We were thrilled to be able to assist Citizen’s Advice RCT when they approached the fund to help create 1.5 jobs to provide crucial community support over a two-year period. It was evident that being able to give advice and support in this way, would help individuals to resolve their social welfare needs. We are aware that there has been a rise in the advice issues within local communities, and a commitment from venues across Cynon, Rhondda Fawr and Fach to help people to address these, with the support of Citizens Advice RCT.
Two local employment opportunities will be supported by the grant over a two-year period, with this, Citizen’s Advice RCT, will be able to:
- Expand their community advice provision within Pen y Cymoedd communities,
- Deliver an extra 55.5 hours of social welfare advice and support each week, helping people to overcome their problems,
- Upskill new recruits with the knowledge and skills they need to deliver high quality advice, to boost employability in the local jobs market,
- Improve the health and wellbeing of people, by increasing access to in-person social welfare advice and support.
They will be better able to meet people’s needs and access preferences, by working with partners to create reciprocal referral routes and co-locating advice services in their partners’ venues, alongside community activities.
They may help communities with everything from debt, energy, and consumer matters to advising on income maximisation, housing and strengthening people’s financial capacity. Additionally, they can assist people in learning about their employment rights, including: statutory rights, alterations to working conditions, grievances, termination, and tribunal processes.
“We are aware of the challenges faced in some of the communities, and this service will help the organisation make a difference in the lives of people living in fund communities, by expanding their access to advice to support them as they deal with the pressures of the cost-of-living crisis, which has increased their need for advice, while addressing existing inequalities in the area.”– Kate Breeze, Pen y Cymoedd
“We are grateful to the Pen Y Cymoedd Community Fund for their kindness and generosity in supporting us at Citizens Advice Rhondda Cynon to establish a new Community Advice and Support service. This funding will enable us to work with partners to increase access to free, impartial, and confidential advice within the in the Upper Cynon and Rhondda Valleys, allowing us to advise and support more people impacted by the rising cost of living”. (Ashley Comley, Chief Executive, Citizens Advice Rhondda Cynon Taff)