALTH AND BENEFITS DATE

31 August 2022 – 1 September 2022

This course provides a practical and tactical look at working with people with mental health diagnoses to help secure full entitlement to benefits. It looks at how to meet the disability and medical assessments for work capability and avoid some of the pitfalls of the system.

The course covers: ■

Common diagnoses, symptoms, medication and side effects

■

Barriers to people getting the right entitlement

■

Personal independence payment in a mental health context

■

Medical assessments for universal credit and employment and support allowance

■

Tactics for dealing with other benefit issues

A basic knowledge of the benefits system is assumed.

Really enjoyed this course

STANDARD

Level - Standard Tutor - Alison Lord Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 34

OVERPAYMENTS OF BENEFIT AND TAX CREDITS DATE

17 – 18 May 2022

Benefit may be overpaid for many reasons and recovery often leaves people in hardship.

The rules on recoverability vary considerably between DWP benefits, housing benefit and tax credits and the course highlights the significance of claimant or official error for each.

Using practical examples, this course equips you to deal with overpayments by taking a systematic approach to checking and challenging recoverability.

The course covers: ■

An overview of the necessary decision-making process before an overpayment decision can be made

■

The tests of misrepresentation and failure to disclose central to overpayments of DWP benefit

■

Housing benefit overpayments, the role of official error and recovery from landlords

■

Tax credit overpayments and HMRC’s discretion to recover

■

Universal credit overpayments

■

Scottish social security overpayments

■

Overpayment appeals

■

Methods of recovery

Very informative course, delivered well with excellent course materials

STANDARD

Level - Standard Tutor - David Kelly Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 35

PREPARING AN APPEAL SUBMISSION FOR THE FIRST-TIER TRIBUNAL DATE DATE

12 – 13 October 2022 21 – 22 March 2023

This course covers the appeals system, how and when to appeal and how to prepare for the hearing. The course looks at the whole process for challenging a decision from reconsideration to hearing including ■

When a reconsideration is needed

■

The process of lodging an appeal

■

Appeal preparation including getting further evidence and preparing a written submission

■

What tribunals can and cannot consider.

Using practical examples, the aim is to increase confidence and share tactics in representing at the First-tier Tribunal.

Level - Standard Tutor - David Kelly Time - 10am – 1pm each day

CPAG publication Winning your benefit appeal: what you need to know

STANDARD

Available to buy in print and online at cpag.org.uk/bookshop

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 36

QBC – MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR CALCULATOR DATE DATE DATE

28 – 29 April 2022 24 – 25 August 2022 16 – 17 February 2023

This course is for people who want to learn how use QBC effectively and confidently.

It covers: ■

Understanding screens, controls, menus and how to get in-calculator help

■

Best practice when entering information

■

Legacy benefit calculations

■

Tax credit calculations

■

Universal credit calculations, including changing the transitional element

■

‘What if’ calculations

■

Saving, sending and changing cases

■

An overview of advanced features

This standard level course is suitable for advisers who already have a good understanding of legacy benefits, tax credits and universal credit. It isn’t necessary to have had experience of using QBC, though participants should have a licenced copy of the most recent QBC calculator (as at the date of the course) already installed on their computer to allow them to carry out calculations during the course.

Participants will receive an email link, a few days before the start of the course, to allow access to the event and instructions on how to use QBC during a zoom meeting.

A Wi-Fi connection and a computer will be needed to take part in the course. It will not be possible to join this course using a mobile phone or tablet.

Fantastic course and I would highly recommend it to any service currently using QBC. It was amazing to see what the system can actually offer

STANDARD

Level - Standard Tutor - Barbara Donegan Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 37

STUDENTS AND BENEFITS – ELIGIBILITY DATE DATE

13 – 14 June 2022 22 – 23 February 2023

Many advisers work with students in both further and higher education. This standard level course explains the different benefits that further and higher education students can claim, including universal credit.

The course covers: ■

Definitions of full-time study and part-time study for benefits

■

Eligibility for universal credit

■

Which students can get other means-tested benefits (such as income support and housing benefit) and tax credits

■

Overview of how student funding affects benefits

■

Other benefits students may be eligible for

This ‘one-day equivalent’ course is for advisers who already have a basic knowledge of benefits and tax credits and want to know how the rules apply to students.

