A new advice service run by Braithwaite People's Assoc-iation (BPA) has already attra-cted a host of enquiries. Prob-lems taken along by residents have included housing, crime, environment, benefits, mobility and social services issues.

The BPA set up the weekly surgery to replace housing advice sessions held by the now-defunct Braithwaite Action Group. BPA treasurer John Philip stresses the new service has been expanded to cover all kinds of problems.

He says: "We help people out, showing them where to go for help, or going for them if they're incapable of doing it themselves. We'll talk to people over a cup of tea and see if we can sort something out."

Mr Philip says some elderly residents have legitimate complaints but do not want to rock the boat on their own.

He says there are currently less complaints about housing than usual.

Advice sessions are held every Wednesday (9-11.30am) at the Keith Thompson Centre on Braithwaite Avenue.

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