Tell us once
30-JUL-10
Issued by: Duncan Bennett
A new service is set to be adopted in North Tyneside, which could make a big difference to residents during a time of bereavement.
Members of North Tyneside Council's cabinet are being recommended to approve the introduction of the Tell Us Once (TUO) service in North Tyneside.
The scheme is a cross-government programme hosted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
It enables residents to inform a range of different departments and government agencies of any change in circumstances, following a birth or death, with one appointment or telephone call rather than by making many calls.
This would be of particular benefit during difficult times such as a family bereavement. Also, having accurate and up to date records means that correct follow-up action can be taken by the local authority as early as possible and helps prevent inappropriate letters being sent out in error.
Deputy Mayor Cllr Judith Wallace said: "Anyone who's experienced a bereavement knows how stressful it can be to handle the affairs of the person they've lost.
"Introducing the Tell Us Once service in North Tyneside could help make that difficult time a bit easier since it will mean residents don't have to deal with a variety of departments or agencies.
"And it also greatly reduces the likelihood of post being issued with the deceased person's name on it, which, of course, could be very upsetting for the family.
"However, I must emphasise that the Tell Us Once service would only be used if residents consent to the information being passed on, and there is no pressure for them to do so. It is entirely a matter of individual choice."
In North Tyneside it is proposed that the service would be provided by the council's registration staff, following the registration of a birth or death.
The DWP is funding an implementation team to help authorities roll out the service until March 2011.
ENDS