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Benefits

Blue badge

How to apply for a Blue Badge

Online 

Go to www.gov.uk/apply-blue-badge 

 

You will be asked for the following information: 

  • a recent digital photo showing your head and shoulders. 

 

You’ll also need a photo or scan of your: 

  • proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport or driving licence) 

  • proof of address (such as a Council Tax bill or government letter) 

  • proof of benefits (if you get any) 

 

You’ll also need to know: 

  • your National Insurance number (if you have one) 

  • the details of your current Blue Badge (if you’re reapplying) 

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If you are unable to access the online service, a Community Agent can help you to make an application (not for Southend residents): 

  • Telephone the Essex Wellbeing Service on 0300 303 9988 and ask to be referred to a Community Agent  

 

 

For Southend residents: 

The Haven Community Hub (138-140 Hamlet Court Rd, Westcliff, SS0 7LW) 

  • Benefits and form filling support 

 

Every Thursday 10am to 2pm, by appointment only 

Telephone 01702 345 373 to book an appointment 

Peabody Outreach Support

*not available to Southend residents 

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Free and confidential support to help resolve issues such as: 

  • dealing with difficult housing issues, including evictions 

  • managing letters and forms 

  • applying for welfare benefits and grants 

  • dealing with bills, rent arrears and debts 

  • dealing with emotional or mental health issues, or alcohol and drug issues 

 

Telephone Peabody Essex Outreach Support on 0800 2888883 

PIP

Personal Independence Payments (PIP)

You will need to start your claim by phone. 

 

  • Call the ‘PIP new claims’ phone line on 0800 917 2222. You’ll then be sent a form that asks about your condition. 

  • Complete and return the form. The address is on the form. 

  • You might need to have an assessment, if more information is needed. 

 

For extra support with making your application you can telephone Peabody Essex Outreach Support on 0800 2888 883 

Universal Credit

Claims can be made online at www.universal-credit.service.gov.uk/start 

 

What you need to apply 

 

To apply online you’ll need: 

  • your bank, building society or credit union account details 

  • an email address 

  • access to a phone 

 

If you do not have these, you can call the Universal Credit helpline (0800 328 5644) or go to a jobcentre. 

You can also get support from the Citizens Advice Help to Claim service by telephoning 0800 144 8444 

 

You’ll also have to prove your identity. You’ll need some identity documents for this, for example your: 

  • driving licence 

  • passport 

  • debit or credit card 

  • payslip or P60 

 

To complete your claim you will need to provide information about: 

  • your housing, for example how much rent you pay 

  • your earnings, for example payslips 

  • your National Insurance number, if you have one 

  • other benefits you get 

  • any disability or health condition that affects your work 

  • how much you pay for childcare if you want help with childcare costs 

  • your savings and any investments, like shares or a property that you rent out 

 

You might need an appointment with the Universal Credit team if: 

  • they need more information 

  • you cannot verify your identity online 

 

You’ll be told if this appointment will be in a job centre or on the phone. 

 

For extra support with making your application you can telephone Peabody Essex Outreach Support on 0800 2888883 

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