To receive a presentation from the Managers of the Citizens Advice Bureau in Central Bedfordshire on the support and impact of the advice provided to our residents.

The Chairman of Trustees at Mid Beds CA, Cllr Graham, introduced the three representatives from Citizens Advice; in Dunstable, Judy Atkinson; in Leighton Buzzard, Tabitha Park and in Mid Beds, Jenny Hedges.  Members were advised of each Citizens Advice setup including the numbers of paid staff, volunteers, and the range of speciality advice given to residents.  The three Citizens Advice centres work together to reduce costs, however, it was evident that each area faced different challenges locally and should remain separate. The presentation demonstrated the combined economic value of Citizens Advice in Central Bedfordshire in terms of savings to the public purse and the contribution of volunteers.  

The Committee was aware of the lengths the Citizens Advice had to go to ensure funding was maintained with bids made to various Trusts and Town and Parish Councils.  Some donations were received from local organisations and fund-raising events were held in each locality.

Members thanked those present for the insight into the challenges faced by the Citizens Advice Teams and proposed a partnership status with the Council.  The work to build better communities in Central Bedfordshire was invaluable and the Committee was reassured that each budget had been challenged and the Council was receiving value for money for the funding it provided. 

In conclusion the Executive Members present were asked to support Citizens Advice finance arrangements favourably post 2020.  The Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) Infrastructure organisations be invited to attend the next Corporate Resources OSC meeting to deliver a presentation on their work and impact in Central Bedfordshire.

RECOMMENDED

1.    That the Committee welcomed the comprehensive update on the work of Citizens Advice in Central Bedfordshire.

2.    That the Executive review the Citizens Advice financial arrangements post  2020 based on an invest to save basis.

3.    That partnership arrangements with Citizens Advice be broadened and formalised.

4.    That Citizens Advice centres continued to receive the support of Members and Officers. 

5.    That the VCS Infrastructure organisations be invited to attend the September Corporate Services OSC meeting to deliver an update on their work in Central Bedfordshire .