AGE UK North Yorkshire & Darlington, a local independent charity offering support and services to older people, has expanded its successful Information and Advice service to cover the Skipton area.

Based at the Swadford Centre at the heart of the town, the charity’s Information and Advice Advisors provide accredited, free and impartial advice to over-50s their families and carers.

The service can advise and assist clients with a broad spectrum of issues including general benefits checks, Attendance Allowance applications, Personal Independence Plans, Welfare Rights, Housing, Utilities, Community Care Services and Consumer Advice.

Advisors can also help with signposting to other sources of help and advice where needed.

Last year alone, Age UK North Yorkshire & Darlington’s Information and Advice services helped its clients to claim in excess of £2 million of benefits.

Appointments will be initially available on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday between 10am and 2pm and can be booked by calling 01756 529654 or by email at rachel.hagan@ageuknyd.org.uk.

The product of a recent merger between two neighbouring local Age UK partners, the charity has big plans for the Swadford Centre including reopening the once popular cafe and providing a range of low cost services and activities for older people in the surrounding area.