As a member of the National Association Citizens Advice, our objective is to provide the advice that people need for the problems that they face, and to improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives.
Whilst our service is open to everyone, the majority of our clients are vulnerable individuals from areas of high deprivation within our community. They struggle with difficulties in multiple areas including benefits and tax credits, employment, debt, housing and homelessness, relationships and family. Many of them face inequality, discrimination, or harassment. They have usually exhausted all options and feel overwhelmed by their problems by the time they turn to us for help.
Our key activities are carried out by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, who undergo rigorous training to keep up to date on local community issues and the latest practices/legislation. Our work is funded by the Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council and Hampshire County Council and through the generosity of a number of other sponsors.
Advisory and support services:
providing free independent, impartial and confidential advice to individuals who seek help in resolving their problems
offering practical support to clients where appropriate
whenever possible, promoting a sense of empowerment so that clients feel better able to cope with their problems in the future.
Community campaigns
collating data and other information for use in influencing policy makers at local and national levels
initiating and contributing to campaigns for changes to policy and regulation, thereby benefiting the wider community at large.
Partnerships:
working with other local organisations to extend the reach of our work to specific groups or sectors of society, including people with health/disability issues, those without food or homes, hospital patients, young adults and the elderly.
