Meet Dina - Our Welfare Benefits Caseworker

Dina started as a volunteer in September 2024 and secured paid employment with us in February alongside getting her Business Level 3 Business Diploma. 

We spoke to her about her time so far here.

What started you volunteering here?

I actually started volunteering here to get experience for another job! But once I started and was able to see the impact that I could have on people’s lives every day I wanted to stay and push myself even further. 

What's a typical day for you?

My job is to help people complete difficult applications for benefits, so things like Personal Independence Payment. I help with new applications, and people who have initially been denied and need help with the appeals process. 

Before clients see me, they see another adviser who makes notes on their health conditions, so before each appointment I read over those notes to understand the client to make the appointment easier for the client. 

I can then speak to the client, go through their query in detail to see how I can help them, and then complete any forms on their behalf. 

What do you do in your free time?

I like to keep busy! I’ve been in college for my diploma so a lot of time has been spent studying, with extra time dedicated to interpreting Kurdish remotely. In the time in between I like to spend time with my friends and partner, especially going travelling. I think my favourite place has been to Greece - I love the sand and the sunshine!

What's the best thing about working here?

Because I complete forms with people, I get to see the direct impact I have on people’s lives. I help people get the benefits that they’re entitled to and that they need to be able to live and it's so fulfilling to know that it's because of my hard work.

Dina started as a volunteer - could you volunteer with us? Find out more and apply - https://www.cawb.org.uk/volunteering