AN information and advice charity for Uttlesford residents is set to take on a new lease of life. Uttlesford Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), takes its last appointments at its current base at the district council offices on Great Dunmow s High Street on Tue

AN information and advice charity for Uttlesford residents is set to take on a new lease of life.

Uttlesford Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), takes its last appointments at its current base at the district council offices on Great Dunmow's High Street on Tuesday (March 30) before it re-opens its doors at The Chestnuts, Suite 8, 4 Stortford Road, Great Dunmow on Tuesday April 6.

The new, modern offices have been designed to provide good access for people using the town and quiet rooms which are suitable for confidential discussion

Although funds to cover the cost of the move and its adaption to an office still need to be secured, the charity is delighted that they have been able to maintain a presence in Great Dunmow.

A spokesman said: "Having an office in Great Dunmow provides the town and surrounding areas with free access to advice and information, whilst ensuring that we can also support and train our local volunteers.

"Opening the new offices has been made possible through the determination of the charity's trustees, the continuing support of staff and volunteers; and financial support from Uttlesford District Council, Great Dunmow Town Council and neighbouring parish councils."

The Citizens Advice service nationally has seen a large increase in enquiries linked to the downturn, with sharp rises in the numbers of people seeking advice on debt, redundancy, benefits, mortgage and fuel arrears.

Uttlesford is no exception - the CAB saw a 34 per cent increase in client contact in the period from April to December last year, 73 per cent of whom were new to their database. Debt and benefit problems accounted for a substantial part of the workload (42 per cent).

With the current increase in clients, new volunteers are always welcome. As well as becoming advisers, volunteers can also help out with reception, IT, research, money advice work and fundraising. A wide variety of skills are needed and training is always available.

If you are interested in knowing more about the charity, or would like to find out about volunteering and training opportunities within Uttlesford CAB, contact Kate Robson on 01799 526557 (non-advice line).