CITIZENS Advice Winchester District is preparing to relocate next year to the city council’s Colebrook Street offices.

The move is part of the council’s wider plan to enhance its new reception area to include new cash kiosks and transforming the existing cash office into a modern office space.

The council and Citizens Advice have built a strong and enduring partnership over many years and share a common aim to help residents in the district.

By enabling the co-location of services, the council is providing easier access for its residents to speak to both the council and the Citizens Advice, currently based in St George's Street.

Cllr Stephen Godfrey, portfolio holder for professional services said: “By providing space within the councils offices to Citizens Advice, we offer our residents the opportunity to gain support and advice on a range of issues affecting their everyday lives, quickly and easily.

“We will enable this by transforming how our services are delivered and enhancing that offer by providing easier access by bringing public and voluntary sector services together in one location.”

Natalie Webb, chief officer of Citizens Advice Winchester District added: “We are really excited about our upcoming move. Having new premises gives us a unique opportunity to modernise our service and ensure we are as accessible as possible to those who need advice.

“We help around 6,000 people each year and remain a local, independent charity offering free confidential advice to local residents. Being based in the same building as the council will have many advantages for our clients, particularly those who have issues around housing or benefits.”