About the community group/organisation/individual

The Southland Beneficiaries and Community Rights Centre was established in 1988 to provide information and advocacy for members of the community in relation to New Zealand’s Social Security Act.

The team works with people who have had their application for benefits and supplementary payments declined and those who need help to determine what financial assistance is available to them to ensure they are able to access their full and correct legal entitlements. 

The majority of their clients are referred from social agencies, MP offices and the Ministry of Social Development.

On average, the centre provides about 700 people within Southland, Central Otago and the Lakes District with information and advice and assists 350 clients which need more extensive representation with Work and Income each year.

What the grant went towards

The ILT Foundation approved a grant of $25,000 towards the operating costs associated with running the Southland Beneficiaries and Community Rights Centre for 2020.

What the grant means to the community group/organisation

“The ILT Foundation funding is an absolute lifeline for this organisation,” Southland Beneficiaries and Community Rights Centre manager Neville Corkery said.

“Without it we would not be able to deliver this essential social service. Other regions are extremely envious of the funding the ILT Foundation provides for sports and welfare organisations in the city.”