Why it matters: The charity supported 10,000 people in the Ipswich area in 2025 with issues including energy bills, rising household costs, debt, employment problems, housing problems, scams and other consumer issues.
The details: Ahead of Student Volunteering Week, which runs from Sunday, 9 February to Saturday, 15 February, Citizens Advice Ipswich is launching an appeal for students from all backgrounds who can spare time to support people in need.
New volunteers could help in offering advice to people in person, online or over the phone, or provide marketing, administrative or IT support to the charity.
What they're saying: Helen Bloomfield, advice services manager at Citizens Advice Ipswich, said: "Our volunteers make a real difference to the lives of people across the community. Household budgets are being stretched to breaking point, which means our frontline advisers are helping huge numbers of people with their bills and debt, as well as housing and consumer issues."
She added: "We know that people find volunteering with us really rewarding. As well as helping their local community, volunteering can be extremely valuable for students in particular, especially when faced with an uncertain graduate jobs market. It gives you real world experience both personally and professionally – building confidence, working as part of a team, and learning new skills."
For context: Saffeen, a trainee adviser at Citizens Advice Ipswich who has been volunteering since September, said: "I was entering my final year at university when I decided to join Citizens Advice. I was looking to gain some valuable work experience and as I am seeking a career in politics and public service, there was no better choice than this charity with its emphasis on both helping people and trying to reduce the reasons why people need help."
He added: "Some of the things I've gained so far: first, grounded and realistic lived experience of my community. Secondly, really fantastic experience of working in a professional sector, which is extremely difficult to get as a student. Lastly, I've learned an immense amount about the UK's entire system. From laws to rights to welfare and employment."
What's next: The charity runs regular information sessions so potential volunteers can find out more about what volunteering involves. Full training is provided to all new volunteers.
The bottom line: Citizens Advice Ipswich is offering students the chance to gain valuable work experience and build professional skills while making a real difference to people struggling with the cost of living crisis in their local community.
To find out more, email training@ipswichcab.org.uk
