Three volunteer advisers from Citizens Advice Winchester District have been awarded the prestigious Hampshire High Sheriff Award in recognition of the role they’ve played in providing support and advice to individuals at risk of losing their homes.
Advisers from Citizens Advice have attended fortnightly housing possession cases at Winchester Combined Court for the past 19 years, offering advice and assistance to the clients attending these court hearings.
In some cases clients have already sought help from Citizens Advice in advance of their hearing and the advisers are able to plan and prepare them to get the best outcome. For those that haven’t yet sought help, the volunteer court team from Citizens Advice can be the lifeline that they need, giving individuals the opportunity to overcome the root cause of their issues.
Hampshire High Sheriff, Mark Thistlethwayte referred to Citizens Advice as a ‘hidden gem’ with a ‘stunning range of services’ and thanked the court team for their dedication and the life changing work that has been achieved.
Natalie Webb, Chief Officer for Citizens Advice Winchester District said: “I’m enormously proud of our court team volunteers who’ve given their time and expertise to help others through a highly emotional and challenging process.”
“Without our support many vulnerable people would be left homeless and their lives left to spiral even further out of control.”
Citizens Advice offers free, independent advice on a range of issues to anyone that needs help. For details of your nearest office visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk
