Advice Supervisor Jobs in Paddington, Greater London

Team Leader

Closing date for applications 23:59 hours on 4th June 2024

Salary c £35,000 per annum

To apply visit our website to download our recruitment pack with full application instructions 

Successful candidates must demonstrate their ability to:

• Provide supervision, support and performance management of a small team of private tenancy rights caseworkers, ensuring equitable and manageable sharing of caseload
• Encourage and support user involvement and private tenants’ voice generally in our service development
• Represent Safer Renting to and manage relationships with an agreed group of local authorities

Team Leader

Closing date for applications 23:59 hours on 4th June 2024

Salary c £35,000 per annum

To apply visit our website to download a recruitment pack for full instructions 

Successful candidates must demonstrate their ability to:

1. Provide supervision, support and performance management of a small team of private tenancy rights caseworkers, ensuring equitable and manageable sharing of caseload
2. Encourage and support user involvement and private tenants’ voice generally in our service development
3. Represent Safer Renting to and manage relationships with an agreed group of local authorities

Hours: Full- and part-time positions

Contract: Permanent

Location: CAML charity offices and outreach venues across Merton

Salary (pro rata for part time):

From £30,000 per annum for Advice Supervisor

From £29,000 per annum for Trainee Supervisor

Annual Leave: 25 days (pro rata for part time), Charity Day, plus public holidays

Pension: The charity operates a pension scheme

The charity offers an employee assistance programme

Deadline: 6pm, Thursday 9th May 2024

Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML) is the leading advice charity supporting individuals and families primarily across the London boroughs of Lambeth and Merton but also wider London.  We provide a range of information, support and advice services.  We also work to raise awareness and understanding of the challenging issues affecting our clients and communities.

We are looking for an experienced Adviser/Caseworker or Supervisor to join our team in this new role.  If you are passionate about supporting individuals and families in need, relish supporting valued team members to reach their potential, have minimum of two years Citizens Advice Adviser experience, are a natural team leader, enjoy delivering training and are interested in joining a dedicated professional team we would love to hear from you.

Our offices have excellent public transport links and Mitcham also has a carpark.  We offer a friendly and welcoming work environment and can provide flexible work opportunities dependent on service demands. 

This role is a service manager including line management responsibilities and reports to Head of Advice Services.

Main duties and responsibilities

• As a member of service managers team, ensure client support team members are supported with the appropriate level of guidance and supervision

• Complete casework and generalist advice for clients (when required)

• Monitor the case records / telephone calls of designated staff and volunteers to meet quality standards and service level agreements

• Ensure remedial and developmental issues are identified and acted on to develop individuals, improve the quality of advice, and ensure clients do not suffer detriment due to poor or inadequate advice

• Keep technical knowledge up to date and provide technical support to advisers and / or caseworkers

• As a service/team manager you are a member of CAML’s Service Manager Delivery Team

• Assist trainees through self-learning modules and review progress on a regular basis.

• Research, design and deliver training programmes and sessions

• Take part in recruitment, induction and coordination of our fantastic volunteers

• Attend appropriate internal and external meetings as agreed

Research and Campaigns

• Promote the importance of research and campaigns work

• Include a review for research and campaigns within case-checking

Other duties and responsibilities

• Uphold the aims and principles of the Citizens Advice service and its equal opportunities policies.

• Professionally represent and promote Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth in your work

• Other duties as requested by your line manager (Head of Advice Services), SMT or Chief Executive

Professional Development

• The successful applicant will receive comprehensive induction to the charity and our work.  We support team members in their professional development to ensure we’re up to date with legislation, case law, policies and procedures relating to benefits and debt and undertake appropriate training as agreed with your line manager. 

Person Specification

• Citizens Advice qualified and experienced across all advice areas essential.

• Ability to support volunteers and staff and maintain motivation.

• Demonstrable ability to monitor and maintain service delivery against agreed targets.

• Well-organised and able to prioritise own work and the work of others, meet deadlines and manage workload in a busy environment.

• Ability to use IT systems and packages, and electronic resources in the provision of advice and the preparation of reports and submissions.

• Commitment to and work within the aims, principles and policies of the Citizens Advice service.

• Strong understanding of equality and diversity and its application to the provision of advice, and the supervision and development of staff.

