History of Citizens Advice

Following the impact of the Munich Crisis and the Spanish Civil War on civilians, a number of bodies including the National Council of Social Service felt that a national advice service should be set up.

In July 1939 Citizens Advice began, initially from peoples’ homes, (including many Solicitors’ wives) directing enquiries to the correct organisations and acting as a mediator between landlords and tenants, debtors and creditors and employers and employees.

The organisation was involved in many serious issues, such as finding lost relatives and supporting the Red Cross Message Scheme. One of the first successful Citizens Advice campaigns resulted in an increase of food rations for expectant mums.

Citizens Advice Basingstoke has been supporting Basingstoke residents with free, confidential and impartial advice since 1961.