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Turn2us Connect

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You may have heard that we started a new volunteering project, Connect, in March this year. We are now five months in and want to share the impact we have had so far with all the Turn2us volunteers.

What is Connect?

If you haven’t heard of Connect, let me give you a reminder. Connect is a digital service for people applying for benefits, most notably Universal Credit. Our data showed that people were not applying for benefits due to a number of barriers that we thought could be overcome with the help of a trained volunteer.

The Turn2us Connect App connects volunteer Digital Buddies with Connections - people that are eligible to apply for Universal Credit and would like help with doing so. The volunteers support their Connections with information and emotional support to help them overcome barriers to applying for benefits. 

The Connect project so far

After five months of testing, learning and developing, we now have 15 volunteers who have supported over 100 people.

Of the people helped:

  • 60% reported that they are clear on what to do next

  • 80% applied for either Universal Credit or another benefit

  • 100% reported overall anxiety levels have fallen from high to medium and life satisfaction has also increased by 23%.

A Connection comment

“Thanks for being there, claim has been made. Both Turn2us and CAB (Citizens Advice bureau) gave great support. Thanks” (Anonymous Connection).

Another thank you to our Connect volunteers for helping us get this far and for making such a great impact in such a short time.

Turn2us volunteering: Digital buddy

Turn2us volunteering: Benefits supporter

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