Our History
Over 85 Years of Advice, Action, and Impact
For more than eight decades, Citizens Advice Hammersmith & Fulham (CAHF) has been at the heart of the borough. We help people navigate life’s challenges, stand up for their rights, and move forward with confidence. From our beginnings in 1939 to the complex cost-of-living challenges of today, our work has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of our community.
Our Impact at a Glance (2025-26)
During the last year, our advice team supported 13,584 people, addressing a total of 51,553 distinct advice issues. These efforts resulted in £6.3 million in financial gains for our clients. We delivered specialist support across debt, housing, benefits, employment, immigration, and energy, powered by the dedication of 80 volunteers working across seven diverse roles. Our commitment to excellence was recognised nationally as we were named Debt Team of the Year and won the award for Best Use of Innovation.
A Living History of Our Support in Hammersmith & Fulham
Key milestones in our journey
1939–1960s | Foundations
Our original office in 1939 before Blitz damage
Established at the outbreak of the Second World War, we originally helped residents navigate wartime rationing and displacement. During the Blitz, our office at Bishop Creighton House in Fulham, was damaged by bombing, yet we resumed service the very next day to support families facing loss and destruction. In the post-war years, we expanded our focus to the everyday problems affecting local households, remaining rooted in our commitment to be present when people need help most.
1970s–1990s | Growing with the Community
Giving Welfare Rights advice on the Shepherds Bush Market in the 1970s
As Hammersmith & Fulham became more diverse, CAHF broadened its reach. We expanded face-to-face advice, supported residents through housing shortages and welfare changes, and significantly strengthened our volunteer involvement. By the 1990s, CAHF was firmly established as the borough’s most trusted, independent advice provider.
2000–2010 | Professionalisation & Specialist Advice
Royal Visit to our Uxbridge Road Advice Centre
This era marked a shift toward evidence-based, specialist services. We launched dedicated programs for debt and housing while building stronger partnerships with the council. In 2005, we introduced a Financial Capability project, followed by the 2007 Making Money Matter conference featuring Martin Lewis. By 2010, we launched Community Skills to empower residents with practical life knowledge, and in 2012, we were honoured to host HRH The Princess Royal at our Uxbridge Road centre.
2012–2019 | Adapting in Austerity
Avonmore neighbourhood centre.
Against a backdrop of public sector cuts, we supported residents through some of the UK’s largest welfare reforms, including the rollout of Universal Credit. We developed targeted projects for those facing multiple disadvantages and, in 2012, took over the management of Avonmore Library, saving it from closure and embedding advice services within a vital community space.
2020–2021 | COVID-19 Response
During the pandemic, we transformed our service model almost overnight. By moving to telephone and email delivery, we ensured residents facing job loss, housing insecurity, and isolation could still access support. Despite unprecedented demand, our services remained accessible throughout every lockdown.
2022–2023 | Cost-of-Living Crisis
As inflation soared, CAHF became a lifeline. We expanded our energy advice, held community outreach events, and helped residents maximise their income to manage rising bills. We also strengthened our local network by partnering closely with libraries, foodbanks, and community hubs.
2024–2025 | Expanding Access to Advice
The cake for our 85th Celebration
In 2024, we proudly celebrated 85 years of service to the residents of Hammersmith & Fulham. Our current priority is ensuring help is available whenever and however it is needed. We have significantly increased our AdviceLine capacity and invested in digital communication tools to make information easier to find online. We also maintain our physical presence for vulnerable clients who require digital assistance.
Real People, Real Change
“A huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders”
— Our client, a refugee, for whom our energy adviser secured a 50% discount on their water bill
More Than Advice
Our team receiving the Best Use of Innovation award in November 2025
Our track record is built on trust and adaptability. Beyond individual cases, we advocate for residents’ rights to influence national policy and provide a robust volunteering offer for people to develop their skills. Our “More than Advice” model, which encompasses everything from library services to ESOL classes, was proud to win Best Use of Innovation at the 2025 Advising Londoners Awards.
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