Renowned money-saving expert Martin Lewis surprised South Lakes Citizens Advice with a personal endorsement at their recent open day.
The open day, held on Friday, October 18, was attended by donors, benefactors, staff, volunteers, and high-profile supporters, including Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron and Kendal mayor Jonathan Cornthwaite.
The event marked three months for the charity since moving to its new premises in Wainwright's Yard, Kendal.
Since moving, the charity has taken on 209 new clients in addition to its existing cases, marking a 300 per cent increase in its workload in three months.
Staff revealed the charity's increased demand for services since their relocation is thanks to the generosity of the Westmorland Gazette proprietors, Newsquest, and significant patrons Lakeland, who were represented at the event by Ruth Fleming.
Mr Lewis made a surprise appearance on screen, calling South Lakes Citizens Advice 'true lifesavers'.
He congratulated the team on the success of their new office and wished everyone 'success in equally busy times ahead.'
Clare Moriarty, chief executive officer of the National Citizens Advice, praised the dedication and support of the staff and volunteers, highlighting the 'real difference' they make in people's lives, from emotional support to help with complex paperwork.
Ms Moriarty also emphasised the 'enormous benefit' this provides to the South Lakes community in terms of both financial and emotional support.
Karen Evans, chief officer of South Lakes Citizens Advice, said: "The commitment from such high-profile attendees wanting to give their personal praise and support underlines the vital work done by SLCA staff and volunteers.
"People largely still incorrectly assume we’re a government agency; we are not.
"Funded entirely by grants and donations, we are the only not-for-profit charity offering a free, confidential and comprehensive advice service on topics including debt, welfare benefits, employment, housing, relationships and much more."
Ms Evans also expressed the ongoing need for volunteers and financial support to continue helping the increasing number of people in need of their services.
She said: "As the numbers show, need for our services continues to soar.
"To continue to help increasing numbers of people beating a path to our new doors, plus our doors in Ulverston and our outreach work based in Windermere and District Food bank, we’re always seeking new volunteers and financial support.
"With a wide variety of flexible roles, I think everyone here would say it’s incredibly rewarding- and not many people get Martin Lewis hailing you a ‘lifesaver’."
South Lakes Citizens Advice is at 1 Wainwright’s Yard, Kendal, LA9 4DP.
Open drop-in sessions are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 1pm.
For more information, ring 0808 2787984, or visit their website.
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