Volunteer Receptionist - Citizens Advice Lewisham

What You'll Do: 

As a Volunteer Receptionist, you’ll be the first point of contact for our clients, welcoming them with warmth and ensuring they feel supported from the moment they arrive. You’ll be responsible for a variety of important tasks that help keep our service running smoothly, including:

  • Greeting clients and explaining procedures, such as waiting times and next steps.
  • Inputting client information into our database (CASEBOOK) and maintaining records accurately.
  • Managing appointments and supporting our advisers by handling phone enquiries and passing on messages.
  • Handling client information with the utmost care, ensuring privacy and discretion at all times.
  • Maintaining a tidy and welcoming reception area and keeping it stocked with relevant information.
  • Supporting with scanning, filing, and handling post, ensuring everything is processed efficiently.

 

You’ll ensure that every client feels respected and supported while maintaining strict confidentiality, an essential aspect of our service.

 

Your role is essential to making sure every client has a positive experience and gets the support they need.

Why You'll Love It: 

Volunteering at Citizens Advice Lewisham is not just about what you can give; it’s about what you’ll gain. You’ll be provided with:

  • Training on our systems to help you perform your role confidently and effectively.
  • Ongoing support and supervision to ensure you’re comfortable and equipped to succeed.
  • Opportunities for personal growth—while you won’t be trained to give advice in this role, you’ll learn new skills that can be useful in other areas of life or potential future roles with us.

 

You’ll be joining a diverse, welcoming team that values your contributions and supports you every step of the way.

 

As a valued volunteer, you’ll enjoy:

  • The opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives.
  • The chance to meet new people and work in a dynamic, friendly environment.
  • A sense of purpose, knowing you’re part of a service that helps people navigate life’s challenges.
  • Out-of-pocket expenses, including travel, will be reimbursed.
What We're Looking For: 

To succeed as a Volunteer Receptionist, you will need:

  • Basic IT skills, including familiarity with using Google services (email, docs, calendar).
  • Excellent literacy and good numeracy skills, as accurate record-keeping and managing information are key parts of the role.
  • Good communication skills—you’ll need to communicate clearly, both in person and over the phone.
  • Empathy and understanding—our clients may be experiencing difficult circumstances, so it’s important to listen, support, and respect their confidentiality.
  • The ability to work as part of a team, and on your own initiative when needed.
  • A commitment to equity and diversity, ensuring everyone is treated with fairness and respect.

 

To get the most out of this opportunity and contribute effectively to our team, we ask for a commitment of:

  • 1 to 2 days per week (minimum 1 day, preferably 2).
  • A minimum volunteering period of 9 months.

This helps us provide a consistent and reliable service for our clients, and ensures that you gain the full benefit from the training and experience we offer.

 

To apply, please complete this application form. Applications will not be received otherwise.

Summary
Volunteering
Volunteer
Legal rights and advice
Lewisham
26 Weeks Minimum
8 Hours / Week
Skills you will develop: 
Active listening
Applying Technology
Communicating
Emotional intelligence

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