A service which has given a lifeline to some of Petersfield’s neediest residents has received a helping hand from the town council in a funding u-turn.

It looks like Citizens Advice East Hampshire can book a longer stay in the library as the organisation has been given a £10,000 Commissioning Grant from Petersfield Town Council.

There was anger last March when PTC slashed its annual grant to CAEH from £12,000 to £2,000 with a host of other groups facing a similar cut in funding.

Grants from district councillors thankfully covered the shortfall with their Chief Executive, Helen Drake, urging PTC last October to “reconsider their attitude” towards CAEH in making a renewed plea for funding.

The good news for Helen and CAEH users is that PTC has allocated £10,000 within its 2026/27 budget for a service commissioning grant to support the organisation, with the funding arrangement set to be renewed annually.

The move made after “careful consideration” will aid the continued operation of the Citizens Advice office in the library and its “invaluable” role in the town.

“I am delighted that PTC are funding us next year to enable us to keep our service open in Petersfield,” said Helen.

“Our essential service supported local Petersfield residents with more than 3,500 different issues last year.

“This coming year looks set to be even busier so the town council’s continued support is crucial.”

People can contact Citizens Advice East Hampshire by visiting their office in Petersfield Library, calling 080 8278 7901 or by searching for ‘East Hampshire’ on www.citizensadvice.org.uk

In the meantime, Petersfield Library will be temporarily closed from April 13 to 25 to allow essential electrical works. It will reopen on April 27, with users encouraged to visit either the Bordon or Waterlooville branches.