I'm wondering if there are any specific reference or text books or resources, not counting CPAG or subscription to this wonderful site, that you guys simply couldn't live (oh ok, work) without in practice re. welfare benefits advice/ law/ procedure, tax credits and debt?

would welcome any suggestions...
many thanks

Caroline

For starters:

Do you know the Social Security Legislation volumes 1 - 4 published by Thompson/Sweet & Maxwell?

Also, Disability Rights handbook published by Disabilty Alliance (an alternative to CPAG's Handbook); Guide to HB/CTB by Zebedee et all published by Shelter; CPAGs HB/CTB legislation book.

The legislation books have a lot of useful commentary and new editions come out every year or so.

I find the law volumes on the DWP site generally good. They are more comprehensive than Bonner and Mesher and more regularly updated but lack the very useful commentary. Similarly on the Revenue website, but it is harder to negotiate.

The Decision Makers Guide is also useful if you can find guidance that supports your argument (especially useful for stuff like carers claiming iS and not getting CA).

Citizens Advice publish the excellent Adviser magazine bi-monthly - featuring news, articles, analysis and case abstracts.

More details and information on subscriptions on

http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/index/publications/adviser_subscription_page.htm

Who says self publicity is no publicity?

self publicity is very good publicity! many thanks - i'll look into that and the other suggestions....
very grateful,

C