Volunteer Scotland

Generalist Adviser

  • VO88021

Description

We are looking for people keen to develop and learn new skills to help other local people with a wide range of issues/enquiries. Intensive training will be given for this interesting and very varied role.

Role Description:

We have a very comprehensive training programme which involves e-learning, taught sessions (f2f, zoom and/or teams). Training can take approx 6 months to complete and we would require a commitment to volunteer for at least 6 hours per week. The range of topics covered is varied and includes debt, benefits, employment, family, legal, housing, health, consumer and immigration. Regular attendance and participation in on-going training is essential. Specialist training opportunities are available to experienced advisers.
Traditionally most advice has been delivered face to face in the bureau. However, due to Covid 19 we have adjusted our service to provide support by telephone, e-mail and virtual methods. These have proved very successful and will be developed further to improve accessibility for those unable to come in to the bureau.

Volunteering opportunities for other roles within the bureau will be considered and may be tailored to suit anyone keen to be involved with CAB but not as an Adviser.

Organisation aims and objectives

Central Borders Citizens Advice Bureau (CBCAB) is a member of the Scottish Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux, the nationwide network of independent advice agencies. We offer free, independent, confidential, impartial information and advice from our office in Galashiels. Help is available to all members of the Central Borders community and we work with over 1,500 clients per year. The Bureau’s aims are: • to ensure that people do not suffer through lack of knowledge of their rights and responsibilities or of the services available to them, or through an inability to express their needs effectively. • to exercise a responsible influence on the development of social policy and services both locally and nationally.

Availability

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Restrictions

Experience required: • Excellent communication skills (verbal and written) • Open, approachable and enthusiastic • Able to sift through information and extract what is relevant • Respectful of views and values which may be different from your own • Able to work within a team • Able to use computers • Willing to undertake training for the role • Based within the Central Borders Area (Eildon)
Travel details: Citizen's Advice Bureau, 111 High Street, Galashiels, Scottish Borders.
Minimum age: 18

Support

Expenses paid: Yes
Training details: Completing of Citizens Advice Scotland Adviser Training Programme
Support: Named Contact For Volunteer

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