There are many jobs whose function is unclear from their title.
For instance, do I need to know yoga to be a Flexible Social Care Officer?
And does a Welfare Rights Officer get a uniform and badge to fight for welfare?
To find out, we spoke to Darcy Brown, who’s been in this particular role in Glasgow for ten years.
So, Darcy, what do Welfare Rights Officers do?
Well we don’t get a uniform but we do provide free, up-to-date information on what people are entitled to claim, depending on their personal circumstances.
We can provide practical financial advice and also information on housing and debt.
Officers provide a confidential service and can help people to fill in complicated application forms. We also keep up to date with changes in the law.
Where do you work?
We can be office-based or have a roaming role. The location also depends on whether we offer general advice or work with specific groups. This can be everywhere, from the Citizens Advice Bureau to local councils to Carers Centres and hospitals.
We can visit community centres for clinics or even be involved in attending tribunals with clients.
Who do you work with?
Anyone who needs our advice really. As well as dealing with individuals, we can deal with family members who are dealing with the finances of an elderly or ailing relative.
Many people will be stressed or worried about finances so Officers need to be able to deal with a wide range of personalities and possibilities.
What skills do you need?
The main quality required is a strong desire to help people who might be struggling with life. People in financial difficulty might feel ashamed so sensitivity is a must, as well as developing a trust so they’ll open up and not leave out any details.
They might be stressed so a calm nature can help, as can the ability to clearly communicate information.
There will also be sums to do and forms to fill in (often online) so a knowledge of computers and arithmetic are also important.
How can I become one?
Some people come into welfare rights from associated areas, with experience of working with people in the community.
It’s possible to train on the job, however, and like many other roles it will stand you in good stead if you’ve spent time volunteering.
Find out more by looking at roles currently on offer with s1jobs