THE Whitehill and Bordon Citizen's Advice Bureau has been hit by the announcement that East Hampshire District Council has suspended their three-year funding agreement. Due to the cessation of Lottery funding last year, the CAB submitted increased funding bids to East Hampshire District Council (EHDC). These increased bids prompted the council cabinet to recommend that the three-year agreements be suspended and be reconsidered by the policy- making body in November 2008. The council did, however, agree to award the full grant requested for 2008/09. The news has left the heavily-subscribed Whitehill and Bordon CAB with difficult times ahead. Manager, Diane Wilson told The Herald: "It is a worrying time for the CAB. It has been acknowledged by many, including the council leader that we are a much-needed service, but it all comes down to money. "We are surprised and disappointed by the news, but we understand that EHDC have their own budget constraints." The three CAB centres affected, including Alton and Petersfield, have received broad support from district councillors. Cllr Patrick Burridge, who represents Downland, said: "There is no doubt this authority recognises the great work done by the CAB." He added: "As an authority we were 'avant garde' in offering a three-year agreement and were the first to do so. "We have been very forthcoming in giving money and very well-received and put forward as an example of how CAB's would like their local authority to fund them." While accepting that having a CAB facility in East Hampshire actually saves the council money by fielding enquiries that would otherwise end up at Penns Place, EHDC leader Ferris Cowper was conscious that to fund the service was a struggle. He told colleagues: "Here we are starting another three years and we just can't do it. You've seen the flak we've taken over raising car parking fees. There are other important community organisations that need the money." CAB manager Diane Wilson fears current fears about rising debt caused by the worsening economic outlook, will mean no let up in demand for her staff's services. She said: "Demand for the service in Bordon and Whitehill is very high. For example, we have four specialist debt advisors, without whom, I can see the problem of debt in Bordon getingt worse. "It won't just go away. There is a great need for this service, especially in our area. There will always be a shortage of money, so we'll just have to get back out ther and continue looking for funding," Mrs Wilson added. The Whitehill and Bordon CAB are currently looking for volunteer advisors. If you would like to get involved call 01420 477743.
