Eastbourne charity reflects on the end of a challenging year

Eastbourne Citizens Advice (CA) has continued to support people through the pandemic by staff and volunteers working from home.

Alan Bruzon, chief officer for Eastbourne CA, said, “In the run up to Christmas I’d really like to thank our volunteers for their amazing work during the pandemic.”

The charity, which is part of the CA network across England and Wales, provides free confidential and impartial advice and campaigns on big issues that affect people’s lives such as money, housing or employment.

It says the goal is to help everyone find a way forward, whatever problems they face.

Alan said the charity also helps people understand their employment rights and government support they are entitled to.

Eastbourne CA gets support from Eastbourne Borough Council, but Alan said it has to raise the extra funds to be able to keep going - another reason the lockdown has brought challenges.

He said, “When the first lockdown started we had to cancel various fundraising events which we hoped would raise thousands of pounds. We were very grateful to receive extra support from Sussex Community Foundation and the Big Lottery.