After graduating from my Law Degree, I wanted to gain more legal experience but was also keen to volunteer. I chose to look into the volunteering opportunities available at Citizens Advice. The Citizens Advice Bureaux provides confidential and impartial advice in 2,500 locations across England and Wales for free! In September, Citizens Advice celebrated 80 years since we it was formed.
The role and application process
There were several roles but I applied for the Gateway Assessor role. This is a role which is client facing and the first point of contact for the clients. It uses many soft skills like listening, questioning, remaining impartial but also empathetic and understanding the client.
I submitted my application which was a simple and straightforward one that asks for previous experience and academics. I was invited for an interview which was more of an informal chat about how I work with others, my understanding of the role and what my career goals were.
I was delighted when I was informed that I got the role and was sent information regarding my start date and induction.
The training
Several volunteers all started at the same time so we were a group who trained all at the same time, for the same role. I undertook a week of training and induction where the different types of queries were discussed, the different areas of law and the services we provide. This includes debt, housing, employment, family, immigration, welfare benefits.
The experience
As gateway assessors we either offered the bureau’s services to the clients, provided information to them or signposted them to another organisation which included AgeUK, Shelter.
I saw clients in person in our drop-in sessions and assessed their situation and then offered our help. I also wrote a summary of what the client required help with and saved their details on our system.
We also had telephone sessions whereby clients living in five local boroughs called in asking for help or clients are also able to submit online queries through the website.
My thoughts…
I thoroughly enjoying volunteering. It was a great insight into different areas of practice which I didn’t have much experience in. It also built my communication skills and allowed me to develop my client-contact. I volunteered once a week for a year and during such time, I achieved my Gateway Assessor certificate (below) and also progressed to trainee Adviser.
I would recommend anyone who wants to build their soft skills, gain legal insights or just wants to volunteer to apply and get involved! Most importantly, clients are always so grateful and the ability to help others is invaluable.
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