Overview of student eligibility to all benefits was extremely useful Level - Standard Tutor - Angela Toal Time - 10am – 1pm each day

CPAG publication Benefits for Students in Scotland Handbook

STANDARD

Available to buy in print at cpag.org.uk/bookshop and online at askcpag.org.uk/publications/scotland

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 38

UNIVERSAL CREDIT AND STUDENTS DATE

4 – 5 October 2022

With the introduction of universal credit, the benefit rules for students as we know them are swept away and new rules set up in their place. This ‘one-day equivalent’ course explains in detail which students can claim universal credit and how student funding affects the amount they get. It also covers particular problems to do with claiming universal credit and what to do about them.

The course covers: ■

An overview of universal credit

■

Who is a full-time student for universal credit

■

Which students can claim and how to manage a claim

■

The interaction with Scottish student funding – student loans, further education bursaries, discretionary funds and other funding

STANDARD

Level - Standard Tutor - Angela Toal Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 39

UNIVERSAL CREDIT - TRANSFERRING FROM BENEFITS AND TAX CREDITS DATE DATE

19 August 2022 21 February 2023

This course focuses on the transitional issues for claimants who are moving from legacy benefits and tax credits to universal credit (UC). It is expected that claimants will begin to be moved to UC under the managed migration process during 2022 and 2023. Giving the right advice and support during this process can make a huge difference. In some cases, transitional protection is available, intended to ensure claimants are not worse off. This course is intended to equip advisers with the knowledge to give advice on the options and implications involved in moving from benefits and tax credits to UC.

The course covers: ■

Changes that trigger a move to UC – ‘natural migration’

■

Better-off issues and transitional rules

■

How the government will move people onto UC – ‘managed migration’

■

Transitional elements and protection

The course is aimed at people with a working knowledge of the benefits system.

A good overview of transition from legacy benefits to UC…..pace was just right Very informative and enjoyable course

STANDARD

Level - Standard Tutor - Mark Willis Time - 10am – 1pm

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 40

APPEALS TO THE UPPER TRIBUNAL DATE

7 – 8 September 2022

This course is essential for anyone who wants to challenge decisions of the First-tier Tribunal (Social Entitlement Chamber) effectively. The main aim of the course is to give you an understanding of what is an error of law, and practice in finding errors of law in the First-tier Tribunal statement of reasons.

The course covers: ■

Exploring other ways of changing First-tier Tribunal decisions

■

Finding errors of law in the statement of reasons

■

Format of an application or appeal to the Upper Tribunal

■

Procedures from First-tier to Upper Tribunal

■

Preparing submissions to the Upper Tribunal

■

Hearings before the Upper Tribunal

Some experience of representing at the First-tier Tribunal is essential.

EXPERIENCED

Level - Experienced Tutor - Jane Smith Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 41

BENEFITS FOR EEA NATIONALS – ADVANCED DATE DATE

24 – 25 May 2022 30 November 2022 – 1 December 2022

This experienced level course looks in detail at the social security rights of EEA nationals in the UK. It provides an opportunity for advisers who are familiar with some of the more commonly occurring scenarios to focus on specific complex areas and recent significant developments.

The course covers: ■

Social Security co-ordination with other EEA states since the end of the post-Brexit transition period. In particular the effects of co-ordination rules on disability and carer’s benefit claimants in the UK, and those claiming child benefit for children living in Europe

■

Current issues for EEA nationals relying on free movement rights to satisfy the right to reside requirement

■

Recent significant changes in legislation and caselaw

This course is aimed at those who advise European nationals on their benefit entitlement regularly and help with challenging decisions. Those with less experience should book instead on the standard level course Benefits for EEA nationals on 10 – 11 May 2022 or 23 – 24 November 22, see page 22.

If you also advise non-European nationals you should also book on the course Benefits for Non-EEA nationals on 16 – 17 November 22, see page 23.

Fantastic training course - really well laid out and illustrated

EXPERIENCED

Level - Experienced Tutor - Rebecca Walker Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 42

SOCIAL SECURITY LAW UPDATE DATE DATE

27 - 28 October 2022 29 - 30 March 2023

Social security law and tax credit law can change from day to day and advisers need to keep abreast of developments to advise their clients correctly. Arranged under topic headings and concentrating on caselaw, this essential one-day course looks at the most important changes in benefit and tax credits law from the previous six months.

The course covers: ■

Decisions of the High Court, Court of Appeal, Court of Session and Supreme Court, as well as the European Court of Justice and European Court of Human Rights

■

Selected decisions of the Upper Tribunal

■

Significant changes to Acts and regulations

I will feed back to team…. many of the points covered to inform our casework A huge thank-you for a really informative and enjoyable course’

EXPERIENCED

Level - Experienced Tutor - Simon Osborne Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 43

STUDENTS AND BENEFITS – AN UPDATE DATE DATE

1 June 2022 15 November 2022

Make sure you know how recent benefit changes are likely to affect students. This halfday course is for advisers with a good working knowledge of the benefits and tax credits systems as they apply to students, and mainly updates advisers on changes, rather than on existing rules.

