Information & Advice Volunteers

We have three I&A Volunteer Role Opportunities as follows:

Role 1 - Admin Support - Hastings based

To provide administrative support to the Information & Advice team.

Role of the Volunteer

• To record information accurately and fully as required.
• Deal with outgoing post and recording.
• To provide hearing aid batteries.
• To support the Information & Advice Service with basic tasks where required.
• Support the team with administrative work e.g., updating information

Role 2 - Giving Information - Hastings or Eastbourne based

Role of the Volunteer

• Responsible for the first point of contact face to face and taking initial telephone calls.
• Transfer callers where necessary to relevant area, service or person.
• Check all answer phone messages daily and respond accordingly.
• Answer telephone enquiries giving basic information and signpost where necessary.
• To record information accurately and fully as required.
• Deal with outgoing post and recording.
• Provide some administrative support.

Role 3 - Information and Advice Volunteer - Hastings Based

Role of the Volunteer

• Responsible for the first point of contact face to face and taking initial telephone calls.
• Transfer callers where necessary to relevant area, service or person.
• Check answer phone messages daily and respond accordingly.
• Answer telephone enquiries giving basic information and signpost where necessary.
• To record information accurately and fully as required.
• Give full advice and casework over benefits, Attendance Allowance etc

Skills and Attributes Needed

• An interest in working with and for the benefit of older people.
• Sensitivity and understanding of the range of issues affecting older people.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Effective listening and communication skills.
• Ability to use basic IT systems and update manual records.
• Able to use or willingness to learn to use the internet and Microsoft Office 365.
• Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team.
• Patience and empathy.
• Trustworthy and reliable.

As a Volunteer We Would Ask You To:

• Commit to a minimum of 4 hours a week
• Be willing to undertake relevant training
• Adhere to the Age UK East Sussex confidentiality policy and equal opportunities policy, maintaining discretion and confidentiality at all times.
• Be guided by your team leader.
• Be courteous, professional, reliable and conscientious in your commitment.
• Participate in an annual supervision and periodic group meetings.
• Give due notice when unable to attend.

As a Volunteer We Will Offer You:

• An induction and initial training.
• Ongoing training relevant to your role.
• Regular support and supervision.
• An opportunity to meet other volunteers socially and for training.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.
• Work experience and reference after six months volunteering.
• Appreciation of your time and commitment given to Age UK East Sussex.

We place great value on our volunteers - who bring so much to the organisation.  Their time, energy and commitment are recognised and greatly appreciated.