Every day, advisers across the Citizens Advice network in Scotland draw alongside people who will attest that the cost of living crisis is nowhere near over. Energy debt, food insecurity, the risk of homelessness are but a few of the issues causing people real harm. While inflation rates may be falling, the enduring nature of the crisis has both exacerbated existing inequalities and created new ones that will persist if bold, targeted and urgent action isn’t taken by Government at all levels.
The unique nature of our service means that we get a lens into all aspects of people’s lives and our cross-advice data reveals both the scale and complexity of issues that people are facing. We get to see things others don’t and have a real opportunity to drive the change that people need.
Our twin aims of advice and advocacy work in harmony to improve the lives of people in Scotland. Our political landscape is changing. A new UK Government will be formed creating opportunities to build new relationships and influence policy. The recent change to a minority Government in Holyrood also creates opportunities to do things differently as we seek to deliver positive outcomes for people.
Our impact work plan for 2024/25 covers:
> Our approach to advocacy
> Our new webinar series, ForeCASt
> Theory of change and our evidence-based approach to advocacy
> Teams, themes, and outcomes
> Campaigns programme
> Supporting local action
You can read our Impact Work Pan for the year ahead below.