The course covers: ■

Universal credit for students

■

Update on the rules for disabled students claiming universal credit

■

Student support update and impact on benefits and tax credits

■

Other changes in legislation and caselaw

Engaging and challenging, I like the breakout rooms where you do the calculations together Fantastic and very useful course, trainer explained everything clearly

EXPERIENCED

Level - Experienced Tutor - Angela Toal Time - 10am – 1pm

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 44

UNIVERSAL CREDIT FOR ILL HEALTH AND DISABILITY DATE DATE

3 – 4 May 2022 8 – 9 November 2022

This course looks at the universal credit (UC) rules that particularly affect ill or disabled people. It will equip you to advise clients about the transfer to UC, covering transitional rules for those coming from legacy benefits.

The course covers: ■

The latest rules on when ill and disabled people may need to claim UC, and the consequences of claiming

■

Transitional rules for those moving from legacy benefits

■

How to deal with delays and challenge decisions on limited capability for work

■

The consequences of work capability assessment outcomes in UC

■

The interaction of disability benefits (PIP, DLA and AA) and the UC calculation

■

How work affects the UC award for disabled claimants.

This experienced level course is aimed at advisers with an understanding of the UC calculation and knowledge of the work capability assessment.

Very informative, and has made certain issues regarding UC and ill health so much clearer Great to tap into a fab source of info

EXPERIENCED

Level - Experienced Tutor - Will Hadwen Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 45

UNIVERSAL CREDIT UPDATE AND TACTICS DATE DATE DATE

15 – 16 June 2022 11 – 12 January 2023 14 – 15 March 2023

Universal credit (UC) changes all the time, as the law is amended, as it is implemented in practice, and as local delivery changes. This course is an opportunity for experienced advisers to get up to date with the latest developments. You will be able to share experiences of universal credit and discuss legal and practical approaches to best support clients.

The course covers: ■

Changes to the legislation and recent caselaw affecting UC

■

Current legal challenges

■

Common practical problems in UC and approaches to tackle them

This course is aimed at experienced advisers confident about covering issues in detail.

This was valuable training with good opportunities for discussion and every question we asked was answered thoroughly.

Thankyou!

This was one of the best courses I have attended!

EXPERIENCED

Level - Experienced Tutor - David Kelly, Henri Krishna Time - 10am – 1pm each day

For information and to book a place please visit our website cpag.org.uk/scotland/training 46

MEMBERSHIP BECOME A MEMBER OF CHILD POVERTY ACTION GROUP

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For membership & subscription enquiries please contact membership@cpag.org.uk 47

CPAG MEMBERSHIP FORM Please complete and return with payment to CPAG, 30 Micawber Street, London, N1 7TB NB: This form is for new memberships/subscriptions only. Existing members will be contacted separately.

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48

SUBSCRIPTIONS KEEP UP-TO-DATE WITH A SUBSCRIPTION TO OUR ONLINE PLATFORM OR OUR PRINTED PUBLICATIONS

An AskCPAG subscription gives you access to regularly-updated online books, timesaving tools, and articles – so your advice will always be current and accurate. AskCPAG saves you time and offers solutions when it comes to working out benefit entitlements and challenging unfavourable decisions.

49

HOW DOES HELP YOU TO DO YOUR JOB? ■

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Articles and videos: Free to read and watch, our curated content gives up-to-the-minute insights on social security developments and topics of concern.

Books: Our flagship Welfare Benefits and Tax Credits Handbook is fully searchable and is updated throughout the year. The handbook is an essential resource for all professional advisers aiming to give the best and most accurate advice to clients.

Library: The ever-growing library includes downloads and factsheets, and we are constantly adding new books and resources to the platform. Many books are available to read free, thanks to partnerships we’ve built.

Tools: Our case diagnostic and tailored letter tools cover universal credit, work capability assessment, personal independence payment, and judicial review. They will: ❏ help you identify the correct position for your client in complicated

areas of welfare rights entitlement; and ❏ produce letters tailored to your client’s circumstances to challenge

unfavourable decisions.

Our most popular tools include our mandatory reconsideration letter generators, along with the tools we developed specifically to tackle benefits and coronavirus.

WHAT OUR USERS SAY AskCPAG is a brilliant resource for advisers. The tools and articles are very useful and the Welfare Rights Handbook is fantastic and very easy to use and navigate. Everyone working in welfare rights should sign up to AskCPAG! It is crucial to doing my job effectively.

