Help-Line Volunteer

DIAL is a disability information and advice line handling issues relating to any problem connected to disability.  DIAL covers South Essex and people with all forms of disability i.e. physical, sensory, mental health and learning difficulties.  A Volunteer Adviser can take on a variety of tasks, however most will involve:

• Interviewing clients, either through face-to-face interviews or by telephone or email which will involve listening to the clients and letting the client explain their problem.

• Seeking relevant and up-to-date information in relation to a client’s issue, using our computer Information System, the internet, printed information and other appropriate reference sources.

• Providing information that will assist the client to consider his/her options.
• Giving practical help to clients by completing various forms, or by speaking or writing to other agencies on behalf of the client.
• Writing accurate and concise case records of client interviews
• Assisting with the administration in the day-to-day running of the office for example, filing, database entry, answering telephones, scanning documents etc.

DIAL asks that volunteers are

• Willing to understand the need for basic and ongoing training.
• Willing to participate in bi-monthly training sessions.
• Able to listen to and communicate with clients.
• Able to work within DIAL’s principles by keeping confidentiality and giving impartial advice
• Able to work within DIAL’s Equalities and Diversities Policy.
• Willing to support and assist colleagues in the day-to-day operations of DIAL.

Notify DIAL as soon as possible if you are unable to attend due to illness or holiday

What skills do I need?

• The ability to communicate well both orally and in writing
• The ability to listen and communicate with a wide range of people
• Be able to work alone and as part of a team
• Have a caring, mature and supportive attitude
• Be able to use a computer
• Ability to drive or have access to a car would be helpful but not a necessity

Interests

• Disability
• Health and Social Care
• Mental Health

Activities

• Administration and Office
• Advice and Information
• Computers, IT and Websites