Vital support service set for cash lifeline

Wyre Council cabinet members are recommended to approve renewing a £30,000-a-year contract with the Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) for another two years.

Calls were made for the current agreement, which runs out in May, to be extended after the charity saw a major rise in people coming to them for help.

A report to members, issued ahead of the cabinet meeting on Wednesday, said: “There is a significant and increasing need for the services provided by the CAB in Wyre.”

The service, which recently relocated to Fleetwood Town Council’s Poulton Road offices, will be asked to provide more informant about the volume of enquiries it receives.

The report praised the town council for offering the use of its premises, which has enabled the charity to expand its presence in Wyre at no extra cost to the taxpayer.

The report, produced by council leader Peter Gibson, adds: “The CAB has reported a significant increase in the demand for welfare benefits advice since the (welfare) reforms were introduced.

“It is proposed that a further two years’ funding be agreed, allowing the development of the volunteer hub located at the Fleetwood Town Council offices on Poulton Road.”

Last year, the charity secured funding for a full-time debt advisor based in Fleetwood.

Wyre councillor and CAB trustee Pete Murphy said: “It’s fantastic news.

“A full task group had a look at it to make sure we were getting value for money from it and it has more than met the requirements.

“It’s an asset not just to Fleetwood where it is based but to the whole borough and it was a no-brainer to continue the funding.”