We offer specialist advice services covering the issues below. As always, this advice is free and confidential.
Dorset Energy Advice
Our Energy Advisers help households across the whole of Dorset who may be struggling to pay energy bills, need help resolving billing issues with suppliers and they can also check if you’re eligible for extra income. If you have a question about your bill, or need more detailed support, we can help.
More information can be found here
Contact the Dorset Energy Team on 01929 775500 or email [email protected]
Money Advice Sessions
Our income maximisation sessions are led by specialist advisers in Dorset Libraries, who advise on a range of money-related topics with the aim of helping people to budget and manage their finances more confidently. Help includes, a better understanding of welfare benefit entitlements, how to apply for charitable grants, debt advice and any other discretionary help which may be available.
Sessions are held in Ferndown, Swanage and Upton Libraries:
- Ferndown Library: Thursday, 10am-4pm
- Swanage Library: Monday, 10am-12noon
- Upton Town Library: Tuesday, 10am-12noon
Call the Dorset Adviceline on 0800 144 8848 to book an appointment. Read the press release here.
Benefits
Have you had a change of circumstances? Do you have a question about the benefits you are already receiving? We know the benefit system can sometimes be confusing and difficult to understand. Our specialist benefit advisers can help give you the advice you need. We can support you to make an application, to appeal a decision, understand your payments or simply to help work out if you are eligible to claim additional income.
Employment
We know many more people are in need of employment advice at this time – you might have been made redundant or have a question about your rights at work. We have specialist Employment Advisers, who work within the Dorset Employment Unit, who can offer you help and advice.
Debt
Being in debt can cause a lot of worry and stress, you might be struggling to manage your spending, have concerns about money that you have borrowed, or are finding it difficult to afford your repayments. We have a specialist debt team who are here to help and answer any questions you may have. Our debt advice is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Housing
You may have a query about your tenancy agreement, rent deposit or have been served notice to leave your home. Whatever your query, our housing advisers are here to help. We also have a specialist Housing project which supports people who are at risk of homelessness.
Wessex Water
Wessex Water offers help to people who are struggling to pay their on-going water bill or have been unable to keep up with payments and are in debt.
We have advisers who can check if you are eligible for special tariffs to help you manage your water costs and deal with any arrears that may have built up. Contact us for more information.
