Meeting Citizens Advice: A Final Stop in Charity of the Year awards 2025

 
Meeting Citizens Advice: A Final Stop in Charity of the Year awards 2025
My recent visit to Citizens Advice to meet James and Heather marked the final stop in my quest to meet all the nominees for this year’s Charity of the Year Award. And what a powerful way to end the journey. Once again, I was reminded of the incredible work happening every day across Doncaster by dedicated charities and community teams who quietly change lives.
From Debt Advice to a Lifeline of Support
Citizens Advice Doncaster began by offering guidance on debt and benefits. Over time, their services have grown significantly, responding to the needs of local people and becoming a trusted voice in the community.
Their mission is clear: to ensure everyone can access what they are entitled to and live with dignity and respect.
Today, their work includes help with:

• Immigration
• Debt and benefits
• Health-related projects
• Energy advice
• Digital inclusion

And the scale of their impact is remarkable. In the past year alone, they supported 9,179 clients, dealing with more than 31,000 issues. They delivered 140 community workshops and helped residents manage £10 million worth of debt. Their campaigning has even been featured on BBC News, shining a light on the challenges local people face.
Taking Support into the Heart of Communities
One of the most impressive parts of their approach is their commitment to being present where people need help the most. Rather than expecting individuals to travel to them, Citizens Advice have taken their services out into the community.
They are now based in:

• GP surgeries across Doncaster
• Community centres
• Family hubs

This local presence helps them understand real issues on the ground while making it much easier for residents to access support.
They also meet with major energy companies to voice community concerns about the ongoing energy crisis ensuring the people of Doncaster are heard at national level.
Working With Leaders to Create Change
Their wider partnerships are creating real impact too. They’ve worked with Ed Miliband and local government teams to support people leaving prison, ensuring they receive the guidance and structure necessary for a successful transition back into the community.
They’ve also collaborated with Sally Jameson MP to expand services in British Sign Language, enabling Deaf residents to access advice confidently and independently.
A Nationally Unique Digital Inclusion Programme
One of the strongest messages from my visit was their passion for digital inclusion. Heather leads their Digital Inclusion Programme, the only one of its kind in the UK.
Digital poverty is a growing issue, and Citizens Advice are tackling it head-on by providing:

• SIM cards
• Laptops and tablets
• Training in online skills
• Funding for other organisations offering digital support

As life becomes increasingly digital from online forms and chat services to smart meters and apps many people risk being left behind. Citizens Advice is stepping in to make sure everyone has the skills and tools needed to navigate this changing world with confidence.
A Team Making a Real Difference
My visit to Citizens Advice Doncaster left me truly inspired. Their reach, their innovation, and their commitment to supporting every corner of the community is something to be celebrated. From financial guidance to digital empowerment, they continue to stand alongside local people with compassion and determination.
This charity is not only a nominee for Charity of the Year — they are a lifeline for thousands.