a great first stop (Citizens Advice Bureau)

Member Name: freud

Product:	Citizens Advice Bureau
Date:	20/02/09 (250 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: trained & friendly staff - professional service

Disadvantages: may involve waiting

The Citizen's Advice Bureau (CAB) is a brilliant concept, os totally free, usually accessible in towns & cities otherwise can be contacted by telephone or the internet.

It's advisable to try & get some independent advice before paying out hard-earned cash for solicitors etc or be given wrong advice by others.

They can deal with many varied queries such as benefit entitlement, employment issues, rent/tenancy agreements etc as well as giving information on leisure passes, bus passes, local events, health centres etc.

Their biggest growth area seems to be those seeking advice regarding debt issues (according to Radio 4's 'You & Yours') & is recommended by Martin Lewis as a possible first port of call.

The offices are well equipped with all types of leaflets from knowing your rights, how to claim money for school uniforms to local hobby/horticultural groups & organisations etc so it's well worth a visit.

It is a place where experts can help many ages - from toddlers (playgroups) to our older generation (activities, heating allowances, bus passes) etc.

I worked in a CAB when I was a student & all the staff were voluntary workers (not sure how it is now) & can definitely say that each person who came for advice or information was treated in a polite, professional & friendly manner. If a specialist's help was required they were either contacted on behalf of the person or directed to the appropriaite agency who could help on a more specific level.

It's a great place to work as everyone's needs & requests were so diverse & you never knew what the next query would be. It could also be stressful though at times because some visitors were desperate for help & became frustrated at the long waiting period that was inevitable on some days.

It is possible sometimes to get an appointment so it's worth asking otherwise be prepared to wait. Also, check the opening & closing times of the local CAB as these can vary according to area.

In my opinion this is an excellent service which is often inder -rated & is poorly funded - I wish the government would transfer some £ from the Olympic Fund to organisations like the CAB as I think this would be a far better investment.

summary
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- free confidential advice available from friendly staff.
- opening hours vary.
- if they can't help they can direct you in the right direction.
- may involve a lot of waiting around - but usually well worth it!

Summary: a great organisation which needs more £