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Citizens Advice Central Dorset

@centraldorsetca.bsky.social
49 followers 74 following 561 posts

Dorchester, Sherborne, North Dorset, Weymouth & Portland Citizens Advice offering free, confidential, impartial and independent information and advice.

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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 14h
🔨 Planning on renovating your home? There are some checks you may need to complete before you start any building work. Our website lists the first 6 steps to take ⤵️ bit.ly/4v3bzbg
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
Do you need legal advice or support in court? You may be able to access support for free or at a reduced cost. Our advice can help ⤵️ bit.ly/46jzgBL
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
🚗 If there’s something wrong with your used car, you might have a legal right to a repair, the cost of a repair or some or all of your money back. We can help you understand your consumer rights ⤵️ bit.ly/4toSYab
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 29/09/2026
You can challenge your employer if they haven’t paid your wages or underpaid you. 👉 Check your payslip and talk to your employer to find out why they haven’t paid you what you expected. Find out more about what you can do ⤵️ bit.ly/45ntE9f
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
🪖 You could be eligible for benefits if you work in the armed forces. You might be able to claim a range of benefits and concessions if you work in the armed forces, are a veteran or their family member. bit.ly/3TfyEL2
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
Are you having a difficult time with the cost of living? ✅ It’s important to know what you’re entitled to - you might be able to claim or increase your current benefits. Our advice can help ⤵️ bit.ly/4500oXE
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
⏰ Do you work for more than 6 hours a day? You’re entitled to an uninterrupted rest break of at least 20 minutes - for example a tea or lunch break. Check your work rights on our website ⤵️ bit.ly/41WDaza
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
🚨 Noticing payments you don’t recognise in your bank statement? You should contact your bank or building society straight away to prevent fraud. Find out more about banking security ⤵️ bit.ly/42MlKpS
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Banking – security and fraud
Protecting yourself from fraud. What to do if you've had money stolen, been a victim of fraud or identity theft or if you've lost your bank cards or details.
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
📦 If you’ve ordered something, it’s the seller’s responsibility to make sure the item is delivered to you. We’ve explained what steps you can take ⤵️ bit.ly/4lkuytX
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
Are you falling behind on your mortgage repayments? ‼️Don’t wait for your lender to contact you - you should talk to them as soon as possible. Our advice can help ⤵️ bit.ly/4Ak7iUz
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Dealing with mortgage arrears
What happens if you miss a mortgage payment, including how to agree a repayment plan with your lender so you can pay your mortgage in smaller amounts.
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 21/09/2026
You have a right to take up to a year of maternity leave. ➡️ You’re only entitled if you’re an employee, but it doesn’t matter how long you’ve worked for your employer. Read our online advice ⤵️ bit.ly/4xxGmOJ
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Maternity leave - what you're entitled to and how to get it
Check your right to time off work when you have a baby. Find out how to arrange time off with your employer.
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 21/09/2026
Back billing is when your energy supplier charges you for energy you’ve used in the past. ❌ Your supplier usually can’t send you a bill for energy you used more than 12 months ago. We can help if your supplier tries to overcharge you. bit.ly/46QJryE
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
You might be able to get extra money to help pay for essential costs like food, childcare and school costs. Make sure to check what you’re entitled to. Our online advice can help ⤵️ bit.ly/4flTLlA
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
Have you been scammed? You might be able to get your money back if you paid by card or PayPal. 💳 Your card provider can ask the seller's bank to refund the money - this is known as the 'chargeback scheme'. Find out more about this ⤵️ bit.ly/3YVTeQ4
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 16/09/2026
You might feel you're working too many hours if you're having mental or physical health problems because of overwork. ✅ Your employer can't make you work more than 48 hours a week on average. Check your work rights ⤵️ bit.ly/44Eq1LA
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
⚡ Your energy supplier has to let you know if they’ll increase prices. They should tell you in a reasonable amount of time before the change takes place - this is called giving you notice. Read more on our website ⤵️ bit.ly/3Yp9w3s
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
Did you know you could get compensation if a product damages your home? 👉 It’s a good idea to take photos of any damage caused so you can use them as evidence. We can help you understand your rights - find out more on our website. bit.ly/4t88dUK
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
📝 Starting university soon? If you’re going to be living in student halls, we can help you understand your housing rights and what your responsibilities are. Check our online advice ⤵️ bit.ly/4h2aCLw
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Every day we see the problems people in our communities face. ✅ We understand these challenges and advocate for change. From government policies to industry practices, we campaign on the issues that affect every single one of us. #WeAreCitizensAdvice #ThePeoplesChampion
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
❗ If you’re on a low income you might be able to get your council tax reduced. Your local council can work out if you’re entitled to Council Tax Reduction. Here’s what you need to know ⤵️ bit.ly/4mbH3Ys
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
Have you bought something that doesn’t match the seller’s description? ✅ You have legal rights and might be able to get a refund, repair or replacement. We’ve explained more on our website ⤵️ bit.ly/4m9yiia
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
💧 Your water company must provide a constant supply of water. It’s important to know what if you’re entitled to compensation if your water supply is interrupted. Our advice can help ⤵️ bit.ly/4gHFSPC
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Interruptions to your water supply
Your rights when your water supply is interrupted for repairs or because of an emergency such as burst main pipe and what you can do when things go wrong.
