ST HELENS Citizens Advice Bureau is calling on local people to volunteer in a number of ways.

Some 90 per cent of CAB workers are volunteers. Some will work, following training on the national CAB training programme, as advisers, providing free, confidential and impartial advice on many subjects from housing, debt and the legal system to tax, benefits, family matters and consumer affairs.

Others may offer IT skills, clerical back-up and language skills relevant to local needs. Formal qualifications are not needed and many find that the CAB training and experience can help to provide a route into paid work.

Volunteer CAB worker Ken Ford said: "I signed up to help the CAB service because I wanted to help locally in some way and had been mulling over how on and off for years.

"I am now a general adviser and have been with the bureau three years. I feel I make a contribution to community life here in St Helens, know more about local services and consumer rights than ever before and I like being part of an organisation with such a long history of service to the public. I can recommend it to anyone -- it beats what's on the telly every time."

CAB manager, Yvonne Fovargue said: "The challenge and variety that the CAB service offers and the fact that involvement really does improve job prospects are big attractions, especially for younger people.

"As well as looking great on your CV, a stint at the CAB offers a real chance to develop skills, knowledge and confidence. Don't forget, local companies can volunteer their services too."

St Helens District Citizens Advice Bureau are holding a 'taster afternoon' on Thursday, February 8 at 2pm in the bureau at Waterloo Street. There will be refreshments and a chance to talk to other volunteers and paid staff.

Meanwhile, CAB are beginning a new method of service delivery on February 5 and are particularly interested in hearing from people who would help provide a reception service.

The minimum commitment of nine hours does not apply to this service and hours are flexible between 10am and 4pm weekdays.

For more details ring Yvonne 01744 751380.