Web help to combat credit crunch

COUNCIL chiefs are using the internet to help Oldhamers battle the credit crunch.

A new section in Oldham Council’s website provides an information portal where households and businesses can learn more about the range of support available to help guide them through the economic downturn.

The site, www.oldham.gov.uk/creditcrunch , includes the latest economic news and developments, plus details of the work of the Oldham Partnership’s credit crunch war cabinet.

It also features a “useful links” section which signposts Oldhamers towards assistance across six categories: residents’ advice; care, health and wellbeing; employment and skills; and housing.

Councillor Lynne Thompson, Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, said: “At a time of such intense economic pressure it is imperative that Oldham Council ensures that vital information and resources are available to help residents and businesses.

“The information on this new site reflects the concerns of people coping with the credit cunch, and also looking to emerge successfully from it.”

“Before their situation becomes unmanageable, we want people to use the site to guide them to the various services and support offered by a range of local partners and national agencies.

“Residents can use it to find help in cutting their bills, for example, or accessing tax credits, benefits, support for their families, and even employment and skills advice. Local firms will also find an array of information there about unlocking grant and investment opportunities or tendering opportunities to grow their business.”

The council has previously slashed on-street car parking charges in the town centre to help businesses and shoppers and became the first in the North West to save a local family home from repossession using the Government’s Mortgage Rescue scheme.

Residents and businesses can also find out more about the assistance available by sending an email to credit.crunch@oldham.gov.uk