Call for volunteers to work with Western Isles Citizens Advice Service at new offices in Liniclate
Iain Stephen Morrison
Western Isles Citizens Advice Service has relocated from Balivanich to a new suite of offices with the UHI centre in Liniclate.
“It was not fit for purpose where we were and here we have spacious offices, full facilities, car parking and good access for clients. We are looking at external transport providers to make sure that our clients can access our services from the new premises,” explained strategic manager Hector MacLeod.
“Some of our rooms were upstairs in the previous office, which was not accessible to everyone. In the new base we have room to expand further with staffing and encourage more volunteers,” added operations manager Lynda MacLean.
Due to recent rise in the cost of living, demand for Citizens Advice Bureau support is on the increase. During the last 12 months the Western Isles Citizens Advice Service had 4342 contacts with 2027 clients, gave 8033 pieces of advice and secured a client financial gain of £912,757. It is expected the figure is an underestimate and could well be topped in 2022.
“People are having such a hard time with the cost of living increasing and wages not going up and neither are benefits. We have a lot of clients who are on the breadline or below who cannot afford to keep going. We deal with most issues and if there is something we cannot help with, we will pass the case on to someone who can,” continued Lynda.
“I did not appreciate the work and the extent of advice that WICAS delivered before coming to work here,” said Hector, who was appointed at the end of 2021. “Partnership working across the islands is so crucial to our work and all part of the package of providing a great service.”
Western Isles Citizens Advice Service is now seeking volunteers to support the staff team from the new base at Liniclate.
“Now we have the space we are looking for people to volunteer as advisors or to cover reception, and carry out administrative tasks or come on as board members. Full training will be offered from our training officer and there is also a pack from CAB,” continued Lynda.
“It is adaptable and we can work together with a volunteer to get the best for both them and the client. I would encourage anyone interested to call in and have a chat. We are also looking for directors to steer the governance and are keen to have representation from across the islands,” added Hector.
Western Isles Citizens Advice Service recently attained ‘Living Wage Employer’ accreditation in part in recognition of the crucial support team members provide to individuals across the Outer Hebrides.
