Bovey residents reminded ‘not to cope alone’ as new Citizens Advice figures revealed

Queries about benefits and tax credits were the most common issues raised by residents in Bovey Tracey and Heathfield during the final quarter of 2025, according to Citizens Advice.

The charity supported 85 people living in the Bovey Ward area between October and December, holding weekly online video advice sessions from the Methodist Church on Fore Street.

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Citizens Advice provides help across a wide range of issues, including benefits, debt, work, housing, family matters, immigration and health.

Figures from the latest report show that Personal Independence Payments (PIP) made up almost half of all enquiries. 

Questions about general benefit entitlement and initial benefit claims were the next most common concerns.

Debt Relief Orders were the most frequently raised debt issue. The scheme allows eligible people to apply to have debts frozen or written off in certain circumstances.

Most people seeking help locally were aged between 35 and 39. More than half of all clients were female, and many were living with long-term health conditions.

The data for Bovey Tracey and Heathfield broadly reflects trends seen across the wider Teignbridge district, although council tax arrears and an older client profile were more prominent elsewhere in the district.

Deputy Mayor of Bovey Tracey, Councillor Martyn Evans, thanked Citizens Advice for its continued support of local residents.

He said: “We all know that the cost of living is placing huge pressure on families across our community and without the support offered by Citizens Advice, many would be struggling even harder than they are.

“Having this free and independent advice easily available is vital and is why Bovey Tracey Town Council continues to back Citizens Advice.

“The key message is that you don’t have to cope alone, help is on hand and there is no shame in asking. Thank you, Citizens Advice, we’re so grateful for what you do.”

The weekly online video advice sessions take place every Tuesday from 10am to 12.30pm at the Methodist Church on Fore Street, Bovey Tracey.

Citizens Advice can also be contacted by phone on 0808 278 7997, or online via the Citizens Advice Teignbridge website.