Information & Advice Form-Filling Volunteer

What does a form-filling volunteer do?

• Undertake telephone interviews with older people or their carers/family to understand their health and care needs (home visits can be an option where a volunteer is willing to travel)

• Complete Attendance Allowance (or other DWP/Local Authority) claim forms with client.

• Providing guidance to clients on ‘next steps’ to be taken after the completion of a claim form to progress their application.

Skills & Competencies:

This role would particularly suit somebody with previous experience of completing complex forms or supporting individuals with health or care needs. For example, people who have worked in Social Care, DWP, NHS or students studying degrees such as social work or law.

• Strong literacy and basic numeracy skills

• Ability to explain things clearly, both verbally & written

• Attention to detail, with a methodical and orderly approach

• Non-judgemental, patient & empathetic

• Reliable and flexible approach to the role • Good communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work within Age UK Coventry & Warwickshire policies and guidelines

• IT Skills

What you will get out of it.

• Make a real difference to the lives of older people in Coventry and Warwickshire.

• Become part of a friendly team.

• Developing new skills to add to your CV.

What is expected of me?

• We ask for a minimum commitment of 4 hours per week (this can be split into 2 x 2hr sessions). Term time only can be accommodated.

• You will be required to complete initial induction training, which will be a mix of face to face & online learning.

• Periodically we may also ask you attend team meetings, additional training or supervisions.

• As part of the application process, we will need to carry out a DBS (at no cost to you) and gather references. Potential volunteers will need to be available during normal working hours in the week to attend an informal interview.