CAB working to see clients

Airdrie and Coatbridge Citizens Advice Bureaux are ensuring their staff, volunteers and clients can work in“a safe environment”before resuming face-to-face meetings.

The Scottish Government has announced that in-person provision can get back up and running for welfare, debt and income maximisation purposes, when alternative methods are unsuitable or not possible.

Responding to queries about the return of such services, Marian Tobin, manager of the Coatbridge bureau, said: “We have continued to provide advice to our clients through telephone and emails and this has worked well.

“Since the beginning of April, we’ve supported 2292 clients; 1377 of those haven’t used a Citizens Advice Bureau in several years, so it’s good to know we’re helping everyone who needs it.

“Ultimately, we all want to get back to seeing our clients, but we need to make sure staff, clients and volunteers are in a safe environment to see each other face-to-face.

“We’re working towards an appointment system for our most vulnerable clients who cannot be supported by any other means but, at present, we will continue to answer any enquiries by telephone and email.

“Please contact Airdrie CAB on 01236 754109 or by emailing bureau@ airdriecab.casonline.org. uk, and Coatbridge CAB on 01236 421447 or at Adviser@coatbridgecab. casonline.org.uk.

“Our telephones are manned daily and we will get back to clients who leave a voicemail.

“We appreciate your understanding and as soon as it’s safe, we will be back face-to-face, though it will be by appointment.”

Cautious Marian Tobin