Volunteer at Poole Citizens Advice Bureau
If you would be interested in joining our team of volunteers, please Download the application form and either email or post it back to us.
Receptionists and admin volunteer roles can be applied for at any time. We take on and train new volunteer advisers and gateway assessors approximately four times a year, when you send us an application, we will let you know when the next intake is due and invite you along accordingly.
The bureau also trains Law students as volunteer advisers while they are taking their degree, this can take place at any time of the year. Additionally we encourage Law students on a sandwich degree course to consider applying to carry out their 40 week placement as a volunteer in the bureau, if you are interested in either of these options, please email Sue@poolecab.co.uk for more details.
Advisers
Being an adviser is a very varied role. As an adviser you will:
• Interview clients at drop-in sessions and appointments in the bureau over the phone and at outreach sessions.
• 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.
Receptionists
Receptionists are the public face of the CAB. They are the main link between the public and the bureau. This role would suit people who are methodical, organised and patient. As a receptionist, you would:
• Greet clients and make them feel comfortable.
• Arrange appointments and answer phonecalls.
• Provide information on the CAB Service to clients.
• Manage the waiting room.
• Keep records.
Administrators
Administrators ensure that bureau systems run smoothly. Good support is essential for the running of any organisation, and CAB is no different. There are many different administrative roles - we can match your skills and time available to the bureau's needs. Tasks may include:
• Greet clients and make them feel comfortable.
• Arrange appointments and answer phonecalls.
• Provide information on the CAB Service to clients.
• Manage the waiting room.
• Keep records.