A READING debt and benefits charity which has a six-week waiting list to see clients is looking for a new branch manager.
More than 200 people, including teenagers and pensioners, who use Reading Frontline owe around £1.5m on rent arrears, council tax and utility companies.
The outgoing manager, Bob Muzeen, described the problem in Reading as “a massive issue”.
“When we started 20 years ago, most of the clients we saw had debts mainly with credit card companies,” he explained.
“Now, it is everything from store cards to council tax. The culture has changed so much with people wanting it all now and they run up huge debts to get it. We are helping people of all ages including teenagers and pensioners.
“Back in the day, if you wanted a loan it meant going to see your bank manager, filling out forms and being interviewed. Now, you can do it all on your phone or computer. I turned my laptop on this morning and an advert flashed up offering me a loan of £50,000.”
The charity on Queens Road is run by volunteers and is so busy it has put new clients on a six-week waiting list. It expects to take on another 100 clients by the end of the year.
“The first thing we do with a new client is make a financial statement and ensure they are receiving all the benefits to which they are entitled,” added Bob.
“We then look at their outgoings and incoming finances and help draw up proposals for their debtors. When people come to see us, they are often at the end of their tether while others continue to hide unopened mail behind the clock and hope it just goes away but it doesn’t.
“The problem in Reading is massive. There are lovely streets and nice houses and hi-tech companies here and there but behind it all are many people struggling with debt on a daily basis.”
Bob described the branch manager role, which is voluntary, as “wide-ranging” but the time commitment each week can be as little as a few hours. Space is available to work in the charity’s office but most of the tasks can also be completed from home.
The ideal candidate should have experience in managing a small office, working in the local community, or liaising with a head office. They will be expected to recruit volunteer advisers, and arrange for their training and development, represent Frontline in the local community and provide information as required to the Trustees and CEO.
If you are interested in this position or need help, log on to: https://frontlinedebtadvice.org.uk/
