History of Citizens Advice Bridgend
Citizens Advice Bridgend was first established in 1939, shortly after the outbreak of the Second World War, as part of a national network set up to help people deal with wartime challenges such as rationing, evacuation, and housing issues. Initially run by volunteers from modest premises, it offered free, impartial advice to local residents during a time of crisis.
Following the war, national funding cuts led to a reduction in bureaux across the UK. However, the need for local support remained, and in 1964, the Bridgend and District Citizens’ Advice Bureau was formally registered as a charity. This marked its official re-establishment as a permanent service to the community, offering guidance on benefits, housing, employment, and consumer rights.
In 1980, a separate Maesteg Citizens Advice Bureau was opened to serve the Llynfi Valley. Both bureaux operated independently until 2011, when they merged to form the Bridgend County Borough Citizens Advice Bureau. This unified organisation continues today as Citizens Advice Bridgend, offering comprehensive support and advocacy across the entire county borough.
