VISITS to Dunmow’s Citizens Advice Bureau have nearly doubled in the last two years and according to staff the recent recession is the hottest topic in town.

Since the relocation of the branch office at the beginning of April the CAB staff and volunteers have been increasingly busy – there were 144 client calls in June alone.

Manager Kate Robson said: “The economy has just come out of the longest recession since 1955, and the impact of job losses, cuts in income and debts remains substantial.

“At the moment the bureau operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but CAB is looking pro-actively at the funding and volunteer requirements needed to open for an extra day in order to keep pace with the growing workload.”

With expansion in mind the bureau, which operates as a charity, is looking for extra volunteers to help man the desks and help people in need of crucial advice.

Currently there are a number of volunteer opportunities available and the charity is urgently looking to recruit four advisors and two advice assistants with training starting in September.

All advisors are given free formal and on-the-job training in a highly supportive and stimulating environment with travel expenses paid.

Mrs Robson added: “The benefits to the volunteers are immeasurable. Volunteers recently told me that they got a real feeling of satisfaction from making a difference, especially for people less able to stand up for their rights.”

The recently opened offices are located at The Chestnuts, Suite 8, 4 Stortford Road and the staff are able to dispense advice and help on resolving legal, money, and other problems.

Currently 70 volunteers and eight part-time staff members work across Uttlesford. To become part of the team, or to find out more, call the non-advice line on 01799 526557.

For appointments and advice ring 08444 77 59 86. Opening times are 9.30am to 3.30pm Tuesday and Thursday. Or visitadviceguide.org.uk

STRUGGLING in the recession? Give us your comments by e-mailing editor@dunmow-broadcast.co.uk or write to 54 High Street, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 1EE.