Advocacy

» Opportunities for Service » Advising

Ever had a problem and not known who to turn to for information or advice? Many people find themselves in difficulties when trying to sort out problems with:

• Money - benefits, employment, tax, debt
• Family - relationships, health, housing, education
• Daily life - communications, consumer affairs, travel
• Rights - civil rights, legal system, immigration

The Citizens Advice service helps people resolve their problems by providing free, independent and confidential advice, and by influencing policymakers. There is a Citizens Advice Bureau here in Arbroath, and like all the other branches across the UK, it is a registered charity reliant on trained volunteers to provide these vital services for our community.

Most volunteers are advisers, providing information and advice on almost any topic. Advisers don't tell clients what to do, but explain their options and the possible outcomes of different courses of action. Advisers encourage clients to make their own decisions and act on their own behalf. A CAB adviser would first interview a client, and then offer various forms of help depending on their needs:

• help them negotiate with people such as creditors or service providers
• give assistance to draft letters and fill in forms
• make telephone calls on behalf of clients
• refer them to other agencies
• represent them in court and at tribunals.

All advisers receive comprehensive free training so do not need any previous qualifications, skills or experience. However, they need to be open-minded, non-judgemental, be able to listen, learn, and work in a team.
Other opportunities for volunteering within the service include reception, social policy work and updating the information system.

In Arbroath, the CAB is looking for volunteers who could commit several hours each week to either work in their office in Millgate Loan during the day (10am-4pm), or help to expand the service by working in outreach clinics in youth clubs, which will mostly be in the evenings.

Here are what some CAB volunteers have said about their experiences:
"It is the most interesting and rewarding voluntary work I have ever done."
"I get a real feeling of satisfaction from making a difference, especially for people less able to stand up for their rights."

To find out more about volunteering with the Arbroath CAB, contact Kathy Anderson on 870-661.

Even if you feel this volunteering opportunity isn't for you, please be aware of the valuable service that the CAB offers, and be ready to point people towards the Bureau for help and advice if they need it. The CAB also offer their comprehensive information system online at www.adviceguide.org.uk.