Allerdale Borough Council’s customer contact centre in Keswick been closed until further notice to help tackle the spread of coronavirus.
The decision has been made to limit face-to-face contact in council buildings to protect the health and wellbeing of the council’s customers and employees. This will also help ensure the council’s resources are used to carry out its core services and the extra tasks required due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Residents in Keswick are being encouraged to use digital methods to contact the council where possible, to avoid having to wait on the telephone. There are a range of services available on the authority’s website – www.allerdale.gov.uk – and through the myAllerdale mobile app. There is also a webchat facility on the council’s website.
The website is open 24/7 and the “Report It” forms allow customers to let Allerdale Borough Council know about issues and obtain information at a time which is convenient.
Customers can also use the website to check their eligibility for housing and council tax benefits, make an application, as well as access their benefit and council tax account at www.allerdale.gov.uk/en/benefits/ and follow the links. This service is also available for landlords with tenants on housing benefit.
More information to help businesses and residents who have been impacted by the coronavirus outbreak can also be found on the council’s website at www.allerdale.gov.uk/coronavirus
Payments can also be made online or via the council’s automated payment line 0303 123 1702. This number can also be used if customers would like to speak to a customer service advisor.
The myAllerdale app is compatible with Apple and Android phones, and customers should search for ‘Allerdale’ on their app store and then register for an account.
Anyone facing financial hardship or potentially being made homeless should contact the council on 0303 123 1702.
A council spokesman said: “The severity of the coronavirus outbreak is plain for all to see and we would encourage all residents to follow the government’s advice about social distancing and self-isolating.
“The council is doing what it can to limit the impact of this serious situation on the public and limiting face-to-face contact is part of that response.
“We apologise to anyone affected by this decision but as it is becoming more widespread, and we know more people will need to self-isolate and/or will contract the virus we are determined to deliver the best service we can. We have taken this decision to protect our residents, staff and the community.”
