Work and Income (MSD) Advocate

Complex Chronic Illness Support Inc. (CCI Support)
Remote / Work from home — flexible hours

CCI Support is New Zealand's largest dedicated support service for people living with ME/CFS, Long COVID, Fibromyalgia, Dysautonomia/POTS, MCAS, and related conditions. For nearly 1,000 members nationwide, we provide community, advocacy, and practical support to help people navigate life with a complex chronic illness.

The role

Many of our members find dealing with Work and Income (MSD) one of the most stressful parts of living with a chronic illness — confusing processes, difficult assessments, and the added toll this takes on already-limited energy. We're looking for a compassionate and knowledgeable volunteer to support members through this process remotely.

As our Work and Income Advocate, you'll help members understand their entitlements, prepare for and navigate MSD interactions, and advocate on their behalf where needed — all from home, on a schedule that works for you.

What you'll do

• Support members by phone or video call to understand Work and Income processes, forms, and requirements
• Help members prepare for WINZ appointments and medical reviews
• Advocate on behalf of members in communications with MSD where appropriate
• Provide clear, practical guidance in a way that's accessible for people managing fatigue, brain fog, and other chronic illness symptoms
• Keep accurate records of member interactions and outcomes

What we're looking for

• Experience with, or willingness to learn, the Work and Income / MSD system (background in advocacy, social work, or a related field is a bonus, but not essential)
• Excellent communication skills and a calm, patient, empathetic manner
• Comfortable working independently and remotely
• Understanding of, or genuine interest in learning about, chronic illness and its impact on daily life
• Reliable, confidential, and organised

Why volunteer with us

You'll be making a direct, tangible difference in the lives of people who are too often overlooked and unheard. This is a flexible, remote role — support our members from wherever you are, on your own schedule, and be part of a warm, values-driven team who genuinely care about the people we serve.