This job description and personal specification does not form part of any contract.

If you’re interested in the role and joining us, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please follow the link to our website to view the full job description and find out how to apply (please note we will not consider CVs for this role).

The deadline for applications is 6pm, Thursday, 9th May 2024. 

If you do not hear from us, we are afraid your application was unsuccessful.

We reserve the right to close applications early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.

We are registered with the Information Commissioner's Office and will process your personal data in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation and Data Protection Act 2018. Please refer to our online Privacy Policy for more information on how your personal data will be processed and stored.

“Providing free, independent, confidential and impartial advice”

Citizens Advice Southwark has a track record of delivering high-quality services from its offices in Peckham and Walworth and outreach locations across Southwark and South East London. We sort out problems together, for good, by providing free, independent, confidential and impartial advice across all areas of social welfare law, and through using the experience of our clients to bring about positive change through research and campaigns. 

This post is advertised as an exciting opportunity for an experienced Advice Session Supervisor to consolidate their skills and experience or as a development opportunity for an advisor to train to become an Advice Session Supervisor within six months of starting in post. If applying as a trainee the starting salary will be on NJC Scale 6 - £33,194 for the first six months whilst undertaking the training.

The post holder will be required to work across all of our offices and outreaches in Southwark according to operational needs.

The role includes:

• Providing advice to the public and undertaking casework on social welfare law issues
• Supervising advice and gateway assessment sessions
• Supporting and supervising staff and volunteers

To be successful you will need:

• Recent experience of giving advice to the public. This should include having undertaken advice casework.
• Experience of undertaking the role of Advice Session Supervisor or to demonstrate the ability to undertake this role with training provided within 6 months of starting
• To understand, empathise with and be committed to the Service’s aims, principles and equal opportunities policies

Closing date: 9.00 am Monday 20th May 2024

Interviews: Friday 24th May 2024

For further information and an application pack please visit our website via the apply button

We offer a range of employee benefits, including generous annual leave, an employer matched pension contribution up to 10% salary, and training and development opportunities to continue your professional development.

Citizens Advice Southwark is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all applicants who meet the person specification irrespective of sex, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief, age, or disability.

Hours: 30 hours/week (0.8 FTE), Part time or Job share applications welcomed

About Us

Citizens Advice Epsom & Ewell is a local charity that provides advice and information for anyone that lives, works or studies in Epsom and Ewell.

We deliver our service through as many different channels as we can, to make sure we are accessible to everyone.  This includes face to face, phone, video conferencing, and email. The role is based in our Epsom office.

About the Role

We are looking for a self-motivated individual with proven ability of managing and supervising a team. You will have recent relevant experience of working in a local Citizens Advice or similar advice organisation, and be able to demonstrate a good knowledge and understanding of the issues facing local communities.

This role involves the supervision of advice sessions, providing guidance and assistance to those working in our Epsom office as well as to staff working from home or in outreach locations.

The post is responsible for ensuring the smooth running of the day to day service and the implementation of consistent processes to maintain quality standards. In addition you will manage volunteer advice staff and work closely with the Training team to support their training and development.

This is a great opportunity for someone looking to make a difference in people’s lives, supporting some of the most vulnerable people in society and helping them to find a way forward.

About You

• Highly motivated with proven ability of managing and supervising others including the ability to develop and motivate staff as well as give and receive feedback objectively and sensitively.
• Recent relevant experience of working in a local Citizens Advice or similar advice setting.
• Ability to plan and manage your own work and the work of others in a pressured environment, including: setting priorities; meeting deadlines; and monitoring performance
• Flexibility and willingness to work as part of a team including advice work if required.
• Ability to identify ongoing training needs and deliver appropriate support to ensure high quality of service.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Proficient in the use of IT systems, including office, case management and benefit calculation systems.
• Commitment to work within the aims, principles and policies of the Citizens Advice service, demonstrating an understanding of issues affecting society and the implications on our clients and service.

We value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination.  We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.  We particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic groups, as they are currently under-represented in our workforce.

Closing date: 20th May 2024

Interview Dates: 23rd May 2024

Job Purpose: To develop and manage, to a high standard, Age UK Bromley & Greenwich’s Information and Advice Service. To be responsible for the effective delivery of the I&A Service which will be delivered through a range of channels, including face to face, telephone, email, digital, and other means, across the Bromley and Greenwich boroughs.

