A Day in the Life of a TASC Money Mentor

By Julie, Benefit and Debt Advisor at TASC

My day usually starts the same way — with a dog walk. It’s a moment of calm before the emails, calls, and case updates begin. By the time I sit down at my desk, I know there will be people waiting for help, and that every day will be different.

As a Benefit and Debt Adviser at TASC, I support members of the ambulance community who are struggling with money worries — often alongside challenges to their health, wellbeing, or work. The first thing I do each morning is check for new emails and support requests. These might be from someone reaching out for the first time, or from a colleague in our wider wellbeing team who has identified that money worries are adding to someone’s distress.

I check in on ongoing cases too. Today, that includes reviewing the status of a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claim I’ve been supporting for a call centre worker. I use our secure client management system to track every case, set reminders, and make sure no one is left waiting or wondering what’s happening next.

A big part of my role is making contact with new clients — listening to their situation, helping them make sense of their finances, and gathering the information needed so we can support them properly. For many people, this is the first time they’ve spoken openly about money worries, and having a real, compassionate person to talk to can make all the difference.

Throughout the day, I work closely with the wider TASC wellbeing team. Our roles overlap, and that’s a real strength. Sometimes, a colleague has supported someone whose mental health is being affected by financial stress and refers them to me. Other times, I’ll refer someone back to the wellbeing team so they can get emotional or psychological support alongside financial help.

No two cases are the same. One moment I might be helping a person who has been made homeless and supporting them to find suitable accommodation. Another moment, I’m looking at benefit entitlements for someone who is currently in hospital after a life-changing injury at work, making sure they’re receiving everything they’re entitled to at such a difficult time.

I’ve also helped a woman who queried why her benefit payment didn’t seem right. By guiding her through the process and helping her understand what to rectify and how, we were able to get the issue corrected. These moments matter — because getting the right financial support can reduce stress, restore dignity, and give people breathing space.

Some days bring really positive news. Recently, I received confirmation that a gentleman I supported with a PIP application has been awarded a substantial amount, including a back payment. Being able to share that news — knowing what it means for his stability and peace of mind — is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

Our client platform helps me stay organised and responsive. I set tasks and follow-ups so that throughout the day I can check in, update clients, and make sure they feel supported and informed every step of the way. People don’t just need advice — they need reassurance that someone is walking the journey with them.

I usually end my day the same way I started it — with another dog walk. It’s a chance to reflect on the people I’ve spoken to and the progress we’ve made, even if it’s just one small step forward.

At TASC, our expanded Financial Wellbeing service by becoming a Community Money Advice Connect Centre. This means we can offer confidential, independent, and practical support with debt, benefits, and budgeting.

And that’s what my day is really about — helping people move forward.