Mind in Croydon Welfare Benefits Team Awarded Advice Quality Standard
We are proud to announce that following a successful application and assessment against the Advice Quality Standard (AQS), Recognising Excellence has awarded Mind in Croydon accreditation against the AQS. This is a nationally recognised accreditation for organisations that provide legal advice to the public.
The AQS is awarded following a rigorous audit every two years, requiring services to demonstrate that they are accessible, well-managed, and staffed by professionals with the expertise to meet the needs of their clients.
This recognition reflects the team’s commitment to delivering high-quality, free advice to Croydon residents, particularly in the context of increasing complexity in the social security system.
The Welfare Benefits Team forms a key part of the Mental Health Transformation programme, funded by the South West London Integrated Care Board, and continues to play a vital role in supporting vulnerable individuals across the borough.
Tom Goddard, Director of Services at Mind in Croydon, commented:
“I am delighted that the team’s hard work, professionalism, and passion for high-quality welfare rights work has been recognised. This award comes at a time of ever-increasing complexity in the social security system, growing demand for support, and a climate of hostility towards welfare benefit recipients experiencing poor mental health.”
The award was made in September 2025, and stands as a testament to the team’s approach to service delivery. Last year alone, the Welfare Benefits Team helped Croydon residents secure over £1 million in previously unclaimed welfare benefits through casework, advice, and tribunal representation.
We actively seek quality marks like the AQS as a signifier of our commitment to excellence in advice services, ensuring that those who need support receive it with dignity, expertise, and care.
Posted on: 26th September 2025
