Bristol Debt Advice Centre (BDAC) works to relieve and prevent poverty in the south west.

BDAC improves lives by tackling financial problems. We provide free, independent debt advice, financial capability education, energy advice and carry out social policy work.

Why the community needs this charity

BDAC is based in Lawrence Hill, an area that falls within the bottom 10% of deprived areas according to the multiple indices of deprivation. A typical client is on a very low income. A choice between food or heating is a genuine choice for many of our clients. Financial and social exclusion are also common problems. We are able to help through providing free access to advice, money education and self help resources. We help people resolve their debt issues and plan for the future.

Results and outcomes

In 2010/2011 we assisted over 8000 people, providing full case work to nearly 3,000. Positive outcomes for clients include: 1. Income maximisation 2. Understanding basic budgeting 3. Avoiding court action, eviction, bailiff action and disconnection from essential services 4. Arrangement of affordable debt re-payments 5. A fresh start, debt free through insolvency 6. Empowerment through the provision of information 7. Access to charitable grants 8. Improvements to health and wellbeing

Latest activities and projects

Debt Advice in the Community

We provide vital access to free, independent legal advice through the following services: 1) two 2.5 hour Advice Drop-ins per week for benefit recipients 2) appointments for people who do not receive benefits 3) full casework and advocacy for clients who need ongoing assistance 4) one off advice sessions and self help materials to those able to act for themselves 5) a 2.5 hour telephone advice line once per week 6)Home visits 7) outreach. All advice is provided by specialist Debt Advisers read more