A NEW service offering advice to rural communities is being launched in Ryedale.

Citizens Advice Mid North Yorkshire’s Rural Advice Van is now be visiting venues across the district following success of a pilot scheme in Hambleton and Richmondshire which has now helped over 500 people.

The adapted advice van, which was refurbished by a member of the charity to save on costs, has already visited Helmsley, Kirkbymoorside and Pickering.

An experienced Citizens Advice adviser is on hand to give information and advice to residents who are currently unable to visit our offices and the charity has also invited partner organisations such as Warm and Well in North Yorkshire and Ryedale Community Connect.

Carol Shreeve, CEO of Citizens Advice Mid North Yorkshire, said: "Several of our hardworking volunteers have been trained to provide the service and, in these difficult times when access to our offices is only just opening up, we can start a new service delivering advice safely in the open air.

"We are keen to get back into the areas where, pre-pandemic, we used to run Outreach services but also to look at other areas where there is a need for our services.”

Cllr Caroline Goodrick, a member of Ryedale District Council, said: “This is really good news for our communities in Ryedale at a time when demand is growing and many people are feeling more isolated than ever. Access to online services is still difficult for many people, particularly the elderly, and the volunteers will be able to offer some additional support to help people get the benefits and services they need.”

The dates for August are as follows:

Pickering Market - Monday, September 13, 10-2pm

Helmsley Market – Friday, September 17, 9 – 2 pm

Norton Library and Community Hub – Tuesday, September 21, 10-2pm

If you need advice from Citizens Advice North Yorkshire, contact their free adviceline on 0808 278 7900 or visit https://citizensadvicehrs.org.uk/