Welfare rights officers have been working from GP practices in Airdrie, Bellshill, Coatbridge and Wishaw to ensure people get the benefits and support they are entitled to.
Almost 2,000 people have been supported since the project first launched in Coatbridge in 2022 with an increase of around £2million generated for these patients.
Cllr Geraldine Woods, Convener of Wellbeing and Tackling Poverty, visited the Waverley surgery in Coatbridge, she said: “There is a clear link between poverty and poor health and our team of advisers are working closely with staff in GP practices to ensure patients are getting the all the benefits and financial support that they qualify for.
“It was great to visit the staff and hear first-hand the positive difference they are making to people’s lives.”
One patient, Mr William McWhinnie received support following a heart attack, which left him unable to work.
He was unsure of which benefits he was due. However, following support from North Lanarkshire Council’s welfare rights team he was able to receive adult disability due to his change of circumstances.
In addition, when he turns state pension age, he will get full housing benefits as he is a council tenant.
If you are struggling with money worries, call the team now on 01698 332551 or email TPTeam@northlan.gov.uk