CITIZENS Advice is calling on the Government to improve Universal Credit before it is fully rolled out in Winsford.

The benefit, which was introduced in 2013, is set to be rolled out across west Cheshire by the end of the year.

A national survey conducted by Citizens Advice has found that more a third of those claiming Universal Credit wait more than six weeks for their first payment.

Citizens Advice Cheshire West has already dealt with many requests for help on the current temporary version of the benefit, and with 25,000 homes in Weaver Vale, Eddisbury and Tatton set to be affected by the benefit by 2022, it is calling for urgent action for improvement.

Paul Nicholls, chief executive of Citizens Advice Cheshire West, said: “The principles behind Universal Credit are sound, but a mix of flaws in how the benefit was designed and problems with how it is being delivered is leaving many people’s finances in tatters.

“We’re already helping many people across west Cheshire who are having problems with Universal Credit, and we are concerned this will rise significantly by the end of 2017 when it is rolled out in the rest of the borough.

“If the Government doesn’t fix significant problems with Universal Credit then many families may be put at financial risk, which can in turn put huge pressure on other local services such as health, housing and social care.

“If anyone does run into problems with Universal Credit, don’t hesitate to contact Citizens Advice Cheshire West for help.”

Ahead of the roll-out, Citizens Advice wants to see the length of time people have to wait for their first payment be reduced, and an improvement to support available to help people make ends meet.

Any residents who need support can visit Citizens Advice from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, at Wyvern House.