Citizens' Advice worker Joan receives her MBE

Published: 24 July, 2009

A DEDICATED Dingwall volunteer who has helped thousands of people overcome their troubles through her 26-year service with the Citizens' Advice Bureau has been awarded the MBE.

Joan Healey was presented with her MBE by Janet Bowen, Lord Lieutenant of Ross, Cromarty and Skye.

The MBE recognises her long service with the Citizens' Advice Bureau which started 26 years ago in Caithness.

Mrs Healey, who lives in Bayne Drive, Dingwall, currently volunteers at the Dingwall office where during her time as a general adviser she has helped thousands of people.

Her casework and dedication is described as being unparalleled and she takes various changes and demands within the service in her stride.

Meirion Jeffrey, Ross and Cromarty CAB's support and development worker, said, "Joan has been fundamental to the success of Ross and Cromarty CAB for many years. Her commitment to our bureau and dedication to all who use our service truly is second to none.

"She is also heavily involved with the training and mentoring of our newest advisers. Joan was actually my mentor when I joined the CAB. It is vital that we keep recruiting new volunteers, and that the new volunteers are trained to the highest standard, and Joan certainly does that! It is wonderful that all her hard work has been recognised in this way."

As part of a drive to recruit new volunteer advisers like Joan, the CAB is holding a two-day course this weekend in Alness and there are still some last-minute places available.

Anyone who wants to take part in the intensive training course at the Averon Centre should contact Mr Jeffrey on 01349 885931.