Key Responsibilities:

Line management and supervision

• Provide line management and supervision to advisers and support staff.
• Supervising team advice sessions and casework
• Manage the practicalities of the advice session and ensure adequate staffing and resources.
• Undertake monthly supervision with individual team members and annual appraisal.
• Ensure referrals are actioned and clients are supported in a timely manner.
• Develop team competence in key advice areas. (Benefits, Housing,  Social care)
• Provide technical support to advisers and identify areas of further development for individuals and the team.

Support learning and development

• Support the team to embrace continuous learning and development and provide timely feedback on cases reviewed.
• Make recommendations for staff training and development areas of need.

Staff recruitment and development

• Create a positive working environment in which equality and diversity are well-managed, dignity at work is upheld and everyone can do their best.
• Participate in recruitment and selection activities as delegated.
• Undertake new  staff induction.
• Ensure the team receive appropriate support, supervision and appraisal and have opportunities for continuous learning and development.

Quality assurance and reporting

• Undertake Independent File Reviews ( IFR) and monitor the quality  to meet quality standards and service level agreements
• Maintain and develop  QAS/ AQS standards incl. renewal process.
• Ensure remedial and developmental issues are identified and acted on to develop individuals, improve the quality of advice, and ensure clients do not suffer detriment due to poor or inadequate advice.
• Keep technical knowledge up to date and provide technical support to advisers.
• Maintain a case load as demonstration of ongoing personal development and learning.
• Undertake advice work as required e.g. during staff absences.
• Provide statistical reports on outputs and outcomes as required by funders and management
• Review and implement outcome measures for the work of the I&A team, including an annual survey of clients.

Partnership working and development

• To manage networking/ liaison with other local key stakeholders and organisations and feed into wider local engagement and community development work.
• Develop effective partner relationships with referral agencies across  both boroughs, and to refer/ signpost cases to external agencies as appropriate.
• Represent the organisation at outreach and community events as required, continuing to raise the organisational profile and develop wider awareness of our services.
• Work with colleagues to develop marketing materials, give talks and presentations, identify outreach opportunities .
• Identify opportunities to develop and grow the wider information and advice service

About RLS 

RLS is a UK charity and a non-profit company in Greece (AMKE). 

Refugee Legal Support works in solidarity with people who migrate. We operate in the UK, France and Greece, promoting and protecting rights through legal support, casework, litigation, engagement, training and partnerships. We advocate for safe migration and oppose discriminatory immigration systems and policies.

RLS has held a legal aid contract in the UK since 2023. 

About the Afghan Pro Bono Initiative (APBI)

The Afghan Pro Bono Initiative is a specialist casework project delivered by RLS with funding and pro bono assistance from 14 leading commercial law firms. It is a project delivered in partnership with SPI. 

Firm pro bono lawyers are trained and supervised by the project’s two full-time supervising lawyers so that they can then assist with legal casework.

APBI has two core components. The team delivers legal information and support to and within the Afghan community, working together with the Community Engagement and Research Lead to ensure wide access. While the project also provides high quality legal representation in a range of cases for this community. This includes family reunion, the ARAP scheme, the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme and others. 

APBI then aims to respond to the increased need for legal information, advice and representation of Afghan nationals and their family members forced to seek protection and reunion with family in the United Kingdom following the Taliban takeover. The project is now going into its 3rd year, and won the Most Effective Pro Bono Partnership Award at the Law Works Pro Bono Awards in 2022 as well as being nominated and commended for numerous other awards in 2022 and 2023. 

The casework of this project feeds into strategic research, policy and advocacy efforts to make existing ‘safe’ routes to protection (in particular refugee family reunion and resettlement schemes) more accessible and effective, advocate for their expansion and defend the fundamental rights of people on the move by influencing policy and decision making. 

Litigation arising out of the project is actively pursued (where eligible) under RLS’s legal aid contract to push for better decision-making, secure results for individuals and pursue improvements in the relevant law, policy and practices. 

RLS recognise that pro bono legal work is always an adjunct to, and not a substitute for, an adequate system of publicly funded legal services. 

