Council collaborates with Citizens Advice Bucks to help streamline financial support for residents
Buckinghamshire Council has commissioned Citizens Advice Bucks to support those struggling with debt. Providing debt, welfare benefits and money management advice at no cost, the organisation will be supporting residents with long-term solutions.
Recognising that financial challenges continue for many of its residents, Buckinghamshire Council is pleased to be working with Citizens Advice Bucks, a local, well-known charity, who last year alone supported residents to clear £800k of debt and gain additional incomes worth £2.5 million.
The commissioned service will enable a stronger working partnership between the two organisations with customers being directly referred through the council to Citizens Advice Bucks – improving the time it takes to receive help.
Arif Hussain, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, said:
“When you’re struggling with debt, it can feel hard to see a way out. That’s why it’s important to talk to someone who can help you to manage your finances and work out a plan to help you with any debt related issues you may have.
“Our residents are at the heart of everything we do, and it’s vital we work with organisations like Citizens Advice Bucks and other local partners to provide support and build a more resilient Buckinghamshire.”
Craig Glynn, CEO of Citizens Advice Bucks, added:
“We are happy to be working alongside Buckinghamshire Council to enable those who are struggling with debt to have streamlined access to our advice. Citizens Advice Bucks has always been and continues to be a source of free confidential and impartial advice on debt, benefits, employment, discrimination, family and so much more for the residents of Buckinghamshire.
“Our charity aims to provide the advice needed to help people move forward using information and guidance. Where distinctly complex issues arise, we provide more hands-on support, but will always seek to empower clients to take action themselves. We believe this enables long term solutions and resilience to the challenges of difficult times.
“We look forward to delivering our support as part of this project alongside our other partners who enable us to support the people of Bucks.”
Citizens Advice Bucks is one of many organisations in Buckinghamshire and nationally that can offer advice and support to help with unexpected financial emergencies, as well as longer term solutions for money management.
For more information view our money problems campaign.
Buckinghamshire Council continues to work with a host of charities, local businesses and organisations within the voluntary and community sector to give residents a helping hand by helping to ease some of the financial pressures being faced – which in turn can help with mental health and wellbeing pressures. Recognising that some residents may not qualify for other government assistance, the latest tranche of the Household Support Fund (HSF) allows the council to provide direct support through their Helping Hand service until the end of September 2024.
Residents are encouraged to reach out if they require assistance or have questions about the available support. They can do this by viewing our cost of living guidance or by calling 01296 531151.