On 23rd September, 2019, Thomas Cook went into administration, putting thousands of jobs at risk in Manchester. In the days and weeks that followed, as ex-employees faced financial uncertainty and insecurity, Citizens Advice Manchester were quick to act; we had a significant on site presence at the GM Mayor’s Task Force event at Manchester Airport, offering advice on employment, welfare benefits and housing to 150 people, as well as setting up a dedicated helpline and online referral form for people in need of support. This support was publicised across social media and through several broadcast interviews.

Citizens Advice Manchester worked hard to make dedicated resources available, amidst an increase in demand for our Adviceline, which we attribute to the collapse of Thomas Cook. Our ability to mobilise quickly and act flexibly at this time of “shock” meant that in the fortnight after the collapse was announced, over 350 former Thomas Cook employees were able to access advice and support quickly and easily, helping to ensure their financial security and reduce their anxiety and worry in a time of great uncertainty. We know that the early provision of this support can lead to an increase in people’s health and wellbeing, as well as increased financial stability, meaning that people are less likely to require to burden other public services, as well as providing a range of other economic and social benefits for the city. 

Our ability to respond in times of crisis serves to emphasise the value that Citizens Advice Manchester's services can offer to the economic resilience of the city's residents at a time of crisis and throughout the year.

Thomas Cook Helpline Number: 0800 144 8444 (option 2)