New Citizens Advice and YBS link helps almost 80 in Greenock

The link is part of a national scheme between the organisations which has helped over 7,000 people across the UK since it began three years ago.

It's estimated that the advice given could have unlocked over £3.2m in potential additional income for beneficiaries.

The partnership sees the society's branch on West Blackhall Street host Citizens Advice advisers one day a week.

They provide expert and impartial help on a host of issues, including struggles with finances, welfare benefits, debt, housing and legal difficulties.

Through the partnership members of the public can access an hour-long appointment which is free, confidential and can be booked directly by contacting a participating branch.

The programme started as a pilot in just six branches in 2021 but due to demand, and its initial success, it has since expanded.

Since the Greenock branch joined the partnership in July last year it has helped 77 people in the local area.

Susan Allen, chief executive of Yorkshire Building Society, said: “Our purpose is to provide real help with real life and that’s exactly what our partnership with Citizens Advice does.

"We are incredibly proud of the impact that this service has had on thousands of people across the UK.

“Through this partnership we’ve helped to make impartial and independent advice from Citizens Advice even more accessible in our communities and it has had a real impact on the lives of thousands of people up and down the UK.”

Teresa O'Hara, Bureau Manager at East Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau, said: "This year we’ve seen many households reach out to us for support for a huge range of issues.

"That’s why our partnership with Yorkshire Building Society is so important in helping us to increase the support that we can offer to people in need in our local communities.”

For more information on the partnership visit www.ybs.co.uk/citizens-advice