To ask the Minister for Communities (i) what discussions there have been between departmental officials and the advice sector to ensure the Make the Call Service and the Independent Welfare Changes Helpline are working effectively in partnership; and (ii) how she will make sure there isn’t a duplication in service and cost.

The Welfare Changes Helpline is funded by the Department and delivered independently by the advice sector, with a very specific focus on offering independent information, advice and support relating to any of the ongoing changes to the social security system. Both are distinct but complementary services, evidenced by the fact that, on occasion, people have been signposted to Make the Call Wraparound by the Welfare Changes Helpline.

I am committed to closer working between departmental services and independent community advice organisations. Last year the Department commissioned an independent review which recommended that closer working between Make the Call and the Advice Sector in order to deliver the best quality advice and value for money.

This recommendation has been accepted and is being implemented.