The service works closely with Harlow Council on policy and other matters affecting Harlow residents. Much of this work is aimed at preventing homelessness and other problems arising, or tackling them at an early stage.

It contributes to Harlow Council's corporate priorities in particular the regeneration of the town and tackling housing needs. Examples of relevant work include advocacy on behalf of people threatened with repossession by lenders or private landlords - reducing the call on social housing- and helping local people to claim benefit entitlements. This has a positive impact on the local economy.

The service's work also contributes to some of the Harlow 2020 Partnership's values for the future development of the town e.g. by tackling issues of inequality such as poverty and access to quality jobs.

Following a successful bid to the Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reforms Financial Inclusion Fund, the service has been able to increase money and housing advice to vulnerable young people and strengthen the partnership with, Connexions and other partners in the multi-disciplinary team providing a one-stop service at Occasio House.

The service is an active member of Harlow Community Legal Services Partnership (CLSP).  Through contact with services and organisations such as the Council's housing, council tax and benefit services, the Department for Work and Pensions, the Citizens Advice Bureau and other CLSP partners, it aims to improve the service to mutual clients. 

Harlow Welfare Rights & Advice is represented on Advice UK, the national body which represents and supports the independent advice sector. Staff have also attended meetings of the Essex Benefits Network, the Advice Services Alliance and other national and regional bodies to keep abreast of developments and to discuss issues where the advice sector might need to influence future policy or highlight flaws in legislation.

Policy issues are referred to the local MP and local Councillors where appropriate.