My Experience as a Benefits Advisor at Tenovus Cancer Care

Written by Victoria Griffith 

For the past 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of working as an advisor, first with Citizens Advice and then with Parkinson’s UK. In 2023, I joined the incredible team at Tenovus Cancer Care as a Benefits Advisor, and it has been a truly rewarding experience.

What motivates me most in my role is the opportunity to support people during one of the most challenging times of their lives – after a cancer diagnosis. It’s a time when people are faced with many uncertainties: their health, their future, and of course, changes in their financial situation. These worries are often overwhelming, and that’s where I come in.

As a Benefits Advisor, my primary focus is to help individuals maximise their income. I work closely with clients to help them navigate the complexities of the benefits system, ensuring they are receiving all the financial support they are entitled to. This often brings a sense of relief to those I assist, providing them with one less thing to worry about during an already stressful period. 

I understand how challenging it can be to deal with the practicalities of life when you're faced with health concerns. The benefits system can seem like a maze, and the thought of making claims can cause anxiety for many. My role is to simplify this process, guiding individuals step-by-step, answering their questions, and ensuring they feel supported throughout. 

The feedback I receive from clients is always heart-warming, and it reminds me why I do this work. One client recently expressed their gratitude with a message that truly resonated with me:  

Moments like these reinforce the impact of my work and motivate me to keep going, even on the most challenging days. 

Outside of my work, I love to travel and learn new languages. I had the wonderful opportunity to live in Japan for two years, which was an incredible experience. Not only did I immerse myself in the culture, but I also picked up a love for Japanese cooking, including making octopus pancakes. 

In addition to Japan, I’ve worked and travelled in the USA, which further fuelled my love for experiencing different cultures. I also became an avid American football fan during my time there, and I now enjoy following the sport whenever I get the chance. Later this year, I’m excited to take a trip to Sicily, where I plan to indulge in plenty of gelato. 

I work from home, and I’m fortunate to have my rescue toy poodle, Effie, as a companion. She loves to snooze by my office chair while I work, offering comfort and company during my busy days. 

Supporting people through their cancer journey is incredibly meaningful to me, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. At Tenovus Cancer Care, I know that the work we do has a lasting impact, and I look forward to continuing to support individuals and their families for many years to come.