The increase in the cost of living, combined with spiralling energy prices has resulted in many people struggling with everyday expenditure.
As a result of the current demand, Citizens Advice across rural Dorset have re-opened all their face to face library sessions, with funding supplied by Dorset Council.
Helen Goldsack, Chief Officer, Citizens Advice in East Dorset & Purbeck, said: “Our income maximisation sessions are led by specialist advisers who are able to advise on a range of money-related topics with the aim of helping people to budget and manage their finances more confidently.”
“Our advisers will help people to have a better understanding of their welfare benefit entitlements, as well as how to apply for charitable grants and any other discretionary help which may be available. We can also provide debt advice.”
“We expect the demand for our services to increase considerably over the next few weeks and months. By offering these sessions, we want people to know that help is available.”
Cllr Laura Miller, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Customer and Community Services, said: “These are worrying times for many people and it’s important that we all work together to support those facing financial challenges. Our libraries are a trusted destination for important information and I’m glad Dorset Council can help in the delivery of this vital support service. I urge anyone who may be struggling with their day to day spending to contact Citizens Advice Dorset and book a session with one of their brilliant advisors at your nearest participating library.”
Income maximisation sessions must be pre-booked by calling the Dorset Adviceline on 0800 144 8848, or residents may be referred by a Citizens Advice adviser. Library staff are also able to refer people to the service.
Citizens Advice Library Sessions:
- Bridport Library: Tuesday, 10am-12noon
- Dorchester Library: Monday, 10am-12noon
- Swanage Library: Monday, 10am-12noon
- Upton Town Library: Tuesday, 10am-12noon
- Ferndown Library: Thursday, 10am-4pm
- Weymouth Library: Tuesday & Friday, 10am-1pm
For free, confidential advice and support, call the Dorset Adviceline on 0800 144 8848 or visit www.citizensadvicedorset.org.uk for details of your nearest Citizens Advice.
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For more information contact: Sian Smith, Comms Officer, tel: 01929 408947, email: [email protected]
About Citizens Advice in Dorset:
Citizens Advice in Dorset provides free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities to enable them to find a way forward whatever problems they face. We value diversity, promote equality, challenge discrimination wherever we see it and aim to improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives.
Citizens Advice in Dorset is located across three regions:
- Citizens Advice Bridport & District bridportca.org.uk tel: 0800 144 8848
- Citizens Advice Central Dorset centraldorsetca.org.uk tel: 0800 144 8848
- Citizens Advice East Dorset & Purbeck edpcitizensadvice.org.uk tel: 0800 144 8848
