I'm not very familiar with HB Regs. Can someone please tell me - are Local Authorities entitled under the Regs. to insist that a claimant notifies changes of circumstances in writing, rather than in person or by phone?

Yes. HBR 75 makes it a duty for the clmt (& others) to inform the LA of changes in circs in writing.

As an aside, it is also not (normally) enough for the clmt to inform only the DWP / Inland Revenue etc - they must still inform the LA as well (plenty of case law and CDs confirm this).

My advice to any clmt is to inform as many ppl as possible about any changes - leave no one out of the loop (even if advised that the info will be forwarded).

Regards

The other advice is that if any document whatsoever is taken into an office. Always demand a receipt.

I would also point out that by advising clients to notify COCs in writing, you can also ensure that copies of relevant communications are taken and kept safe in client casefiles, thus providing insurance against disputes over exactly what has been disclosed, to whom and when etc etc.