Our ‘Raise the Bar for Peterborough’ sponsored walk took place on Friday, 21st March 2025. A joint venture between the Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) Peterborough and Citizens Advice Peterborough (CAP); the 10km walk raises money towards helping vulnerable local people to get the advice they so badly need.
“Demand for our service is at an all-time high,” said CEO James, who was among those taking part in the walk. “We’re getting between 1200 to 1500 calls per month, not including referrals from other organisations such as the Food Bank. Maximisation of income, family and relationship breakdown, issues with benefits and increased homelessness are the main areas of concern for people coming to CAP for assistance.”
The walk’s carefully planned route began outside University House on Bishops Road and then took walkers through the city centre, past Longthorpe Tower, the Rowing Lake, and the river before concluding along the embankment and back to the university complex.
It was originally due to take place last September but was rescheduled as a result of freak wet weather and flooding. Thankfully this time around, the weather stayed dry for those taking part. Walkers included CAP staff, volunteers and trustees alongside employees from local solicitors’ firms, as well as ARU students and staff.
“The most rewarding aspect of this role is meeting and helping people,” said Amy who started as volunteer and has now progressed to a role as a staff Adviser. “I have met lots of lovely people during my time at Citizens Advice Peterborough both volunteering and in a paid position, and seeing their gratitude towards my advice and guidance is very rewarding. I have also enjoyed meeting the staff here, their kindness and support throughout the training process has been wonderful.”
The sponsored walk was a joint effort organised by Eloise, CAP’s Volunteer and Training Supervisor, in partnership with the Law School at ARU Peterborough. Eloise states that “events such as these are vital in raising awareness of the need for free advice services and we are extremely grateful that the donations raised help us to provide our ongoing support of free confidential, impartial advice to the local community in Peterborough, where need is at its highest”.
We always welcome any financial donations – with a link to our donation page always live on our website. We are also keen to expand on local partnerships – where we can explore opportunities to hold events like these, create joint funding bids, and collaboratively build resilience in the city, see our support us page for more information.
