Citizens Advice Ipswich calls for more volunteers as cost-of-living pressures continue to bite
Marking two anniversaries: 40 years of Volunteers Week and the 50th anniversary of Citizens Advice Ipswich, the charity is celebrating all its volunteers who all play a crucial role, and says it needs volunteers now more than ever to help make a difference to the people in the Ipswich area as it continues to see soaring demand for its services.
Citizens Advice Ipswich is using Volunteer Week to launch an appeal for new recruits from all backgrounds who can give their time to help people struggling with energy prices, rising household bills, and other issues such as employment, housing and relationship worries.
Last year the charity saw unprecedented demand, supporting just under 10,000 people. It can only do this work thanks to its 36 strong team of volunteers.
The charity says no experience is necessary as full training will be provided.
Paul Garden, Adviser, has volunteered at Citizens Advice Ipswich for the past 12 years. He said:
“I was attracted to Citizens Advice because the problems people bring challenge me in helping find solutions for them. I was looking to make new friends in the Ipswich area, work with people with similar ideals and learn about things I hadn’t experienced in my own life.
“If you’d like to work in a team, get training in new skills and want to learn about society while helping people then Citizens Advice is unique in offering all those opportunities.”
As well as volunteers to offer advice to people in person, online or over the phone there are opportunities for people to provide expertise such as financial or marketing skills to the charity, provide administrative or IT support and also join our Trustee Board to help shape our strategic future.
Citizens Advice Ipswich volunteers come from all walks of life and choose to volunteer for a variety of reasons. They include students; people getting back into work after career breaks; people with part-time jobs; carers; and people who’ve retired.
Volunteers are often looking to gain valuable experience or to use their existing skills in new ways. Many want to have an impact in their community and find a sense of purpose in helping others.
For students in the area, volunteering can help build confidence and support career development with different learning opportunities. The service already has a number of student volunteers supporting people on issues such as consumer advice, legal issues, money advice and housing problems.
Nicky Willshere, Chief Officer at Citizens Advice Ipswich, said:
“Now more than ever, you can really make a difference by volunteering with Citizens Advice Ipswich. Our trustees are invaluable in shaping the strategic direction for the Charity and the frontline advisers are helping huge numbers with their energy bills, budgeting and debts, and sadly we expect this to only continue.”
Lisa Baxter, Core Team Manager and Training Co-Ordinator, said:
“As well as helping the local community, we know people who volunteer their time get a lot back. Whether it’s working as a team, learning new skills or campaigning on issues close to your heart, there are many fulfilling opportunities available.
“We’ll give you all the training you need and would love to hear from you.”
To find out more and apply, visit: Volunteer with us – Citizens Advice Ipswich or contact admin@ipswichcab.org.uk