Western Isles Citizens Advice Service have relocated its Uist offices to Balivanich, hailing it as a “significant investment in improving access to advice and support services”.

The new CAB base, formerly in Liniclate, has now moved into a self-contained annexe within the main Comhairle nan Eilean Siar premises in Benbecula.

Council Leader Paul Steele formally opened it alongside fellow Uist and Barra councillors.

The new Uist branch of CAB comes at a time when the organisation is experiencing record demand for its services.

Anne Bird, from the Management Team at WICAS, said: “...It is encouraging to know that our local elected representatives recognise the importance of the support we provide at a time of unprecedented need. The new office is ideally located to enable closer collaboration with the Comhairle and our third sector partners, helping us to deliver an even better service to the community.”

The CAB base is accessed via a separate entrance at the south end of the council building in Balivanich. The new office set up provides enhanced interview and working facilities in an accessible setting for members of the public. 

The recently completed move to Balivanich is expected to improve both the quality of the environment for service delivery and the organisation’s ability to respond effectively to local needs.

Uist CAB say the additional space will also support the recruitment and training of more volunteer advisers, helping WICAS to strengthen and expand its services across the Western Isles. 

The charity is currently recruiting volunteers to train as advisers and to assist with administrative functions in its CAB offices in Castlebay, Tarbert, Balivanich and Stornoway.

Individuals interested in supporting their local community are encouraged to contact their nearest CAB. WICAS is also welcoming expressions of interest from those who may wish to contribute as members of its Board of Trustees.

Murdo Maclean, Chair of WICAS, said: “The current cost of living crisis, compounded by recent increases in the energy price cap, is placing additional challenges on the communities we serve. 

“Pressure on our advisers and volunteers is increasing, and we expect demand for our services to continue to grow. Moving into this new office is an important step in strengthening our capacity and enabling us to work even more closely with the Comhairle and our third sector partners to reach those in our communities who need our support the most.”