Advisers' Groups

As part of the Training Needs Analysis NCAN undertook earlier in the year, we asked Network members to comment on whether they would find practitioners groups useful i.e. a regular meeting of advisers in a particular social welfare law subject, with the aim of sharing experiences, best practice, discussing case studies and sharing training opportunities. The response was positive so NCAN aims to establish groups for advisers in housing and welfare benefits.

The other subject area identified was debt, but rather than set up a new group, NCAN has decided to support the existing Norfolk Money Advice Group. This group is part of the wider East of England Money Advice Group and has been set up locally by Bob Johnson from Yare Valley Citizens Advice Bureau. Jim Chamberlain from Wherry Housing Association is the Chair, and Bob is the elected Institute of Money Advisers’ representative.

The meetings are kindly hosted by Grant Thornton in Norwich, and take place quarterly. NCAN acts as social policy coordinator for the group, as it seeks to campaign on local money advice issues.

All money/debt advisers from across Norfolk are welcome, and the meetings are a particularly good opportunity if you usually work alone or in a very small team. To find out more, visit the website (kindly put together by Bob) www.eemag.org.uk

Check back for updates regarding the groups for welfare benefits and housing.