Volunteer General Adviser - Multiple locations

What will you be doing?

The Role Advisers talk to our clients face-to-face, over the phone, or through email to learn about their problems and what they would like help with, find out more information, and help them understand their options. We aim to support them to take action to resolve their problems. This might include drafting or writing letters, making phone calls, or referring the client to another organisation. You will then be required to write a summary of the clients’ problems and the actions you’ve taken to help them onto our case data recording database which will give us local statistics that we can use to analyse what our communities are struggling most with. We ask our advisers to look out for problems’ that are common or are unfair to raise with our Research & Campaigns team to create real local change. Additionally, our Research & Campaigns team is open to any and all volunteers and staff who are passionate about making a difference.   Training Our programme takes an average of 12 weeks to complete, with the consideration of 2 days per week dedicated to training. Our study materials are available online to be completed at your convenience and there is the option to print out the materials depending on your studying preferences. It is possible cover all the material in a shorter time but do not feel rushed if you need to take more time to absorb some of the modules.  Alongside the learning materials, you will join your new team from your first week of training. This allows you to observe the advising role and build your understanding of client interaction and how advisers work. You will be assigned a mentor within the team, most likely the team supervisor, who will work with our trainer to ensure you are supported. You will need to visit your team for a day each week for in-person training as well. Throughout the programme, you will be able to ask questions of your mentor and team and attend online and in-person Q&A sessions on particular themes. After training is complete, our advisers volunteer for at least 1 day a week ideally for 40 weeks of the year and many volunteers attend on the same day each week which helps our scheduling of the service. Volunteers take holidays whenever they wish and our teams can be flexible in accommodating an individual's needs.

What are we looking for?

Ideally we would like someone with experience in advice giving roles, or with expertise in systems such as benefits, legal, employment, or debt. However, due to the scope of the advice we give to our clients, we are open to any and all kinds of professional experience. We’re an inclusive and welcoming organisation and we’re here for everyone. We ask our volunteers to embrace our equality, diversity and inclusion commitment. This means welcoming all clients regardless of background or issue. It also means working in a professional manner with other volunteers and staff.  Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and we particularly welcome applications from people with Disabilities, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBTQ+ and individuals from various Ethnic backgrounds and cultures. 

What difference will you make?

In volunteering with us, you’ll make a difference in your community, learn new skills, and meet people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Some people find it helps their confidence, and others find it supports their career development with valuable experience and learning opportunities. As a charity, we can’t do what we do without our amazing volunteers, and they tell us it’s hugely rewarding. Without them we would not address the millions of clients' issues we field each year. Our service bridges the gap between those in need and the myriad of charities and support services available to them. Our advisers ensure that people not only receive advice but also get connected to the right resources, streamlining the often daunting process of seeking help. We help people navigate complex problems, empowering them to take control of their lives and be healthy and independent. It’s a powerful way of tackling local poverty, reducing inequalities and supporting vulnerable residents.