Volunteering Opportunities at the Bureau

• Interview clients at drop-in sessions and   appointments in the bureau and over the phone
• Give information from the CAB electronic information system and other sources
• Give advice in explaining the choices and consequences the client faces
• Give practical help by writing letters, making phone calls, completing forms, doing calculations and even representing clients at tribunals
• Refer clients to other agencies if they are better placed to help
• Keep records of all clients' cases
• Prevent future problems by identifying issues that affect a lot of clients

You don't need any particular qualifications or experience to train as an adviser. All sorts of people are CAB advisers. You need to:

• Be good at listening
• Be able to work in a team
• Be able to read and write English, and do basic maths
• Be open-minded and non-judgemental
• Enjoy helping people

Support every step of the way

Advisers don't need to know it all! We provide all trainee advisers with a comprehensive accredited training programme that will give you the skills you need to deliver a high quality service to clients. Our up-to-the-minute electronic information system contains most of the information you will need when advising clients. You won't be left alone after you are trained. There will always be a more experienced adviser, who will give you support, advice and guidance. All advisers are insured by CAB in case mistakes are made. Once you have qualified as a Generalist Adviser, you will have the opportunity to develop further skills and increase the depth and breadth of your knowledge.

RECEPTIONISTS

ADMINISTRATORS

• Using spread sheets, databases and word processing packages
• Maintaining and developing administrative systems
• Stock control of leaflets and materials and updating information
• Helping to arrange events
• Receiving and sending faxes, mail, email and telephone calls
• Taking notes and minutes at meetings

 TRUSTEE BOARD MEMBERS

• Maintaining an awareness of the business of the bureau
• Taking responsibility for ensuring his or her own learning and development
• Regularly attending, preparing for and taking a full part in meetings
• Actively contributing to setting policy and strategic direction, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance
• Monitoring whether the service complies with its governing document, whether it meets Citizens Advice standards and how well the advice needs of the local community are being met
• Monitoring the financial position of the bureau and ensuring that it operates within its means and objects, and that there are clear lines of accountability for day-to-day financial management
• Supporting the development of the bureau through participation in agreed projects
• Actively seeking to further the strategic objectives of the bureau, and acting in the best interests of the bureau at all times
• Maintaining confidentiality about any sensitive / confidential information received in the course of duties as a trustee