News

Community Hub celebrates six months of being open


Cllr Pam Hughes, Cllr Elaine Costigan and the team from the Hub

South Staffs Water’s Community Hub, in Wednesbury, has helped over 1200 visitors in the six months since it opened its doors.

The Community Hub opened on 27 April 2018, aiming to offer face-to-face advice to customers on a range of issues. It has proved to be a success with over 1200 customers calling in and advising them on water meters, support to pay bills and registering for priority services.

In addition to advice on its own services, South Staffs Water has formed links with around twenty local organisations in order to support customers with other issues. Among those, Job Centre Plus use the Hub to advertise local job vacancies and hold regular jobs fairs and Citizens Advice hold a weekly session for local residents who need financial advice and support.

One pleased Hub customer said:

“I’m grateful that this place is here. It’s made a big difference, I like to speak to somebody face to face and it makes life a lot easier.”

Councillor Elaine Costigan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Protection for Sandwell Metropolitan Council said: 

“It’s made such a difference. People don’t just come here from Wednesbury, they come from Tipton and West Bromwich. It’s a one stop shop to get support and help – it’s wonderful!”

Managing Director of South Staffs Water, Phil Newland, said:

“One lesson we are learning is that in this increasingly digital age, there are still people in our communities who do not want to access essential public services through digital channels or via centralised contact centres. They still value being able to speak to someone face to face.”

 There are lots of regular events taking place at the Community Hub, which is located at Unit 17 Union Street, Wednesbury, WS10 7HD. 

To find out more: visit the Community Hub page.