January's One Swale Roadshows

Swale residents struggling with debt can get crucial advice at events being hosted by the council this month.

Swale Borough Council, in conjunction with Swale CVS and Faversham Community Networking Group, have organised more One Swale Roadshows to help people affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

The roadshows will continue until the end of March, with each month’s events having a theme, allowing for more targeted help to reach the people who need it.

January’s theme is debt, financial support and benefits, however guidance and advice on other topics will still be available.

Organisations who can assist residents may vary across the events, but include Swale Community and Voluntary Sector, Southern Water, Cristian’s Against Poverty, Southern Housing, Imago, Kent County Council and Citizens Advice Swale.

The January roadshows will be hosted on:

• 11 January 2024, 9.30am-11.30am Sheppey Gateway, 38-42 High St, Sheerness, ME12 1NL
• 16 January 2024, 9.30am-11.30am 12 Market Place, Faversham ME13 7AE
• 23 January 2024, 9.30am-11.30am Eastern Sheppey Community Hub, Leysdown Road, Leysdown-on-Sea, ME12 4RD
• 31 January 2024, 9.30am-11.30am Kemsley Community Centre, The Square, Ridham Avenue, Sittingbourne, ME10 2SL

The One Swale Roadshows are partly funded by the UK Government's Household Support Fund and Swale Borough Council.

Cllr Richard Palmer, chair of the council’s community committee said:

“Our roadshows have become a popular, safe space for residents to get judgement free advice and support.

“The cost-of-living crisis has negatively impacted everyone and we know many households across the borough are struggling to make ends meet.

“This often means people turn to credit and debt to plug any gaps in their budgets, which can quickly spiral out of control.

“Especially over the festive period, where spending increases, like buying gifts for loved ones or more food for Christmas day, but now in the New Year you are left with the bill.

“No matter how smothering it may feel, there are ways to improve your situation and sometimes all it takes is sound advice and learning how to combat it.

“We are hosting four more events this month, to bring experts and organisations who can offer advice and support together with those who desperately need it.

“If you need help, please feel free to visit one of our events and chat with the friendly people there, who know how to help you whatever situation you are in.”