Volunteer: funeral costs helpline – charities research

Volunteer with Down to Earth, QSA’s funeral costs service for people on low incomes who are struggling with funeral costs.

What is this role about?

Down to Earth is a service offering practical support to people on low incomes who are struggling with funeral costs.  Our team offer practical support to help keep funeral costs down and raise money towards them.

  • Contact: Sophie Clarke
  • Location: Quaker Social Action, 17 Old Ford Road, Bethnal Green, E2 9PJ
  • E-mail: sophieclarke@qsa.org.uk
     

What does this volunteer role involve?

  • Research and identify grant-giving charities that may offer financial assistance towards funeral costs.
  • Contact known charities to verify and update information regarding their grant programmes related to funeral expenses.
  • Reach out to newly identified organisations to enquire about their eligibility criteria and availability of grants towards funeral costs.
  • Record accurate and up-to-date information on a spreadsheet for use by caseworkers supporting people who are struggling with the cost of a funeral.
  • Willingness to learn and attend training
  • Following QSA policies
  • Able to work independently and take initiative when required
     

When can I volunteer?

  • We ask volunteers to do a minimum of 3 hours on one day per week.  This can be in-person at our office in Bethnal Green, or remotely.
     

Will you pay my expenses?

  • Yes, we will pay for reasonable out of pocket expenses, including travel to the office (if volunteering in person) and up to £6 meal allowance on the day(s) you volunteer.
     

What experience do I need?

  • Telephone and interpersonal skills
  • Reading & writing
  • Good IT skills
  • Ability to take accurate notes and record on a spreadsheet (no knowledge of formulas or data analysis required)
     

What personal qualities do I need?

  • 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
     

What will I gain from this role?

  • Being part of a team of volunteers
  • Playing an integral part in supporting people who are struggling with funeral costs

You will also gain transferable skills including:

  • Admin skills
  • Written and verbal communication skills
     

Other

  • You will be working in a professional and friendly environment alongside a team of 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.
  • Volunteer team gatherings, with light refreshments, will take place as an opportunity to build relationships with other volunteers and the Down to Earth team, as well as address any learning needs across the team. 
  • Monthly check-ins will be arranged to ensure volunteer wellbeing.
  • After three months volunteering, we will provide you with a reference.
     

How to apply