Key responsibilities and objectives

The post holder will be a staff member of Refugee Legal Support. They will be a participant within the Afghan Pro Bono Initiative project team, which comprises two lawyers (the other being at SPI), a coordinator and a Community Engagement and Research Lead in addition to the volunteer lawyers from the individual commercial firm partners. 
 

Key responsibilities

• Manage a small caseload and provide high quality legal advice and representation to clients;

• Supervise the work of volunteer pro bono commercial lawyers on cases;

• Deliver training to pro bono commercial lawyers;

• Ensure that all legal work is promptly and accurate recorded on RLS’s case management system and keep relevant time recording; 

• Develop and disseminate relevant information on legal developments in this area for relevant stakeholders, including both the Afghan Community and building the capacity of other practitioners;

• Work in close collaboration with the other project Lawyer/s to develop and share experiences and best practice in relation to all aspects of casework (legal, evidential and procedural) and relevant internal processes;

• Work in close collaboration with the Legal Director, Programmes Manager and Coordinator to ensure that appropriate steps to achieve the aims and objectives of the project are taken, including ensuring that relevant data is obtained and assisting with the timely completion of the project Operational Plan/s;

• Work in close collaboration with the APBI Coordinator and Programmes Manager to contribute to the production of materials such as project periodic reports, information on emerging and strategic issues in relation to ‘safe’ routes for use in advocacy, content for newsletters, social media posts and articles to raise awareness of the project and its aims and outputs;

• Participate in, and contribute to, RLS’s monitoring, evaluation and learning framework;

• Be an active member of the RLS team participating in team meetings at both the UK and International level: engaging in a collegiate and collaborative environment that includes participating in the development of a new and exciting legal organisation; 

• Be an active and collaborative member of the APBI Project team together with the other Lawyer/s, Coordinator and Community Engagement and Research Lead;

• Work in close collaboration with the Community Engagement and Research Lead to contribute to the production of information sheets and other materials to disseminate to the Afghan community/ies;

• Maintain accurate and confidential records in line with GDPR;

• Adhere to RLS safeguarding policies and procedures at all times. 

Person Specification

Essential

• Be either a member of the Bar, a solicitor and accredited to IAAS Senior caseworker level, accredited to IAAS Senior caseworker level, or OISC accredited to Level 3;

• Experience of asylum casework;

• Experience of refugee family reunion procedures and applications, including applications outside of the Immigration Rules reliant on Article 8 ECHR and other human rights provisions;

• Experience of online immigration applications; 

• Demonstrable knowledge of legal aid provision and ECF applications; 

• Demonstrable supervision experience; 

• Experience of and commitment to working in a collaborative way on legal cases;

• Good verbal and written communication skills in English;

• Strong organisational skills, including the ability to prioritise work and meet deadlines;

• Strong attention to detail, responsiveness, reliability and dependability;

• Strong interpersonal and relationship management skills and an ability to deal professionally and collaboratively with both legal and not-for-profit stakeholders;

• Computer literacy;

• Right to reside and work in the UK;

• Enjoy working with a small team in a flexible and fast-paced environment, as well as being an independent self-starter able to work with a high degree of autonomy;

• Have a strong commitment to upholding the human rights of asylum seekers, migrants, and refugees; 

• Commitment to the aims of the project and the values of RLS.

• The successful candidate will be required to obtain an enhanced DBS certificate (we cover the cost). However, a criminal record is not a barrier to the role. 

Desirable

• Those with lived experience of navigating immigration systems are strongly encouraged to apply and will be favourable considered;

• Experience of legal aid casework; 

• Experience of conducting immigration appeals and/or public law litigation; 

• Experience of supervising commercial lawyers in a pro bono project setting;

• Experience of preparing and delivering training;

• Interest in collaborating with non-legal colleagues to bring about systemic change;

• Working knowledge of Dari and/or Pashto.

Debt Advice Case Manager

Do you want to help lift some of the most marginalized and vulnerable in our communities out of poverty? We are seeking a Debt Advice Case Manager to work with a small, compassionate, dynamic charity, to help transform lives.

Our client offers comprehensive debt & benefit advice, helps build financial resilience through money education and budget coaching, and offers mentoring to clients with open-ended holistic support to increase their mental wellbeing and social mobility.

If you are passionate about helping people, then this role could be for you. It is much more than just a job - you'll get to see peoples' lives changed and dignity restored!

