HELP is at hand for people struggling with recent changes to the benefit system in Watford and Three Rivers.

From this month the weekly £78.50 cap on the housing benefit people under 25 living in shared private accommodation has been extended to claimants 34 or under.

The changes came into effect from the start of this month and there are exemptions for lone parents, people leaving care, disabled people, those who have been in hostel and certain ex-offenders.

Phil Adlard, Head of Revenues and Benefits for Watford Borough Council and Three Rivers District Council, said: “We have contacted those people who we know will be affected by these changes, but there will still be people who are looking to claim housing benefit for the first time who may not be aware of the full impact of the changes.

“Anyone who may find themselves in difficulty because they are likely to receive less than they might previously, can get in touch with us to hear options that can be considered.”

People affected can get advice by calling 01923 278501.