By Press Release
A new initiative, ‘Here to Help’, has launched by Ryde Town Council at Ryde Library, aiming to support local people and assist them in accessing unclaimed benefits.
It has been calculated that Island residents miss out on more than £50 million of benefits they are entitled to, but do not claim, and the service seeks to ensure that Ryde residents do not miss out on support that could significantly enhance their well-being.
The Mayor, Richard May, highlighted the importance of the new service: “Ryde Library is already an important information hub, where people know they can find help for a variety of issues,” he said.
The ‘Here to Help’ service offers assistance across various areas including interpretation and explanation of official communications, managing documentation, accessing on-line resources, supportive listening, and empowerment through confidence building. Keith Sheldrake, the service manager, assures that those feeling overwhelmed by paperwork or digital processes are not alone, and the service is designed to offer free, friendly, and informal support. He said: “If you are feeling a bit stuck with paperwork or struggling to access services on-line, you’re not alone! Our local drop-in service offers free, friendly, and informal chats.
“We’re here to listen and walk you through every step. Whatever the problem, drop by, grab a cup of tea, and let’s make sense of it together. No problem is too small!”
The ‘Here to Help’ service is available at Ryde Library, on Mondays from 10am to 3pm, Tuesdays from 9.30am to 3.30pm, Fridays from 9.30am to 1.30pm, and also during the first Wednesday and Saturday of each month.