A COUNCIL leader has urged residents to contact a charity if they are struggling financially during the coronavirus pandemic.

Cllr Hugh Evans, leader of Denbighshire County Council (DCC), praised the work of Citizens Advice Denbighshire for its work to provide free and confidential advice on a range of financial and well-being issues.

During last year the charity, which is a DCC partner, secured more than £10.95million of benefit and tax credit gain for residents, raised 276 people out of fuel poverty and dealt with more than 8,400 enquiries.

“As we know Covid-19 has bought many challenges to individuals within our communities as well as to public service organisations who support residents on a regular basis," said Cllr Evans.

“There has been a tremendous effort made by charities, third sector organisations and volunteers across Denbighshire during the past year, and I would like to thank everyone who has played a role in helping our communities during this time.

“Citizens Advice Denbighshire provides a key role in supporting our residents and this has been particularly important in the last 12 months.

“The council is delighted to work in partnership with Citizens Advice Denbighshire on a wide range of projects including the School Uniform Recycle scheme, the Eat Well, Cook Slow project which has helped provide 160 families with slow cookers, while our Homelessness Prevention Team also works closely with them.

“I would encourage all those in the county who are in need of the support from Citizens Advice Denbighshire to contact them.”

Lesley Powell, chief executive officer of Citizens Advice Denbighshire, said residents should not be deterred from getting in touch if they need help.

"We have worked closely with the council and our network of partner agencies to ensure the maximum amount of support is accessible and available for the citizens of Denbighshire," she said.

"Working together enables us to provide an holistic service which leads to the best outcome for individuals.

“Our staff and volunteers have pulled together during this pandemic to provide a completely remote service which gives our full support to everyone, in addition to our normal advice service we have answered more than 1,500 Covid-19 related enquiries.

"We're here for everyone, our help is only a phone call or a click away."

Contact Citizens Advice Denbighshire by calling 0300 3302 124 or visit the website.