Rotherham is one of the most disadvantaged areas in the country, and Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit are important contributions to many household budgets. Prevention of benefit fraud, together with quick and efficient payment of benefits to all those entitled to them, helps support communities and the local economy.
Under RBT, the service has been transformed from a failing one to a four star service. Customers benefit from quicker and more accurate processing of claims, shorter waiting times and more involvement in and consultation about the service.
A Benefits Fraud Inspectorate report said about the improved service: “The RBT partnership has provided a clear strategic purpose and the investment to provide a more effective service to customers……..”
Following these major improvements to the service, Rotherham was asked to lead on the National Benefits Project, a Government initiative which aims to ensure people on low incomes claim all the benefits they are entitled to.
Revenues and Benefits was awarded the maximum four star rating in the most recent Comprehensive Performance Assessment announced in 2008, for the third year running.