Customer service comes first in Hawick
Wednesday, March 19 2008
Customers visiting Hawick town hall may be experiencing some disruption for several weeks, however it’s all in a good cause.
The ground floor refurbishments taking place will transform the way Scottish Borders Council provides its services to members of the public in Hawick.
A single reception desk will be created to deal with all enquiries – replacing the current system of five different reception counters.
Staff working at the new reception counter will have knowledge of different areas of council business and should be able to deal with most enquiries. The same staff will be answering all telephone enquiries to Hawick.
The refurbishments, as well as taking away any confusion over which desk to go to, will also result in a new confidential interview room facility; improved access to the building and a more welcoming and comfortable environment.
Lothian and Borders police will also maintain a uniformed police post within the town hall every weekday morning from 9a.m. until 12 noon.
Chief Superintendent Charlie Common said: “This initiative provides the Division with an ideal opportunity to make it easier for people in Hawick to access the service we provide. In entering into a shared arrangement with our colleagues from Scottish Borders Council we hope to demonstrate a willingness to be creative in order to enhance customer care.
“The Town Hall site in Hawick is ideal and will enable members of the public the opportunity to obtain information from a member of police staff, or to report minor incidents to us. More serious matters will continue to be dealt with at Divisional Headquarters. I am excited by this project and look forward to feedback from the public in Hawick.
During the building work there may be some disruption to services. This is traditionally a busy period for paying council tax bills so, to minimise any inconvenience, the Council would like to remind customers that payment can now be taken over the telephone on 01835 826500 or on the web at http://www.scotborders.gov.uk/onlineservices/
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