Citizens Advice County Durham - Durham

Introduction

Citizens Advice County Durham (CAB), located at 54A North Road, is a vital community resource offering expert advice and guidance to residents of County Durham, United Kingdom. This registered charity is a key player in the local welfare landscape, providing a range of services to help people resolve their problems, improve their lives, and understand their rights and responsibilities.

Main Services

CAB offers a comprehensive range of services, tailored to meet the diverse needs of the local community. Their main services include:

• Debt and Money Advice: Expert advice on managing debt, benefits, budgeting, and money management.
• Housing Advice: Guidance on housing options, homelessness, renting, and mortgage issues.
• Employment Advice: Support with employment rights, redundancy, and benefits while unemployed.
• Relationship Advice: Advice on divorce, separation, and other relationship issues.
• Consumer Advice: Help with consumer rights, shopping around for better deals, and dealing with suppliers.

Location and Access

CAB is conveniently situated in the centre of Durham, at 54A North Road. The city is well-served by public transport, with numerous bus services stopping nearby. Durham railway station is approximately a 10-minute walk away. For those driving, there are several car parks within walking distance, including the Prince Bishops Shopping Centre car park and the Walkergate car park.

As a wheelchair-accessible building, CAB ensures that its services are available to everyone. The entrance is step-free, and there is a lift to access the first floor. Additionally, there are disabled toilet facilities available on-site.

Featured Characteristics

CAB is committed to providing a welcoming, non-judgmental, and confidential service. Their team of trained volunteers and staff are dedicated to empowering individuals to manage their problems and make informed decisions. Some of the key features of CAB include:

• Free, Impartial, and Confidential Advice: CAB provides advice that is free, unbiased, and completely confidential.
• Volunteer-Driven: The majority of CAB's advice is delivered by trained volunteers, who give their time and expertise to support the local community.
• Local Knowledge: CAB's advice is tailored to the local area, ensuring that clients benefit from up-to-date information and understanding of local services and resources.
• Flexible Access: CAB offers advice through a variety of channels, including face-to-face appointments, webchat, email, and over the phone. They also provide self-help resources online.

Practical Information

CAB's main office is open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. They offer appointments and drop-in sessions, with some services available on an outreach basis at other locations across County Durham. It's recommended to check their website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and availability.

CAB also offers a range of resources and tools on their website, including a self-help guide, information on local services, and online forms for submitting enquiries or volunteering interest.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

With an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 35 reviews on Google My Business, CAB is widely praised for the quality and compassion of its service. Some of the positive aspects highlighted in reviews include:

• Competent and Caring Staff: Many reviewers commend the understanding, professional, and caring approach of the staff and volunteers, who go above and beyond to help.
• Expert Advice: CAB is praised for providing clear, detailed, and practical advice that empowers clients to take control of their situations.
• Accessibility: Reviewers appreciate the easy-to-access location and the availability of advice through various channels.
• Life-Changing Impact: Several reviewers highlight the significant, positive impact that CAB's advice has had on their lives and circumstances.