Information and Advice volunteer (Global Communities)
We are currently looking to recruit an Information and Advice volunteer to support our Information and Advice Global communities’ project. Applicants must have one of the following languages, Arabic, Somali and Bengali. This role presents an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about health and social care. Whether you’re seeking a work placement or a voluntary internship, this position offers valuable training. It’s also ideal for those looking to gain experience in Information & Advice. Our Information and Advice service supports Westminster Residents aged 50+ to increase and manage their income, including take-up of Pension credit, housing benefit and council tax support, Attendance Allowance, grant applications and energy & utilities debt support. We also assist with referrals for food and energy support.
Key Responsibilities:
To Support our Information and Advice Global Communities advisor:
- To provide Welfare benefits advice and assist in completing benefit applications as required.
- To support clients from Arabic, Somali and Bengali communities.
- To Explore the nature of the problem raised by the client and, where appropriate, their wider circumstances.
- To identify and research information relevant to the client’s situation, drawing on information resources available.
- To present and discuss information with the client in an accessible form, enabling them to identify a suitable solution.
- Where appropriate and at the client’s request, to act on their behalf and represent their interests with third parties by letter, email, telephone or in person.
- Inform clients about services that may be available to them and how to access them, including Age UK Westminster services.
Administrative tasks
- To update our database system with the client’s information and support provided regularly.
- To provide the Information and Advice advisor with administrative support when required.
Impact of the role
If you choose to volunteer with us, you will be ensuring that older, vulnerable residents of Westminster are able to access the services and information they need to enjoy later life.
Our volunteers make a unique contribution to the lives of older people in the City of Westminster by providing a wide range of services and support; there is little that cannot be achieved through shared enthusiasm, creativity, a diversity of skills and a range of experience.
We welcome those of all ages and backgrounds who would like to make time for older people in Westminster.
What We Offer:
- Friendly Team Environment: Be part of a supportive team that facilitates your development with ongoing training.
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Meaningful Contribution: Make a real difference in the lives of older residents in Westminster.
- Free Enhanced DBS Check: Provided at no cost to you.
- Professional References: Receive references after 3 months of volunteering.
- Travel Expenses: Reimbursement for travel expenses (ideally within Zone 1) with proof of receipt.
- Lunch Expenses: Up to £5 reimbursed for lunch after a minimum of 4 hours of volunteering.
Desirable Skills and Qualifications:
- Communication Skills: Confident in written and verbal communication.
- Telephone Manner: Good telephone manners and customer service skills.
- Reliability: Punctual, reliable, and trustworthy.
- Multitasking: Ability to multitask and prioritize work.
- Administrative Skills: Strong administrative skills, including IT skills and data entry (training provided).
- Teamwork: Ability to work as part of a team.
- Professionalism: Consistently friendly and professional approach.
- Commitment: Dedicated to providing the best possible outcome for the person’s needs promptly.
- Adaptability: Ability to learn quickly and adapt processes as needs change.
- Boundaries: Able to recognize and work within personal and organizational boundaries.
- Confidentiality: Understanding the need for confidentiality.
- Non-judgemental: A non-judgemental approach.
- Attention to Detail: Good attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
- Interest in Health and Social Care: Basic knowledge of issues affecting older people.
Experience:
- Social Care and Admin Experience: Previous experience in social care or administrative roles.
- IT Proficiency: Interest and experience with IT, including a good understanding of Microsoft Office and cloud-based CRM systems.
Training & Development Opportunities:
- Comprehensive Training: Full training and ongoing support will be provided.
- Progression: Opportunities to move into a paid role in the Information & Advice service, funding permitted.