Oxfordshire Citizens Advice say they’re 'stretched to breaking point'
It's after a series of rising prices mean the demand for their services are soaring
Last updated 2nd Oct 2024
Citizens Advice covering Cherwell in Oxfordshire say they are 'stretched close to breaking point' as demand for their services soar.
Over the last year we’ve seen a series of rising prices, such as mortgage rates, food, and just yesterday the energy price cap hiked by 10 percent, meaning typical utility bills are more expensive.
‘We are working twice as hard than ever before’
Citizens Advice say this creates further demand for their services, with energy bills being their most common advice.
Pat Coomber-Wood, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice Cherwell and West Northamptonshire, said: “We are feeling very overwhelmed at the moment and our anxiety is that people are waiting so long on the phone because the demand is so high.
“That makes people think that we’re not doing the service that we need to do and we’re working twice as hard than ever before.
“So, the pressure is tremendous, our staff and volunteers are stretched very often to breaking point.
“It’s something that we have to keep on top of, but we want to help people, and we are committed to helping people. We will keep doing everything that we can to make a difference to local people’s lives.”
Advice on energy bills
The charity provides advice to people struggling based on their rights and responsibilities.
Citizens Advice in Cherwell and West Northamptonshire helped 1,669 people so far this year with energy advice, such as how to reduce energy costs or how to access energy grants.
Ms Coomber-Wood said: “You’re not alone, don’t be embarrassed and don’t think you’re the only person affected by this, so reach out for help.
“One of the first things that we say to people is, if you’re in a debt situation speak to your energy provider because what a lot of people don’t realise is that they may be able to offer you support.
“Some of the other things you can do are very practical when it comes to saving energy, and I know that the local councils work very hard to make sure there are warm spaces during the day.
“But everybody’s situation is different and that’s why it’s really important that we find a unique and bespoke way forward regardless of what context you’re in.”