As part of Volunteers’ Week from 02 to 08 June, Citizens Advice Northumberland is highlighting the incredible work its volunteers do.
It will be celebrating their exceptional contribution at a special exhibition at County Hall, Morpeth throughout June. Volunteers will be on site and happy to talk about their experience on Friday 06 June between 2pm and 3pm.
Record numbers of people came to Citizens Advice Northumberland in the last year to find help with cost of living, energy problems, debt and crisis support.
It can only do this work thanks to its 73-strong team of trained volunteers working alongside staff.
The value of those 73 volunteers to the county has been calculated at over £720,000 a year. This includes the value of their time to Citizens Advice Northumberland and the community, as well as the county’s economy and NHS. The volunteers gain new skills so are more likely to get new jobs and a higher wage. The boost to life satisfaction and mental health from volunteering also benefits the NHS.
Citizens Advice Northumberland 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.
Rob Jewitt, Volunteer Community Adviser at Amble Citizens Advice has volunteered for the past seven years. Rob said: “I started the training, which is very detailed, in 2018. I particularly enjoy working face to face with clients, often supporting those who struggle with complex issues and financial problems. This is essential and rewarding work, especially in our current challenging economic climate.”
Research by National Citizens Advice found that nine in 10 volunteers say that volunteering at Citizens Advice services across England and Wales has given them a sense of purpose, while 42% say their confidence and mental health are boosted.
Now Citizens Advice Northumberland is looking for new volunteers to join and help make a difference to people across the county as the rising cost of living continues to push up demand for its services.
As well as volunteers who offer advice to people in person, online or over the phone, there are opportunities for people to use their expertise in a variety of areas on a flexible basis. These include supporting the charity with financial or marketing needs, research and campaigns, providing administrative or IT support or becoming a trustee.
Abi Conway, Chief Executive Officer at Citizens Advice Northumberland said: “We’re forever grateful to our wonderful team of volunteers who willingly give up their time and skills to ensure people in Northumberland can get the support they need.
“Now more than ever, this support makes a huge difference to the growing number of people needing help with their energy bills, budgeting and debts.
“Volunteering not only gives back to your local community, we know people who volunteer their time get a lot in return. Whether it’s working as a team, learning new skills or campaigning on issues close to your heart, there are many fulfilling opportunities available.”
Previous research by Citizens Advice revealed the value of its volunteers equated to £100 million in the last year across England and Wales. This includes the value of volunteering hours as well as the wider positive impact volunteering has on the economy and the NHS.
The charity’s report, ‘Value in Volunteering’, highlighted the important contribution its 10,000 strong volunteers have made across its network of more than 240 independent local Citizens Advice services across England and Wales.
This is the 85th year of Citizens Advice in the UK, and 45th anniversary of the charity in Northumberland.
To find out more and apply, visit: www.citizensadvicenorthumberland.org.uk or contact volunteer@citizensadvicenorthumberland.org.uk Tel: 01670 339985.
