Terms of reference

• Create and manage a clear identity for the partnership through appropriate branding and marketing
• Raise awareness about welfare benefit entitlement amongst local people, agencies and organisations
• Oversee the implementation of the Public Service Agreement on income maximisation for vulnerable groups
• Promote and publicise the services of core welfare advice providers.
• Provide direct, practical information, advice and assistance in preparing welfare benefit claims through its individual member organisations
• Encourage networking and information sharing between welfare advice agencies and organisations to provide a more effective and integrated service in South Gloucestershire
• Increase the level of resources available for welfare advice through identification of funding opportunities and preparation of funding applications
• Initiate and manage discrete projects that contribute towards the aims and objectives of the partnership
• Initiate and sponsor research into all aspects of welfare advice provision, take up and its wider social and economic impact
• Initiate and sponsor relevant training and awareness raising programmes
• Report to the Community Legal Services Partnership on the progress of projects managed by the partnership
• Report to the Community Legal Services Partnership on matters relating to welfare advice provision, needs and their wider implications

The partnership will encourage into membership all those organisations providing services for residents of South Gloucestershire on matters relating to welfare advice.