Benefits and Welfare Advisor (Outreach Worker)

AWD online; Lewisham; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

AWD online is seeking a motivated Benefits and Welfare Advisor (Outreach Worker) in Lewisham. This role involves providing tailored welfare and benefits advice to help local residents access financial support and manage debt efficiently.

The successful candidate will work closely with residents to educate them on their rights and entitlements, advocate for their needs with agencies like the DWP, and ensure they receive holistic support to improve their financial well-being.

Qualifications

• Proven experience of providing welfare benefits advice or casework.
• Strong understanding of the UK welfare benefits system and entitlement criteria.
• Excellent communication and advocacy skills with empathy and professionalism.

Responsibilities

• Support residents with claims for benefits such as Universal Credit and ESA.
• Liaise with the DWP and other agencies to resolve claim issues.
• Assist residents in managing arrears and financial stability.

Skills

Welfare benefits advice

Communication skills

Advocacy skills

IT proficiency

Tools

Microsoft Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

Benefits and Welfare Advisor (Outreach Worker)

An excellent opportunity for a motivated and compassionate professional to deliver tailored welfare and benefits advice, helping residents in the local area access financial support, manage debt, and improve their overall wellbeing.

Salary: £33,000-£36,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Location: Lewisham, South London

Job type: Full-Time, Permanent

Job Overview

We have a fantastic new job opportunity for a Benefits and Welfare Advisor (Outreach Worker) to join the organisation’s community-focused service team.

As a Benefits and Welfare Advisor (Outreach Worker) you will provide one-to-one support for residents experiencing difficulties with benefits or financial hardship. You’ll deliver expert advice on welfare entitlements, assist with new and existing claims, and liaise with agencies such as the DWP and local authorities.

The Benefits and Welfare Advisor (Outreach Worker) will play an essential role in empowering residents to improve financial stability, manage debt, and maintain their independence through guidance, advocacy, and education.

Duties

• Provide Specialist Advice: support residents with new and ongoing claims for benefits such as Universal Credit, ESA, and PIP

• Advocate for Residents: liaise with the DWP, Housing Benefit teams, and other agencies to resolve issues and ensure accurate claims

• Facilitate Appointments: arrange and accompany residents to Job Centre or agency meetings, acting as an advocate when required

• Address Financial Issues: assist residents in managing arrears and negotiating repayment plans to improve financial stability

• Promote Financial Education: provide budgeting guidance and collaborate with financial inclusion teams to encourage money management skills

• Coordinate Support: maintain close communication with support workers and external agencies to ensure holistic assistance

• Maintain Records: accurately record casework in line with data protection regulations and organisational procedures

• Empower Residents: educate residents on their rights, responsibilities, and entitlements to foster independence

• Safeguard Residents: identify and report safeguarding concerns, ensuring all actions follow policy and procedure

Candidate Requirements

Essential

• Proven experience of providing welfare benefits advice or casework

• Strong understanding of the UK welfare benefits system and entitlement criteria

• Excellent communication and advocacy skills with empathy and professionalism

• Organised and able to manage competing priorities effectively

• Confident IT user, including Microsoft Word and record management systems

• Awareness of safeguarding principles and commitment to equality and diversity

Desirable

• Knowledge of debt advice and financial inclusion services

• Familiarity with supported housing environments

• Proficiency in Excel or PowerPoint for reporting and presentations

This role requires a DBS check