CONCERNS BEING RAISED over the future of Citizens Advice Bureau offices throughout Scotland has prompted a fact-finding visit by a local MSP.
Fears have been raised over future funding cuts for CAB and how these may have a seriously adverse impact on the vital services being offered by the organisation.
This week regional MSP Douglas Ross called in at the Moray Citizens Advice Bureau in Elgin where he met staff to learn more first-hand about the service being provided and how they might be impacted in future.
Mr Ross said: “Given the concerns being raised nationally over the future funding of services I welcomed the opportunity to meet with the local office staff and to learn more about the varied services and assistance they can offer.
“With 24 advisors supported by a further 12 volunteer staff, the local CAB plays a significant role in assisting members of the public with a wide variety of issues, including benefits, housing and employment.”
The MSP added that he was “well aware” of the difficulties people face with the issues being addressed by CAB and who received support from the organisation. He added: “I have directed people to the local service as I know the expertise their advisors have has helped many people across Moray.
“The staff in Elgin do a first-class job in assisting people with such matters, be it visitors to the office, people attending Outreach services at several locations across Moray, or indeed those telephoning in for advice or support.
“Sandra Dow, the CAB Manager, and her team provide a very valuable service to Moray and it’s important that we recognise and support the excellent work they are all doing.”