Rutland's voluntary sector has been given a financial boost as the county's citizen's advice bureau has received new funding to help strengthen it. 

The county council's public health team and the area's integrated health board have jointly funded the £40,000 one-year contract to Citizen's Advice Rutland (CAR), which started this month. 

The aim is to help strengthen the sector, by promoting and supporting the voluntary organisations already in existence as well as helping new ones to set up. 

Part of the role will include looking for new funding opportunities and also pointing Rutland residents who need help in the right direction. People will also be encouraged to join the volunteer sector themselves. 



For Rutland volunteers also work hard throughout the year raising money for Rutland Citizens' Advice (Photo: Grace Kennington)

Chief executive of Citizen's Advice Rutland, Emma Jefferson, said: "We are delighted to continue our support for the voluntary sector through sustained funding and the dedicated work of our community development officer. This investment ensures that local organisations have access to the guidance, resources and support they need to grow, thrive, and to make a lasting impact in our community."  

Rutland County Council's cabinet member for communities Christine Wise (Lib Dem) said: "This is great news for Rutland's voluntary and community sector. It means that local organisations will be better equipped to provide important services, support health and wellbeing, and create more opportunities for residents to get involved.  

 "By investing in volunteering and local initiatives, we're building a stronger, more connected Rutland for everyone." 

The volunteer plus website lists all of the voluntary and community organisations that are currently operating in the county. CAR is located on the High Street in Oakham and is open five days a week from 9am to 5pm (except on Wednesdays when it closes at 1pm). 

Visit www.volunteerplusrutland.org.uk for more information.