VOLUNTEERS hope to address the needs of the most vulnerable members of the community by ensuring they understand what help is available and what benefits they are entitled to.

More than 2,500 people turned to Bridport and District Citizens Advice for help last year, its its annual report has revealed, and this is an increase of more than 400 people compared to the previous year.

One of the main reasons for the jump was problems with Universal Credit, the new social security system replacing six means-tested benefits and tax credits with a single monthly payment. More than 250 people needed help with making their claim.

Significant problem areas for claimants include the date of claim and backdating, high levels of deductions from payments, delays in medical assessments to assess incapacity for work, overpayments and incorrect calculation of benefit entitlement (underpayments) for those in and out of work.

West Dorset MP Sir Oliver Letwin has praised the work of Citizens Advice. He said: “The work Citizens Advice do locally is completely invaluable for many vulnerable citizens in West Dorset, as I know from the many occasions on which they and I have worked together to resolve problems and to seek adjustments in the way the benefits system is administered.”

Chairman Tony Rogers has thanked those who support the service.

“I would like to thank the financial supporters for their contributions, without which, as a charity, we would not be able to continue," said Mr Rogers. “Our local councils understand and value our work, and we look forward to continued support from the new Dorset Council. With all aspects of public, charitable, volunteer and private enterprises working together, we can truly address the needs of the most vulnerable members of our community and ensure they enjoy the most of what is available and to which they are entitled.”

Mr Rogers also paid tribute to the wide range of experience and enthusiasm of its more than 70 volunteers which make it possible to help so many local people. Most of these volunteers contribute a day a week of their time.

The offices of Citizens Advice in South Street, Bridport, are open on weekdays from 10am to 3pm and anyone is welcome to attend to obtain free, confidential and impartial advice. An appointment is not necessary.

It also runs two sessions a week in Lyme Regis, on Mondays between 10am and midday at the medical centre, Uplyme Road, and on Wednesdays from 10am to 3pm at St Michael's Business Centre. In Beaminster, advice sessions take place at the Yarn Barton Community Centre on Thursdays from 12.30pm to 3pm.

Bridport and District Citizens Advice will hold its annual general meeting at Bridport Town Hall on Monday (15) at 7.30pm, when the guest speaker will be Caroline Buxton from Citizens Advice Dorset.

You can contact Citizens Advice by email at advice@bridport-cab.org.uk or by calling 03442 451291.