Gagan Mohindra MP was given a ward-by-ward virtual tour of the varied and complex problems people ask Citizens Advice for help with during a Parliamentary reception.
Gagan joined Citizens Advice at a reception in the Houses of Parliament. The event showcased an interactive map of South West Hertfordshire, and revealed the issues people are facing.
It shows that Citizens Advice helped 2731 people in the area with 12,117issues. The top three problems people needed assistance with were: Benefits and tax credits, debt and Universal Credit.
According to its latest Impact Report, Citizens Advice helps to solve four in five of people’s problems when they ask for help. This reduces the number of people who turn to public services for support on welfare, health and housing issues.
For every £1 invested in the Citizens Advice service, the government and public services save £2 - amounting to £420 million last year.
Gagan said: “Citizens Advice has incredible insight into the problems people face thanks to their enormous experience and long history of working in the sector. Seeing the information opn the Dashboard was really helpful and engaging. I wish to thank the volunteers of Citizens Advice for providing support for people living in South West Hertfordshire.”
Dame Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, said:
“It was great that Gagan was able to join us.
“The right advice and support can transform lives. Citizens Advice helps people find a way forward.
“It’s important people can access free and impartial advice when they need it, whether face to face, over the phone or online. We’re pleased to work with MPs to help them solve their constituents’ problems and address local and national issues.”
Citizens Advice provides free, confidential and impartial advice to people in South West Hertfordshire. The national website provides advice online, over email and via web chat at www.citizensadvice.org.uk