PEOPLE in Hambleton and Richmondshire are being offered guidance on pensions, following recent Government reforms.

The changes were introduced on April 6, giving people approaching retirement greater freedom over how they use their pension pots. Under the new options, people can take out a lump sum, take out an annuity or do a mixture of both.

Hambleton and Richmondshire Citizens Advice Bureau is offering free 45 minute Pension Wise sessions to people in which they can help them make sense of their pension options and make the right decisions.

The appointments are aimed at people including those approaching retirement who have a defined contribution pension or people thinking of accessing their pensions within the next six months.

People can also get information and general guidance online at; www.pensionwise.gov.uk.

Carol Shreeve, chief executive of Hambleton and Richmondshire CAB, said: “Pensions can be a confusing topic and Pension Wise appointments will help people to make sense of their pensions choices. Hambleton and Richmondshire CAB already helps people with retirement issues and we’ll continue to offer this service outside of Pension Wise.”

To book a telephone or face to face appointment, call 0300 330 1001.