Eastbourne Citizens Advice announces emergency changes to services over coronavirus

People who have already booked appointments at the service in St Leonards Road have been contacted, with advice being switched to over the phone.

Alan Bruzon, chief officer of Citizens Advice Eastbourne, said, “We are here to give people the knowledge and confidence they need to find their way forward in these difficult times.

“You can find frequently updated advice on a range of issues related to the Coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak at citizensadvice.org.uk/coronavirus.

“All our staff have had to switch to home working including our wonderful volunteers. We will continue to offer the best service we can to the people of Eastbourne during these unprecedented and challenging times.

“Nationally, through our Research and Campaigns teams, we are raising our client’s concerns with government ministers, to make sure people get the support they need, financially and practically.”

Eastbourne shops get £24 million retail relief as council announces new measures to cope with coronavirus

As of Tuesday (march 17), the following ways to contact the service are:

• General advice will be given via Adviceline which people can reach by calling 03444 111 444. This is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.

• Send a message via www.eastbournecab.co.uk - click on online advice

• People can use webchat online by visiting citizensadvice.org.uk/contact-us.

• For advice on consumer issues (for example issues related to products or services you’ve purchased) contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133 or chat online to an adviser on the website.

• Anyone seeking to make a new claim for Universal Credit should call the Universal Credit Help to Claim line on 0800 1448444.

• If you have a housing enquiry you can contact BHT Eastbourne Advice on 01323 642615

• A page has been added to the Citizens Advice Eastbourne website and will be updated regularly www.eastbournecab.co.uk/coronavirus

• Waiting times for these services may be slightly longer than usual as the service adapts to its new patterns of working.