Decide if volunteering with us is right for you
We have many different volunteer roles available across our network of local Citizens Advice offices. Each office is an independent charity, which means specific roles might vary.
Volunteering usually takes place at a local Citizens Advice office, but some offices might have roles you can do from home.
The main volunteer roles are:
giving information and advice to clients - for example, in person, on the phone or online
admin, customer service or supporting other volunteers
fundraising, media, research and campaigns
supporting the charity by being a trustee
Before you apply, it's a good idea to think about what you want to get from volunteering. You might want to learn new skills, get experience of being in a workplace or make a difference in your community.
To help you decide which role might suit you best, you can fill in the short quiz on our Google form.
Time commitments for volunteer roles
Most volunteers spend at least 4 hours a week with us, usually between Monday and Friday. For some roles, it might be more.
Volunteering usually takes place in a local office between 9am and 5pm, but some offices have remote roles you can do from home. Some offices also run evening or weekend sessions.
Roles in research, campaigns, media and fundraising often offer flexible hours. If you're only free in the evenings, a trustee role might suit you.
When you apply, your local Citizens Advice will talk to you about your availability to help find a role that fits.
Training and support
You don’t need any previous experience or knowledge to volunteer with us - we'll give you all the training and support you need.
The amount of time it takes before you start helping clients depends on the role you've applied for.
For information giving roles, like helping people find information or digital support, it might take a few weeks. If you’re giving advice to clients, it will take longer.
For other roles, like admin or research and campaigns, you can often get started quickly.
You’ll also get support and supervision throughout your time with us. If you’re volunteering as an adviser, you’ll have access to a supervisor to guide you.
If you need extra support or equipment
We want Citizens Advice to be an inclusive place to volunteer.
If you need any extra support or equipment to apply, train or do your role, let us know. We’ll work with you to make sure you have what you need.
Claiming expenses
We don’t want you to be out of pocket when you volunteer. You’ll be reimbursed reasonable expenses - for example, travel expenses.
Every local Citizens Advice has its own expenses policy. They'll share this with you so you know what to expect.
Volunteer as a trustee
As a trustee, you can help lead an organisation that’s making a difference to clients and local communities.
Every local Citizens Advice has its own board of trustees. They lead the charity and make sure the service meets the needs of local communities.
You don't need any specific experience or qualifications to be a trustee. Local boards welcome people of all ages and backgrounds who have good judgment and can work well in a team.
You can find out about the 6 main duties of a trustee on GOV.UK.
Time commitments for trustee roles
Trustee boards usually meet in the evenings, either in person or online. On average, trustees volunteer for around 8 hours a month.
Trustees might also give support with things like budgets, recruitment and communications.
Find a volunteer role
You can search for volunteering and trustee roles.
When you apply, you'll need to answer a few questions and give your contact details.
The local office will contact you about what happens next. This might involve:
filling in an application form
an informal chat or interview
an introductory session
Search for volunteering and trustee roles at Citizens Advice.