Life in Leven

Towards the end of last year the team in our Leven office began to test out a slightly different way of managing their drop in sessions.  Some of the volunteers who had previously been in a back of house administrative role started to meet with clients initially to gather some basic information from them.  This really seems to have made a difference to how quickly advisers can get on with the task of helping clients manage their problem effectively.  The volunteers who have taken on this new role have also really enjoyed this new challenge. 

Morag says, " I enjoy the interaction without having the responsibility of an adviser, this role gives me insight into the reasons people need CARF".

Early indicators are that this role has had a positive impact on the numbers of clients advisers can help during a busy drop-in session.  We are now hoping to train a few more people in a couple of our other offices to see how a similar system might work for them.  We have training sessions planned for Wednesday 8th and 15th February 2017 to take new volunteers (or existing volunteers looking for a new or additional role) through what would be expected of them.  We’re keen for people who might be interested in this role to join our teams in Cowdenbeath and Kirkcaldy. 

Training is also due to start in February for volunteers who could help clients complete disability benefit claim forms.  We have lots of clients looking for help with these and with more volunteers available, we could see more people and reduce the waiting times for our clients.  If you’d like to apply for either of these roles, please contact Catriona Skinner for an application form or pop into one of our offices and collect one.