The best reference tool in the benefits area.

50

SUBSCRIPTIONS Non-member rate

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51

52

CPAG PUBLICATIONS 2022/23 Over the past year, there have been a number of significant changes to the UK benefits system. Some are being replaced, while others have different rules for claiming. Our books are kept up-to-date and include vital coronavirus information. So if you’re using an old copy, this really is the time to renew.

Many of our publications are also on AskCPAG, our online library and resources hub. These online books are updated in real time on askcpag.org.uk. cpag.org.uk/subscriptions 53

EXPERT SERIES WELFARE BENEFITS AND TAX CREDITS HANDBOOK, 24TH EDITION CPAG’s annually updated Welfare Benefits and Tax Credits Handbook is the definitive guide to the UK’s social security system.

Tactical guidance and examples are included throughout to help you navigate an increasingly complex social security system. The Handbook is also fully indexed and cross-referenced to legislation, official guidance and caselaw. Changes to the benefit system caused by coronavirus are referenced throughout.

Cover price £69 | CPAG member price £58.65 | April 2022 Don’t forget to order your wall chart, which gives you quick and easy access to the benefit and tax credit rates for 2022/23. Also available as an A4 poster and an A2 wall chart

BENEFITS FOR MIGRANTS HANDBOOK, 14TH EDITION CPAG’s Benefits for Migrants Handbook has firmly established itself as the leading text on social security entitlement for people who have come to, or who are leaving, the UK. The publication of the 14th edition of this handbook is timed to ensure advisers get the latest information on these changes.

Cover price £45 | CPAG member price £38.25 | November 2022 Alongside the handbook, we also sell a Right to Reside flowchart to help you understand your clients’ entitlement.

CHILD SUPPORT HANDBOOK, 30TH EDITION Written for parents and their advisers, the annual Child Support Handbook is the standard practical guide to the statutory child maintenance scheme in England, Wales and Scotland. Practical examples and tactical tips for dealing with the Child Maintenance Service are included throughout, and the book is fully indexed and cross referenced with the latest legislation and caselaw.

Cover price £45 | CPAG member price £38.25 | October 2022

HOUSING BENEFIT AND COUNCIL TAX REDUCTION LEGISLATION 2022/23 This annual title from CPAG contains all the relevant primary and secondary legislation governing housing benefit and the council tax reduction schemes in England, Wales and Scotland.

With expert commentary on the rules, the latest caselaw, official guidance and advice on administrative and practical issues, it is an essential resource for anyone dealing with housing benefit enquiries, especially those preparing and presenting appeals, as well as lawyers, local authority staff and housing organisations.

Cover price £142 | CPAG member price £120.70 | December 2022 54

ESSENTIAL GUIDES UNIVERSAL CREDIT: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW, 7TH EDITION NEW FOR 2022 Learn what you need to know about universal credit with this fully updated edition of our bestselling, easy-to-follow guide. You don’t need to be an expert – with its help, you can deal with your clients’ queries.

Cover price £16 | CPAG member price £13.60 | August 2022

FINANCIAL HELP FOR FAMILIES: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW, 4TH EDITION NEW FOR 2022 Despite struggling to make ends meet, many families do not claim all the financial support to which they are entitled. This new edition of Financial Help for Families: what you need to know, is for you if you work with families and want to help maximise their income or deal with a benefit problem.

Cover price £16 | CPAG member price £13.60 | July 2022

PERSONAL INDEPENDENCE PAYMENT: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW, 3RD EDITION Our popular guide to personal independence payment tells you all you need to know about the benefit in a clear, accessible and easy to follow way.

Cover price £16 | CPAG member price £13.60 | OUT NOW

WINNING YOUR BENEFIT APPEAL: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW, 4TH EDITION Back by popular demand, we have updated this sell-out guide to give you all the essential information you need in order to prepare and present a successful appeal at the First-tier Tribunal.

Cover price £16 | CPAG member price £13.80 | OUT NOW

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GENERAL NEW! MENTAL HEALTH AND BENEFITS HANDBOOK, 1ST EDITION This new handbook is being written for advisors who work with clients who have mental health issues.

It looks at the steps that can be taken, and the legal levers that are available, when working with clients with mental health problems.

It will include an overview and descriptions of various mental health conditions, and provide recommendations and tips for surmounting some of the difficulties that can be encountered when claimants are applying for benefits. All relevant benefits are included.

Cover price £35 | CPAG member price £29.75 | Winter 2022

STUDENT SUPPORT AND BENEFITS HANDBOOK, 19TH EDITION This popular guide to student finance and benefit entitlement in England, Wales and Northern Ireland has been fully updated for the 22/23 academic year, and covers a range of grants and loans available in all three countries - for full-time and part-time students, young people in further education, post graduates and those studying vocational courses.