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
Are you on a low income or unemployed? ➡️ You might be able to get Universal Credit to help with living costs. Try out free online tool to see if you’re eligible ⤵️ bit.ly/4ynR9vQ
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 07/09/2026
We believe no one should have to face problems and challenges in life alone. 💙 We’re here for you with free and practical advice you can really trust, when you really need it. Find out more about how we can support on our website. centraldorsetca.org.uk #WeAreCitizensAdvice
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 07/09/2026
Did you know we’re an independent charity? #WeAreCitizensAdvice and we’re so proud of the difference our staff and volunteers make each day in Central Dorset. 👉 Follow us through the week to see what we’re up to!
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
Are you a carer? 👉 Your local council might be able to arrange practical help to allow you to care more effectively and reduce your stress. Find out more about what you could be entitled to ⤵️ bit.ly/47FEJ80
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
Knowing how much your electrical appliances cost to use can help you: ✅ Reduce your energy costs ✅ Save money Try our free online calculator on our website ⤵️ bit.ly/4qK4yf4
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
Have you fallen behind on your rent payments? ⚠️ Rent arrears are a priority debt and you should deal with them as fast as you can. Here’s what steps you can take ⤵️ bit.ly/3ILOlUq
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
There’s different schemes that can help you pay for childcare - these will only pay for ‘approved childcare’. You might also be able to get more help if you’re on any benefits. Read our online advice for more ⤵️ bit.ly/4flTLlA
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 31/08/2026
Don’t have enough money to pay your rent? There’s some steps you can take. ➡️ If your private landlord has increased your rent, check if they were allowed to do this ➡️ You might also be able to get Universal Credit for housing costs bit.ly/4cdurOc
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 31/08/2026
✈️ Travelling soon by airplane? It’s important to know what your rights are in case there’s a flight delay or cancellation and if you can get compensation. We’ve got you covered, check your consumer rights ⤵️ bit.ly/3I2wgRY
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 28/08/2026
Getting scammed can be stressful and impact your emotional wellbeing. You’re not alone 💙 There are organisations you can reach out to for support. bit.ly/4xcNO2m
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
Are you self-employed? Your Universal Credit payments might change depending on how much you earn. Read more about what this means ⤵️ bit.ly/4wGQSCB
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Universal Credit payments if you're self-employed
Find out how your self-employed Universal Credit payments work, including how the DWP calculates your payments based on your income floor.
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 26/08/2026
⚡ Your energy supplier has to let you know about a direct debit payment increase before it happens. This is known as the 'direct debit guarantee'. Check your rights ⤵️ bit.ly/46gpSyP
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If your energy supplier has increased your direct debit payments
Why your payments may go up, checking your payments are correct, agreeing new monthly payments.
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
If you’re planning to resign from your job, there are some steps to follow. 1️⃣ First check how much notice you need to give your employer. Our advice can help ⤵️ bit.ly/4oPB7Gn
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 24/08/2026
🔨 Looking to make any improvements to your home this summer? Contact your local authority to check if they can help with adapting, improving or repairing your home. Find out more on our website ⤵️ bit.ly/4xN7mKm [Download graphic here] If you’re planning to resign from your job, there are
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 24/08/2026
📝 You should check what your employment contract says about working on bank holidays. If you don’t have a contract, ask your employer what their rules are. We can help you understand your work rights ⤵️ bit.ly/4mgLhPd
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Working on bank holidays
Find out if you have to work on bank holidays, how it affects your annual leave and what to do if you have a problem.
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 21/08/2026
👋 Leaving your job soon? Make sure you get paid what you’re owed. On top of your basic pay, you could also be owed holiday and redundancy pay. Find out more on our website ⤵️ bit.ly/4bGuGSo
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Getting paid when you leave a job
Check if your final pay when you leave a job is right and what steps to take if it isn't.
