Suffolk, June 2026 – Local Citizens Advice services in Babergh and Mid Suffolk have received significant financial backing through the councils’ Community Development Fund, ensuring continued support for residents across the districts.
Sudbury & South Suffolk Citizens Advice has been awarded £103,000, while Mid Suffolk Citizens Advice will receive £129,265. Recognised as key strategic partners, these branches provide free guidance on housing, debt, benefits, and wellbeing support, helping thousands of residents navigate everyday challenges.
The two grants form part of a wider £813,752.88 investment into voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise (VCFSE) organisations. This year, 46 successful applications were approved, with £206,694 shared among 14 organisations in Babergh and £607,058.88 distributed across 32 organisations in Mid Suffolk.
Councillor Laura Smith, Babergh cabinet member for thriving communities, praised the initiative: “Citizens Advice offers a unique and invaluable service to the residents of our communities and we know that many rely on this service week in, week out.”
Councillor Teresa Davis, Mid Suffolk cabinet member for thriving communities, added: “Awarding grants to community groups is some of the most important work we do. The Citizens Advice Bureau especially is one of the best services we can offer our residents – it has a broad range of expert advice that can be trusted and is invaluable.”
Introduced in 2025, the Community Development Fund streamlines grant applications, allowing VCFSE organisations to apply for up to £20,000 annually to support new or existing projects. This year’s awards also benefit sports clubs, village halls, voluntary groups, and local charities, reinforcing the councils’ commitment to strengthening community resilience.
By securing this funding, Citizens Advice branches in Babergh and Mid Suffolk can continue to deliver trusted, essential services, ensuring residents have access to the support they need during times of financial and personal difficulty.
