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27/10/2004
Direct Payment proves a winner as order books are phased out
Ninety five per cent of social security customers paid by Direct Payment are satisfied with the service provided, it was revealed today.
Independent research carried out by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) found that the majority of customers receiving benefit by this means are totally satisfied with this method of payment.
Direct Payment Agency Customer Service Director Anne Flanagan said Direct Payment, which will replace order books by the end of this year, was a modern method of paying social security benefits.
“It is more flexible, convenient and secure for customers and gives them more control over their money,” she said.
“Now they don’t have to get all of their cash in one go, as they do using order books; they can draw out as much or as little cash as they need.”
Adding her voice in support of Direct Payment was Eleanor Gill, Chief Executive of the General Consumer Council.
“Direct Payment provides a safe and easy way to receive and access your money,” she said.
“It also introduces people to the Post Office and bank accounts that can offer a range of financial services like the chance to spread regular payments and access to cheaper credit facilities. It’s important that people have the information they need to make the decisions on the options that work best for them.”
With last order books being issued at present customers can contact the Social Security or Jobs & Benefits office on 0800 107 5000 to make a change to Direct Payment.
(MB/GMCG)
Independent research carried out by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) found that the majority of customers receiving benefit by this means are totally satisfied with this method of payment.
Direct Payment Agency Customer Service Director Anne Flanagan said Direct Payment, which will replace order books by the end of this year, was a modern method of paying social security benefits.
“It is more flexible, convenient and secure for customers and gives them more control over their money,” she said.
“Now they don’t have to get all of their cash in one go, as they do using order books; they can draw out as much or as little cash as they need.”
Adding her voice in support of Direct Payment was Eleanor Gill, Chief Executive of the General Consumer Council.
“Direct Payment provides a safe and easy way to receive and access your money,” she said.
“It also introduces people to the Post Office and bank accounts that can offer a range of financial services like the chance to spread regular payments and access to cheaper credit facilities. It’s important that people have the information they need to make the decisions on the options that work best for them.”
With last order books being issued at present customers can contact the Social Security or Jobs & Benefits office on 0800 107 5000 to make a change to Direct Payment.
(MB/GMCG)
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The Social Security Agency (SSA) has confirmed that the last ever batch of benefit order books are currently being distributed. "The last benefit order books are now being sent out, so it's definitely time for change to Direct Payment," said the Social Security Agency's Customer Service Director Anne Flanagan.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:There will be a mixture of bright intervals and a few showers. Best of the sunny spells will be near the North Coast. Feeling on the cool side. Maximum temperature 10 °C.Tonight:Showers will gradually die out during the evening. A cold night with long clear spells leading to a touch of frost in places. Minimum temperature 0 °C.
