Odette Messiah
London,United Kingdom
Summary
Dedicated professional with extensive experience in the charity sector, specialising in advice & advocacy for older people. Demonstrates exceptional skills in client servicing, report-writing, and multidisciplinary collaboration, ensuring ethical conduct and confidentiality. Known for empathy and compassion, with a strong ability to advise on sensitive issues. Committed to advancing impactful initiatives through strategic advocacy and effective communication.
Takes on challenging new roles harnessing interpersonal skills, collaboration and problem-solving. Driven to deliver a high-quality service and consistent results. Dedicated team player, proactive and hands-on in task completion.
Dedicated Welfare Benefits Advisor with over 20 years of experience. Demonstrated history of meeting company goals and promoting best practices. Thrives under pressure and adapts to challenges with ingenuity and resilience. Has experience of delivering multiple projects and services to a high standard.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Complex Needs Advice, Advocacy Coordinator
Age UK Westminster
London
2021.07 - Current
- Coordinated a new service to older people in Westminster, aimed at supporting older residents going through a significant life change, through effective advice, advocacy & support.
- Kept the internal data monitoring systems up to date with client information, referrals, signposting and key information
- Built strong relationships with professionals in key areas, NHS, Housing, Social Services and other charity sector organisations, enhancing collaborative opportunities
- Participated in relevant conferences and workshops, sharing best practices.
- Monitored policy developments to keep the team updated.
- Maintained comprehensive databases of contacts and resources, ensuring efficient operations.
- Held events and workshops to promote the service and the organisation
- Won The Advising Londoners Award 2025 'Best Advice Wellbeing Project or Initiative'
Welfare Benefits Advisor
Age UK Westminster
London
2017.11 - 2021.06
- Delivered expert advice on welfare rights, leading to improved client confidence.
- Navigated through legal jargon for easier client comprehension.
- Offered referral services to other support agencies when necessary, ensuring comprehensive care for clients.
- Dealt with sensitive issues professionally-maintained confidentiality at all times.
- Conducted interviews with clients for accurate benefit assessments.
- Assisted clients in completing benefit claim forms, resulting in successful applications.
- Held responsibility for maintaining detailed records of each case; ensured accuracy in reporting.
- Managed high caseload efficiently, guaranteeing timely completion of all tasks.
- Kept abreast of new legislation and regulations to maintain up-to-date knowledge base.
- Boosted client understanding by explaining complex welfare benefits to them.
- Attended seminars and workshops on welfare law; kept knowledge current with industry changes .
- Built positive, productive client relationships for enhanced social support.
- Partnered with external support networks to deliver holistic client care.
Advice, Advocacy & Support Manager
Age UK East London
London
2006.01 - 2017.10
- Conducted regular performance reviews, ensuring continuous improvement of staff skills.
- Created a supportive work environment leading to high staff retention rates.
- Liaised closely with stakeholders for seamless communication flow.
- Developed a comprehensive training programme for improved team performance.
- Coordinated multiple tasks to ensure timely project completion.
- Fostered team cohesion for greater productivity and morale.
- Prioritised workload effectively, optimising time management within the team.
- Monitored employee and customer interactions to assess quality of service.
- Monitored team performance, providing constructive feedback and recognition where due.
- Liaised with third-party agencies for successful resolution of complex issues.
- Kept abreast of Welfare rights legislation
- Attended key stakeholder meetings and conferences
Domestic Violence Advocate
Victim Support Islington
London
2004.03 - 2006.02
- Developed individualised care plans catering to unique needs of each client, promoting their well-being and independence.
- Assisted in legal procedures for obtaining restraining orders against perpetrator's, ensuring client protection.
- Participated in regular team meetings to discuss challenging cases, resulting in innovative problem-solving approaches.
- Extended compassionate listening ear to clients' stories of trauma, validating their experiences and feelings.
- Compiled comprehensive case reports detailing client progress over time, aiding in establishing successful treatment plans.
- Offered long-term assistance plans by connecting clients with relevant social services.
- Trained in crisis intervention techniques to handle emergency situations effectively.
- Established a network of resources for providing immediate relief to victims, including temporary accommodation and financial aid.
- Carried out risk assessments during intake interviews to determine the urgency of intervention required.
- Collaborated with local law enforcement agencies to ensure victim safety.
- Advocated on behalf of clients whilst dealing with social service departments, securing necessary benefits and provisions for them.
- Offered practical advice on personal safety measures like alarm systems or safe houses, assuring client security.
- Coordinated and provided tailored support packages to high-risk and distressed victims.
- Built positive, productive client relationships for enhanced social support.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Social Policy
University of East London
London 2003.09 - 2006.06
NVQ Level 5 - Advice & Guidance
Advice UK
London 2007.01 - 2007.09
Skills
- Advice & Advocacy planning
- Policy understanding
- Non-Profit organisational experience
- Issue sensitivity
- Client servicing
- Report-writing
- Empathy and compassion
- Advice legislation
- Multidisciplinary collaboration
- Ethical conduct and confidentiality
- Organisational database administration & training
Affiliations
- Home Improvements
- Cinema
- Travelling
- Learning how to use a sewing machine!
Accomplishments
Advising Londoner Award - Best advice wellbeing, project or initiative
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Complex Needs Advice, Advocacy Coordinator
Age UK Westminster
2021.07 - Current
Welfare Benefits Advisor
Age UK Westminster
2017.11 - 2021.06
NVQ Level 5 - Advice & Guidance
Advice UK
2007.01 - 2007.09
Advice, Advocacy & Support Manager
Age UK East London
2006.01 - 2017.10
Domestic Violence Advocate
Victim Support Islington
2004.03 - 2006.02
Bachelor of Science - Social Policy
University of East London
2003.09 - 2006.06