MP JONATHAN Edwards has paid tribute to the staff and volunteers that run one of the county’s most valuable services.

Mr Edwards thanked the staff and volunteers at Citizens Advice in Carmarthenshire for providing constituents with the advice and support they need to solve their problems.

Mr Edwards worked as the Head of Policy for Citizens Advice Cymru before being elected to Parliament in 2010.

At an event in Westminster last week, the Carmarthen East and Dinefwr MP met people from across the service to discuss the invaluable work being done to support residents.

Ammanford, Pontardawe, Carmarthen and Llanelli Citizens Advice teams provide free confidential and impartial advice to people face-to-face and over the telephone.

There is also a national website providing advice online, over email and via a web chat from citizensadvice.org.uk

Common issues reported to the local Citizens Advice include queries about benefits, debt problems, employment and housing.

Nationally the Citizens Advice service helps 2.5million people a year with 6.2 million issues.

Evidence from the charity shows Citizens Advice helps to solve two in three people’s problems. Where problems can’t be fully resolved Citizens Advice will work with relevant local and national organisations to help sort out systemic issues.

Mr Edwards said:“As once the Head of Policy for Citizens Advice in Wales I know the great job the service does in helping people solve their problems, and to help develop the skills and confidence people need to help themselves.

“Since first being elected in 2010 I have worked closely with the service to ensure local residents have access to the help they need and can tackle any issues together.

“Volunteers are the bedrock of the Citizens Advice service. I’d like to thank those who give up their own time to help others and recognise their contribution to our local community.”

Citizens Advice Chief Executive Gillian Guy said: “The right advice and support can transform lives.

"Local Citizens Advice solve the problems for two in three of our clients, and empower people to help themselves.

“It’s really important that people are able to access free and impartial advice as and when they need it, whether face to face, over the phone or online.

"We’re pleased to work with MPs to help them solve their constituents’ problems and address local and national issues.”