Internal Job Title: Debt Advice Case Manager

Location: Hounslow, London (will consider hybrid/remote working options)

Salary: £30-34k (FTE) based on experience and location

Contract type: Permanent (6-month probationary period)

Benefits: Enhanced pension scheme, holiday allowance, family-friendly policies, flexible working, learning and development, health and wellbeing.

Closing Date: 3rd June 2024

About the Role:

The primary purpose of this role is to provide debt advice and money education on a case management basis and to support the provision of advice by volunteers. The post holder will be expected to manage their own cases and lead appointment sessions.

The organisation’s mission is to ‘Restore Dignity and Renew Hope’ to those in our communities brought down by poverty and debt. The job holder will play their part in bringing this vision to reality, supporting clients through what at times can be emotionally difficult situations, to get back on their feet and realise their full potential.

The role combines both technical and pastoral elements. The role will involve building a client case, untangling sometimes complex situations, liaising with creditors, providing guidance for volunteers, and discerning and communicating the appropriate choices and strategies for the client. But you will also need to lead client appointments and support clients through what at times can be emotionally difficult situations.

About you:

We are looking for someone with prior debt advice experience who ideally has experience in leading and supervising volunteers.

Essential skills and experience of the Case Manager include:

• Previous experience in providing regulated debt advice on a case management basis
• Being a DRO intermediary would be an advantage
• Demonstrable experience in providing person-focused support to clients who may be vulnerable
• Excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to show empathy, compassion and patience
• Sound IT skills with a strong command of the Microsoft Office suite

Above all else, our client is looking for an individual who is keen to support and play their part in implementing their vision and be an enthusiastic advocate of the work they do to alleviate poverty. They are a faith-based charity and although being a practicing Christian is not an occupational requirement, they are looking for someone comfortable with its Christian ethos and champions its core values. If this sounds like you, then apply today with a CV and cover letter explaining how you are a good fit for the role!

About the organisation:

The organisation was established in October 2009 and saw it’s first client in January 2010. Since then, they have provided advice and support to thousands of families and individuals in difficulty. Set up originally as part of the social action work of Holy Trinity Brompton church in London, the organisation has since expanded, opening up new branches in partnership with numerous churches and running appointments from locations throughout London and the South of England.

Every day the organisation see individuals and families who have been broken by their circumstances, be that illness, bereavement, loss of employment, mental health problems or family breakdown. Through circumstances that any of us would struggle to deal with, they have found themselves facing the prospect of being evicted from their home, struggling to keep the power on, or unable just to meet their basic day-to-day needs.

Other roles you may have experience with could include: Debt Case Manager, Welfare Case Manager, Welfare Advisor, Debt Advisor, Benefits Advisor, Benefit, Debt & Money Advisor, Debt Recovery Advisor, Debt Service Coordinator and Adviser, IVA Advisor, Senior Advisor, Housing Advisor, People Advisor, General Advice Caseworker, Caseworker Supervisor, Senior Benefits Manager, Benefits Lead, Social Welfare Adviser, Benefits Specialist, etc.

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

• Salary: £34,650 - £42,500 gross per annum at 1.0 FTE

• Working pattern: 1.0 FTE (37.5 hrs per week), or 0.9 or 0.8 FTE. Flexible working requests will be considered.

• Contract: 1 x permanent with a 6 months probationary period and 2 x fixed-term for 12 months

• Team: UK Legal Team

• Location: This role can be hybrid, or office based. At a minimum, candidates will be required to work from the London office at least 2 days a week, as well as be able to attend ad hoc events and away days in person.

• Reporting to: Head of UK Legal

Safe Passage International (SPI) is recruiting three Immigration Lawyers and/or Immigration Caseworker Supervisors (one permanent, two fixed-term) to join our UK Legal Team. We are looking for enthusiastic, experienced and motivated individuals to join the UK Legal and Arrivals Team in its invaluable and ground-breaking work to ensure that safe routes to sanctuary exist and are accessible for all people seeking asylum.

As an Immigration Lawyer/ Immigration Caseworker Supervisor in the UK Legal Team, you will run a caseload of complex family reunion entry clearance applications and appeals, you will also supervise cases of colleagues and pro bono solicitors and volunteers, if appropriate. You will be supported by colleagues in the UK Legal team and work in close collaboration with colleagues in SPI France and Greece as well as with professionals in relevant external organisations.

