If you want to make a real difference to people's lives by giving information to help them solve problems and have only 4 hours a week to give, this new role is for you.
As an Information Volunteer you can work face to face or on the telephone in adviceline. You will:
* Explore issues with clients to be able to provide them with options to help them solve their problems
* Give information, guidance and support to clients or signpost/refer to other services
* write a summary of the clients' problems and what action you've taken
* look out for problems that are common, or are unfair, and record information to support Citizens Advice research and campaigns work
Information Volunteer is a new role in our service, once this training is completed you can move on to further training to become an Advice Volunteer or potentially stay as an Information Volunteer depending on how well the pilot works. You provide an essential service supporting our communities and you can volunteer in our offices across Northumberland. We pay agreed travel expenses to and from your home to your local office or training venues.
Previous experience is not necessary as full training is provided.
Information Volunteer Role:
What will you do?
* complete an introduction to Citizens Advice and training for your role
* explore issues with clients to be able to provide them with options to help them solve their problems
* Give information, guidance and support to clients or signpost/refer to other services
* write a summary of the clients' problems and what action you've taken
* look out for problems that are common, or are unfair, and record information to support Citizens Advice research and campaigns work
What's in it for you?
* make a real difference to people's lives
* develop or use your skills to do something worthwhile
* gain experience in a working environment and increase your employability
* good quality training that helps you learn about a range of issues such as benefits, debt and housing
* meet and work with a range of different people and be part of a friendly and inclusive team.
* be involved and have a positive impact in your community
And we'll reimburse expenses too.
What do you need to have?
You don't need specific qualifications or skills but you'll need to:
* be friendly, approachable and patient
* be non-judgmental and respect views, values and cultures that are different to your own
* have good communication skills
* confident with using IT
* work within Citizens Advice key principles and policies, including equity, diversity and inclusion, confidentiality and data protection
* be willing to undertake training in your role
How much time do you need to give?
We ask for a minimum time commitment of 4 hours per week. We can be flexible about how you deliver this so come and talk to us.
Valuing inclusion
Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and we particularly welcome applications from racially minoritised people/people of colour, disabled people, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBTQ+ and non-binary people.
If you are interested in becoming an Information volunteer and would like to discuss flexibility around location, time, 'what you will do' and how we can support you please contact us.
Job Type: Volunteer
Benefits:
* Flexitime
* Free or subsidised travel
Work Location: In person