Cover price £35 | CPAG member price £29.75 | October 2022

For more information about our books, visit cpag.org.uk/shop or contact bookorders@cpag.org.uk with any queries.

56

ORDER FORM CPAG PUBLICATIONS Title

Publication date

RRP

Members price

Welfare Benefits and Tax Credits Handbook – 2022/23, 24th edition – print

April 2022

£69.00

£58.65

Annual subscription

£69.00

£58.65

Benefit and Tax Credit rates poster 2022/23 – A2 – pack of 5

April 2022

£25.80

£21.93

Benefit and Tax Credit rates poster 2022/23 – A2

April 2022

£8.00

£6.80

A4 Benefit rates chart 2022/23 – pack of 2

April 2022

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BOOKS FROM OTHER PUBLISHERS Disability Rights Handbook, 47th edition, 2022/23 Disability Rights Handbook online, 47th edition, 2022/23

LAG - Defending Possession Proceedings: a practitioner's guide, 9th edition print LAG - Defending Possession Proceedings: a practitioner's guide, 9th edition print & eBook bundle LAG Housing Conditions, 6th edition - print

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Title

LAG Legal Action Magazine (10 copies distributed throughout the year from April 2022 and distrubuted by LAG) Sweet & Maxwell Social Security Legislation Vol I Non-Means-Tested Benefits, 2022/23 Sweet & Maxwell Social Security Legislation Vol II Universal Credit, State Pension Credit and The Social Fund, 2022/23 Sweet & Maxwell Social Security Legislation Vol III Administration, Adjudication and the European Dimension, 2022/23 Sweet & Maxwell Social Security Legislation Vol IV HMRC-Administered Social Security Benefits and Scotland, 2022/23 Sweet & Maxwell Social Security Legislation Vol V Income Support and the Legacy Benefits, 2022/23

September 2022 September 2022 September 2022 September 2022 September 2022

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2020 Vision: ending child poverty

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Please return this form to bookorders@cpag.org.uk or by post: 30 Micawber Street, London, N1 7TB. 58

59

CPAG’S SERVICE IN ACTION

1

A FAMILY NEEDS HELP

2

CITIZENS ADVICE CALL CPAG’S ADVICE SERVICE

3

A couple with two children - mum shortly to give birth to their third child - found themselves facing eviction and in desperate need of help. The couple went to their local Citizens Advice for support.

This is the first time the Citizens Advice adviser had come across the particular issue the family was facing. He needed to know what can be done to help the family. He called CPAG’s free advice service and got through to Welfare Rights Adviser Fran.

CPAG ADVISER FRAN HELPS

After listening to the full case, Fran outlined the steps the adviser could take including drafting letters to send to relevant authorities.

4

THE FAMILY GET THE HELP THEY NEED

5

MANY MORE FAMILIES IN A SIMILAR SITUATION BENEFIT

The Adviser took Fran’s suggested action and later reported back to us that the government had agreed to pay the full amount of £5,047 to the family. This meant they could pay rent arrears and stay in their home.

Thanks to Fran’s advice, the Citizens Advice caseworker is better equiped to help other families in a similar situation. Frontline workers we help report that on average they are able to help a further three families with the same solution.

60

ADVICE LINE FOR ADVISERS AND SUPPORT STAFF IN SCOTLAND ON BENEFITS AND TAX CREDITS PHONE 0141 552 0552 MONDAY TO THURSDAY 10AM TO 4PM, FRIDAY 10AM TO 12 NOON

EMAIL ADVICE@CPAGSCOTLAND.ORG.UK Free, independent, expert, up-to-date advice and information to frontline advisers and support staff in Scotland on all aspects of the benefits and tax credits system - what to claim, how to claim and what to do when things go wrong.

The advisers are so friendly and so helpful.

They are always able to help me with any issues I am having quickly and efficiently It’s brilliant to know that we can give the advice line a shout if and when we have questions

CHILD POVERTY ACTION GROUP IN SCOTLAND Unit 9 Ladywell Business Centre 94 Duke Street Glasgow G4 0UW tel

0141 552 3303

email staff@cpagscotland.org.uk web cpag.org.uk/scotland

Child Poverty Action Group is a charity registered in England and Wales (registration number 294841) and in Scotland (registration number SC039339). Company limited by guarantee registered in England (registration number 1993854).

Registered office: 30 Micawber Street, London N1 7TB. CPAG in Scotland gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Scottish Government towards our advice and training projects.