SOUTH SOMERSET NEWS: Citizens Advice Bureau settles into new premises

THE South Somerset Citizens Advice Bureau - which has settled into its new premises in Yeovil - has helped nearly 4,500 people in the past 12 months.

The CAB has been operating from its new home on the lower ground floor of Petters House in Petters Way, Yeovil, since the end of September and many clients and volunteers have already said how welcoming the new office is.

Earlier this week the CAB team invited local supporters to take a look around its new offices.

As part of his official welcome Cllr Ric Pallister, leader of South Somerset District Council, said: “The effects of austerity and changes to welfare benefits means we are now seeing an increasing number of individuals and families struggling with debt and poverty and this means that the Citizens Advice Bureau is now an essential and critical part of the front line advice services that we need in South Somerset.

“I welcome the Bureau being back in Petters House so that in this hub we have all the key support services under one roof in the centre of town where they are easily accessible to the public. The volunteers and all the staff are amazing in what they achieve and they can be justly proud of the help they are able to provide.”

PHOTO – RIGHT: Chairman of South Somerset CAB, Lin Cousins, is pictured with South Somerset District Council leader Cllr Ric Pallister.

Lin Cousins, chairman of South Somerset CAB, said: “We are delighted with our new office, it is that bit nearer to town and provides more opportunities for us to work with other organisations. Most importantly, it offers a nicer environment for volunteers and clients.

“We have helped over 4,300 people in the last year, and as an independent charity we rely on the support of local funders and particularly local people who give up their time to volunteer. We are incredibly grateful for this support, and are always looking for new volunteers to join us.”

The Bureau welcomes volunteers from all sections of the community and offers a wide variety of different and rewarding roles.

If anyone is interested in volunteering for the Bureau further details can be found at www.southsomcab.org.uk, or  contact the Bureau on our Volunteer Hotline 01935 847681.

Since the move, the Bureau is back to its normal opening hours which are 10am to 3pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday and 1pm to 3pm on Tuesdays. You can contact the Bureau by phone Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm on 01935-421167. You can also get email advice via the website www.southsomcab.org.uk.

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