WITH big changes to the welfare system starting in April, free advice and information is available to residents in their communities.

West Devon Connect, the rural outreach service co-ordinated by West Devon Borough Council, will have experts on the subject at most locations it visits in April.

West Devon Citizens Advice  Bureau (CAB) can help with a range of benefits issues and people can even sign up for a free benefits check to make sure they are getting all the help they are entitled to.

An advisor from the council's housing team will be available at some locations to talk to people affected by changes in their benefits and about housing options available to them.

The road show will be joined by additional partner agencies.

West Devon Connect dates for April are: April 2 – Hatherleigh Market 9.30am-noon – with the fire service, DISC and CAB; Spreyton Village Hall – with CAB, Devon Carers and the fire service.

April 5 – Exbourne, The Burrows Café 10am-noon with WDBC housing advisor.

April 12 – Chagford Library 10.30am-12.30pmwith CAB.

April 16 — Hatherleigh Market 9.30am-noon with WDBC housing and recycling advisor and CAB.

April 17 – Princetown Community Centre – CAB advice drop-in service with a WDBC Housing advisor

April 26 — Chagford Library 10.30am-12.30pm with WDBC housing advisor.