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Quaker Social Action's Down to Earth provides free of charge, practical support for people struggling with funeral costs. We have extensive guides on our website, which are regularly updated, and our helpline team offers one-to-one support to people who need help to keep funeral costs down and raise money towards them. As the only UK-wide service of its kind, Down to Earth receives a high number of referrals to our one-to-one service. As part of the one-to-one support given, our caseworkers direct people to various sources of financial support, including Government support and grant-giving charities. We are seeking volunteers to help us develop our database of grant-giving charities, including ensuring our current information is up-to-date, and reaching out to newly identified organisations to enquire about their criteria and availability of grants towards funeral costs. Although you will not work directly with our clients, your role will enable us to provide comprehensive and up-to-date information to recently bereaved people who are struggling with funeral costs. This is a very flexible role which can be done at a time that suits you. You can either volunteer from your own home or at the QSA office in Bethnal Green. Ideally you will commit to volunteering for at least 3 weeks for a minimum of 6 months.
• Show understanding, discretion and empathy to our clients’ circumstances, although you will not be communicating directly with clients. • Good communication • Attention to detail • Can be relied upon to attend shifts regularly and on time • Ability to take accurate notes and record on a spreadsheet (no knowledge of formulas or data analysis required)
You will be working in a professional and friendly environment alongside a team of helpline volunteers and caseworkers. You’ll be part of a pioneering service which, in addition to providing one-to-one support to clients struggling with funeral costs, also campaigns for change in the funeral industry, local and national government policy. You’ll be part of a team of volunteers, with optional volunteer team gatherings, with light refreshments, taking place bi-monthly as an opportunity to build relationships with other volunteers and the Down to Earth team. These also serve well as an opportunity to address any learning needs across the team. Monthly check-ins will be arranged to ensure volunteer wellbeing.
Ideally you will commit to volunteering for at least 3 weeks for a minimum of 6 months. This is a very flexible role which can be done at a time that suits you.
