OKEHAMPTON CAB has secured funding for the next three years but has been unable to save the post of community outreach worker.

There was no eleventh hour reprieve for the post — despite a multi-million pound investment package for the community and voluntary sector by Devon County Council — and it was terminated on March 8.

Social service cuts resulted in the loss of Sue Bizley, who had worked as the community outreach worker in Okehampton for more than seven years and had brought hundreds of thousands of pounds in benefits into the community.

Okehampton CAB manager Barbara Osborne said attempts to find alternative funding for the post had so far proved unsuccessful but the county council had pledged £100,000 to support welfare benefits advice across the county and thus the work, if not the post itself, might be recovered.

A three year funding package agreed between the county council, local authorities and the National Association of CAB will also ensure existing levels of service are maintained at all CABs in the county and improvements made in some areas.'

Mrs Osborne said this money would see the Okehampton CAB service continue safely at The Ockment Centre and should dispel any rumours of imminent closure.

'If anything the bureau is being used as much as ever and is looking for volunteers who would like to train as advisors,' said the manager. 'Volunteer advisors are at the heart of the CAB service but no formal qualifications are needed, only the ability to see a problem from all sides, independently and impartially.'

Advisors receive comprehensive training and are supported throughout their time with CAB. Mrs Osborne said the work could be challenging and rewarding at the same time and offered an unusual way to attain self-growth and confidence.

The bureau is also seeking a volunteer treasurer for a few hours a week to keep the accounts in order.

If anyone is interested in joining the team contact Mrs Osborne on 01837 54840 or call into the CAB at the Ockment Centre.