The Let’s Talk Money service for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole residents launches today and aims to provide free and friendly help for those with money worries.
The coronavirus pandemic continues to have a major impact on people’s lives and livelihoods. With the government’s furlough scheme ending on 31 October and the end of mortgage, loan and credit card payment holidays, more people every day are becoming increasingly worried about paying bills, potential redundancy, reduced working hours, keeping their home and what the long-term impact of the pandemic will have on finances.
As part of the Council’s commitment to support people to live safe and independent lives and help prevent homelessness, the Let’s Talk Money guidance service has been set up providing a dedicated phone line, email address and website information for local people to access support with managing their money worries.
Let’s Talk Money is a collaboration between BCP Council, BCP Homeless Partnership, Citizen’s Advice Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole and representatives of businesses, charities, faith groups, education and health services whose shared commitment is to end homelessness across the area by ensuring everyone has a safe place to live that they can call home.
When looking for advice about money worries, it can be difficult to know which organisation is the right one to contact for your situation. Let’s Talk Money guiders will provide judgement-free advice or help support you towards accessing the right service for your individual circumstances. The team can give guidance directly to callers or help signpost and support people to other partner organisations who can help.
Cllr Nicola Greene portfolio holder for Covid Resilience, Public Health and Education said:
“As many are facing an unexpected change in their circumstances as a result of COVID-19, and with Winter and the Christmas period approaching, it can be a worrying time for anyone who finds themselves struggling financially. This service will provide an easily accessible place people can come to for free support and guidance.”
Zoe Bradley, Chief Executive for Citizens Advice Bournemouth Christchurch & Poole said:
“It’s never too late to get in touch with us – but acting early can help. We know that money worries can have an impact on every aspect of your life and wellbeing. Let’s Talk Money encourages people who are facing any financial problems to call or message us as soon as possible.”
If you have money worries – you are not alone. The sooner you get in touch, the quicker you can access help, so please do contact this service.”
The details to contact the service are below:
Call 01202 985104 (Mon – Fri / 10am – 4pm)
Visit citizensadvicebcp.org.uk/campaigns/letstalkmoney
Email letstalkmoney@citizensadvicebcp.org.uk