Islington Council’s Income Maximisation (IMAX) team has helped residents secure £12 million in extra income and changed lives along the way.

With an estimated £120 million in unclaimed benefits across Islington, the IMAX team is tackling inequality head-on by connecting people to the support they’re entitled to. Eighteen months into a two-year plan, their work is already making a huge impact. 

We spoke to two residents whose stories show just how life-changing this support can be. 

“It changed my life” – Hajrie Jana

For Hajrie, a single mother of three, IMAX was a lifeline. Referred through social services, she met Holly from the IMAX team. 

“I don’t know the rights, I don’t know anything about how things work here,” Hajrie explains. “Everything I requested alone was refused. But when Holly did it, it was accepted.” 

At the time, Hajrie didn’t have enough money to feed her children. Holly helped her secure nearly £1,000 extra per month. 

“It changed my life. The worry in my heart – will I have food the next day for my kids – it is released.” 

Holly went above and beyond, even arranging toy donations for Hajrie’s children. “She didn’t have to, but she did. I have no words to thank her enough.” 

“I wouldn’t have known where to start” – Michael Kalaher

Michael, a 70-year-old retired electrician, first heard from IMAX when Welfare Rights Officer Alex Wood reached out unexpectedly. 

“Alex said he’d looked at my record and saw my pension credit had been stopped, and it shouldn’t have been.” 

With Alex’s help, Michael reclaimed over £3,000 in backdated payments. 

“I wouldn’t have a clue how to go about doing that,” he says. “You need professionals who know the law and what they’re talking about.” 

Michael’s health issues mean money is tight, but IMAX has given him breathing room. “It’s certainly helped me out and given a cash boost to get what I was entitled to.” 

Behind the scenes

The IMAX team works across council services to identify residents who may be missing out on support. Their approach is proactive, compassionate and tailored to each person’s needs. 

As Alex puts it: “To help an individual with such an important aspect of their lives – it’s incredibly rewarding.” 

Need support?

If you’re struggling financially or unsure whether you’re receiving all the support you’re entitled to, IMAX can help. 

• Use the Benefits Calculator

• Contact the IMAX team

IMAX isn’t just about numbers, it’s about people. And thanks to the team’s dedication, Islington is becoming a fairer, more supportive place for everyone.