CUSTOMERS will be able to gain information and advice about Dorset Council services in person from next week.

Since March 2020, due to Covid-19 restrictions, many more people have been accessing services through the council’s website or by phone but the new customer service points will offer a welcome return to face-to-face service.

Support with council services will be available at libraries in Weymouth, Dorchester, Wareham, Wimborne, and at Nordon Lodge, Blandford.

Customer services will be able to assist with council enquiries or urgent needs that cannot be supported over the phone or online from Monday, July 5.

Council bosses said the continued safety of customers and employees is paramount so there will be pre-booked appointments unless an enquiry requires support due to its complexity or the vulnerability of the person concerned.

All locations will follow the latest Covid-19 guidelines and social distancing measures.

Cllr Jill Haynes, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Customer and Community Services said:

“Providing support for customers who cannot access our services digitally, or who need face-to-face assistance is important as we come out of COVID-19 restrictions.

“Our libraries already offer a range of services and information, with some incorporating Citizens Advice, Skills and Learning, and other voluntary and community network groups, so it makes perfect sense locating customer services under the same roof. They have been open for a while now and all locations, including Nordon Lodge, have measures in place to ensure customers are COVID-safe.

“Many of our customers prefer to access our services through our website or by telephone. Over the past 12 months, we have reviewed how we can transform delivery of our services and have been further improving the online experience.

"We will continue to monitor developments concerning COVID-19 in line with Government guidance and would like to thank residents and businesses for their understanding throughout the pandemic.”

Customer services opening hours

Customer service points will be available at the following locations:

Blandford

Nordon Lodge

58 Salisbury Road

Blandford Forum DT11 7LN Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 10am-4pm

Dorchester Library & Learning Centre

South Walks House

Charles Street

Dorchester DT1 1EE Monday: 10am-5pm

Tuesday: 9.30am-5pm

Wednesday: 9.30am-1pm

Thursday: 9.30am-5pm

Friday: 9.30am-5pm

Wareham Library

South Street

Wareham BH20 4LR Monday: 10am-5pm

Tuesday: 2.00pm-5pm

Thursday: 9.30am-5pm

Friday: 9.30am-5pm

Weymouth Library & Learning Centre

Great George Street

Weymouth DT4 8NN Monday: 10am-5pm

Tuesday: 9.30am-5pm

Wednesday: 9.30am-1pm

Thursday: 9.30am-5pm

Friday: 9.30am-5pm

Wimborne Library

Crown Mead

High Street

Wimborne BH21 1HH Monday: 10am-5pm

Tuesday: 9.30am-1pm

Thursday: 9.30am-5pm

Friday: 9.30am-5pm

Customers can contact Dorset Council from anywhere in Dorset, Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm by calling Dorset Direct on 01305 221000 or emailing customerservices@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or access services online.