Residents needing help with the cost of living can continue to count on a free advice service.
Published: Tuesday, 10th September 2024
Cherwell District Council funds the Citizens Advice West Northants and Cherwell money advice service, helping people manage problems accessing housing, benefits and more. At a meeting of the executive on Monday, 9 September, it was confirmed that the council will renew the contract for another year.
In the past year, the service dealt with over 3,600 cases, covering topics such as universal credit, tax credits, loss of employment and rent arrears.
Councillor Chris Pruden, Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: “Renewing the money advice service is a clear sign of our commitment to support our communities through the cost of living crisis. The right advice can make a massive difference to people who find themselves out of work, with problem debt, or facing housing concerns and we believe this is worth investing in.
“Citizens Advice are helping people access the support they need and it is really good news that we are renewing their contract for another year. The service has life-changing benefits for those who need it, and it also benefits the wider community by preventing homelessness and supporting inclusion and social cohesion.
“Money problems can feel overwhelming but support is there and I would encourage people to get in touch and seek advice.”
Most users access the money advice service remotely, but it also offers a drop-in, in-person service at local hubs.
Forty per cent of users are from areas of Banbury which statistically experience the highest levels of deprivation in the district: Banbury Cross and Neithrop, Ruscote, Grimsbury and Hightown; and Hardwick.
The contract for the money advice service was first awarded in 2022 for two years and is worth £150,000 a year.
People can contact the money advice service on 03444 111444 or by entering their postcode at www.citizensadvice.org.uk