The Benefit Advice Shop is a non profit charity set up in 1988 by the community in response to a need within the community due to the constant change and increase of need for the Welfare Benefit system. The main aim of the Benefit Advice Shop is to ensure that no person loses out financially due to a lack of information about or understanding of the Welfare Benefit System and Social Security Law by providing free, independent, professional advice and assistance. We aim to alleviate poverty and reduce social exclusion through maximization of income. The basic philosophy of the Benefit Advice Shop is that everybody is entitled to professional information, advice and guidance on the Welfare Benefit System and that such a service is vital to ensure that the general public is properly informed and assisted with their legal entitlements.  We aim to ensure that our services are accessible to all people regardless of location, age, disability, gender, race, sexual orientation and religion or belief.