Council launches one-stop support service

An online service is being launched to help residents find advice and support in one place.

The Here to Help AI tool, developed by Peterborough City Council, aims to give people a single place to start when they do not know which service or organisation to approach first.

The council said Here to Help could assist with a wide range of issues, including money worries, housing, loneliness, caring responsibilities, work and health, family support and practical help in the community.

Users will be able to describe what is happening in their lives in everyday language and explore relevant local information and options.

The council said it recognised that people's needs were often connected, and a conversation that began with money worries might also involve housing, health, employment or family circumstances.

Cabinet member for adult services Neil Boyce said: "You can simply start with what you need help with and explore what is available locally."

The Peterborough First councillor added: "The original idea came from conversations with residents, partners and professionals about how difficult it could be to know where to turn for support.

"Here to Help is about making that first step easier. You do not need to know the name of a service or understand how local services are organised."

The council said the tool was intended to complement existing services and support and was not a replacement for emergency services, safeguarding routes, statutory assessments or specialist advice.

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