Citizens Advice Flintshire’s year in review highlights critical work in helping alleviate poverty

In a year beset with economic challenges, Citizens Advice Flintshire (CAF) has stood as a beacon of hope and resilience, according to their latest annual report.

The charity has navigated through the complexities of the cost of living crisis, providing critical support and helping people managing over £4.3 million in debt, offering a vital lifeline to the Flintshire community.

With over £4.3m of debt dealt with, CAF has provided substantial relief and removed a significant financial burden from many people in Flintshire.

Additionally, CAF has helped generate £3.5m in income for its clients which highlights the significant role the charity plays in alleviating poverty locally.

Laura Clays, Chair of Citizens Advice Flintshire, reflects on the year’s challenges: “In a time of great change and challenge, our dedicated team, volunteers, and trustees have shown remarkable resilience and commitment, ensuring that we continue to offer high-quality advice and support, adapting our services to meet the evolving needs of our community.”

The report highlights the charity’s extensive outreach initiatives, including advice sessions at food banks across Buckley, Flint, and Mold, addressing root causes of food poverty and offering guidance on debt management and energy-related issues.

“Expanding our outreach efforts to places like the Rivertown Church (Community Support Hub) and Flint Library signifies our deep commitment to community integration and support,” adds Clays.

A significant accomplishment for CAF has been the successful management of substantial debts and income generation, significantly easing the financial burdens of many during the ongoing cost of living crisis.

“Our approach has been multifaceted, focusing on inclusive and accessible services, including digital platforms, ensuring that advice reaches everyone in need, including British Sign Language users and the visually impaired,” Ms Clays highlights.

In response to the soaring demand for their services, as indicated by an increase in local calls and number of food bank vouchers issued, CAF has continued to adapt and expand.

One of their key projects, the Flintshire Local Advice Gateway Referral Project (FLAG), has effectively addressed the community’s advice needs through early intervention and seamless referrals.

The report also sheds light on their Energy Projects, which have been pivotal in assisting households grappling with high energy bills.

Through these initiatives, CAF has provided practical advice on reducing energy costs and navigating fuel options, tariffs, and supplier complaints. Their dedicated advisers have made significant impacts, as evidenced by tangible financial gains for those in need.

The Debt team at CAF, through their dedicated and skilled workers, supported 707 debt clients and successfully wrote off debt amounting to over £1.1 million.

This achievement underlines the team’s effectiveness in generating additional income for Flintshire residents through various applications, including benefit checks and grant applications.

Laura Clays commends the hard work and dedication of the CAF team: “Our staff and volunteers have been instrumental in advising and supporting clients often under dire circumstances, helping them navigate through their challenges. Our commitment to sharing more client stories and undertaking more campaigning is crucial in highlighting the impacts of policy decisions on our community.”