Illness Prevention and Support Link Worker

About the Role:

Are you passionate about helping people stay well, connected, and supported in their community? Do you have personal experience of illnesses such as COPD, Asthma, CVD or supporting someone who does? If so, we want to hear from you!

Citizens Advice Blackpool, in partnership with local health services, is excited to be recruiting to this role designed to support people living with illnesses such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and CVD through the winter months. As an Illness Prevention and Support Link Worker, you’ll be at the heart of our community, helping those most at risk to manage their health and access vital advice and support services.

Your work will ensure that people in areas of greatest need can stay in their homes, maintain their independence, and remain connected to their community. This role isn’t just about health – you’ll also help people access advice on housing, benefits, debt, and employment issues, and stay or become active and engaged in community life.

Key Responsibilities:

• Health and Wellbeing Support: Work with people living with illnesses (like COPD) to help them manage their condition, stay healthy, and prevent hospital admissions.

• Community Engagement: Be a friendly face in the community, visiting people in their homes or at community hubs to check in, offer support, and keep them connected.

• Advice Access: Help people access the advice services provided by Citizens Advice, including assistance with housing, benefits, debt, and employment issues.

• Prevention Work: Work closely with health professionals, community centres, and local organisations to share health information and prevention tips.

• Building Connections: Organise community events and activities that encourage people to stay active and engaged, reducing loneliness and isolation.

• Signposting and Referrals: Refer individuals to specialist services where needed, including social care, health, and other local support services.

• Lived Experience Engagement: Use your own understanding of illness (either through personal experience or caring for others) to offer empathetic and practical support.

Person Specification:

Essential:

• Lived Experience: Personal or family experience of managing a health condition, particularly a respiratory illness or CVD, or working in a related health and care setting.

• Empathy and Compassion: A genuine interest in helping others and a non-judgmental approach to supporting people from diverse backgrounds.

• Community Knowledge: Familiarity with the local area and an understanding of the challenges faced by the community.

• Communication Skills: Great at listening, explaining things clearly, and building trust with people who may be isolated or struggling.

• Organisational Skills: Able to manage your time, keep good records, and work independently to support individuals and the community.

• Teamwork: Able to work closely with Citizens Advice, community centres, and health professionals to provide a joined-up service.

Desirable:

• Experience working or volunteering in a community setting, charity, or support role.

• Basic knowledge of benefits, housing, debt, or employment issues, or a willingness to learn.

• Confidence in using basic technology (email, phone, online systems) to keep in touch with your team and clients.

What We Offer:

• A friendly, supportive team and a rewarding role that makes a real difference.

• Full training and ongoing support to help you succeed in your role.

• Opportunities to develop new skills and knowledge in health, social care, and advice services.

• Flexible working hours to suit your lifestyle.

• The chance to be part of an exciting and innovative partnership between Citizens Advice Blackpool and local community centres.

If you’re looking for a role where you can use your lived experience and community knowledge to make a positive impact, we’d love to hear from you!

How to Apply: To apply, please send your CV and a brief cover letter explaining why you’re interested in the role to **lorraine.fisher@blackpoolcab.org.uk** by **7 September 2025**. If you’d like more information or an informal chat about the role, contact **fiona.williams@blackpoolcab.org.uk**.

Let’s work together to keep our community safe, supported, and connected this winter!