In the run up to retiring at 60, I began looking for a voluntary role with an organisation that provided real practical help to people in the community. My hope was to find a safe and friendly environment, but also one with a professional and serious approach, where I would be learning something new, as well as helping others.
I researched a few ideas, but I was particularly impressed with the conversations I had with Citizens Advice in North & West Kent and the training and support they provided. The work they do has always been important, but as we move from the Covid pandemic into a cost-of-living crisis, the work has become ever more relevant to a growing number of people.
I have been very impressed with the training and development provided and surprised by the interesting diversity of the work. The people I work with are great and this provides a very nice professional social aspect two days per week, which is something I had missed during Covid and on retiring from the workplace.
Everyone is very committed to the work and while the time is a real commitment, the organisation is flexible to make this work around family life. There is always support around you from more experienced colleagues and ultimately, the work is very important and worthwhile, which is exactly what I was looking for.
John- Generalist Adviser