On Wednesday, 27th November 2024, we celebrated the launch of the Kensington and Chelsea Advice Partnership, a united effort by Citizens Advice KC and North Kensington Law Centre.
This partnership is a landmark initiative aimed at providing a dedicated, collaborative Information and Advice service tailored to the needs of our local residents.
Working Together for Change
The workshop, led by Nucleus Legal Advice Centre, focused on fostering collaboration between the three organizations to tackle innovative ways to lift residents on the lowest incomes out of poverty. It brought to light the pressing challenges faced by Londoners, including:
- Housing Crisis: Over 300,000 people are waiting for social housing in London, while private rents remain the highest in the UK. Shockingly, only 2% of private rental properties fall within the Local Housing Allowance levels, leaving many with limited options.
- Debt Burden: More than half a million Londoners are trapped in problem debt, with residents of the capital disproportionately affected compared to the national average.
These figures underscore the urgent need for a streamlined and effective approach to delivering advice and support.
Building a Better Network:
A key part of the partnership’s strategy is leveraging Plinth, a robust referral platform, to build a stronger referral network. This tool will help us:
- Maximize Resources: By connecting services more effectively, we can ensure that limited resources are used efficiently to support those who need them most.
- Improve Access: Plinth will empower community groups and statutory sector colleagues to direct residents to the right advisor quickly, reducing delays and enhancing the quality of support provided.
A Vision for the Future.
This partnership is a step toward creating a fairer, more connected community where residents have access to timely, high-quality advice and support. Together, we aim to not only address the immediate needs of residents but also work towards sustainable solutions that tackle the root causes of poverty and inequality in Kensington and Chelsea.
As we embark on this journey, we invite local organizations, community leaders, and residents to join us in shaping a brighter future. By working together, we can make Kensington and Chelsea a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Let’s create a fairer place, together.