AN URGENT appeal for volunteers has been issued with the citizens advice network in the Borders facing unprecedented levels of demand.

Citizens Advice Bureaus (CABs) across the region say they have seen a "significant increase" in cases during the cost-of-living crisis.

More volunteers are needed to cope with the demand, with roles available as advisers, board members and trustees, and treasurers.

Debbie is a volunteer generalist adviser with the Peebles CAB. She has a background in banking and finance, and has also worked in the third sector and as a manager for a national charity.

“I’ve been a CAB volunteer for about a year now, and I absolutely love it," said Debbie. “I wanted to give something back to the community, and I also wanted to make the most of the skills I had.

“Volunteering here is great. It makes me feel that I’m making a difference. It’s about enabling people to take control of their lives and giving them a voice. I really enjoy how varied the work is and even after a year I feel I’m still learning new things here. It’s just so satisfying when you resolve an issue for someone and empower them to decide to make different life choices and changes.

“I would encourage anyone to give it a go as a volunteer. It is really enjoyable and is varied work. There is great ongoing support from CAB and from colleagues. I’ve made some really good friends here too.”

The Borders network has fewer advisers than in 2021 and yet demand has increased by up to 27 per cent.

Training and development officer Colin Robson said: “Volunteering at a CAB is a hugely rewarding experience. You learn new skills and get great experience, but above all you are helping people who often don’t know where to turn.

“When we do help, it is wonderful to see those same people leave looking intensely relieved, having talked through their problems and found practical solutions.

“As an adviser you get immense satisfaction from doing that sort of work. You don’t need to have any prior experience or qualifications; we’ll train you, and you also get expenses, and you can work in any one of our offices – in Peebles, Galashiels, Selkirk, Duns, Hawick, Eyemouth and Newcastleton.

“We’re looking for people of all ages and backgrounds. There really has never been a better time. You can drop into any of our offices to ask about volunteering, email us at volunteer.borders@cas.org.uk or call us on 01896 753889.”