Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support older people in completing benefit forms and promote Age UK Devon services.
- Company: Age UK Devon improves lives of older people through vital services and community support.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, receive training, and have travel expenses covered.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of older people while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Empathy, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn about the benefits system.
- Other info: Flexible hours from a few hours a month to one day a week.
All our Benefits Advocates play an integral role within our Information and Advice team and last year helped us to identify over £2.5 million in unclaimed welfare benefits entitlement for older people in the county. This money is life changing for our clients; improving quality of life and wellbeing, and supporting local services.
We are looking for volunteers who are patient, sensitive and reliable, to assist older people to complete benefit forms such as Attendance Allowance. Appointments are usually in the older person’s own home but can sometimes take place over the telephone. Full training and ongoing support are provided by our friendly and knowledgeable team.
Our volunteers will also raise awareness of and promote Age UK Devon services to clients, and record details of any other queries or concerns so that our Advisors can follow up with clients.
Skills required for this role are:
- Ability to empathise with others.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Understanding of confidentiality.
- Patience, sensitivity, and reliability.
- Ability to respond appropriately to different and sometimes difficult situations.
- Working as a team member, referring to other team members when appropriate.
- Ability to work unsupervised and manage appointments.
- Good computer skills.
- Knowledge of the Benefits System (training will be provided).
Age UK Devon’s aim is to improve the lives of older people in Devon through delivering services and activities, promoting wellbeing and health, increasing independence and access to local services as well as supporting families and carers – enabling people to get the most out of life.
Our volunteers donate their time to enable us to provide fantastic added value to our services and activities and bring a wealth of skills and knowledge to our organisation. Our aim is to help you enjoy your role and to gain personal satisfaction on your volunteer journey with us – can you be the person we need to help us in supporting and making a positive difference to people in later life in the county?
If you would like an informal discussion about this role or have any queries, please contact Sarah Gunn – Advice and Wellbeing Manager at by clicking the link below or on 0333 241 2340. Or if you would like to apply please visit Age UK Devon for more information on the role and how to apply.
Travel expenses details: Unpaid role, expenses/travel can be paid
Does the job role include personal care?: No
Working Patterns:
- Based: Devon - we will agree an area you are willing to travel to and volunteer in
- Hours: From a few hours a month up to one day a week
- Salary: Unpaid role, expenses/travel can be paid
Volunteer Benefits Advocate - Devon employer: Proud to Care Devon
Contact Detail:
Proud to Care Devon Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Benefits Advocate - Devon
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the benefits system, even if training will be provided. Understanding common benefits like Attendance Allowance can help you feel more confident when assisting older clients.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your empathy and sensitivity during any informal discussions or interviews. Share personal experiences that demonstrate your ability to connect with older people and understand their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current volunteers or staff at Age UK Devon. They can provide insights into the role and share tips on how to excel as a Benefits Advocate, which can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss how you would handle difficult situations with clients. Think of examples where you've shown patience and reliability, as these traits are crucial for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Benefits Advocate - Devon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and skills required for the Volunteer Benefits Advocate position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your ability to empathise with others, your communication skills, and any experience you have in working with older people or in a volunteer capacity. Use specific examples to demonstrate these skills.
Personalise Your Application: Address your application to the specific team or manager mentioned in the job description. A personal touch can make your application stand out and show your genuine interest in the role.
Proofread Your Documents: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Proud to Care Devon
✨Show Empathy and Understanding
As a Volunteer Benefits Advocate, you'll be working with older people who may be facing challenging situations. Demonstrating your ability to empathise during the interview will show that you understand the importance of patience and sensitivity in this role.
✨Communicate Clearly
Good verbal and written communication skills are essential for this position. Practice explaining complex ideas simply and clearly, as you may need to help clients understand their benefits. This will highlight your suitability for the role.
✨Demonstrate Reliability
Reliability is key when working with vulnerable individuals. Be prepared to discuss examples from your past experiences where you've shown commitment and dependability, whether in previous volunteer roles or other responsibilities.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, asking thoughtful questions about the team dynamics or the training process can demonstrate your genuine interest in the role. It shows that you're proactive and eager to learn more about how you can contribute effectively.
