Caithness CAB manager keen to 'blitz' myths about volunteering
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Caithness Citizens Advice Bureau has begun Volunteers' Week by "blitzing" what it says are five popular myths about volunteering.
The organisation says demand has never been greater and it is asking people to consider volunteering to give free advice on issues such as debt, benefits and housing.
Volunteers' Week takes place from June 1-7 every year and is a chance for community groups and charities to celebrate volunteers and the contribution they make.
Caithness CAB manager Sadie Kevill said: “CAB volunteering is a great way to spend your free time – giving something to your community and also building skills and experience, and working with the fantastic team we have here.
“But we are aware there are a lot of misconceptions about CAB volunteering, so this year I want to blitz those so people know what volunteering here is really about.
“First of all, you don’t need to have lots of experience of advice-giving or dealing with the public. Those are skills that we can teach you, and we take people with all levels of experience. We train all volunteers for free, so you won’t be thrown in at the deep end.
“Second, you don’t need to have any qualifications. Honestly, our current group of volunteers include university graduates and people who left school at 16. What matters is your commitment to doing something for your community and your willingness to learn.
“Third, we don’t expect you to commit to a 40-hour week. If you can give us a minimum of six hours per week for advice, and less for any other volunteering roles, we’ll be happy to have you – and we’ll arrange those hours around your other commitments.
“Fourth, there’s no age requirement. We’ve had volunteers here from 18 to 80 – it really doesn’t matter, as long as you’re willing.
“And finally, advisers are not the only type of volunteer we are looking for. We also need people to help in other types of roles, like receptionist, social media or maintenance, and joining our management board is an important role as well.
“Those are the five myths that can stop people applying to come and join us. So, I hope I’ve exploded those and that some local people will come and talk to us about giving some of their time to volunteer with us.
"Come and see us at the CAB or call 01847 894243 or email bureau@caithnesscab.casonline.org.uk.”
Mrs Kevill added: "We really, really need you – so if you’ve ever thought about it, now is the best possible time."
