Skip navigation | Skip to footer
 

Citizens Advice response to James Purnell’s announcement on Post Office card accounts

13 November 2008

Tony Herbert, Essential Services policy officer at Citizens Advice said:

"Whilst we felt it was right that the POCA contract was put out to tender, we are relieved that it has been confirmed that Post Office Limited will operate the new card account after 2010. Had the contract gone to another provider the outcome would have been disastrous for the Post Office network, with many more post offices facing closure and people on low incomes, the elderly and those in rural or deprived areas among the worst affected.

"Now attention must turn to the introduction of the new account. For the new account to be successfully implemented, there must be a seamless migration for the 4.3 million people currently using the POCA to collect benefits and pensions. For new applicants, the opening procedure should be simple and straightforward and the product features clearly explained, while adequate support must be made available for applicants when things go wrong.”

Notes to editors

  1. The Citizens Advice service comprises a network of local bureaux, all of which are independent charities, and national charity Citizens Advice. Together we help people resolve their money, legal and other problems by providing information and advice and by influencing policymakers. For more information in England and Wales see www.citizensadvice.org.uk
  2. The advice provided by the Citizens Advice service is free, independent, confidential, and impartial, and available to everyone regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, age or nationality. For online advice and information see New windowwww.adviceguide.org.uk
  3. Citizens Advice Bureaux in England and Wales advised 2.1 million clients on 7.1 million problems from April 2010 to March 2011. For full 2010/2011 service statistics see: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/press_statistics
  4. Out of 22 national charities, the Citizens Advice service is ranked by the general public as being the most helpful, approachable, professional, informative, effective / cost effective, reputable and accountable. (nfpSynergy’s Brand Attributes survey, May 2010).
  5. Most Citizens Advice service staff are trained volunteers, working at around 3,300 service outlets across England and Wales.