LOTTERY funding for the Winchester Citizens Advice Bureau means that they have become the leading partner in a new project targeting those in need.

Hoping to offer more free support, the Winchester Advice Partnership (WAP) aims to train staff to be capable of working with vulnerable clients.

Providing advice and support WAP has been running for two years and hopes to create an extensive team of non-profit organisations to tackle any client’s problem.

This team already has voluntary backing from Age UK Winchester, Alzheimer’s Winchester, Carers Centre, HOMER Substance Misuse Service, Winchester Live At Home Scheme, Trinity Centre, Volunteer Centre and Winchester Churches Nightshelter, as well as funding from The Big Lottery Advice Services Transition Fund.

Winchester CAB and other non-profit organisation partners will now begin the process of training staff and volunteers the basic advice interviewing skills they will need when speaking with clients.

These clients are then referred to a welfare rights caseworker who invests in the situation fully by supporting and acting for the client whenever it is necessary. 

WAP partner agencies will also receive training in financial capability and all partners hope to attract volunteers to contribute to the cause.

Sue Heath-Caldwell, Project Lead at WAP, said: “This is an exciting project that will enable people to develop greater financial capability. The project is designed to work with vulnerable clients of caring organisations across the district. The staff and volunteers that receive the training will be better placed to support their clients through difficult times.” 

For more information: 01962 892589