Citizens Advice Bureau

Citizens Advice Bureaux (CAB) are staffed by dedicated teams of paid staff and volunteers and are open to serve all local people who require advice.

The advice offered is:

Free - the service provided is free
Confidential - nothing learned by the bureau from enquirers, including the facts of their visit, will be passed on to anyone outside the service without their express permission
Impartial - the service is open to everybody, regardless of race, gender, disability and to lesbians, gay men and those living with HIV/AIDS. Advice is given without preconceived attitudes
Independent - they are able to offer impartial advice on any matter

Clients' most common problems generally relate to benefits, employment, debt, housing, consumer affairs and family relationships.

How can the CAB help you manage your debt?

If you are struggling to pay your bills or have received any court papers or letters that seem urgent,you should not delay in contacting your local bureau. You may need to act quickly so you should not delay contacting the Bureau, who can:

Identify your priority debts
Check you are receiving all the benefits you are entitled to
Help you restructure your finances
Negotiate with your creditors or
Negotiate a repayment programme

Advice can also be found online on the Advice guide website (opens in a new window)

For more information visit the Citizens Advice Bureau website (opens in a new window)

Dorset Rural Advice out of hours service offers advice on 0844 477 2022 during early mornings and late evenings. Information is available on that line 24 hours a day

Contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau

Bridport Citizens Advice Bureau

Address: 45 South Street, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 3NY

Telephone: 01308 456594

Christchurch Citizens Advice Bureau

Address: 2 Sopers Lane, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1JG

Telephone: 01202 482023 - Advice line

Website: Christchurch Citizens Advice Bureau (opens in a new window)

You can phone the Christchurch Citizens Advice Bureau advice line for help. You will have a short phone assessment interview to determine the best way they can help you. You may be offered information, or in more complex matters, an appointment can be arranged for you to call at the bureau.