From April 1st residents will be able to access an extended range of advice from East Cambridgeshire District Council including support on issues relating to debt, relationships and work.

Following Government advice on social distancing the increased support services will be delivered by telephone and email; when Government restrictions are lifted they will also be available face-to-face in the Council offices, via Community Hubs and in people’s homes.

The full range of support services for residents includes advice on debt and benefits, housing and money management, relationship and immigration, community safety support, local employment and pensions.

The Council has used new ring-fenced funding from Government to invest in dedicated advisers to spearhead the extension of this service. It will form part of the Council’s Housing and Community Advice Service, where staff have been upskilled in the new areas.

Councillor Anna Bailey, Leader of East Cambridgeshire District Council, said:
“Our extended range of services were due to be delivered by our team in a number of ways including in person at the Council’s offices, but right now it is vital we can support residents effectively at a distance.
“The Council will still be providing a truly preventative, holistic and accessible service.
“The only change to our plans is that, for the time being, this will be done remotely.”

Councillor David Ambrose Smith, chairman of the Operational Services Committee at East Cambridgeshire District Council, said:
“We are acutely aware that people have lots of questions right now – particularly where their finances are concerned – and therefore this could not come at a better time to support people who need it most.
“We have a proven track record for the delivery of excellent support services to those in need across our district. If residents are in need of advice at this time, please do use the help available.”

You can access advice via telephone during office hours on 01353 655555 and by e-mail at housingservices@eastcambs.gov.uk

Following the COVID-19 crisis, services will be delivered five days a week from the East Cambridgeshire District Council offices in Ely between the hours of 8.45am and 5pm Monday to Thursday and 8.45am until 4.30pm on Friday and through the Community Hubs.