If you're struggling with bills, debt, or benefits applications in Barnet this Christmas, help could be closer than you think – but only if there are enough trained volunteers to provide it. Citizens Advice Barnet has launched an urgent Christmas appeal to fund training for new volunteers, as demand for their services soars amid the ongoing cost of living crisis.
The charity has seen a sharp increase in residents turning to them for help, many of whom are also using the Chipping Barnet Foodbank. These new volunteers will be specially trained to offer practical advice right at the foodbank, meaning families picking up emergency food can also get expert guidance on tackling debt, claiming benefits they're entitled to, or dealing with housing problems – all in one visit.
This couldn't come at a more crucial time. Across the UK, households are still feeling the squeeze from rising costs, and local advice services like Citizens Advice Barnet are often people's lifeline when things get tough. The organisation provides free, confidential support to help residents navigate everything from employment disputes to family issues, but they need more hands on deck to meet the growing need.
Training volunteers properly takes investment – covering materials, mentoring, and ongoing support to ensure they can offer the best possible advice. But it's worth every penny. When someone gets the right guidance early, it can prevent a crisis from spiralling – stopping evictions, helping families claim thousands in unclaimed benefits, or simply giving people the confidence to tackle problems they thought were insurmountable.
The appeal reflects something important: these local services are often the first place people turn when they're in crisis, and their impact goes far beyond immediate problem-solving. By expanding their volunteer team, Citizens Advice Barnet hopes to cut waiting times and reach even more vulnerable residents who need support during these challenging times. It's about ensuring no one in the community has to face financial hardship alone.