Wyre Forest Citizens Advice secures funding boost for advice services

Wyre Forest Citizens Advice have been successful in securing £65,500 in additional funds to help build their capacity to meet the increasing demand for their free, independent, impartial and confidential advice services by people impacted by the ongoing cost of living crisis.

The funding has been secured from The Government’s Community Organisations Cost of Living Fund which is being delivered by The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest community funder in the UK. Grants will support charities and community organisations in England at the frontline of dealing with the increase in the cost-of-living’

As part of this funding Wyre Forest Citizens Advice is recruiting and training additional volunteers as they say volunteers are needed now more than ever to help make a difference to local people during the cost-of-living crisis.

The charity is launching an appeal for new recruits from all backgrounds who can give their time to help people struggling with energy prices, rising household bills, debt, employment issue and housing issues.

Last year the charity saw unprecedented demand, supporting over 6000 people across the district of Wyre Forest with around 18,000 issues. It can only do this work thanks to its 30 strong team of volunteers.

The charity says no experience is necessary as full training will be provided.

Donna, Volunteer Receptionist and now member of staff at Wyre Forest Citizens Advice said:

“I began volunteering after being made redundant from my previous job. I wanted to understand the issues that were affecting people locally, while offering them my ear during times of difficulty. The support and training that I have received from the team has been amazing and working with friendly and enthusiastic people helped me settle in really quickly.

“Working for Wyre Forest Citizens Advice has been so rewarding. Knowing that I am making a meaningful contribution to people’s lives makes me feel really good about what I am doing. I can literally see a weight lifted off their shoulders after meeting with them, knowing that there is someone in their corner with them.”

As well as volunteers to offer advice to people in person, online or over the phone there are opportunities for people to provide expertise such as fundraising or marketing skills to the charity, provide administrative or IT support or get involved in our Research and Campaigns work. There is also currently the opportunity for those with the right skills and experience to become a Trustee of the charity.

Wyre Forest Citizens Advice volunteers come from all walks of life and choose to volunteer for a variety of reasons. They include students; people getting back into work after career breaks; people with part-time jobs; carers; and people who’ve retired.

Volunteers are often looking to gain valuable experience or to use their existing skills in new ways. Many want to have an impact in their community and find a sense of purpose in helping others. For students in the area, volunteering can help build confidence and support career development with different learning opportunities.

Carol Pratt, Chief Officer at Wyre Forest Citizens Advice said:

“Now more than ever, you can really make a difference by volunteering with Wyre Forest Citizens

Advice. We’re seeing more and more people needing support with managing energy costs, budgeting and debts as costs spiral.’’

“As well as helping the local community, we know people who volunteer their time get a lot back. Whether it’s working as a team, learning new skills or campaigning on issues close to your heart, there are many fulfilling opportunities available.

“We’ll give you all the training you need and would love to hear from you.”

 

To find out more and apply, visit: www.wyreforestcab.org.uk  or contact 01562 60194 or email training@wyreforestcab.org.uk