New services coming to Gobowen

Residents in Gobowen are invited to the launch of a new Shropshire Customer First point, which will enable them to speak face-to-face with a range of organisations at the touch of a button.

The new Shropshire Customer First point has been established in Gobowen (at the library), which will mean people can access many services without having to travel to the nearest town. This project is one of only a handful in the country to be using webcam technology to bring services to people.

The new facility will be opened by Councillor Mike Owen this Thursday (31 January) between 11.00am and midday. Everyone is invited to come along to have a look and see what it could offer them.

Broadband, and developments in technology, mean that people can now have a face-to-face conversation with organisations on the other side of the county. There is no need for people to be able to use a computer, as they just need to touch a button on a TV screen and the adviser does the rest. They can share documents, complete forms and even have their picture taken for identification badges.

Shropshire County Council will be able to help people with travel advice, contacting councillors, recycling and refuse and much more. In addition to council services, Age Concern, Citizens Advice Shropshire and A4U will also be offering confidential advice and support on a wide range of topics.

The total project cost of £85K in Shropshire has been part funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Shropshire County Council, and Advantage West Midlands through the Shropshire Access Partnership. The project reflects the county council’s drive to deliver access to services throughout the county to the people of Shropshire. Through the appropriate use of technology customers can have forms processed straight away and receive information from a friendly face, reducing the need to travel by both service providers and service users, providing both cost savings and environmental benefits.

Councillor Barbara Craig, Cabinet member for community services, said “Shropshire Customer First points are revolutionising the way in which people can access a range of services provided by Shropshire County Council. This new service is aimed at improving access to information and services in rural communities.”

Shaun Luke, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for A4U, which offers Action, Advice and Advocacy for people with disabilities, said “We are very excited about the potential of this facility, as it will give people access to many of our services, without them having to travel to the nearest town.

“I think people will like the face-to-face contact which you don’t get over the phone. Being able to share forms and see documents, will mean we can give more guidance and help at this initial contact,” he added.

At present this is a pilot project, and the organisations involved are keen to have feedback from customers to see what they think of the service.

28 January 2008