New services opened in Albrighton

A new service was launched on Tuesday (22 January) at Shropshire Customer First in Albrighton (at the library), which will enable local residents to contact a range of service providers.

The new Shropshire Customer First point was opened by Councillor Malcolm Pate, and Shaun Luke from A4U.

At the touch of a button, residents will be able to speak face to face with advisors from Shropshire County Council, Age Concern, Citizens Advice Shropshire and A4U. They will also be able to complete forms, have their photo taken and share documents.

The project has been funded by European Regional Development Fund, Shropshire County Council and Advantage West Midlands, and is one of only a handful in the country to be using webcam technology to bring services to people.

Councillor Malcolm Pate said, “The new Shropshire Customer First points are part of the county council’s aim to improve access to information and services in rural communities. I am delighted to be opening this new facility in Albrighton, and I hope that local people will come along and try it out.”

Shaun Luke, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for A4U, which offers action, advice and advocacy for people with disabilities, said “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.”

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.

24 January 2008