The partnership allows Yorkshire Building Society to host a Citizens Advice adviser at the branches on Carlton Street in Castleford and Kirkgate in Wakefield, two days a week. Citizens Advice offers free, impartial advice on a wide range of issues, including financial struggles, to anyone who needs it. Through this collaboration, the public can book free, confidential, hour-long appointments directly at participating branches.
Initially launched as a pilot in six branches in 2021, the programme's success, and demand for the service, have led to its expansion to over 40 percent of Yorkshire Building Society's branches. The partnership has helped people address a wide range of issues, including welfare benefits, debt, housing, and legal challenges.
Since May 2021, the partnership has assisted over 816 local people through the Wakefield and Castleford branches.
Susan Allen, chief executive of Yorkshire Building Society, stated: “We are incredibly proud of the positive impact this service has had on thousands of people across the UK including hundreds in the Wakefield and Castleford area.
“Through this partnership, we’ve made impartial and independent advice from Citizens Advice more accessible in our communities, making a real impact on the lives of thousands of people nationwide.”
Simon Topham, Chief Executive from Citizens Advice Wakefield added: "For the people we help, the cost-of-living challenges are still here. We see people come to us for advice on a wide range of issues, from housing to employment, and welfare and benefits, to name just a few.
“Our partnership with Yorkshire Building Society is crucial in bolstering the support we’re able to offer to those in need within our local communities, by providing greater access to our advisers.”
For more information about this innovative partnership and details of participating branches, please visit www.ybs.co.uk/citizens-advice.