You will be determined and committed to delivery high quality legal casework supporting asylum seeking children to reunite with family members in the UK. You will be attentive to detail, flexible, efficient and able to work independently and under supervision as part of a small and dynamic team. You will be eager to contribute to the overall missions and values of Safe Passage International and to work collaboratively with other teams in this international and multi-disciplinary organisation.

We value equity and diversity in our organisation, and are striving to build a workforce reflective of the communities we work with. We encourage applications from people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, sexual orientations, faiths, disabilities, and marital or pregnancy status. People with refugee or asylum-seeking backgrounds are experts by experience and are particularly encouraged to apply.

We are looking for good immigration casework experience, as detailed in the Person Specification. Experience in a similar role is welcome, but this could also be your first paid position in the charity sector, or you could be returning to work after time out. This position will have a dedicated training budget and you will be supported to grow and develop within your role.

As a refugee charity, we offer a guaranteed interview for people with direct lived experience of seeking asylum who meet most of the essential criteria outlined in the Person Specification. If you have first-hand experience of applying for asylum in any country, please let us know in your application.

We respect that people’s identity is not defined by their past experiences and do not expect candidates to describe their lived experience during the interview process unless they wish to.

If you are excited by this role and working at Safe Passage but do not have all the experience you think is needed, please visit the job advert on our wesbite for contact details. 

How do I apply?

For more information on how to apply, please visit our website to reqad the Job Description & Person Specification alongside the How to Apply Guide.

Closing date: Sunday 26th May at 11.59 pm.

About us: 

The Refugee and Migrant Forum of Essex and London (RAMFEL) is one of the largest immigration and asylum advice charities in the UK, supporting refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants to access justice. An OISC level 3 accredited organisation, we represent clients at all stages of the immigration and asylum process, up to and including the Upper Tribunal of the Immigration and Asylum Chamber.

We also actively campaign for a fairer and more humane immigration system. RAMFEL caseworkers therefore have the opportunity to work on systemic and strategic challenges and support broader advocacy work.

We particularly welcome and encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic individuals, and those who are migrants or refugees, and who have lived experience of the impact of UK immigration policy and/or of rough sleeping.

Purpose of the role: 

The purpose of the role is to assist some of the most vulnerable people in our society. The focus of the legal work is on non-legal aid funded matters, supporting people who otherwise have no access to legal advice and support. There will be particular focus on working with people who are facing a crisis, providing legal representation and support that will take them out of destitution.

This is a vacant position being filled as a replacement. The role gives an opportunity to assist some of the most vulnerable people in our society. The focus of the role is on supporting people who otherwise have no access to legal advice and support. 

We will primarily consider applications with relevant legal experience. Qualifications needed are OISC level 2/3 or Solicitor with IAAS accreditation.

Relationships: This post will report to the Rough Sleeping Casework Manager

Contract duration: Fixed term until 31 March 2025

Hours of work: The role is primarily a full-time position, requiring 37.5 hours per week. However, for the right candidate, we may consider accommodating part-time working hours. Given the nature of RAMFEL’s work, there may be instances where the Supervisor will need to exceed the standard hours. In such cases, compensatory time off can be arranged with the line manager

Specific Responsibilities

Case management 

1. Manage own caseload, working to advance the best interests of the client
2. Adhere to standards set out by OISC/SRA and AQS to deliver high-quality advice
3. Provide representation and advice up to OISC level 2/3.
4. Engage with the Line Manager to create and follow a training plan to ensure compliance with OISC CPD, keeping up to date with changes in law, policy and guidance to ensure clients receive accurate and high-quality advice
5. Liaise directly with the UKVI and related governmental agencies
6. Complete forms, letters and immigration applications
7. Liaise with and refer clients to Legal Aid Solicitors or other advisers, as appropriate
8. Manage clients’ expectations by discussing deadlines, outcomes and timing 
9. Deliver legal advice outreach surgeries/drop in as and when required 
10. Progress cases in a timely manner in line with regulatory requirements.
11. Implement organisational priorities into day-to-day casework.

