What it’s like working for us

What it’s like working for us

We think working for the local Citizens Advice service across Stockport, Oldham, Rochdale, and Trafford is great, but instead of us telling you that, we thought it would be better to hear from some of our colleagues.

Here are seven of our colleagues who want to share their experiences.

Meet Greg, a Generalist Adviser working out in our community locations

“How many people can say that every working day they are making a tangible positive impact on people's lives??

“I love supporting and empowering people to find their next steps.?Some just need gentle encouragement to get them on the right track and others may need more significant support, either way you know you're making a difference.?

“I have been able to work flexibly to fit in childcare and have been encouraged to pursue opportunities to develop my career within the advice service.?Coming from being self-employed, it's great to feel you're part of a team with similar values and goals.”

Meet Alison, a Generalist Adviser working from foodbank locations in Stockport.

“During the pandemic, I was aware not only of the vulnerability of our lives but also of the problems that the world is facing.?I thought a lot about what gave my life meaning and decided that I wanted to do something constructive to help people in my area.??

“I did some research and found that I could train as a Generalist Adviser with Citizens Advice.

“I enjoy the mental stimulus of problem-solving - no two queries are the same, but most of all I value working in a team of like-minded people, supporting each other to give the best service to those who need us. I go home at the end of each day, grateful that, while the world’s problems continue, I have spent that day being part of a solution.

Meet Zoe, a Digital Triage Assessor working on our WhatApp and email advice services.

"This is a superb charity to work for.?They haven't only helped to aid my professional development and supported me through a difficult time with my health.?Their priority has been supporting me to get better, rather than pushing me back into work, I couldn't ask for a better employer."

Meet Sumera, our Contact Centre Manager, responsible for our multi-channel contact centre.

“I’ve worked for the charity in various roles for over ten years, and I’m now the Contact Centre Manager.?

“Working here has allowed me to grow professionally whilst also managing my home life due to the flexible working options available.?I can work reduced hours over two and a half days per week, allowing me to spend more time with my family - doing the chores and supporting my young children through school.

“The organisation's commitment to learning and development is also something that I value.?I am always able to develop new skills to help me grow as a leader and improve the services we provide to those who need us.

Meet Andrew, one of our Energy Advisers working on one of our utility services

"I'm new to working in the charity and advice sectors, having spent 17 years in the hospitality sector.?I'm so pleased that I was able to use my previous skills to help some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.?

“I've been made to feel very welcome, and I've been very impressed with the learning opportunities, a robust learning plan, outstanding and engaging learning materials, and regular check-ins with my line manager and other colleagues across the charity."

Meet Alsyanne, our Account Manager: Energy Services, who manages our various utility services

“I initially joined Citizens Advice SORT Group because I wanted a new challenge and saw the opportunity to develop my skills and knowledge further, but since joining, I have found much more.??

“I have been working in the Citizens Advice service for over 10 years, but what makes SORT Group unique is the fantastic sense of community in the workplace.?I felt very welcomed on the first day and experienced none of the stresses that usually come with moving roles.?

“There is a great sense of positivity and passion for innovation and creative thinking which helps us push ourselves to do better for our clients and creates a more inclusive organisation.?

“There is plenty of opportunities to grow, both professionally and personally and it is an organisation that values people, allowing the flexibility and autonomy to manage your time, workload and personal commitments.

“I feel a genuine sense of excitement about the future and the positive changes that all my colleagues are part of.?It’s going to be an exciting journey.

Meet John, our Business Support Team Leader;

“I joined Citizens Advice SORT Group after returning to work after being a stay-at-home parent.?It’s become a really flexible place to work with a hybrid forward-thinking approach.?

“I’ve always been allowed to manage caring responsibilities and follow other opportunities.?They understand that work is just one part of life.?And there’s always someone who can support you if needed - we are a close-knit team.?