Benefits service among the best

The housing benefits service in part of Staffordshire has been deemed among the best in the country because of its speed at processing claims.

Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) information showed Cannock Chase Council's speed at processing claims for help with rent payments was deemed excellent.

The DWP figures showed that in the three months from April to June this year, the council took an average of 22 days to deal with such claims compared to about a month last year.

Further improvements have reduced the processing times down to as low as only 10 days.

The speed at which the council deals with reported changes to people's circumstances has also improved and reached the DWP's 'excellent' category of nine days.

Rob Wolfe, the council's local taxation and benefits manager, said: "A number of measures have been introduced which make the customer's experience of our service a pleasant one.

"We now deal with claims and make payments far more quickly than ever before. In particular, for tenants in private rented accommodation we can now make payments directly into their bank accounts so their money is available far more quickly.

"I would urge anyone who is still paid by cheque to make the switch. Our employees have worked hard to improve the service both for new and existing customers."

Councillor Ann Bernard, healthier communities, housing and older people leader, added: "The council recognises that many residents need our help to pay their rent and council tax.

"We have put a lot of effort into speeding up our service and our times have improved further since the DWP report was introduced. We are very proud of the results and my thanks go to all concerned."