A DORSET advice charity has helped more than 13,500 people during the past year of the pandemic.

Between March 23 last year and 23 March this year, Citizens Advice in Dorset has helped more than 7,000 people sort their benefits including Universal Credit; more than 1,600 people with employment, and thousands more with other issues.

The charity revealed it had seen worrying cases such as a hospitality worker who was dismissed from work for raising safety issues related to the impact of Covid-19 and safe working practices.

Charity spokesman Rovarn Wickremasinghe said: "We've all been on a rollercoaster of change throughout this pandemic.

"We’ve spoken to people who’ve never used Citizens Advice, have never claimed benefits, and have had a steady income for decades. Suddenly they feel if the rug has been pulled from under them and they don’t know what to do.

"We’re here to listen, support and then help them find a way forward, and it's a reward to hear the relief in their voices at the end of the call.

"Our advisers have been able to help people check what benefits they're entitled to, navigate the furlough scheme, and ensure they’re getting all the help and support on offer."

Call the charity on: 0800 144 8848 or visit www.citizensadvicedorset.org.uk