Our history
85 years of free, confidential, independent and impartial advice in Manchester
1939
4th September 1939 - The day after World War II begins, Citizens Advice opens in 200 locations to help people with the impact. The first example of a Citizens Advice outreach service is known as ‘the horsebox’.
1942
The recorded number of local enquiries for 1942 reaches 48,733 as the people of Manchester become more aware of the Citizens Advice Bureau and the services that it offers.
1956
Citizens Advice Manchester reports seeing an increased number of applications for help with electricity costs; “sometimes, when there has been insufficient money to obtain coal or other fuel, people turn the electric cooker on and use it as a spare heater.”
1958
The re-organisation of the service brings improved publicity, including shop windows displays, new signs and selective advertising, which results in the number of enquiries being more than doubled.
1962
The Medical Officer of Health arranges for an experienced Bureau worker to attend a number of local Health Survey sessions. Medical officers appreciate the services which are made available to people whose worries extend beyond health problems.
1970
BBC Radio Manchester is founded, and Citizens Advice Manchester begins a regular slot, offering local and national information to listeners.