As we mark the Charity for Civil Servants’ 140th Anniversary, I am proud that we have always been there for the moments that too often go unseen, when life gets tricky, and people need somewhere to turn where they know that they will be listened to sympathetically. We are your Charity for life, offering free and confidential support to civil servants and public body employees and their families, so no one has to face life’s challenges alone.
140 years of supporting the Civil Service community: your Charity for life
20 February 2026
For 140 years, we have supported civil servants and their families with free and confidential help, so no one has to face life’s challenges alone.
In 2026, we mark our 140th Anniversary of being there for the Civil Service community through life’s toughest moments.
Since 1886, we have been a quiet constant in the background of Civil Service life, offering practical, financial and emotional support whenever people need it most. We are Your Charity for life, here to make sure every civil servant knows there is somewhere to turn when things feel overwhelming.
While the Civil Service has changed over the decades, one thing has stayed the same: when life gets tricky, it can affect anyone. Money worries that keep you awake. Caring responsibilities that suddenly escalate. A bereavement that turns everything upside down. A health concern, relationship challenge or a period of poor wellbeing that makes everyday life feel harder than it should.
Our role is to help people feel one step closer to the support they need, when they need it most.
A tradition of colleagues supporting colleagues
The Charity was founded in 1886, originally to support widows and orphans of civil servants. That spirit of community remains at the heart of everything we do. Today, we support current, former and retired civil servants and their families, because the need for help does not always begin or end with a job title.
Support shaped around real lives
People reach us in different ways. Many start with practical guidance and tools on our website. Others need a confidential conversation and tailored support.
Depending on someone’s circumstances, support may include:
Practical advice and resources covering money worries, mental health and wellbeing, caring responsibilities, disability, bereavement and relationships
Confidential support from our team to help people find a route forward that fits their situation
Financial assistance, where someone is facing hardship and needs help to stabilise their circumstances
Jonathan Freeman MBE, DL, Chief Executive, Charity for Civil Servants, says:
Powered by generosity across the Civil Service community
We can only do this because colleagues choose to donate, fundraise and spread the word, standing alongside one another when life gets tricky. Whether someone gives regularly, takes part in a fundraising event, or simply shares where support is available, every action helps ensure our services remain free and confidential for those who need them most.
Find support
If you are going through a difficult time, you are not alone. Support is here and can be accessed through our Help and advice pages.
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