Advice Service
Advice at the Centre
BAWC provides the service of a full time, bi-lingual female adviser who delivers free, confidential, impartial and independent advice to its clients.
Our adviser is there to help people resolve their problems which can cover a broad range of areas. Advice is provided for people on wide-ranging issues including debt, benefits, employment, housing, consumer and many other matters. Although BAWC is an organisation which focuses mainly on assisting women our advice is available to everyone.
Advice is given on a one-to-one basis at the centre by an appointment system to make sure clients are dealt with effectively and with full confidentiality. Drop-in sessions are also available during the week for those who need instant advice. Benefit form filling facility is also offered at the centre and it is recommended by the advisor that appointments are made to access this service. This is to ensure that the appropriate time is allocated to deliver the advice and complete the forms.
Outreach
Advice is provided by the BAWC as an outreach service for housebound clients.
We also hold surgeries at local venues for people who are not able to attend the centre
Advice at these external locations is delivered at the same standards as it is at the centre and all our advisors are expected to fully comply with our confidentiality policy.
Domestic Violence
The BAWC is aware that domestic violence can be a very difficult and sensitive matter to deal with. When assisting clients with such issues we take great care in making sure that immediate and appropriate action is taken in safeguarding our clients
In many instances the BAWC is the first point of contact for clients who are suffering from domestic violence. Our Adviser and staff are fully trained and aware of what immediate advice and help should be provided to those who come to access this service
BAWC deals with a number of local agencies who provide specialist advice and assistance to victims of domestic violence. Relevant and appropriate referrals are made to these agencies where external help is needed to deal with the issue of domestic violence. Any action taken or referrals made are done so with the informed consent of the client.
Immigration Surgery
An independent Solicitor is facilitated at the centre every two weeks. This Solicitor provides surgeries to deal with legal matters surrounding Immigration.
Surgeries are also held by a Solicitor to help deal with matters regarding Family Law.
