Wirral Council has set up video kiosks in some of its libraries for residents to have virtual appointments with its advisors.
The council said it has completed a trial at Birkenhead Central Library and has now installed the kiosks at Eastham, Moreton and Heswall – providing the option to speak with an advisor when an issue cannot be resolved online or by telephone.
It said the kiosks will enable people to make an appointment at more locations throughout its area, emphasising that it will require a booking and will not operate as a drop-in service.
Anyone using the kiosks can be supported by library staff, who can also scan documents and take payments as necessary.
The kiosks were initially proposed as a solution for residents who are digitally excluded, but the experience of the pandemic lockdown highlighted the opportunity for advisors to work remotely and for the council to reduce costs.
Face to face best
Chair of Wirral’s tourism, communities, culture and leisure committee, Cllr Helen Cameron, said: “Most of our services can be accessed online but sometimes meeting someone face to face is the best way to sort something out.
“By providing video kiosks residents now have a greater choice in how they access face to face support and get the help and advice they need.”
There are plans to extend the use of the kiosks to other locations in the coming months.
