From sport and small business to supporting others – how one local woman found purpose through volunteering with Citizens Advice North Herts
Toni Fenton has always believed in giving back. A long-time resident of Lower Stondon, where she lives with her husband Andy and their two grown-up children, Toni is now training as an adviser with Citizens Advice North Herts (CANH).
Alongside a varied background in community volunteering, Toni also previously ran a small baking business – a passion she continues to enjoy today. “I like making (and eating) cakes – I probably should have led with that!” she jokes.
“I’ve been volunteering in some form for years,” Toni explains. “Whether it was chairing the pre-school committee, coaching sports clubs, judging triathlons, or helping with the PTA – I’ve always liked getting involved. So, when I began the first steps into semi-retirement, it just felt natural to find another way to contribute.”
Toni was inspired by both her mum, who also volunteered with Citizens Advice, and a friend currently volunteering at CANH. “She said I’d be a great fit – and she was right. I love it.”
Toni currently volunteers all day Wednesday at the Letchworth office and supports the Hertfordshire Adviceline remotely on Monday mornings. Her week is varied: from taking phone enquiries to helping clients face-to-face at drop-in sessions and supporting complex benefit form completions during longer appointments.
“No two cases are ever the same,” she says. “The learning curve has been steep, but I’ve never felt alone – there’s a great support system and I’m always learning something new. It’s incredibly rewarding to know you’ve made a real difference to someone’s life.”
When she’s not volunteering, Toni enjoys keeping fit and active – she still trains three times a week with a masters swimming club and attends Pilates and yoga classes. She’s also rediscovered her love of bridge and, of course, still enjoys baking.
Toni encourages anyone considering volunteering to take the leap. “You’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain. If you enjoy learning, want to give back, and like a challenge – CANH is a great place to be.”
