Volunteer voices cuts fear

CUTS to Oldham’s Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) over the coming year could have a drastic impact on the town’s most vulnerable residents, a volunteer has warned.

Oldham Council is currently talking to the CAB, which could lead to a reduction in service if cuts are made. Volunteers are concerned face-to-face interviews with clients will no longer be possible.

One volunteer, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “Staff and volunteers are shell shocked by the news. This will have a negative impact on the people of Oldham and we feel that we are being prevented from giving people the help and support they need.

“More people will suffer through the bedroom tax, benefit cuts and sanctions, employers sacking unfairly, rent arrears and evictions. Face-to-face is very important; it allows us to see clients who might not have access to phones or the internet, may not live close to any other outreach groups, might have language problems, or don’t know about us until they visit the Civic Centre on other matters.”

The service, which has been providing help and support to Oldham residents since 1939, helped more than 10,000 residents last year.

Both Oldham Council and Oldham CAB have maintained their commitment to protecting advice services. Decisions about funding are yet to be made.

Oldham CAB chief executive Jonathan Yates said: “Increasing numbers of people are turning to the charity for help as the impact of welfare reforms makes it harder for the poorest and most vulnerable people in the borough to cope.

“Oldham CAB is committed to working with the council to ensure that these vital services are provided for those people who need them.”