MONMOUTHSHIRE county citizens advice has received a positive response since it began operating in Monmouth in the beginning of July. 

Brian Counsell, chair of Monmouthshire’s Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB), said his organisation had worked hard to ensure services would continue in Monmouth following the recent decision of the town-based bureau to close and was very pleased with the progress to date.

“We were saddened to hear of Monmouth CAB’s decision to close after its proud history of offering advice services in the town,” he said.

“We are pleased, however, to have been able to continue their excellent work and are grateful to many of the experienced Monmouth volunteers that are helping us in our new endeavour.

“We also thank the trustees and management of the town bureau for their support in enabling the service to continue. The most important thing is that the residents of Monmouth continue to have access to advice to deal with the complex issues of modern life such as debt, employment or housing concerns.”

Mr Counsell said the CAB held an afternoon tea for volunteers, staff and supporters at the Monmouth bureau in Whitecross Street on 26th August to thank them for their hard work during the transition.

Face-to-face advice sessions are provided at the bureau on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10am to 2pm. Telephone advice (0344 477 2020) is available from Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, while online advice is available at www.adviceguide.org.uk.

Monmouthshire County CAB was formed in September 2013 when the former Abergavenny, Caldicot and Chepstow CABs merged in response to funding and other challenges.

Mr Counsell said the bureau had been successful in its bid for funding from Monmouthshire County Council to provide advice services across the county, and in just over 18 months of operation had not only retained its original town-based offices but also opened outreach services in Usk and Wyesham.

“Just as we have elsewhere in Monmouthshire, going forward we will work closely with town and community councils in Monmouth to ensure that local needs are well understood and that the first class service that people are used to will continue,” Mr Counsell added.

The Monmouthshire County Citizens Advice service, which is a registered charity (Reg No 1125068), is supported by many of the town and community councils across the county but is always looking for new ways to raise funds. Gordon Elsmore, an employee of the charity, recently completed the Severn Bridge half marathon and has helped to raise almost £1,000 for the service.