Benefits

Social Services, DWP and your Local Authority.
To save a lot of wasted time it is important you know the difference between the above.

Social Services.
They look after your personal welfare, are responsible for your Pathway Plan and provide the support you need to set up home. They are responsible for all young people leaving care who aged are 16 or 17

Local Authority
The Local Authority pays Housing Benefit to people who cannot afford to pay all or part of their rent. If you are living in Merton then housing benefit claims are dealt with at the Civic Centre in Morden.

DWP
This agency pays money (benefits) to people who for a variety of reasons, do not have enough money to live on. Unless you are 18yrs, are a single parent or have a disability, you are not entitled to benefits. The three main benefits that young people can apply for are Job seekers Allowance (JSA) Income Support (IS) and Housing Benefit.

In order to claim benefits you will need a National Insurance Number. Most young people receive these at 16. If you have not received yours speak with your social worker who will help you to sort this out.