County Durham Advice & Guidance Service

Residents across County Durham can access free, confidential and impartial information, advice and guidance through the County Durham Advice & Guidance Service, delivered by Groundwork North East & Cumbria. The service supports people facing a range of challenges and aims to help residents access the right support when they need it.

What Support Is Available?

The service can provide information, advice and guidance on:

Benefits and welfare support, including help with completing forms
Budgeting and money management
Housing and homelessness-related issues
Consumer and energy concerns
Accessing local services and community support
General advice, signposting and referrals to other organisations where appropriate

The service welcomes referrals from organisations, but residents can also contact the service directly for support.

How to Access the Service

Online Referral

Residents and professionals can make a referral online using the referral form provided by Groundwork North East & Cumbria.

Referral Form: https://www.groundwork.org.uk/north-east-and-cumbria/get-support/advice-guidance-in-county-durham/contact-us/referral/

Telephone Advice Line

Telephone: 0330 441 6515
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 10.00am to 2.00pm [Email | Word]

A voicemail service is available outside of these hours and callers will receive a callback from the team.

Face-to-Face Support

Residents can access support through regular drop-in sessions at:

Horden Hub House, Horden – Every Monday, 10.00am to 12.00pm
The Venue Community Centre, Stanley – Every Tuesday, 9.30am to 1.00pm
TCR Hub, Barnard Castle – Second Monday of each month, 10.00am to 12.00pm

Appointments

Pre-booked face-to-face appointments are available at community venues across County Durham, including:

Newton Aycliffe
Barnard Castle
Bishop Auckland
Chester-le-Street
Consett
Crook
Durham City
Ferryhill
Peterlee
Ushaw Moor

Appointments can be arranged by calling 0330 441 6515.

Further Information

For the latest information, service updates and support available in local communities, visit the County Durham Advice & Guidance Service website or follow their Facebook page.

Website: https://www.groundwork.org.uk/north-east-and-cumbria/get-support/advice-guidance-in-county-durham/

Facebook: Groundwork – County Durham Advice & Guidance Service

Need help or know someone who does?
The County Durham Advice & Guidance Service can help residents access practical support, advice and guidance to improve financial wellbeing, resolve housing issues and connect with services in their local area.