Wednesday 29th May 2019
Leading local advice charity, Citizens Advice Exeter, is celebrating its volunteers who dedicate their time to solving people’s problems and making a difference to their lives.
Volunteers Week, which runs from 1-7 June, recognises the contribution that volunteers across the UK make, and the charity is highlighting the work of its own team, which helps people in the community struggling with debt, housing, benefit and employment issues among other issues.
With over 100 volunteers, giving up 674 hours each week, Citizens Advice Exeter was able to help 23812 people with 40648 problems last year. The charity’s volunteers have played a crucial role ensuring people in Exeter get the advice and support they need to get on with their lives.
The charity offers a wide range of voluntary roles including advisers, assessors, administrators, on reception, as trainers, helping with publicity and events, and as trustees.
Volunteer Stephen Salter, who is an adviser specialising in debt and bankruptcy options for people with financial probelms, said: “Volunteering with the charity means every day is different, I get the opportunity to get involved with so many different things. But most importantly, every day, we are making a difference to people’s lives.”
Steve Barriball, Chief Executive at Citizens Advice Exeter said: “Our volunteers make a huge difference to people’s lives. They give up their free time to help people in their community, who may be going through problems, to get back on their feet.
“Volunteering is for everybody and it brings its own rewards. It’s a great way to meet people and learn skills.
“If you’d like to help people in your area and can spare a few hours, we’d love to hear from you.”
Thanks to the contribution of Citizens Advice volunteers locally, 7 out of every 10 clients have their problem solved and 4 out of 5 say the advice received improved their lives.
If you’re interested in finding out more about volunteering with the Citizens Advice service please visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk or drop into the local office in Dix’s Field.