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Our policy research work

At Citizens Advice we see two million people every year, and we have a closer understanding of the problems that people experience than any other organisation. Our local Citizens Advice know which policies are working and spot emerging problems early. In our policy research we combine these insights with analysis of wider social and economic trends, and set out new ideas to improve policy and delivery for all.

Our policy research areas

  • Welfare policy research

    Welfare benefits is our largest advice area, giving us clear insights into the way the system works and the challenges it poses.

  • Consumer policy research

    Covers regulated and unregulated markets allowing us to identify problems and draw comparisons about policies and practices.

  • Debt and money policy research

    Citizens Advice helps hundreds of thousands of people with debt and money problems each year giving us insight into how we can prevent money problems and help people to recover.

  • Housing policy research

    Covers all housing tenures, highlighting problems and providing solutions to help everyone have a safe and secure place to live.

  • Work policy research

    Our employment queries give us an understanding of how the labour market is changing and the consequences for workers’ lives.

  • Energy policy research

    Giving consumers an independent voice in the energy market to make sure they are protected and can get the best possible outcome from a fast-evolving sector.

  • Post policy research

    Contributing to improving the operation of the postal market and postal service. Ensuring consumer needs are represented in decisions about the post office network’s future.

  • Domestic abuse policy research

    Understanding what support, advice and services victims of domestic abuse need to be safe and able to move on with their lives.

  • Public services policy research

    With 3 million cases about public services each year, we see where processes linked to schools, GP services, hospitals, local authorities and government agencies too often don’t work for everyone.

  • Wales policy research

    This policy research is from Citizens Advice Cymru on issues particularly relating to Wales.