37996 (2024). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister for Social Development and Employment

37996 (2024). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Minister for Social Development and Employment: Is the Minister concerned at the closure of budget advice services in Ashburton and the fact that this will make it difficult for residents of the area to access budget advice?

Hon Louise Upston: I understand that Presbyterian Support Upper South (trading as Ashburton Budget Advisory Service in Ashburton) were not successful through the recent procurement of Building Financial Capability core services. I am advised that despite this, there is unlikely to be a service gap as a new provider has been successful in securing a contract to deliver this service to Ashburton and Selwyn districts from 1 July 2024.