‘Listening and a voice for those that speak but are not heard.’
Have you applied for benefit and been stressed out, frustrated, angry or upset by the way the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) has dealt with your claim? Do you think you could help someone going through that now?
If so, then we want to hear from you!
We're looking for people who have lived experience of the benefits system or supporting others with this. Our volunteers help clients 1:1 with disability benefit forms.
In this role, you will use your lived experience to show empathy and build trust with clients who may find it difficult to disclose their needs or who feel overwhelmed or daunted by the application process. By doing so, you will help challenge discrimination against protected groups, including the disabled, black and minority ethnic clients, those that speak English as a second language, lone parents and carers.
What our volunteers say
About their time with us, former volunteers have said:
"By volunteering for St Pauls Advice Centre, I was able to make a real difference to people's lives and have a positive impact on the community."
"I learned a lot & gained valuable skills, dealing with people from a range of backgrounds."
"I wanted to change careers & now I've got a new job in the area... I'm very grateful for the experience at St Pauls Advice Centre."
How to apply
You can apply online by clicking here.*
Anyone who puts in a satisfactory application will be offered an interview, for which questions will be given in advance.
* If you have problems applying online or have questions for us, call 0117 955 2981 and ask about becoming a volunteer. If leaving a message, include your full name & a number to call you back on.
Training
Volunteers are closely supervised by our welfare benefits adviser and are always given ‘on the job’, practical training about the role, including the chance to observe advisers. We also give formal training, including: skills for working with clients, effective case recording, PIP form best practice. Other external training would be looked at positively for any volunteer who requested it. All volunteers have access to benefit handbooks and a wide range of other advice resources.
Location/time
You will work from our office in St Paul's one day per week, during office hours.
NB. a person specification for the role is available on request.