As we head into the New Year, Shipston residents are being encouraged to take advantage of the free Citizens’ Advice service to help get 2012 off to a good start. Stratford Citizens’ Advice Bureau (CAB) operates a weekly outreach service on Wednesdays at Clark House and regularly helps people facing a broad range of issues, from debt and legal problems to housing and welfare benefits.
January can be a particularly tough month financially as people pay off their Christmas purchases and often face higher fuel bills during the cold weather. However, many people who have used the CAB service have been surprised by what support is available, whether it’s simply helping people to manage their finances or tap into benefits they didn’t know they were entitled to. Sue Green, manager of the service, said: “Nationally, our statistics show that approximately 50% of people will contact Citizens’ Advice for help at some point in their lifetime. The most important advice I can give is not to avoid the things that worry you. Asking for help isn’t always easy, but when people share their difficulties with us, we are often able to make a real difference and improve their situation.”
The Citizens’ Advice team has specialist advisers who can help people even in the most desperate of circumstances. For example, over the past year, the service has helped save 96 adults and 55 children from eviction from their homes. Anyone can take advantage of this free service, regardless of their financial situation, so if you would like some advice, contact the CAB team on 01789 200136 to book an
appointment for a meeting or home visit. For 24 hour tips and advice, log onto the national website at www.citizensadvice.org.uk and follow the link to adviceguide.
April 2012 Minutes