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Liverpool Direct Limited – BT’s joint venture with Liverpool City Council – has agreed an £11m deal to provide an enhanced revenues and benefits service to the local authority with extra services included, such as Fairer Charging, and Benefits Maximisation and Corporate Debt.

As the population ages, local authorities are finding the process of assessing how citizens contribute towards their care (known as “Fairer Charging”) is ever more important. Under the revised contract, Liverpool Direct Limited will develop its role in administering such charges, providing customer account statements and follow-up action in respect of any non-payment.

This action will benefit both the council and its residents, resulting in a more effective collection of revenues for the authority and improved procedures for the distribution of benefits. Customers affected by care charges are offered a Benefits Maximisation check, ensuring that they receive all of their potential entitlements. Typically customers secure an additional £50 per week in benefits which in turn helps them to meet the cost of care.

The Benefits Maximisation process encompasses a wide range of customer groups and is targeted to bring £5m in additional benefits to Liverpool citizens each year.

By establishing a single joined-up approach, providing high quality advice and casework support in relation to income, Liverpool Direct Limited will reduce the effects of poverty and improve the quality of life of some of the City’s poorest residents. The new arrangement will bring:

Complete integration of different elements of the benefit service functions, including Housing and Council Tax benefits, School Awards, Benefits Maximisation and Fairer Charging assessment.
Fast-tracked benefit claims through dedicated workflows.
A standard operating model improving the consistency, quality and efficiency of service.
Performance management standards for the service and its staff, with more effective use of resources and knowledge.
Robust management information systems supporting improved financial analysis.

Martin Jungnitz, Head of Benefits said, “These wins are great news as we strive to grow our services and as develop more value-add services for our customers. This provides further evidence of the high caliber staff and quality of service provided by Liverpool Direct Limited.”