We are a local charity and our work would not be possible without our fantastic volunteers to keep our service running. We are currently recruiting for volunteers to join our friendly team. Please see an outline of the different roles below. Full training will be given.
Please email [email protected] for more information.
Roles for Volunteers
Adviceline Telephone Assessors
Adviceline is our Dorset-wide telephone service. As an assessor you will answer calls from the public on a wide variety of topics (see below). You will explore the client’s situation and look up relevant information to help. You may be office-based or working remotely but you will always have support.
Adviser
You may be helping clients with more complex cases by phone, email, webchat or in person. You will have access to a wider range of specialist information and may write letters or make phone calls on behalf of clients. You will still be advising on a wide range of subjects and will still have support from other members of the team.
Receptionist
You will be the friendly face to greet our clients in person. You will also answer the
phone and complete administrative tasks such as filing, scanning and photocopying.
What Subjects Can Advisers Advise On?
- Welfare benefits
- Debt/money
- Consumer
- Housing
- Relationship & family
- Employment
- Immigration and nationality
- Legal matters
- Tax
- Disability information
- Discrimination
- Education
- Health matters
- Completing forms
How Much Time Is Involved?
After initial training a minimum of one day per week is required from our volunteers. This may be spread over two days – we try to be as flexible as possible. All staff are also expected to attend monthly staff meetings and further ongoing training.
What Qualifications Do You Need?
No formal qualifications necessary as full training provided. However, you will need:
- The ability and willingness to work within the aims, principles and equal opportunities of the Citizens Advice service
- Good communication skills
- Good IT skills
- Ability to interact with and respect others
- Openness to new ideas and willingness to learn
What Training Will You Receive?
You will join our 12 week academic training programme for advisers. This involves group and self-study, e-learning, webinars and observation. You will need to commit to 1-2 days a week but hours are flexible. This is followed by practical experience in a very supportive environment leading to certification.
Why Do People Volunteer?
We are often asked by clients “Why do you do this work? You aren’t paid!”. Some of the reasons given by advisers are:
I volunteered for CA work because….”I wanted to do something worthwhile to help others, and develop myself personally and intellectually.“
What I like most about coming in is….”The friendship from fellow advisers – the support shown, the exchange of ideas and opinions.“
It’s lovely when….”You get a successful result, and when you know the client really appreciates the effort that has been made on their behalf – then it’s brilliant.“