We receive many high quality applications but have only a limited number of places available on our training programme which we run 2-3 times a year. We aim to respond to applications as soon as possible with an estimated date for the start of the next training programme and information on when you can expect to be notified if we wish to interview you.
What experience and abilities are necessary?
All our volunteer advisers receive full training. No particular qualification or experience is necessary but you will need to possess the following abilities:
- Be a good listener, open minded, and able to work with clients to achieve results
- Be able to read sometimes complex information and explain it
- Do basic arithmetic
- Work as a team member
- Commit yourself to a certain number of hours each week
- Support equal opportunities
- Basic computer skills
The training programme
The Adviser Training Programme (ATP) consists of formal training sessions which cover the main topic areas dealt with by advisers such as benefits, money advice, housing, employment, relationships and immigration. During the ATP this knowledge is put into context and given practical use during Bureau Practice.
The training sessions are mostly held on Mondays at the Citizens Advice Scotland headquarters in central Edinburgh over a 10 week period. There are also half-day computer based workshops held on other weekdays. In addition, from week three trainees are required to spend a half day session in a bureau for Bureau Practice. Citizens Advice Edinburgh’s ATP requires a commitment from trainees of at least 1.5 days per week for the first 10 weeks. From week 11 we ask trainees to spend 1 day or 2 half days in a bureau.
It can take from 7-10 months to complete the training and acquire ‘Generalist competence status’. Due to the time and cost to the organisation in providing this training we also ask that volunteers are able to commit to spending a minimum of a year advising with Citizens Advice Edinburgh.
A View on CAE Adviser Training
Please note we are not currently recruiting for advisers. We are running an Adviser Training Programme (ATP) in April but are not recruiting as the course is full. However, we intend to run an Adviser Training programme in the autumn of 2012 and, if so, an online application form will be activated in July.