THE welfare rights service in Pendle has been given a reprieve, after a meeting between local and county councillors.

Pendle Council voted to end its funding of the service after hearing other authorities in East Lancashire received the service but did not contribute cash.

But after the top-level discussion between the borough and county councils it was agreed that the current service will continue, funded by the county council, and be reviewed in six months time.

County Councillor Frank McKenna, deputy leader of the county council, said: "I am pleased there has been a satisfactory outcome to my discussions with Councillor Alan Davies so that the residents of Pendle will continue to receive valuable advice and support on welfare benefits."

Coun Davies, leader of Pendle Council, said: "My meeting with County Councillor McKenna covered a range of topics where the two authorities might usefully work in partnership in the future.

"We have agreed to continue operating the agreement for an enhanced welfare rights service in Pendle and have invited the county council to submit a welfare rights project for funding from Pendle Partnership's SRB bid. The position will be reviewed in six months time." Pendle Partnership is the consortium of private, public and voluntary groups that oversees spending of Single Regeneration Budget cash.

Colne county councillor Tim Ormrod, added: "I am absolutely delighted that Pendle's Liberal Democrat administration has seen sense and is prepared to continue the partnership with Lancashire County Council and provide an enhanced welfare rights service to the people of Pendle."

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