Royal Borough of Greenwich (Money Advice Team)

Summary of Submission

The Royal Borough of Greenwich has pioneered Advice Outreach hubs to promote social inclusion by bringing free, accessible advice directly to residents within their communities. Operating weekly in three locations, with additional monthly venues, these hubs are coordinated by the Welfare Rights Service in partnership with local advice providers. This inclusive drop-in model allows residents to access a wide range of services—such as benefits, housing, debt, and immigration advice—all in one place. By breaking down barriers to multiple services and situating the hubs in approachable community spaces, the project significantly enhances support for financially vulnerable residents, fostering a sense of belonging and accessibility. The initiative’s impact on social inclusion is clear, with attendance rising to 2,141 residents in 2023/2024 and over £3 million generated through benefit advice. Feedback indicates that 70% of users would have otherwise struggled to access the support they needed, highlighting the project's vital role in building a more inclusive community.