Citizens Advice New Forest moving into New Milton Town Hall after Mencap lease deal ends
CITIZENS Advice staff say moving into new town centre premises will allow them to further develop the services they offer.
As of Tuesday, 3rd September, Citizens Advice New Forest will operate out of New Milton Town Hall in Ashley Road.
The service was previously based at the nearby Mencap shop in Old Milton Road, although citizens advice staff say the time is now right for them to relocate. Mencap will continue to maintain its presence in New Milton at Nedderman Centre in Marryat Road.
Citizens Advice New Forest’s chief officer Neill Young said: “Our expert team of advisors are here to help with a wide range of issues, including benefits, debt, housing, employment, and more. Whether you need immediate assistance or want to schedule a consultation, our friendly team is ready to support you.
“Citizens Advice New Forest is dedicated to empowering people with the knowledge and tools they need to overcome challenges and make informed decisions. The move to New Milton Town Hall will enhance our ability to serve the community by providing a welcoming environment where everyone can access the advice and support they need.”
Mr Young said Citizens Advice had been working in partnership with Mencap to lease their shared former premises in Old Milton Road, but Mencap has now decided to move out.
“Now there is an opportunity for us to relocate too,” Mr Young said, “but we want to make sure we’re still in the heart of the community we serve. We work closely with NFDC and various other partners so moving into the town hall is a good fit for us. It means we can work with our partners and further develop our services as part of our strategic plan.”
NFDC’s spokesperson for finance and corporate, Cllr Jeremy Heron, said: “Being joined by Citizens Advice colleagues at our information office in New Milton will take the support we can offer residents to a new level.
“Together, we can offer lots of advice, support and information all in one place. My wish is that this will see people in our community getting the help they need, when they need it the most.”
Citizens Advice is offering drop-in services at the town hall every Monday from 10am to 2pm. Appointments can be booked for Tuesdays and Fridays by calling the service’s advice line on 0808 2787 860 or by visiting newforestcab.org.uk
As previously reported by the A&T, the advice centre and Mencap shop in Old Milton Road was opened by Princess Anne in March 2022 after she flew into town by helicopter.
