The first of the government’s vaunted regional hubs will open in Ramsey town hall tomorrow.
Supported by Ramsey Commissioners, two members of Welcome Centre staff will be in Ramsey each week providing face-to-face support for members of the community to access Government Services.
The Northern Information Centre will be open every Friday between 10am-4pm at the town hall, with a freephone service available to contact other government services directly outside of those opening hours.
In June, Tynwald approved an initial £200,000 for the first phase of the plan to expand regional access to its services.
Government has identified an initial range of services and will operate to begin with on a cashless basis.
To help shape future provision at the Northern Information Centre, visitors will be encouraged to complete a feedback form after they use the hub.
The hub has been welcomed by chair of Ramsey Commissioners Sandra Cottam-Shea, who said it was something residents wanted. She has been speaking with Local Democracy Reporter Emma Draper:
The services on offer at the hub will include:
Face-to-face support, including answering general queries, signposting/referring to community services, and booking slots for “in reach” government services.
“In reach” services, which currently include social security, with more to be announced as demand and need is determined.
Access to Government Online Services.
Information about another government department or community service.
Payment of government invoices.
Purchase of travel tickets and travel cards for the bus service and heritage railways, plus timetable information.
Applications for Proof of Age cards and type two mobility assessments.
Tickets for shows at the Gaiety Theatre and Villa Marina.
Mobile top up cards.
Heritage cards.
Recreational fishing licences.
Tourist information.