CLWYD South Assembly Member Ken Skates has welcomed the Welsh Government’s announcement it will spend an extra £2.4m to provide advice on debt, money management and housing in some of Wales’ most deprived areas.
Labour AM Mr Skates said the new services announced recently (October 23) by Deputy Minister for Tackling Poverty Vaughan Gething will give ‘a huge boost’ to people struggling in some of the country’s poorest communities.
Mr Skates said: “Given the current economic climate and the Tory-led UK Government’s welfare changes, the need for advice services has increased considerably. This new funding package will allow Citizens Advice Cymru to help 36 Communities First clusters across Wales to meet this growing demand.
“There are two Communities First areas in Clwyd South and I am delighted a share of this £2.4m will go directly to supporting people struggling here as the ruthless cuts of the Westminster coalition continue to hit hard.”
Communities First is the Welsh Government’s flagship programme to help those living in the top 10% most deprived communities in the country, aiming to improve health, prosperity and access to education and learning.
Citizens Advice Cymru director Fran Targett said: “We are seeing a big increase in the need for help at this difficult time. People need independent, impartial advice more than ever. We welcome this funding, which will help reach some of the most vulnerable people right in the heart of their communities.”
