Benefits Support Volunteer

Countydurhamvolunteering; Bishop Auckland, Spennymoor, Newton Aycliffe, Stanley; Hybrid; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

A community welfare support organization is seeking volunteers to assist clients in understanding and applying for welfare benefits. This role involves providing tailored advice, direct assistance in completing claims, and maintaining client records. The position allows remote work, with training and mentoring provided to help build skills. Ideal candidates will demonstrate strong communication, empathy, and reliability, contributing to positive community impact.

Benefits

Travel expenses reimbursement

Online training and workshops

Experience in social welfare law

Qualifications

• Strong written communication skills with high levels of attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret complex information and assist clients effectively.
• Commitment to confidentiality and data protection in all client interactions.

Responsibilities

• Support residents to understand eligibility criteria for welfare benefits.
• Provide direct assistance for benefit claims and accurate information capture.
• Attend ongoing training and team meetings for current legislation updates.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records.

Skills

Excellent interpersonal skills

Non-judgmental and empathic approach

Research and analytical skills

Strong written communication skills

Ability to work in a team

Reliability and commitment

Job description

Location: Bishop Auckland, Spennymoor, Newton Aycliffe, Stanley, Volunteering from Home

Many people struggle to navigate the complexities of welfare benefit applications. As a result, many households across County Durham miss out on the financial support they are entitled to. In this role, you will provide essential support to help clients understand their entitlement to key benefits and to maximise their income by completing claims accurately.

Initially, it is intended that this role will have a specific focus on supporting residents to understand entitlement to and complete claims for disability-related benefits.

Responsibilities

• Supporting residents to understand the eligibility criteria for key welfare benefits, tailoring information and advice to their personal circumstances and situation
• Providing direct assistance to navigate and complete benefit claims, ensuring information is captured accurately and supportively
• Maintaining accurate and confidential client records
• Attending mandatory initial and ongoing training/supervision sessions and team meetings to stay informed on current benefits legislation and develop professional skills.
• Liaising with supervisors and other team members to seek support or make appropriate internal/external referrals.
• Assisting with the delivery of in-person, community-based advice sessions (if available)

Skills & Qualities

• Excellent interpersonal skills
• A non-judgmental and empathic approach
• Research and analytical skills to interpret complex information
• Strong written communication skills with high levels of attention to detail and accuracy
• An ability to work as part of a wider advice service team
• Reliability, commitment and an ability to work within Groundwork policies, including data protection and confidentiality

When & Where?

The project is based in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, however, the above role is expected to operate remotely, with the potential of in-person support in community-based locations. 4 – 8 hours per week

Training and Support Offered / Expenses

• Online training modules, virtual workshops, and video calls.
• Hands on experience through shadowing and practice in the office.
• Ongoing guidance and mentoring from experienced team members

We will invest in your development with training, mentoring, and real-life experience to build your confidence, skills, and future opportunities. Travel expenses will be reimbursed for agreed trips to your local office or training sessions.

Benefits

• Satisfaction from making a positive difference in people’s lives.
• Skills in communication, problem-solving, and advice-giving.
• Experience that can support future career or personal development.
• Being part of a supportive and friendly volunteer team.

What skills will I develop?

• Experience of social welfare law
• Client care and interviewing skills
• Case recording and record keeping skills
• A good, working knowledge of specific welfare benefits, rules and regulations and an ability to apply these to support people to move forward

Accessibility and Transport Info

Hours: 4 – 8 hours per week Type: Advice & Guidance, Crisis Support, Homeless/Housing, Disability