Oldham Citizens Advice chief salutes dedicated volunteers

Citizens Advice Oldham, working in collaboration with Citizens Advice Stockport, Rochdale and Trafford, has continued giving advice to those in need throughout the coronavirus pandemic, thanks to the tireless dedication of its staff and volunteers. 

The team quickly rallied to ensure as many people as possible could be helped over the phone or webchat. 

As part of Volunteers’ Week, which runs from June 1-7, Citizens Advice Oldham wanted to thank volunteers for their contribution not only during this exceptional time, but throughout the year.

Across Oldham, Rochdale, Stockport and Trafford, 92 volunteers contribute 440 hours each week.

In the last year, we have helped 43,000 people, with over 100,000 problems, such as debt, housing, benefit and employment issues. 

Keith Lowe, Volunteer at Citizens Advice Oldham, said: “I usually volunteer one day a week, but I have increased this to two days during the national lockdown.

"This has been made easier as I am now able to do my volunteering from home.

"After taking early retirement, I joined Citizens Advice because I did not want to stop learning.

"Volunteering provides me with the opportunity to use my existing skills, whilst gaining new insights into the different communities we help and support.

"The fulfilment that comes with helping another, the satisfaction from knowing you’ve made a difference, and the good old fun factor, are just a few reasons to be a volunteer and it's helped me to realise even the simple actions can have a big impact.”    

Jonathan Yates, Chief Officer at Citizens Advice Oldham, said: “Throughout the year our wonderful volunteers contribute their time and energy to make a huge difference to people’s lives and help keep our vital service running. 

“Whether they have been able to continue in their role recently, or have paused their volunteering, their support throughout the year has been truly invaluable.

“I cannot thank them enough for their continued dedication.

"We really couldn’t do it without them.” 

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