Who are we?
The Citizens Advice service is a network of independent, local charities that helps people resolve their money, legal and other problems. It provides information and advice to everyone who needs it, and influences government and organisations to bring about changes in policies and laws that affect people's lives.
We provide free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, age or nationality.
The Epsom & Ewell CAB is the member of the national Citizens Advice network serving Epsom, Ewell and surrounding areas.
Our aims and principles
The Citizens Advice service provides free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities. It values diversity, promotes equality and challenges discrimination.
In common with all Citizens Advice Bureaux we aim to:
- Provide the advice people need for the problems they face.
- Improve the policies and practices that affect people's lives.
Our staff
At the start of 2007, the bureau has 5 part-time paid staff (whose hours total less than 2 full-time equivalent staff). There are 41 volunteers, including trustees, advisers, administrative and support workers. Between them they work a total of 331 hours each week. The volunteers' annual value, calculated by matching volunteer roles with the equivalent paid jobs, indicates a value of over £247,000.
We are always looking for more volunteers.
Our trustees
Our activities are overseen by a board of trustees.
Our Trustees include members of the local community and the variety of skills and expertise they bring is invaluable to the bureau. There are also representatives from local organisations, including two councillors from Epsom & Ewell Borough Council. Our President is the Mayor of Epsom & Ewell.
Professionalism
All our advisers undergo rigorous evaluation and training before they are allowed to meet with clients.
We are subject to an audit conducted by Citizens Advice.
All our staff and volunteers sign an agreement to keep client matters confidential.
We hold the Community Legal Services quality mark, general help level, reference number: BRIG0118. To see our registration details enter "Epsom" in the organisation name box on the CLS search page.
Our funding
Epsom & Ewell Borough Council provides the majority of our funds. Our Mental Health Outreach team is funded by the Big Lottery Reaching Communities Fund. The County Court Desk is funded by the Office of Communities and Local Government via Epsom and Ewell Borough Council Housing department.
We rely on donations to make up the rest of our budget and for expanding our services.
Legal status
We are a registered charity. Our registration number is: 1085779. You can read more about us at the Charity Commission web site.
In common with other charities, we are also a company limited by guarantee (which means we do not issue shares) and registered in England and Wales. Our company number is: 04079521. We are registered as: Epsom & Ewell Citizens Advice Bureau, The Old Town Hall, The Parade, Epsom, Surrey KT18 5AG.