At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide vital welfare benefits advice and support clients in crisis.
- Company: Join Shelter, a passionate organisation fighting for housing rights.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, family-friendly policies, and more.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to combating social injustice.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives and advocate for social justice.
- Qualifications: Experience in welfare benefits advice and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 32585 - 32585 β¬ per year.
Salary: 32,585 per annum pro rata for part time
Contract: Fixed term Contract until 30th June 2027
Hours: Part time 28 per week
Location: Blackburn Central Library
Closing date: Wednesday 3rd June 2026 at 11.30pm
Do you have experience of providing welfare benefits advice and advocacy? Then join Shelter as a Welfare Benefits Adviser and you could soon be playing a vital role in helping our clients get the support they need.
About the role
Your role will be to deliver a specialist advice service, supporting clients with a wide range of issues from benefit entitlement checks and supporting with claims, to providing representation at appeal tribunals. You will use legislation and your own experience to complete submissions and manage a varied caseload. Working in partnership with colleagues in the Hub, you will support clients in crisis to maximise their income and secure accommodation.
About you
You will need experience of providing welfare benefits advice and advocacy with the ability to progress to specialist level knowledge. You will be able to carry out casework related interviews, maintain detailed case records and deliver group workshops and presentations. The role will also involve effective communication with all stakeholders, particularly those with lived experience of homelessness and collaborate with people from other teams and organisations.
Benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave, enhanced family friendly policies, pension and interest free travel loans. Our employees also have access to a tenancy deposit loan, payroll giving, cycle to work scheme and an employee assistance programme.
About Shelter
Home is a human right. Its our foundation and where we thrive. Yet every day millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency. We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything. We need ambitious, passionate people to join us. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve. Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. To win this fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, equitable and transparent. We are committed to combating racism both within and outside Shelter. We welcome you on our journey to becoming truly anti-racist.
Safeguarding statement
Safeguarding is everyone's business. Shelter is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. All our staff will be expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies.
How to apply
Please click Apply for Job. You are required to submit your work history and a supporting statement. The supporting statement should include your responses to the first four points in the About You section of the job description of no more than 1000 words in total. Please provide specific examples following the STAR format and ensure you demonstrate how you address the behaviours below in your responses: We prioritise diversity and have an inclusive and open mindset. Any applications submitted without a supporting statement will not be considered. Shelter does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.
Welfare Benefits Adviser in Darwen employer: Shelter
Shelter is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises inclusivity and employee well-being. As a Welfare Benefits Adviser based in Blackburn Central Library, you will benefit from a range of perks including 30 days of annual leave, enhanced family-friendly policies, and opportunities for professional growth while making a meaningful impact in the community. Join us in our mission to defend the right to a safe home and be part of a team that values diversity and strives for social justice.
StudySmarter Expert Adviceπ€«
We think this is how you could land Welfare Benefits Adviser in Darwen
β¨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Shelter and its mission. Understanding their values and the issues they tackle will help you connect your experience with what theyβre looking for.
β¨Tip Number 2
Practice your STAR responses! Since they want specific examples, think about your past experiences and how they relate to the role. Structure your answers using the Situation, Task, Action, Result format to keep it clear and concise.
β¨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for social justice! When discussing your experience, highlight your commitment to helping those in need. This role is all about making a difference, so let your enthusiasm shine through!
β¨Tip Number 4
Donβt forget to apply through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Welfare Benefits Adviser in Darwen
Some tips for your application π«‘
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, give the job description a good read. We want to see how your experience aligns with what they're looking for, especially in the 'About You' section. Make notes on key points that resonate with your background.
Use the STAR Method:When crafting your supporting statement, remember to use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This helps us showcase your skills and experiences clearly, making it easier for the hiring team to see how you fit the role.
Be Specific and Relevant:We can't stress this enough! Use specific examples from your past work that directly relate to the responsibilities of a Welfare Benefits Adviser. The more relevant your examples, the better your chances of standing out!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website as instructed. It's the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you donβt miss any important details. Plus, we love seeing applications come through our platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shelter
β¨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on welfare benefits legislation and common issues clients face. Familiarise yourself with the types of benefits available and how to navigate the claims process. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your passion for the role.
β¨Use the STAR Method
When preparing your supporting statement, remember to use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method. This will help you structure your examples clearly and demonstrate your experience effectively. Make sure to highlight specific instances where you've provided advice or advocacy.
β¨Show Your Empathy
As a Welfare Benefits Adviser, you'll be working with vulnerable clients. During the interview, convey your understanding of their challenges and your commitment to helping them. Share personal anecdotes that showcase your ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
β¨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the role and Shelter's mission. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you understand how you can contribute to their goals. Itβs also a great way to demonstrate your alignment with their values around inclusivity and social justice.