Citizens Advice Ribble Valley continues to help via phone during coronavirus lockdown

Since opening 33 years ago in Clitheroe, the Citizens Advice Bureau has closed every Wednesday. In these extraordinary times, seeking to reach as many people as possible in need, the phone line will be answered on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10am to 4pm.

Manager, Katy Marshall, said: "We want to make sure that no one misses out. The situation is difficult for many people, with households losing income and looking at claiming entitlements to support for the first time. It can be confusing and we are here to help on local line line 01200 427336.

"We have had a lot of enquiries about benefits and debt. We can explain the new government schemes for employed people who are laid off and the self employed. We help people to claim Universal Credit. We can refer for food parcels too, sadly this has become more important in these difficult times. Most people are affected by the pandemic in some way or another, seeing large or small consequences."

"In addition, we are receiving lots of calls about tickets bought for an event. For example: 'I’ve got tickets to an event next week and I’m not sure what will happen in light of coronavirus. I bought the tickets for myself and a few friends, so I spent a lot of money. What can I do?' Ticket holders who change their mind about going to see an event, such as a concert that is still going ahead, have no legal right to a refund. If, however, the event is cancelled, your refund rights will depend on how you bought the ticket. If you bought your ticket from an official seller and the organiser cancels, moves, reschedules, or makes the event behind closed doors, you should get a refund. This is the case even if it is cancelled due to a government ban on large events. The official seller is the best person to ask about how to get a refund. If you bought your ticket from a ticket-reselling website, refunds will depend on the site's terms and conditions. If you bought from a private seller and the event is cancelled or rescheduled then it is unlikely you will be able to recover your money. We recommend you contact the seller. If you're due to go to an event, keep checking the information from the official seller or organiser to ensure you're up to date."

Katy added: "Unfortunately we’ve found that in these situations scammers prey on those who are affected. If your event is cancelled and people or companies offer their services to try to recover money on your behalf, make sure that you're looking out for potential scams. For further advice and information, call Ribble Valley Citizens Advice on 01200 427336."