CITIZENS Advice Tameside 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 as services saw unprecedented demand. Often this has meant a shift to providing support through phone and web chat.
As part of Volunteers’ Week, which runs from June 1-7, Citizens Advice Tameside wants to thank volunteers for their exceptional contribution to the service and local community.
More than 30 volunteers at Citizens Advice Tameside, contribute over 3,000 hours each year.
In the last year, Citizens Advice Tameside has helped over 7,000 people with more than 25,000 problems such as debt, housing, benefit and employment issues.
Zuliakha, a volunteer since 2018, said: “I started volunteering for Tameside Citizens Advice in 2018, and continued through the Covid-19 period. Volunteering for Citizens Advice Tameside has been life changing for me.
“It gave me the opportunity to build my confidence, gain skills and crucial training to be able to advise and help others in crisis.
“It is an honour for me to work with the fabulous team at Tameside Citizens Advice, and very fulfilling knowing that I have been able to help others at their time of need.”
Norman Mackie, chair at Citizens Advice Tameside, added: “Our wonderful team of volunteers dedicate their time and skills to ensure that people in Tameside can get support in their time of need.
“I’m particularly proud of the immense dedication they’ve shown during this pandemic – some operating from living rooms and kitchens to keep the service running.
“Their dedication and commitment knows no bounds. We simply couldn’t do it without them.”
Find out more about volunteering with Citizens Advice Tameside here.