Citizens Advice in East Dorset & Purbeck are raising funds for a Crisis Support Bus which will provide vulnerable Dorset residents with access to free advice and support.

The cost of living crisis has meant that many more people are in need of advice with some unable to access current services due to rural isolation, restricted mobility, cost of fuel or limited access to public transport.
The mobile advice unit will deliver a service to rural areas and for those who cannot easily access outreaches, local libraries or are digitally excluded.

Katrina Ford, business development manager, Citizens Advice in East Dorset & Purbeck, said: “We have seen a big increase in the number of people turning to us for advice and they are struggling to afford heating and pay bills. We are most worried about those on the lowest incomes including the elderly, vulnerable and disadvantaged. Many of whom have the additional barrier of being rurally and socially isolated.
“The Crisis Support Bus will be an easy-to-access, one stop shop for these residents, whilst ensuring accessibility to a diverse range of people, including those at a greater risk of disadvantage, detriment or harm.”

Citizens Advice in East Dorset & Purbeck is an independent charity and relies upon grants and donations to fund their service. They are looking for donations to help fund the Crisis Support Bus.
Katrina added: “We are hoping to have the bus in the local community early in 2023.
“To help achieve this, we are looking for support from local businesses and individuals to help fund the on-going running costs of the bus.
“There are lots of opportunities for local businesses to get involved, including having a logo on our bus in return for a donation.
“If anyone is willing to help, we’d love to hear from you!”
Donations to the Crisis Support Bus can be made on Aviva’s Community Fund page avivacommunityfund.co.uk/p/cost-of-living-crisis-support-bus.
Aviva will match fund the amount raised. Alternatively, visit edpcitizensadvice.org.uk or email giving@edpcitizensadvice.org.uk.