Dear Editor,

The need for a locally based CAB service is undeniable, the recent withdrawal of the Ross based capability has made the provision of effective assistance beyond the reach of many potential users. I am led to believe that Ross Town Council is considering a proposal, made by CAB Herefordshire, to reinstate a one day service at a cost of £10,000 per annum.

Having had numerous meetings with both users and providers of the advisory service, I am convinced that to provide an adequate local service we need a minimum allocation of two days per week. The requirement being for a one day “Drop-in” service, operating without appointments, coupled to a second day appointment only operation.

The expanded service will undoubtedly cost more than the provision on offer, but would meet the need, rather than being the lowest cost option available. It is accepted that many of the centralised activities which are carried out by the CAB, namely the telephone and internet services, will need to be funded from the greater community.

Historically Ross has provided a service second only to Hereford City in terms of numbers supported and issues investigated, this was curtailed many years ago when the level of the locally based advice service was cut from two days. A County wide provision for effective face to face support needs to be based around direct contact at all the main centres of population, not just Hereford City.

Patrick Hughes,

Wilton