UNIVERSAL Credit is set to be completely rolled out in the borough next month.

The scheme, introduced by central government, will replace existing benefits such as child tax credit, housing benefit, income support and jobseeker's allowance.

Some residents have been on the new system since July 2013 but this will now cover the whole of the borough from Wednesday, April 18.

Anyone making claims from that date will need to apply for Universal Credit.

Although the new system will offer a monthly payment, it may take around five weeks for the first one to come through after making a claim.

Wigan Council has confirmed residents can request an advance payment if they are unable to pay their bills during this time.

Assistant director for customer services at the council, Lesley O’Halloran, said: “We are aware of the significant debate around Universal Credit but our priority is ensuring residents are aware of these changes and understand what it means for them.

“We acknowledge a monthly payment may be initially daunting to some but we would like to reassure these people that there is support available locally.

"We advise that affected residents embrace the new system in order not to miss out on vital benefits.”

Anyone currently receiving Universal Credit through "live-service" are advised not to make new claims until contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) as it could affect existing payments.

The DWP, which is leading the change, said unless residents are claiming for the first time, have a change in their circumstances or are contacted by them that they do not have to do anything immediately.

The council has been working with Citizen's Advice and Unify over the last few months as part of its money management campaign.

As Universal Credit will only be accessible online, "Be Online" sessions have been organised in Wigan and Leigh to provide training on how residents can improve their IT skills or access welfare right outreach surgeries for impartial advice on benefits and claims.

Universal Credit claimants will need an e-mail address and a bank, building society or credit union account with anyone yet to set these up encouraged to do so as soon as possible.

For more information about Universal Credit or to find out about the "Be Online" sessions and welfare rights surgeries, visit wigan.gov.uk/universalcredit.

If you do not have enough money to live on while you are waiting for your first payment contact the Universal Credit helpline on 0345 6000723 or speak to the work coach to request an advance payment.

Free school meals and council tax reduction will not be replaced and still need to be applied for separately.