Keith Spencer, 40
Legal officer, RNID

"I get to make a difference to peoples lives"

So, what do you actually do?

I am a casework legal officer for the Royal National Institute for the Deaf, providing legal advice, information, support and representation on welfare rights to deaf people and their families. Many are deaf or hard of hearing people who are have had their benefit applications turned down, and wish to challenge the decision in court.

Did you need any specific experience do get the job?

After graduating with a social sciences degree, I took up voluntary work in a small charity that identified benefits and support services that people with disabilities could claim. I then worked for Citizens Advice who provided further free training, which enabled me to progress. The training offered built not only my professional skills, but confidence as well.

How did you get into your job?

By continually improving my training, skills and experience, and by working and volunteering for a number of organisations and charities that deal with disability issues.

What does your typical day involve?

Responding to legal enquiries by email, textphone, telephone and fax. Also researching any information required to provide a concise and supportive response to the enquirer. I also prepare legal challenges to support a client on a wide range of issues; we offer a consultation service as part of the promotion of access and inclusion of people with disabilities.

What kind of personality is suited to the work?

I have an outgoing personality; enjoy meeting people and discussing everyday issues that affect different groups of people. I would also say I have a laid back perspective, which helps because you come across a lot of annoying and frustrating situations.

What is the most memorable experience you have had?

I get to make a difference to peoples lives. This can be financially, through winning a legal challenge, or through information provision that will allow a person access to a service they were previously unaware of.

What is the most challenging part of your job?

Preparing a legal response to an issue through research and preparation, so that you can support your challenge or argument with facts that will enable you to win cases.

Any top tips for someone wanting to get into this work?

Consider accepting any opportunity that comes your way, especially if it involves training or experience of something or a situation you have not done before.

RNID
Telephone: 0808 808 0123
Email: information@rnid.org.uk
Web: www.rnid.org.uk