News and Events

BU Law student wins Young Volunteer of the Year Award

12 October 2007

receives her prize from a trustee of Citizens Advice

Successful volunteering pays off for BU student who has scooped a national prize.

Law student Rebecca Martin has received the prestigious Young Volunteer of the Year Award from the national charity Citizens Advice.

The 21-year-old worked as a volunteer with East Staffordshire office. She’s one of seven category winners honoured by the organisation this year.

Rebecca, from Rolleston on Dove near Burton-on-Trent, says that she is thrilled to win.

"I love what I do at the CA, every day is different. I really like helping people and seeing them leave happier about their situation."

The advice provided by the CA throughout the UK is free, independent, confidential, and impartial, and available to everyone regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, age or nationality.

She said young people should stop considering volunteering and just do it: "I have had such good training, and I have learnt so much. I feel a lot more confident in myself and my ability to do things in any capacity. It has been totally been worth it."

Anna Hall, from East Staffordshire CA, said Rebecca was nominated for her enthusiasm and dedication in everything that she does. Team members felt Rebecca had carved out an essential role for herself as a key part of the team, attending all community meetings, writing up case studies for other staff and turning her hand to anything she was able.

Together with the bureau, Rebecca created a game which was a variation on 'The Price is Right' where members of the public had to guess the cost of every day items. The person who guessed whether items were higher or lower correctly won a prize. The game was a huge success and is now used throughout the region in financial capability forums, or as an icebreaker at training sessions.

"She always relishes a challenge. We are so proud and happy for her to be rewarded for the time and effort she puts in," says Anna.