AN INTERACTIVE map that reveals the issues more than 3,000 people are facing in and around Witney has been presented to MP Robert Courts

Mr Courts was taken on a ward-by-ward virtual tour of his constituency and shown the problems people living in the area are getting help for at Citizens Advice.

The map - called a ‘Constituency Dashboard’ - also revealed the spread of issues facing different types of people in the Witney constituency, including disabled people, younger residents and those from minority backgrounds.

The dashboards were presented to MPs at an event hosted by Citizens Advice in the House of Commons at the end of last month.

They reveal that, in 2017, Citizens Advice in West Oxfordshire helped 3,205 people with 12,465 issues.

The top three issues people needed assistance with were benefits and tax credits, debt and housing.

Mr Courts said: “Citizens Advice West Oxfordshire works on the frontline to help people with a huge variety of important issues, which means they are well-placed to identify the problems residents are facing.

“I’m always keen to find new and inventive ways of staying informed about the concerns of my constituents. These dashboards are illuminating and the data they contain provide strong evidence on which to act.

“Citizens Advice - with its army of volunteers - is tremendous at providing support for people living in the Witney constituency. I will continue to work closely with them for the benefit of residents.”

According to evidence from the charity, Citizens Advice helps to solve two in three people’s problems, reducing the number of people who turn to public services for support on welfare, health and housing issues.

For every £1 invested in the Citizens Advice service, government and public services save £2, amounting to £420m last year.

Where problems cannot be fully resolved, Citizens Advice works with relevant local and national organisations to help sort out systemic issues.

Citizens Advice West Oxfordshire chief officer Teresa Archer said: “It was great that Mr Courts showed real interest in our interactive maps, which highlight the issues we see on the ground in the Witney constituency.

“We have also been delighted that Robert has spent time with our volunteers and clients, and really understands the value of our service.

“The right advice and support can transform lives.

“Local Citizens Advice solves the problems for two in three of our clients, and empowers people to develop the skills and confidence they need to help themselves.

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

“We’re pleased to work with our MP to help him solve his constituents’ problems and address local and national issues.”

Citizens Advice West Oxfordshire provides free confidential and impartial advice to people in the district face-to-face and on the phone.

For more information or to find out how to seek advice online go to citizensadvice.org.uk