Volunteers' Week: Citizens Advice bosses praise volunteers' hard work as they call for more support dealing with issues

Volunteers’ efforts from Citizens Advice in Fareham and Gosport have helped many people across the social spectrum deal with problems from employment issues to domestic violence and more.

The support services across the neighbouring towns responded swiftly to lockdown by setting up volunteer advisers from home and, although they are not currently seeing clients face-to-face, they continue to offer the same level of support over the phone or via the online service.

As part of Volunteers’ Week, Citizens Advice Gosport wants to thank volunteers for their contribution not only during this exceptional time, but throughout the year.

Valerie Kelly, chief officer at Citizens Advice Gosport, said: ‘Throughout the year our wonderful volunteers contribute their time and energy to make a huge difference to peoples’ lives and help keep our vital service running.

‘Whether they have been able to continue in their role recently, or have paused their volunteering, their support throughout the year has been truly invaluable.

‘I cannot thank them enough for their continued dedication. We really couldn’t do it without them.’

A campaign launched by Citizens Advice Fareham aims to train up more new volunteers in order to help those across the social spectrum who have been affected by employment issues, domestic violence and more.

Many of these issues are likely to continue even when ‘normal life’ resumes, meaning the service may be busier than usual, to a point where there could be delays in getting advice for those who need help.

Biddy Mayo, chief officer at the Fareham branch, said: ‘There has always been a need for volunteers at Citizens Advice but we are now asking the community to consider joining us to assist with the overwhelming increase in demand on our service.

‘We can offer you great training and great company. Your contribution will change people’s lives. We need advisers for telephone, digital and face-to-face roles once lockdown ends. Please get in contact, we'd love to hear from you.’

If you would like to know more about volunteering for Citizens Advice contact [email protected] for Fareham or [email protected] for Gosport.

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