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 20/08/2026
Separating from your partner can have a big impact on your finances, especially if you rely on your partner’s income or have children. It’s important to know what support is available to you. Read more on our website ⤵️ bit.ly/45s5HhU
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 19/08/2026
Are you finding it difficult to pay your mortgage? ✅ Take a look at your household budget, you might be able to reduce your costs or increase the money you have coming in. Our online advice can help ⤵️ bit.ly/3SFzX1U
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 18/08/2026
🧳 If you’re travelling soon, it’s helpful to know what to do if your luggage gets lost or delayed by the airline. We can help you understand your consumer rights ⤵️ bit.ly/3TWjeLE
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Get airline compensation for lost or delayed luggage
What to do if an airline loses your luggage, or it’s delayed - claiming on your travel insurance and getting compensation from the airline.
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
This month’s media article is about problems with traders. It’s on page 56 of @dorsetlife.bsky.social magazine.
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Reposted by Citizens Advice Central Dorset
Resolution Foundation @resolutionfoundation.org · 17/08/2026
Energy bills are back on the agenda, and wholesale gas prices are climbing again. So who should the state actually help if bills spike this winter? Our new analysis sets out how to design targeted energy discounts that reach the people who need them 👇https://buff.ly/Rh86oQF
Titled "1: the crisis never really ended", with a photo of a household energy bill showing £366.85. Text: wholesale gas prices have climbed back towards their crisis highs, and there is a real risk of another spike in early 2027. Last time, in 2022, the Government provided universal support costing £44 billion, with the richer half of households getting more than half the benefit.Titled "2: The benefit system doesn't capture everyone who needs help", with a thermometer and snowflake icon. Text: basing eligibility for support on receipt of means-tested benefits would only reach around 1 in 4 households, missing most of the poorest half. And it isn't only the very poorest who struggle: in 2022-23, almost two-in-ten of the second-poorest fifth of households couldn't afford to keep their home warm.Titled "3: There's a smarter way to target help", with a thermometer icon and a photo of a crowd on a street. Text: we should instead base eligibility on the income of the highest earner in a household. A £24,000 threshold would reach around two-in-five households, and 75 per cent of the poorest four deciles, nearly as well as using total household income but far simpler to run.Titled "4: Not perfect, but ready for winter", with a photo of snow-covered terraced houses with a For Sale sign, a January calendar icon, and a photo of a crowd. Text: it comes with trade-offs, favouring pensioners, and around 490,000 working-age families with children would miss out. But a £2 billion scheme could give £175 to each eligible household. The Government should start building its support now, so it is ready this winter.
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
Are you on Universal Credit? 🍽️ From the 2026-2027 academic year, your child can get free school meals if you receive Universal Credit, regardless of household income. Find out more details ⤵️ www.gov.uk/apply-free-s...
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
Your energy bill might be higher than you expected for various reasons. For example your energy supplier could have put their prices up or your meter could be faulty. 👉 If this has happened to you, check our online advice for what steps you can take. bit.ly/3TQ6Ahj
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If you think you’ve been charged too much for your energy
Do you think you've been overcharged for gas or electricity? Reasons why your energy bill amount might be higher than normal and what you can do about it.
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 14/08/2026
You might have to go to court as a witness in a criminal court if: ➡️ You’re the victim of a crime ➡️ You witnessed a crime ➡️ Someone you know has been accused of a crime We can help you understand what this involves ⤵️ bit.ly/3WUupmg
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
If you’re off sick from work for more than 7 days you should get a fit note. 📝 This can be from a healthcare professional such as a GP, doctor at a hospital or occupational therapist. Our online advice can help ⤵️ bit.ly/4mQdIUJ
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 12/08/2026
🚨 A scam can often start when someone you don’t know contacts you unexpectedly. Knowing what to look out for can keep you safe. Try our online tool to check if something might be a scam ⤵️ bit.ly/4mMvEQ8
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
Did you buy a fake or counterfeit product? ✅ You have the legal right to a full refund within 30 days of paying for them ✅ You can also report the seller to Trading Standards or report them for fraud Check your consumer rights on our website, bit.ly/4fWOEc0
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Citizens Advice Central Dorset @centraldorsetca.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
🔑 If you’re looking to rent from a private landlord, you’ll usually have to pay a 'tenancy deposit' before you can rent your home. Your landlord usually has to protect it in a tenancy deposit scheme until you move out of the property. Read more on our website ⤵️ bit.ly/3HYn0OG
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