Why is student volunteering at Citizens Advice a rewarding experience?
Hear from our student volunteers on their personal and professional growth through volunteering.
Student volunteers support our services across England and Wales in so many ways. We met with 5 volunteers to hear about their experiences, what skills they’ve gained and why they dedicate their free time to help others find a way forward.
“You gain practical knowledge and skills that are invaluable in everyday life — rarely taught in traditional education”
“I volunteer because I want to make a difference in the world. From growing up in Tanzania with Chinese heritage to pursuing higher education in the UK, my multicultural background and international education have significantly influenced my values. I want to use my knowledge and skills to support and empower others.
I was referred to Citizens Advice by the Freedom Law Clinic as a law student placement, giving me the opportunity to utilise my previous volunteering experience with various organisations, encompassing pro bono legal work, education, and translation. Citizens Advice provides an incredibly supportive environment for volunteers making it a perfect place to start. I love how I am encouraged to learn and grow through real and practical experience.”
“Volunteering at Citizens Advice has been a rewarding and eye-opening experience”
“I knew that Citizens Advice would equip me with invaluable skills for a career in public sector policy. I’ve been given the opportunity to have a positive impact on the community I’ve always called home, and develop highly transferable skills. I’ve conducted research into housing insecurity in our local private rental sector to support our office’s research and campaigns work. I’m proud of contributing to solving complex client issues. Also, the gratitude from clients is rewarding.
I want to emphasise how comprehensive the training and support are, with interactive training modules, group sessions led by knowledgeable trainers, and the opportunity to observe experienced advisers. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to build skills while making a real impact in their community.”
“This role has taught me how to approach different people with the confidence that I know what I am doing”
“Being a volunteer since September 2023, I want to make a difference to people’s lives and to learn more about the Criminal Justice System, whilst studying psychology with criminal behaviour. I thought Citizens Advice Witness Service would be the best place to gain some experience that’s relevant to my course.
Every shift is different and there’s always an interesting challenge to overcome and to learn from. It’s having a positive impact on my learning and university grades. I also enjoy the flexibility I have in choosing when my shifts are to best suit my schedule. There’s no pressure from my team leader.
My advice is to have a go. As a volunteer you will surprise yourself with what you are capable of achieving.”
“The volunteers I work with are so lovely and always willing to help”
“Volunteering with the Witness Service has been a lot more than just something to add to the CV! It gives me the chance to utilise my personal skills. I help people at a difficult and stressful time and make their experience less overwhelming. There’s not one set way of supporting a witness. This teaches you to adapt your approach. I have encountered so many different people and feel like I have made a difference in their lives.
My team leader is hugely supportive and takes the time to check in with me (especially after particularly tough cases). She’s been so flexible, allowing me to fit volunteering around my full-time studying. To a student thinking of volunteering I would say go for it! There are no downsides!”
“Volunteering helps your own wellbeing”
“I appreciate the flexibility and time off for exams, alongside making a contribution in other areas and projects to support my academic work.
Meeting new people and being a part of the community has definitely been a huge bonus. Volunteering at Citizens Advice has also been helpful in reinforcing my decisions about my chosen career and future, alongside building my confidence and gaining new skills.”
Are you a student looking to volunteer at Citizens Advice?
Students can apply for a variety of roles with us. Find out more about all our volunteering opportunities on our website.
