28 Jan Citizens Advice Launches Urgent Appeal For A New Home In Penzance

Citizens Advice Cornwall is searching for a new office in Penzance following Cornwall Council’s decision to sell its current premises in Alverton Street.

The charity needs to move out by the end of March but has so far been unable to find suitable, affordable and accessible office space in or near the town centre.

Chief Executive, Gill Pipkin, said:

“The demand for our services from people in Penwith is growing as the rising cost of living really starts to bite. In the last year, we helped just over 2,000 people in the Penwith area overcome their problems.

“Our base in Penzance offers drop-in sessions and appointments for those in emergency situations and a place for our staff and volunteer advisers to work, answering phone and online queries as well as vital administrative tasks.

“Our volunteers are rooted in their community, know the real issues people have in the area and have strong connections with local groups and organisations that can provide help.”

Despite extensive searches, the charity has been unable to find a new location.

“There is a threat to the future of the service in Penzance if we can’t find a base. Unfortunately, we are now unable to afford the full market rates for commercial premises in the town, but if anyone is able to provide office space we do have a small budget available,” added Gill.

Ideally, any office space will include room for five or six advisers and a couple of side rooms for confidential client discussions.

Citizens Advice is a free, independent and confidential charity which helps everyone in society with issues such as benefits claims, debt, employment, housing, discrimination and consumer problems.

Anyone who knows of a suitable property should contact wailim.wong@citizensadvicecornwall.org.uk