Exeter City Council’s Labour Executive has approved a grant of £150,000 for Citizens Advice Exeter over the next two years, recognising the vital role the organisation plays in supporting local residents.
The funding will be provided in two tranches, £75,000 in 2026/27 and £75,000 in 2027/28, helping Citizens Advice Exeter continue delivering free, independent and confidential advice on issues including debt, housing, employment, benefits and consumer rights.
The decision reflects the Labour administration’s commitment to supporting residents through ongoing cost of living pressures and investing in services that help prevent problems from escalating into crisis.
Councillor Phil Bialyk, Leader of Exeter City Council, said:
“Citizens Advice Exeter is one of the city’s most respected and valued organisations. Every year it helps thousands of residents navigate complex challenges, providing independent advice and support at times when people need it most.
As a Labour administration, we believe in tackling problems early and ensuring people can access support before issues become crises. This funding commitment reflects the importance of the service Citizens Advice Exeter provides and our determination to support organisations that make a genuine difference to people’s lives.
At a time when many households continue to face financial pressures, having access to trusted, impartial advice has never been more important.”
Citizens Advice Exeter has been supporting local people for decades and remains one of the city’s most important voluntary sector organisations. Each year it helps thousands of residents facing challenges ranging from debt and financial hardship to housing difficulties, employment issues and welfare benefits.
The organisation provides free, independent and confidential advice, helping people understand their rights, access the support available to them and find practical solutions to complex problems. As well as improving outcomes for individual residents, its work helps prevent issues from escalating, reduces pressure on public services and contributes to stronger, more resilient communities across Exeter.
The Council has worked closely with Citizens Advice Exeter over many years and recognises the organisation as a trusted strategic partner, delivering support that makes a tangible difference to the lives of local people.
Councillor Liz Pole, Portfolio Holder for Climate and Ecological Change and Communities and Customer Services, said:
“Citizens Advice Exeter plays a vital role in supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our city. Whether residents need help with debt, housing, employment or benefits, the organisation provides expert advice that can be life changing.
Strong communities depend on strong local organisations. Citizens Advice Exeter not only helps people solve immediate problems, it also builds resilience, reduces isolation and helps residents navigate increasingly complex systems.
This funding commitment recognises the immense value Citizens Advice Exeter brings to Exeter and the difference its staff and volunteers make every single day.”