Izzy’s 6 Week Internship Journey
Over the past six weeks, I’ve been working as a Communications and Community Engagement Intern with Citizens Advice West Sussex. I have been welcomed into this role by an incredible team who have supported me and given me hands-on experience into the work that goes into supporting local communities.
Legal Walks, Language Cafes and Health Service Surveys
During my time here, I’ve been involved in a variety of projects. I supported the team with communications around the Crawley Legal Walk, a fundraising event to support access to legal advice.
I was also involved in promoting and collecting responses for a health service survey targeting young people aged 16 to 25. This initiative aimed to gather honest feedback about local health services, including accessibility, mental health support, and general wellbeing. It was a powerful reminder of how essential it is to give young people a voice in shaping services that directly affect them. Surveys like this feed into service improvements and policy changes that can make a lasting impact.
Another part of my role involved helping at Language Cafés across West Sussex. These events offer a space for people learning English to practice speaking in an informal setting. I met people from diverse backgrounds and saw how something as simple as conversation can help build confidence and connection in a community. The Language Cafés have been my favourite part of this internship, as I have loved getting to know the people in the community and spend time with them.
This internship has deepened my appreciation for the work Citizens Advice does – not just in offering guidance and support, but in advocating for fair systems and equal access to services. I’ve developed new skills in communication and event planning, broadened my knowledge on different benefits, but more importantly, I’ve gained insight into what it means to serve a community with empathy and purpose.
I’m incredibly grateful to the Citizens Advice West Sussex team for welcoming me and guiding me throughout this journey. This experience has affirmed my interest in pursuing a career that makes a difference.
Why Volunteering Matters
Spending time with Citizens Advice West Sussex has made me appreciate how important local volunteering is. Volunteering benefits not just for those who need support, but for those who give their time, too. I’d encourage any student to volunteer with Citizens Advice West Sussex. The team invests time and effort into supporting your development, and the skills you gain along the way are genuinely valuable
If you’re considering volunteering or applying for an internship, I’d recommend it. It’s a chance to build practical skills, meet people doing important work, and be part of something that makes a difference locally.