Volunteers will provide advice to those in need
AN East Renfrewshire charity has launched a recruitment drive to attract more volunteers as it tries to meet the growing demand for support.
Based in Barrhead, the East Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau (ERCAB) plays a vital role in helping local residents with a wide range of issues.
People volunteer to help the charity for a variety of reasons but bosses say the role is suitable for anyone who possesses empathy and has a desire to make a positive impact in their community by supporting others.
Volunteering may also appeal to those who would like to meet new people and expand their contacts or who are eager to boost their skills, CV and career prospects and gain an introduction to the world of employment.
Maureen Hill, volunteer coordinator at ERCAB, told the Barrhead News: “You get a full training programme, which is currently sitting at 14 weeks but is spread out and not condensed into 14 weeks by any means.
“It involves going through a two-day induction with myself.
“From that, it goes on to the advisor training programme, which is essential training for anybody who volunteers within the Citizens Advice Bureau, and there is other training with regards to how to use our systems.
“I’m trying to tailor the training to the actual roles to suit individuals.”
Those who step forward to offer their services could become a general advisor.
However, if a particular ERCAB initiative sparks an interest and they have been through general advisor training and gained some experience, they could then shadow whoever is running that project.
Among the initiatives currently being run by ERCAB is the patient advice and support service, which helps people who have any concerns or positive feedback about the NHS.
There is also an energy advice service to help people reduce their gas and electricity bills, as well as an advice project for those connected to the Armed Forces.
In addition, ERCAB has a Money Talks team who can offer guidance on household budgets, with further support provided to help make sure people are receiving all of the benefits they are entitled to.
There are also admin volunteering opportunities, which may particularly suit a younger volunteer who is keen to explore whether working in an office is for them and to build up some experience in this field.
Those who would like to volunteer with ERCAB must be an East Renfrewshire resident, aged 16 or over and have the right to work in Scotland.
To find out more about the opportunities available, call Maureen on 0141 881 3660 or 0141 881 2032.