A NEW specialist money and debt advice service has been launched by West Devon Borough Council in an effort to help residents affected by welfare reforms and those struggling to make ends meet.

A partnership organisation, Money£wise, will be running the service on behalf of the council offering face to face advice at the council's offices in Tavistock and Okehampton as well as home appointments and rural outreach visits.  

Cllr Robert Oxborough, the borough council's community services chairman, said: 'We want to do all we can to help the most vulnerable people in our community as well as those experiencing hardship.

'We hope this new service will offer valuable advice on a range of money and debt issues and enable those who are struggling financially to find the help and support they need.'

Money£wise is a partnership between the charity Encompass Southwest and a not-for-private profit company, Wessex Resolutions.

The partnership already operates 30 advice and support projects across Devon and Somerset, including similar services in Torridge and Mid Devon.

Residents will be able to get help and advice on a range of money and debts issues including income maximisation, fuel poverty, budgeting, personal finance and housing costs – among many other aspects.

The new service started in July with a dedicated money advice officer working in West Devon

Both partners of Money£wise offer free, confidential, independent advice and are members of Advice UK.

To find out more or to make an appointment call West Devon Borough Council on 01822 813600.