South Lakes Citizens Advice has moved into new premises just off the Kendal High Street after accepting an offer from the Westmorland Gazette.

For locals wishing to access the service, the space in Wainwright's Yard is more accessible than the charity's former base in Kendal bus station.

While commonly mischaracterised as a government-funded entity, Citizens Advice depends entirely on grants and donations and offers free, confidential advice on a range of issues, from debt to housing.

Renowned as the first contact point during crisis situations, Citizens Advice saw an increased demand through the pandemic and the current cost-of-living crisis.

Karen Evans, chief officer at South Lakes Citizens Advice, said: "We are living in tough times and demand for our help is at an all-time high, which is why we want to thank Newsquest, who publish the Westmorland Gazette, for their incredibly generous support".

The new hub is roomier than the Kendal bus station space and boasts a staffed desk for enquiries and confidential appointment bookings, and will host twice-weekly open drop-in sessions.

It is hoped that the new office will boost Citizens Advice's impact across the South Lakes, in tandem with the Ulverston office and with the outreach sessions at Windermere foodbank, held in partnership with the Trussell Trust.

Ms Evans continued: “We’re funded by an annual grant from Westmorland and Furness Council, with project funding from Money Advice and Pension Service to deliver money advice and Macmillan Cancer Support to provide welfare benefits advice to those living with cancer, as well as grants from local town councils.

"We also receive generous donations from businesses like Lakeland, and local people, who also give their time."

David Frankland of Newsquest added: "South Lakes Citizens Advice are an incredible charity providing essential support and expertise across our community.

"From one-off enquiries to life-changing assistance, any one of us could need them at some point.

"We’re very proud to be able to assist their vital work, and look forward to continuing to partner with and support them going forward."

For general enquiries, volunteering, and donations, and face-to-face appointments, South Lakes Citizens Advice can be contacted via phone on 0808 2787984 or visited at 1 Wainwright’s Yard, Kendal, LA9 4DP.

Their website is www.southlakescab.org.uk, and open drop-in sessions are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10.00am and 2.00pm.