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Digital support sessions via calls/emails

Due to the coronavirus, the sessions will now be supported through calls and emails. Please call 0116 454 4261 or send us an email.
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Universal support

Whether you need access to a telephone, computer, internet access or financial advice - we can help you to manage your Universal Credit claim through Universal support.

What digital support is available?

Need access to a computer or the internet?

You can get free internet and PC access at any of our following locations:

Digital support sessions

If you need support to make a Universal Credit claim or to manage your account/journal - we can help. We are running two-hour sessions to provide digital support for Universal Credit, My Account, Housing Online and other online or digital services.

You can find session locations and timings below.

Digital support session location Day/time
St Matthews Neighbourhood Centre Monday: 9am - 11am
Hamilton Library Monday: 11.45am - 1.45pm
BRITE Centre Tuesday: 9.30am - 11.30am
Customer Service Centre (Granby Street) Tuesday: 1.30pm - 4pm
Pork Pie Library and Community Centre Wednesday: 9am - 11am
New Parks Library Wednesday: 12pm - 2pm
Beaumont Leys Library Wednesday: 3pm - 5pm
Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre Thursday: 2.30pm - 4.30pm
Central Library Friday: 9.30am - 11.30am

For more information ring us on digital support sessions call us on 0116 454 1900.


Register your interest for a digital taster session

Select ‘Universal Credit digital taster session’ to tell us which course you wish to attend. You can also refer on behalf of the claimant.

 

Not on Universal Credit yet but want to improve your general IT skills?

If you are not yet moving onto UC but would like to improve your IT skills to gain confidence, we are able to offer courses locally to help you do this. The courses are designed to help you to find your way safely around the internet, set up personal email addresses (essential if you have to apply for UC in the future) - sign up and make the most of going online. 

Free sessions are available at the following libraries: Beaumont Leys, Belgrave, Central, New Parks and Westcotes. You can book onto a session using the link below. 


Book on to a 'Improving my IT skills' session

Select ‘Improving my IT skills’ to tell us which course you wish to attend. You can also refer on behalf of the claimant.

 

Do you have trouble reading/writing English or have any disabilities?

Join our supportive Universal Credit Skills programme where we can help you:

  • develop computer skills needed for UC
  • with reading, writing, speaking and listening skills (including ESOL)
  • with any learning/physical disabilities you may have
  • look for work and support you to meet your claimant commitment

Location: Leicester Adult Education College, Belvoir Street, LE1 6QL
Programme duration: Available 4 days per week, Monday to Thursday 9.30am – 3pm. The course runs over 5 weeks but will be tailored to your needs. 


Register for the Universal Credit Skills course

On the form select 'Universal Credit supported skills programme'. You can also refer on behalf of someone.

For more information about the Universal Credit Skills programme:

  • Pop into the college between 10am and 12pm.
  • Speak to your Work Coach at the Job Centre
  • Call us: 0116 454 1900

Citizens Advice LeicesterShire

Citizens Advice LeicesterShire can also support you to make a new claim for Universal Credit. For further information and to book an appointment, go to their Help to Claim page.

Get help from Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)

If you are unable to complete the online universal application form yourself and need help, you can visit any of the three JobCentre Plus offices mentioned below. If you are housebound then you can also telephone the UC Helpline 0800 328 9344 to make an application over the telephone or arrange a home visit. 

JobCentre Plus office locations are:

  • 3 Charles Street, Leicester, LE1 3JB 
  • 2A New Walk, City Centre, Leicester, LE1 6TF
  • 60 Wellington Street, Leicester, LE1 6DS.

Please note – if you wish to complete an application you will need to have all relevant documentation with you, this includes your personal I.D, so take this with you if you are being supported to make a UC claim. If you don’t, this could delay your application and subsequent payment. Also, ensure you take this information with you when you go to the Job CentrePlus office for your first appointment.

What financial support is available?

Personal budgeting support

Personal Budgeting Support is available to help claimants to manage their monthly payments and prioritise essential bills, such as rent and utilities. There are different ways to get support depending on your personal circumstances.

  • If you are confident using a computer and need some guidance about budgeting, access to online calculators and useful tips at GOV.UK.
  • If you need some support to help you manage your finances such as rent and utilities, or are in debt, you can contact Citizens Advice LeicesterShire on 0300 330 1025
  • If you need some extra financial support, see our 'Help and support' booklet.