The introduction of the income team forms part of the councils’ organisational redesign programme that has been developed to help meet the financial challenges faced by the councils from increasing demand for their services. This follows years of inadequate central government funding and the urgent need to take action to mitigate climate change.

By working closely with the community and partners, the councils will reshape services to make them more sustainable and accessible for those who need them, so they can meet the needs of citizens both today and tomorrow.

The new income team will work closely with the councils’ Proactive team - dedicated caseworkers for anyone that is struggling with debts who needs targeted support.

Using pioneering database technology developed by social policy software and analytics company Policy In Practice and internal referrals from staff, Proactive allows the councils to identify people who may not be coping financially and offer appropriate help quickly and efficiently.

So far the team has referred residents for support with utility bills and food costs, as well as helping people claim benefits they are entitled to and clear rent arrears. 

Cllr Saffa Jan, Adur’s cabinet member for finance and resources, said: “As councils for the community, we want to work together to meet the needs of all our citizens. We will continue to use our data to identify those who most need us, while actively encouraging those who can afford it to pay their fair share.”

Cllr John Turley, Worthing’s cabinet member for resources, said: “The financial challenges felt by local government are also being felt by residents, businesses and community organisations. Our ongoing organisational changes will help us work better together through projects like Proactive, so that we can meet the needs of our residents.”