CAB cuts hours but says it’s still open

The office for Warwick district in Hamilton Terrace is currently open on Monday from 1pm to 7pm, and from Wednesdays to Fridays between 10am and 3.30pm.

Those visiting for the first time are given introductory interviews and if necessary are offered a full appointment.

But from April 1 Wednesday to Friday times for introductory interviews will be limited to 10am to 2pm.

Advice session supervisor Martin Webb said: “We think this will make more efficient use of our interview rooms and advisers.

“Once clients become used to the new arrangements we anticipate that we shall be able to offer an improved service. At present, clients with new enquiries are dealt with alongside those with ongoing problems, often resulting in queues at busy times.”

Manager Hilary Holland said the changes were necessary because of funding cuts. The loss of central government money has placed greater emphasis on the work of volunteer advisors, without whom the CAB would not be able to function.

Both Warwick District Council and Leamington town council are maintaining grants at current levels and Warwickshire County Council has applied a cut smaller than their overall cut.

Mrs Holland thanked local authorities and added: “The flurry of press articles may have left people in doubt about our service. I can confirm we are open and ready to help clients solve their problems.”