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After 15 years volunteering and working with Citizen's Advice Guernsey, Kerry Ciotti is standing down from her role as Chief Operating Officer while calling for better understanding of how the charity can act as the "fifth emergency service" for people in times of crisis.
Jonathan Dell, Chair of the charity’s Management Committee, praised Mrs Ciotti for her work which he says led to "real progress" in numerous areas.
"After 15 years working at Citizens Advice Guernsey, Kerry has decided that now is the right time to seek a new challenge," he said.
"Her loyalty and contribution to the charity have been truly remarkable, and her experience and intuitive understanding of people will be greatly missed. During her time with us, Citizens Advice Guernsey has given more than 150,000 pieces of advice to islanders. The charity received The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and was also named Guernsey Charity of the Year."
Pictured: Citizen's Advice relies on volunteers to offer advice to its service users.
Among the highlights achieved during Mrs Ciotti's time with the charity, Mr Dell recalled its pre-election campaign.
"In her three and half years as CEO, Kerry launched the Citizens’ Manifesto during the run-up to the 2020 Island election, highlighting four key issues our clients were facing.
"Her efforts have led to real progress," he said, "with a change in States’ policy through the introduction of Lasting Power of Attorney, the Credit and Lending Law came into effect last month, while local Consumer Legislation will become Law next month."
Mrs Ciotti joined Citizens Advice Guernsey in 2008 and has served the charity in a number of roles, most recently as Chief Operating Officer.
"It’s been a tremendous privilege working with such wonderful volunteers, who I shall miss very much," she said.
"It’s a remarkable organisation, giving free, confidential and impartial advice to around 4,000 Islanders each year, which is around eight percent of the adult population.
"I leave with so many happy memories. My only regret is that I’m not sure the wider Island fully appreciates just how vital Citizens Advice Guernsey really is, helping people to navigate an increasingly complex world. It’s like the fifth Emergency Service, advising clients on a wide range of problems including housing, money, and family matters. I really hope that Government, businesses, and Islanders continue to support its work in any way they can."
Mr Dell said the support the CAG has given while under Mrs Ciotti's watchful eye has seen the charity's brand grow exponentially.
"Kerry steered Citizens Advice Guernsey through the Coronavirus pandemic, ensuring that we maintained an excellent service to Islanders during this immensely difficult period. Largely thanks to Kerry’s efforts, Citizens Advice Guernsey now ranks as one of the highest scoring bureaux at a national level.
"We know just how much Kerry has enjoyed helping Islanders and working with everyone at Citizens Advice. She says that she will forever be in awe of the dedication and commitment of our loyal Advisers, whom she will miss very much.
"On behalf of the Management Committee, I would like to thank Kerry for her extraordinary efforts and for what she has achieved for the people of Guernsey, we wish her well in whatever she chooses to do next."
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