As the dark days and cold weather of January set in, accompanied by the anxiety of mounting bills, this month can prove particularly challenging for many individuals and families across the South Lakes region. The pressure of maintaining New Year's resolutions while balancing competing financial and personal demands often places significant strain on household budgets, personal wellbeing, and relationships.
A Critical Community Lifeline
This period marks one of the busiest times of the year for Citizens Advice, a nationwide network of local, not-for-profit charities. The South Lakes branch is keen to remind residents that they are not alone in facing these difficulties. Funded entirely through grants and donations, the charity offers a free, confidential, and comprehensive advice service covering a wide array of issues including debt management, welfare benefits, employment rights, housing problems, and relationship matters.
Accessible Support in Kendal Town Centre
Thanks to a generous arrangement with Newsquest, the publishers of the Westmorland Gazette, South Lakes Citizens Advice now operates from accessible premises in Wainwright's Yard in Kendal town centre. This location serves as a vital first port of call for people in need or crisis. Additionally, the charity provides outreach community services every Friday at the Windermere and District Foodbank, ensuring support reaches those who need it most.
Karen Evans, Chief Officer at South Lakes Citizens Advice, emphasised the current pressures: "With still a lot of winter to go, there's enormous strain on people - financially, emotionally, and practically. Our message is simple: don't feel you have to struggle alone this New Year, weighed down by avoidable problems."
Record Demand and Economic Impact
The charity's importance is underscored by record numbers of contacts last year. They assisted approximately 2,900 South Lakes residents, securing £1.7 million in financial gains for clients. This money is subsequently spent within the local economy, providing a valuable boost to community prosperity.
Karen Evans further explained: "Whether it's budgeting, housing, benefits entitlement, energy costs, or simply understanding your options, we're right here to help."
Innovative Services and Community Funding
Demonstrating their commitment to accessible support, South Lakes Citizens Advice, in partnership with Sheffield Citizens Advice, is piloting a new BSL/DEAF Advice Service. This specialised service is also available to residents in Allerdale and operates on Fridays by appointment. To book, individuals can call 07946 003349 or email deafadvice@citizensadvicesheffield.org.uk.
Clarifying Funding and Volunteer Needs
Karen highlighted a common misconception: "People often assume we're a government body, we're not. We're funded by an annual grant from Westmorland and Furness Council, Town Council, and generous donations from local businesses and citizens." She also pointed to increasing referrals to food banks as a hidden regional statistic, underscoring the growing need for their services.
The charity relies heavily on its team of dedicated volunteers and is actively seeking more support. "We also could not operate without our amazing volunteers, and with need still rising, we always need more," Karen stated. Roles are available in various areas including administration, advice provision, and fundraising.
She added an invitation: "So, if you have six hours a week to spare and expertise or enthusiasm to share, you'll find a very warm welcome in our lovely office, and it's incredibly fulfilling."
How to Access Support
South Lakes Citizens Advice is located at 1 Wainwright's Yard, Kendal, LA9 4DP. For general enquiries, volunteering opportunities, donations, or to arrange telephone and face-to-face appointments, residents can call in, ring 0808 2787984, or visit www.southlakescab.org.uk. Drop-in sessions are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 1pm.
