The charity is inviting local residents to find out more about volunteering at its new King’s Lynn office, with a friendly open morning on Friday 6 November, from 10am until noon.
And there’s already plenty of evidence of just how much difference the service is making.
Since moving into its new premises in August, Norfolk Citizens Advice has helped 130 West Norfolk residents access free, confidential advice, securing more than £180,000 in additional income and helping write off over £30,000 of unmanageable debt.
For people struggling with household bills, benefits, debt or other everyday challenges, that support can be life-changing.
A little time can make a big difference
With demand for advice expected to increase during the winter months, the charity is looking for more volunteers to join its King’s Lynn team.
There are opportunities to suit different interests and abilities, and no previous experience is necessary.
Some volunteers train to become advisers, helping people understand their options and find solutions to problems. Others provide a friendly voice on the telephone or lend their skills to fundraising, social media and website support.
Full initial training and ongoing support are provided, and volunteers can give as little as half a day each week.
The charity says volunteering is not only an opportunity to help others but also a chance to meet new people, learn useful skills and become part of a supportive local team.
People helping people
Mark Hitchcock, Chief Executive of Norfolk Citizens Advice, said volunteers have been at the heart of the organisation since its beginnings during the Second World War.
“Citizens Advice began during the Second World War, helping people with problems such as lost ration books, homelessness and evacuation. From the very start, volunteers ran the service, working from public buildings and private homes.”
He explained that although the organisation has grown considerably, its reliance on people willing to help others remains unchanged.
“Our goal, put simply, is to help everyone in need find a way forward, whatever problem they face. We’d love more people in West Norfolk to join us in this mission, so we can reach more people, more quickly.”
A new home in the heart of King’s Lynn
Norfolk Citizens Advice moved into the Connections building at St James House in August, joining several other local charities working under one roof.
The new premises provide additional space for appointments, emergency cases and telephone advice, while making it easier for organisations to work together to support people with different needs.
The charity also works with partners across West Norfolk, including the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Tapping House and The Swan Youth Project.
Mike Jenkins, Locality Manager for West Norfolk at Norfolk Citizens Advice, believes the new office provides an opportunity to make an even greater difference locally.
“It’s about people helping people. Every day we meet individuals facing challenges, and sometimes the smallest piece of support can make a huge difference.”
He added: “By giving a little of your time, you can help change someone’s day, their confidence, or even the direction of their life. Along the way, you’ll learn new skills, meet great people and become part of a team that genuinely cares about our community.”
Come along for a cuppa
Anyone interested in volunteering is welcome to attend the charity’s open morning on Friday 6 November, between 10am and 12pm, at its new office in the Connections building, St James House, King’s Lynn.
There’s no need to make a commitment on the day. Visitors can simply drop in, meet the team, look around the office and ask questions over complimentary tea, coffee and cake.
Whether you have experience to share, would like to learn something new or simply want to give a little back to your community, the charity would be delighted to hear from you.
To register your interest or find out more about volunteering, visit the Norfolk Citizens Advice website and select the volunteering section.
And who knows? A couple of hours of your time each week could turn out to be one of the most rewarding things you do this winter.
