Citizens Advice was founded on September 4, 1939; the day after WW2 broke out, and 80 years later we are still helping people with complicated and intimidating problems.
The first Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), staffed by volunteers, operated on the underlying principle that the service should be “for the citizen by the citizen”.
West Oxfordshire Citizens Advice Bureau in Witney first opened its doors to the public in 1975. We gave advice from two small rooms from what was the Trustee Savings Bank at 33 High Street, Witney. Volunteers were thanked every year with a Christmas lunch, a turkey with a large gammon inside donated by Denshams Butchers and prepared by the Steering Committee.
This autumn Citizens Advice celebrate their national 80th anniversary. The charity be delighted to hear from anyone who has memories and stories of Citizens Advice and how it has helped them.
“It’s quite something that having been here for everyone for 80 years, Citizens Advice remains free, confidential and impartial – something that is more important than ever for people in such uncertain times. Our advice changes lives because we are constantly adapting to the challenges people face, from broadband bills to Universal Credit. Whatever the problem, our amazing staff and volunteers do all they can to help people find their way forward. We are here for everyone and we will continue to help make things better.” Teresa Archer, Chief Officer of Citizens Advice West Oxfordshire
The charity would welcome any old photographs, stories or other memorabilia from the early days, which could be shared. Get in touch about any items you would like to share by e-mailing communications@citizensadvicewestoxon.org.uk