CITIZENS Advice Craven and Harrogate says it has continued giving advice to those most in need throughout the coronavirus pandemic thanks to the tireless dedication of its staff and volunteers.

Since the lock down began on March 23, the Harrogate based service has helped 533 people with 1434 issues across North Yorkshire.

In Craven, the service has helped 363 people with 766, often complex issues, since the lockdown was enforced - including 59 per cent with a long-term health condition or a disability. About 40 per cent of issues involved people having to move onto benefits due to the pandemic, closely followed by people having issues with employment.

The volunteers all had to adapt quickly to working from home when the lockdown was enforced with the charity quickly sending ‘volunteer work packs’ and technology to help them cope with the unprecedented demand for their services.

As part of this week’s volunteers week, which runs until Sunday, volunteers have been enjoying online team building activities.

They have been keeping morale high by organising regular online quizzes and sharing photographs of what they are up to after they finish work.

Edward Pickering, chief officer at Citizens Advice Craven and Harrogate, said: “Throughout the year our wonderful volunteers contribute their time and energy, to support and advise people, helping to keep our vital service running.

“I’m immensely proud of the huge difference our volunteers have made to the community Craven and Harrogate districts, not just since the pandemic struck, but every single day.

“We have seen our services in demand more than ever with a massive increase since the pandemic started and our volunteers have managed to make a huge difference in their clients lives, often being their lifeline when it comes to vital financial and family support”

He added:“We anticipate a second wave of people needing our help, with employment, housing and benefit issues. This will be a result of when the government eases emergency measures such as the suspension on evictions and the furlough financial scheme decreases for employees for example.

“I have every confidence in our fantastic volunteers and staff being able to cope with the predicted second surge in demand for our services and we are currently implementing measures to make sure we are ready for it.

“I really cannot thank them enough for their continued dedication. We really just couldn’t do it without them.”

For advice in Harrogate and Craven Districts call 01423 503591

or visit https://cachd.org.uk/