- Computer with Internet access
- Key texts.

The focus of this module is on a mix of independent as well as directed study.

Contact Hours (30) on this module means your on-screen hours engaging with the online study materials contained within the `Course Information', `Course Documents' `Communication' and `Assignments' sections of the module virtual learning environment (VLE).

Independent Study (120) means on-line and off-line activity including working on tasks/exercises/activities and within the discussion forums, relevant background/supplementary reading, and assessment preparation and completion.

This module will be delivered by the use of a VLE

The VLE will provide a structured environment for progressing through this module. The `Course Information' section contains essential module information, the award handbook, the module descriptor and a section, which contains the aims and objectives of the module. The `Course Documents' section contains all the study material necessary to complete the module, together with activities associated with this material. Within the `Communications' section there are a number of forums, which will enable interactive, asynchronous discussion, which supports student learning and allows for formative assessment of individual progress.

Participants are encouraged to to communicate with the tutor and their fellow students using email, telephone and the discussion forums and to do so if there are matters needing assistance and support.

Web-based material will be utilised to support all aspects of the module, providing links to latest Government information and latest case law and legislation.

As this is a distance learning award, participants will need to adopt a disciplined approach to study and work for example by ensuring that activities, tasks and assignments are completed within specified time limits and that discussion with others takes place.

INDICATIVE CONTENT
This module aims to provide students with a basic knowledge and understanding of the underlying concepts and principles of the welfare benefits system, together with the necessary skills to give basic advice to people about their benefit entitlement.

Topics to be covered, in line with CLS Quality Mark Standard for Generalist Help include:-

- An introduction to the Social Security System
- Means-tested, non means-tested, contributory and non-contributory benefits, including Income Support, Pension Credit, Disability and Carer Benefits.
- Tax Credits
- Claiming and challenging decisions
- Calculating entitlement to benefits and tax credits.

This module will be assessed by the successful completion of a case study based assignment which includes a calculation of entitlement to benefits (2,000 words), this will represent 100% of the module assessment and will meet learning outcomes 1-5.

You will need access to at least one of the following texts:

- Greaves, I. (2010) Disability Rights Handbook, London, Disability Alliance
- Osborne, S. (ed) (2010) Welfare Benefits and Tax Credits Handbook, London, Child Poverty Action Group

Nil