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From today, Turn2us, the free, confidential and independent service that assists people in financial need access the money available to them; will run The Association of Charity Officers’ (ACO) helpline service.

Turn2us provides information on the often-complex world of benefits and grant giving charities. Staff can undertake a benefit check for people to ensure that they are receiving all the money that they are entitled to. In addition, with over 3,500 charitable funds available, Turn2us staff will support individuals in their applications to charities for grants to help pay for items or services they desperately need.

Alison Taylor, Director of Turn2us, said: “The Turn2us helpline is a ‘one stop shop’ for enquiries on benefits and grants and will provide a comprehensive and user friendly service for ACO callers, whilst ensuring they have access to information which could have a significant impact on their daily lives.

“A person who has been made redundant could receive help to retrain for a new career, or the helpline could assist a person find funding for much needed everyday basics such as a cooker or a washing machine.”

ACO was founded in 1946 and has run a pioneering helpline service since the early 1970s. It helps more than 5,000 people in financial need a year by linking individuals, their families and advisers to grant-giving charities.

Valerie Barrow, Chief Executive of The Association of Charity Officers, said:  “It is clear there is huge potential to assist people find the help they need as easily and quickly as possible and in Turn2us ACO has found a service that can deliver this to far larger numbers of enquirers. With this development, we look forward to successfully reaching many more people in need to make sure they get the help that is available.”