After completing her degree in Social Ethics and Community and Youth Studies, Jackie has worked continuously in the voluntary sector. As the Manager of the Citizens Advise Bureau, her responsibilities are varied but are all focused on promoting the welfare of the client. She originally comes from the Isle of Man but met her husband (Mike) who is from Market Drayton, at university. Mike is a youth worker. They now live in Welshampton with their two children aged 13 and 11. Jackie is enthusiastic about her job and is very people-orientated and approachable.

The CAB specialises in anti-poverty work. North Shropshire has a low wage economy. This means that people have less disposable income. As a result, there is a high level of debt in the area, which is accentuated by the cost of living compared to other rural areas. Research evidence bears out her experience that when people suffer poverty, the food budget is the most flexible. The consequences are unhealthy diets and theses are damaging. Jackie and her staff are trying to help people to manage their income so that they can still eat well.

The approach taken by the CAB is to maximise the clients income; help the client to budget their money; and negotiate with creditors

In the year 2002/3 the CAB raised over £500,000 in additional benefits for people in North Shropshire. This money was predominately spent in the local economy and would have had positive effects on many businesses in the area. They are hoping to raise more money this year.