Work With Us
Macmillan Welfare Benefits Adviser
About Us
Location: Barrow-in-Furness
Reports to: Advice Services Manager
Contract: Fixed term, 12 months
Salary: £26,483 per annum
Hours: 35 hours per week (full time)
Closing Date: 16/6/26
Interview Date: 23/6/26
Expected Start Date: as soon as available
Citizens Advice Barrow is an independent local charity and a member of the national Citizens Advice network.
We provide free, confidential, independent and impartial advice to help people find a way forward when they face problems in their lives.
Each year we help more than 2,500 people across Barrow-in-Furness and the surrounding area, supporting them with over 13,000 issues. Our advice helps people maximise their income, manage debt, maintain their housing, improve their wellbeing and make informed decisions about their future.
Our team is made up of dedicated staff and volunteers who are passionate about improving lives and tackling the root causes of problems in our community.
About the Role
We are looking for a compassionate and motivated individual to join our team as a Macmillan Welfare Benefits Adviser.
The role will provide advice and practical support to people affected by cancer, helping them access the financial support they are entitled to and navigate complex welfare benefits systems during challenging times.
The successful candidate will work closely with clients to ensure people receive timely support that improves their financial wellbeing and reduces stress.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys helping others and is willing to develop specialist knowledge in welfare benefits. Full training and ongoing support will be provided.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
Values and Understanding
Commitment to the aims and values of Citizens Advice.
Commitment to providing a high-quality service to people facing difficult circumstances.
Understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion and the importance of treating everyone with dignity and respect.
Communication and Client Skills
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Ability to listen carefully, ask effective questions and build rapport with clients.
Ability to explain information in a clear and accessible way.
Ability to work sensitively with people who may be experiencing ill health, emotional distress or financial difficulties.
Organisation and Problem Solving
Ability to gather information, identify key issues and help people explore their options.
Ability to manage a varied workload and prioritise competing demands.
Ability to maintain accurate records and pay close attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Digital Skills
Confident using digital systems and online resources.
Ability to learn and use new systems, including case management software.
Ability to undertake online research and accurately record information.
Learning and Development
Willingness and ability to undertake training and develop specialist knowledge in welfare benefits.
Commitment to ongoing personal and professional development.
Desirable Criteria
Experience providing advice, guidance, information, advocacy or support to members of the public.
Experience working in a customer service, health, social care, housing, voluntary sector or community-based role.
Knowledge of welfare benefits and income maximisation.
Understanding of the challenges faced by people affected by cancer, disability or long-term health conditions.
Experience maintaining case records or working with case management systems.
Knowledge of Citizens Advice services and the issues commonly faced by our clients.
Experience working with partner organisations and external agencies.
Previous welfare benefits experience is not essential. Full training and ongoing support will be provided.
Why join us?
We’re a welcoming, supportive charity making a real difference in Barrow.
You’ll be part of a positive team environment where your work genuinely matters and contributes to helping people in our community.
How to Apply
Please complete the application form and equality monitoring and email it to: recruitment@barrowcitizensadv
Applications will be shortlisted against the person specification, so please ensure you clearly demonstrate how your experience meets the criteria. If you would like to visit the office and meet the team, we would be very happy to welcome you. Please email us as above.
If you are passionate about helping people and want to make a real difference in your community, we would love to hear from you.