Our volunteer advice assistants help clients face to face with specific problems.
Some examples of what you could do:
• complete an online or paper form with a client to help them claim a benefit
• call a utility company with, or on behalf, of a client, to find out how much money they owe
• discuss income and spending with a client and together draw up a personal budget
• complete an introduction to Citizens Advice and training for your role
• work with Citizens Advice advisers to help clients with specific tasks
• write a summary of the clients’ problems and what action you’ve taken
You don’t need specific qualifications or skills but you’ll need to:
• be friendly and approachable
• be non-judgmental and respect views, values and cultures that are different to your own
• have good listening skills
• have excellent verbal and written communication skills
• have good maths and IT skills
• be able to understand information and explain it to others
• be willing to learn about and follow the Citizens Advice aims, principles and policies, including confidentiality and data protection
• be willing to undertake training in your role
In one of our sites across the County:
• Durham
• Seaham
• Spennymoor
• Stanley
Ideally we ask for 1 full day 9am - 5pm or 2 x 5 hours days, for at least 18 months following the completion of initial training.
We can be flexible so come and talk to us.
• A comprehensive training programme will be provided - initial training could take up to 16 weeks (depending on time commitment)
• Ongoing training, support and guidance will be provided by a training and supervision team
Expenses
• Mileage expenses will be paid at the rate of 45p per mile (car) / 20p per mile (bicycle)
• The cost of using public transport will be reimbursed on the production of valid receipt/ticket
• make a real difference to people’s lives
• learn about several key issues such as benefits and debt
• build on valuable skills such as communication and listening
• increase your employability
• work with a range of different people, independently and in a team.
• have a positive impact in your community.
We are committed to having a team that is representative of the community it serves at all levels of the organisation. We therefore welcome applications from all backgrounds and all sections of the community.
As a volunteer, you can be assured that we will take positive steps to ensure:
Role descriptions and associated conditions relate to the particular role, define the qualifications, experience and other skills required in the post, and only include those factors which are necessary and justifiable on objective criteria for the satisfactory performance of the role.
All volunteers are treated equally and fairly throughout their time with Citizens Advice County Durham
All decisions are made in line with the organisation’s equal opportunities policy
Recognition of Quality Volunteer Experience
