It is with pleasure that we present our 2023/2024 annual report, which celebrates our hard work, partnerships, and achievements.

This was another busy year for Hamilton Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB). We saw a further increase in people needing advice and support, particularly around food and fuel insecurity, reflecting the challenges our community is still facing around rising costs. Against a background of challenges and demands, we continued to step up and provide a free, comprehensive advice and advocacy service. No one was turned away.

This time last year we were optimistic about concluding negotiations with South Lanarkshire Council to occupy new town centre accommodation that would serve our long-term operational needs. Unfortunately, the identification by the council of previously unknown structural issues affecting the entire site precluded this from going ahead. Our search continues, and we acknowledge the continued support from South Lanarkshire Council.

On a more positive note, we have taken constructive steps forward with delivering our strategic plan, including the formation of working groups around fundraising and social media and communications. We also had the pleasure of receiving a visit from Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal. More on this later.

We would like to say a big thank you to all our volunteers, staff, and trustees for their hard work and dedication over the past year. We could not do this without you. Please read on to learn more about the fantastic work we have carried out over the past year.

Finally, we would like to remember former Lord Lieutenant Mushtaq Ahmed, former Chair of Hamilton CAB, who sadly passed away last month.