Pandemic sees big jump in work-related calls for help to Hartlepool advice experts

Citizens Advice Hartlepool has received around 1,200 work-related queries since the outbreak in March and represents an increase of up to 70%.

A number of requests for help the team has provided in-depth guidance for were to do with the Government’s furlough scheme which paid for a large percentage of their wages after being effectively laid off because of Covid.

It has also dealt with a large increase in benefits queries.

Citizens Advice Hartlepool’s manager Joe Michna said: “We have been offering face-to-face drop-in sessions since August 1 this year and a large number of those attending these sessions have been the elderly and those with mental health issues.

"The employment enquiries we have been called to advise on include unfair dismissal, disability discrimination, redundancy payments and wages owed and advice on the furlough scheme.

"During the first lockdown the increase in employment related enquiries was approximately 70% and since then the increase has been approximately 60%.”

The Government’s furlough scheme, which pays 80% of a person’s wages, is currently due to last until the end of April 2021.

The Hartlepool advice bureau has also helped people with benefits including Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance.

Mr Michna thanked the local community for their support during 2020 from financial donations to the many expressions of thanks from clients.

He added: “Like very many other local organisations we have had to cope with the difficulties and challenges that the Covid-19 situation has brought and we have responded as best we can by trying to keep our services available and easily accessible.”

Citizens Advice Hartlepool in Park Road is closed over Christmas but is open for drop in sessions on Tuesday, December 29, and Wednesday, December 30, from 9.30am to 3pm, and Thursday, December 31, from 9.30am to 12.30pm.

No appointment is needed but anyone attending the office must wear a face mask and use hand sanitiser.

People are also encouraged to email or telephone first to reduce the number of people attending in person.

Call (01429) 408401 or 03003 309005, email [email protected] or visit www.citizenshartlepool.org.uk

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