.Labour Candidate visits the Citizens Advice Bureau

 

Parliamentary candidate, Julian Ware-Lane, was invited recently to visit the Citizens Advice Bureau in Long Road, Canvey Island.

Julian was shown around by the Castle Point CAB Manager, Christine Neville.

"The CAB deals with all sorts of people, often vulnerable and in crisis" said Julian. "They deal with a wide range of issues, and most of us at some point will have some dealings with them. I cannot overstate how important I believe their role is within our community."

"I was impressed with the facilities and by the dedication of Christine's team" added Julian.

"There is no such thing as a typical client" said Christine, "you don't know who is going to come through the door."

The Citizens Advice Bureau is a charity, and although a significant chunk of their funding comes from both Castle Point Borough Council and Essex County Council, about a third is raised by grants and fundraising.  There is some full time staff, but most are volunteers. The service helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems.

Christine Neville is ambitious for the Long Road offices: "we are aiming to expand our service, including an enhanced telephone answering facility. I am looking to raise £6000 to enable this."

The CAB indirectly brings money into the community by identifying benefits which are then spent locally. There are significant amounts of benefits that are unclaimed, and the CAB can assist people in claiming their entitlements.

The CAB is located at 168 Long Road, Canvey Island. Those who wish to donate, volunteer, or seek help should contact them there; they are open on Tuesdays and Thursdays.