Hounslow's Citizen's Advice services has experienced a 70 per cent increase in demand in the last 12 months.

This has highlighted the crucial role community and voluntary sector organisations played in responding to the effects of the pandemic on communities in Hounslow.

In response, Hounslow Council has provided an initial financial support package of £150,000, funded by the Council, as part of its Community Solutions approach.

The funding hopes to equip the teams with the right resources needed to help those most in need.

In response to receiving the funding, Aiman Elal, from Citizens Advice Hounslow said: "Citizens Advice Hounslow is proud to serve our community and be an active partner of Community Solutions at these challenging times where the demand for our services has escalated to over 70 per cent.

"We are grateful to Hounslow Council for the additional funding they have made available to us, which will enable us to recruit more advisers and increase our capacity to provide a timely support to residents in need through early intervention, advice, and practical help to tackle their problems."

The Community Solutions team provides a link between connecting communities to the right support services, information, or activities needed.

Cllr Lily Bath, Deputy Leader of the Council said: "Local organisations and partners play a key part of Community Solutions, many of which have been providing expert advice and support to residents for many years.

"This vital funding partnership with Citizen's Advice means that they can continue to respond to needs of residents effectively.

"Whether it's through direct funding or providing the platform for local groups to reach residents, the Council is committed to equipping our communities with the resources to respond to the needs of residents quickly, identifying problems before they become more complex."

Cllr Katherine Dunne, Cabinet Member for Communities and Climate Emergency added: "The Community Solutions team have already been providing fantastic support directly or via our partners to residents across the borough with issues like debt, unemployment, or bereavement.

"The Council, health partners and our brilliant local voluntary and community sector have been working hard to prepare residents for winter, with tailored advice and support. If you need help or someone to talk to, get in touch before feeling overwhelmed.

"The launch of Hounslow Connect, our new online information hub will expand on the support being provided in-person, making it even easier to access the help you need whenever you need it."

Residents can access Community Solutions online via Hounslow Connect, over the telephone by calling 020 7084 9697 or in-person at community location across the borough.

In response to new Government guidance and to help reduce the transmission of Covid-19, the Community Solutions team will be based outside the venues.