The thanks come as part of Volunteers’ Week, which will run from 1 to 7 June 2022.

Citizens Advice East Dorset & Purbeck has seen a huge number of enquiries from local people struggling to stay on top of household bills as the cost-of-living crisis bites. Thanks to the tireless dedication of the charity’s volunteers and staff, essential advice and crisis support is helping people find a way forward.

Volunteer adviser, Carol, has given her time for over three years. She said: “I decided to volunteer at Citizens Advice because I wanted to make use of my skills and help the community.

“Knowing that you’ve helped an individual or a family to move forward with their lives is very rewarding. We have a great team of advisers which provide support and I love being part of this.”

A total of 51 volunteers at Citizens Advice East Dorset & Purbeck contribute 301 hours each week and in the past year, they have helped nearly 5,000 people with over 16,000 problems, such as debt, housing, benefit and employment issues.

Helen Goldsack, chief officer, Citizens Advice in East Dorset & Purbeck, said: “We have an incredible team of volunteers who freely give their time and skills to ensure local residents can get support in their time of need.

“We are particularly proud of the immense dedication they’ve shown during the on-going cost-of-living crisis, when demand for our help is so high. Their dedication and commitment knows no bounds. We simply couldn’t do it without them.

“As a thank you, we are holding a picnic for everyone. It’s an opportunity for the staff and volunteers to get together and for us as an organisation to show our appreciation of their hard work and commitment.”

If you’re interested in finding out more about volunteering with Citizens Advice in East Dorset & Purbeck, visit www.edpcitizensadvice.org.uk or contact mandi.douglas@edpcitizensadvice.org.uk. No experience is required, full training and support is provided for volunteer roles.

Citizens Advice in East Dorset & Purbeck is able to offer free advice and support on a range of different issues include, debt, benefits, employment, housing and relationships. Call the Dorset Adviceline on 0800 144 8848 or visit www.edpcitizensadvice.org.uk