Stephen Metcalfe, local MP
for South Basildon and East Thurrock, demonstrated his strong support for
Basildon Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) last week at the annual general meeting.
After playing team captain in
an ice breaking quiz, Mr Metcalfe gave a short speech in which he expressed his
gratitude for all that the CAB does for local people and where he thanked
volunteers and staff for their ongoing dedication to serving the community.
In particular, the AGM
celebrated the contribution of Stella Calkin who has been volunteering for CAB
for 50 years. In his speech, the local MP said she was an inspiration and an
example to us all.
The Basildon CAB is one a
network of centres nationwide providing invaluable free, independent,
confidential, and impartial advice to anyone who asks for it. They deal with an
array of issues from debt problems to unemployment, housing problems to help
with legal cases. Last year alone, 2.1 million people were helped with 6.6
million problems.
Of the 28,5000 people working
in CABs only 6,500 are paid. The remaining 22,000 are volunteers, contributing
over £109 million to the economy.
Mr Metcalfe commented: “CABs
provide a vital service to people up and down the country and I am extremely
grateful for their serving the people of South Basildon and East Thurrock.”
“The Government does not have
unlimited funds and this is where CABs services become so important. I would
like to express my sincere thanks to all those who work in Basildon CAB whether
paid or unpaid as I know there are so many constituents who will have benefited
from their advice and advocacy.”
He added: “In particular, I
would once again like to pay tribute to Stella Calkin for her volunteering half
century! Few people reach such a milestone serving the community and I hope
others will be inspired by her dedication.”
For information on how to
contact CAB, please see: http://www.bascab.org.uk/
