The last few months has been an incredibly difficult time for all of us. As an advice organisation, the main challenge for Citizens Advice Bristol was how to adapt our service so we could continue to be there for people during times of unprecedented uncertainty. Lockdown rules meant that our offices closed to the public and all our face to face appointments and drop-in session were suspended – but our community was in more need than ever.
We quickly adapted to a phone-based service and the vast majority of staff and volunteers began working from home. Although there have been obstacles, we have been able to support around 900 people a month throughout the lockdown. As the rules start to relax we are committed to keeping our clients, volunteers and members of staff safe. We are always looking at ways we can adapt further and how we can return to face-to-face advice, however we won’t do that until we can do it safely.
For now, our offices are staying closed and we are asking people to contact our advice line if they need advice on benefits, debt, employment, housing, immigration or anything else. Our advice line is open Monday – Friday, from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm and can be accessed by calling 03444 111 444.