WM Disability Action is a user-led organisation based in the West Midlands, dedicated to empowering disabled people to live independently and have equal access to opportunities. We provide advocacy, ...
Disability Helpline & Advice Advisor
Practical details
Volunteering • Longer term volunteering
Contact person
West Midlands Disability Action
#128344
Scan me or visit www.volunteerbrum.org/o/West-Midlands-Disability-Action/activities/Disability-Helpline--Advice-Advisor/128344 to join
Support disabled people through helpline enquiries, provide guidance and information, and signpost individuals to suitable services and community support.
West Midlands Disability Action (WMDA) is looking for a friendly, reliable and compassionate volunteer to join our Disability Helpline & Advice service. You will support disabled people across Birmingham and the wider West Midlands by listening to their concerns, providing general information and helping them find appropriate services and support.
Key Responsibilities
- Respond to helpline enquiries from disabled people seeking information, guidance or someone to listen.
- Provide general information about disability-related support, community services and available resources.
- Help individuals find appropriate services for housing, employment, benefits, mental health and wellbeing, social inclusion and independent living.
- Signpost and refer people to relevant charities, local organisations and specialist services.
- Listen respectfully and respond in a person-centred, non-judgemental and disability-inclusive way.
- Record enquiries and actions accurately, following WMDA's confidentiality and data protection procedures.
- Recognise safeguarding concerns and report or escalate them in line with WMDA procedures.
- Maintain knowledge of local services, support organisations and referral pathways.
- Help promote the helpline and raise awareness of the support available to disabled people.
- Work with the wider WMDA team to improve the service and identify gaps in community support.
Expected Time Commitment
- Approximately 2–3 hours per week.
- Flexible hours arranged around your availability and other commitments.
- Some weeks may require slightly more time depending on demand and service needs.
- Tasks may be completed remotely, with online team meetings or check-ins arranged when needed.
- Volunteers should communicate with their supervisor if they are unavailable or require additional support.
Skills and Experience
- An interest in disability inclusion, community support and helping others.
- Good listening and communication skills.
- A friendly, patient and respectful approach.
- The ability to communicate clearly and maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
- Good organisational skills and the ability to keep accurate records.
- Knowledge of local support services is beneficial but not essential, as knowledge can be developed through training.
- A willingness to learn about safeguarding, confidentiality and appropriate signposting.
Training and Support
WMDA will provide an induction covering the organisation, helpline procedures, confidentiality, safeguarding, record keeping and referral pathways. Ongoing guidance and support will be available from the relevant supervisor or management team.
Role Boundaries
The advisor provides general information, listening support and signposting. WMDA does not provide legal representation, medical advice, regulated financial advice, counselling or specialist advocacy. Where someone needs specialist help, the advisor will help identify an appropriate service. Safeguarding concerns must be escalated in line with WMDA procedures.
The Difference You Will Make
Your contribution will help disabled people feel heard, understand their options and access appropriate support. You will help reduce isolation, improve access to information and strengthen connections between disabled people and services across the West Midlands.
Related to
About West Midlands Disability Action
WM Disability Action is a user-led organisation based in the West Midlands, dedicated to empowering disabled people to live independently and have equal access to opportunities. We provide advocacy, information, and support services, working to remove barriers and promote inclusion, rights, and social justice for disabled communities.