Our advice really does help

Success stories from across the service

Over the last year, numbers and statistics have dominated our lives. At Citizens Advice, we too like to share meaningful data — especially since the outbreak of the pandemic. However it’s also sometimes important to take a step back and reflect on the people behind the figures.

That’s why we wanted to share some examples of how our advice has helped real people resolve their problems and find a way forward over the last year…

We help improve people’s mental health

Alex came to us for advice when they discovered an error with the benefit they were receiving. We looked into this, and checked their eligibility for disability benefits. With our support, Alex was awarded over £4,000 — and an extra £84 per week .

“You’ve taken a lot of anxiety out of my life and I want to thank you very much for your help”. — Alex

You don’t have to face your problems alone

When Jazz first contacted us, they were in £6,000 of debt after a difficult divorce, and finding it hard to cope. They had been told bankruptcy was their only option — but they didn’t feel like the debts were their responsibility. We helped Jazz contact HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and, to our delight, they won their battle, receiving a refund and — most importantly — peace of mind. They said that without our help, their mental health would have deteriorated further.

“They listened to me, supported me, and never let me face a complicated letter or phone call alone … I cannot thank you enough.” — Jazz

From tears of distress to tears of joy

Charlie, one of our advisers, recalls receiving a call from a woman in tears. Elise’s Universal Credit payment was so low that she couldn’t afford to make ends meet. Charlie managed to identify an error with how much money she was entitled to, and helped her get in touch with the right department. She is now £800 better off each month (that’s £9,600 per year)!

In Charlie’s final call with Elise, she was in tears again… but this time tears of joy.

Homeless in March, housed in April

When Sam contacted us in March, they were homeless with no money. One of our advisers helped them claim Universal Credit, directed them to the council for help, and informed them about their rights to housing assistance. After just one month, the council managed to find a one bedroom flat for Sam.

“If it wasn’t for the good work [you do] and right advice [you give] I would probably still be homeless now … From contacting [Citizens Advice] in March to having my own home by the end of April I never ever thought could be possible.” — Sam

We change lives for the better

When the type of disability benefit Arup received changed, this resulted in him losing out — despite suffering from a serious mental health condition. He therefore turned to us for help. One of our advisers, Elizabeth, supported him through his appeal, offering advice and submitting evidence to the tribunal service on his behalf. Arup won his appeal and was awarded an incredible £78,000!

“He is so pleased and grateful for the support he received from us!” — Elizabeth

We’re here to help

As you can see, our advice can help resolve even the biggest of problems. So, if you ever feel lost and need some advice and support with a problem you’re experiencing, remember that we’re always here to help you find a way forward.

If you need advice you can contact us in a number of ways.

Please note all client names have been changed to protect their identities.