A Dorset Council customer service point will be available in Dorchester this July for people to gain information and advice about its services.

Since March 2020, due to Covid-19, many more people have been accessing services through the council's website or by phone, but the new customer service points will offer a return to face-to-face service.

Support with council services will be available in Dorchester Library and Learning Centre and will be able to help with council enquiries or urgent needs that cannot be supported over the phone or online.

There will be pre-booked appointments unless an enquiry requires support due to its complexity or the vulnerability of the person concerned.

Councillor Jill Haynes, Dorset Council's portfolio holder for customer and community services, said: "Providing support for customers who cannot access our services digitally, or who need face-to-face assistance is important as we come out of Covid-19 restrictions.

"Our libraries already offer a range of services and information, with some incorporating Citizens Advice, Skills and Learning and other voluntary and community network groups, so it makes perfect sense locating customer services under the same roof.

"Many of our customers prefer to access our services through our website or by telephone. Over the past 12 months, we have reviewed how we can transform delivery of our services and have been further improving the online experience.

"We will continue to monitor developments concerning Covid-19 in line with government guidance and would like to thank residents and businesses for their understanding throughout the pandemic."

The customer service point will be open in Dorchester:

• Monday: 10am to 5pm

• Wednesday: 9.30am to 1pm

• Friday: 9.30am to 5pm

Face-to-face customer access at County Hall and South Walks House has been moved to the library.

The existing library experience will not be affected by the introduction of the new customer service points.

Dorset Council can be contacted by calling 01305 221000, emailing [email protected] or at dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

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