Person Specification 

Education/qualifications

• Ideally candidates must be Solicitors with IAAS Level 2 with at least 1-year immigration experience or OISC level 2/3 qualified
• If OISC level 1, the candidate will be expected to initially work under supervision completing level 2 work and qualifying at level 2 within 6 months. (Training is provided and study leave is accommodated.) Upon obtaining a higher level of accreditation, the candidate’s salary will increase in line with RAMFEL pay scales.
• IAAS level 2 caseworkers (non-solicitor) will be considered but if appointed must be prepared to work under supervision and qualify at level 1 within 6 months. (Training is provided and study leave is accommodated) Upon obtaining a higher level of accreditation, the candidate’s salary will increase in line with RAMFEL pay scales.

Experience/knowledge

•  Experience in providing high-quality advice and representation to clients
•  A good understanding of law and policy as it relates to immigration and asylum 
• Experience in professional, independent, and impartial service delivery to the public 
• Experience in maintaining a caseload of cases in line with OISC requirements in relation to the conduct of cases, file management and supervision
• Knowledge of and empathy with the backgrounds and experiences of asylum seekers, rough sleepers and vulnerable migrants
• Experience in using client databases
• Experience working with interpreters supporting clients with complex matters

Springfield Advice & Law Centre is a community based legal practice and a registered charity. We were formed in 1982 when we were set up to serve the mental health community.  We are based mainly on the site of Springfield University Hospital Mental Health NHS Trust.  Springfield Law Centre is unique as a working model of a health justice partnership.

We are seeking a for a new Director & Head of Legal Practice to take forward this unique, niche Law Centre.  There is an opportunity for expanding the work of the Law Centre and showcasing the worth of health justice partnerships.We are looking for an energetic and compassionate lawyer with a broad experience of either housing or community care casework and representation, who is capable of being a legal aid category supervisor in either area, who has the confidence to lead the team and to develop it so that we can continue to make a real difference within the community.

Qualifications and experience

1. 5 years’ PQE qualified lawyer, with demonstrable experience of management at a senior level.
2. Ability to meet the supervisor for the Legal Aid Agency contract in either housing or community care.
3. A track record of implementing and managing change. 
4. A track record of leading and motivating others demonstrating strong people skills.
5. A track record of innovation and problem solving.
6. Appropriate skills and experience that demonstrate an ability and commitment to manage staff effectively. This should include support, supervision, and appraisal and performance management.
7. Appropriate skills and experience to effectively handle and manage complaints.
8. Experience of managing a Legal Aid Agency Contract and Legal Help matters, with billing targets.
9. Ability to bill all types of legally-aided work and to report to the Legal Aid Agency.
10. Ability to manage a varied caseload of sufficient, appropriate matters to meet the billing target in place.
11. Ability to draft appropriate documentation in your specialist area of law.
12. Experience of giving successful training or talks, for example giving presentations, or
13. representing clients before Courts or Tribunals.
14. Skills
15. Ability to take an active role in, leading the direction of the Law Centre, developing new strategies and raising profile.
16. Ability to manage the Lexcel Quality Mark and ensure that systems and standards are maintained across the organisation so that audits are passed.
17. Ability to understand the financial viability of the Law Centre.
18. Ability to report effectively to funders and to monitor progress against grant funded projects.
19. Commitment to equality and diversity as set out in the principles and policies of the Law Centre.
20. Ability to be self-servicing: you will be expected to manage most of your own typing, filing and billing of Legal Help/Aid cases to comply with LAA requirements.
21. Ability to prioritise your workload with minimum supervision.
22. Excellent communication skills: you must be able to relate well to colleagues, clients and third parties, in person, in writing and on the telephone, despite the pressures of the role.
23. You must be very well organised, with excellent ICT skills, in order to work well under pressure without compromising standards.
24. Ability to work flexibly and outside regular office hours including attending and reporting to the trustees on the progress of the Law Centre.

Consideration will be given to requests for flexible or family friendly hours of work to include job share, part time working or specific proposals. The Management Committee consider the range and number of duties to be a full-time role and that any reduction from a full-time role will result in a division of duties to accommodate all aspects of the Law Centre’s needs and aspirations.

The Richmond & Hounslow Methodist Circuit is looking for a reliable and committed individual to support the life and work of our group of churches in SW London. They will play a crucial role in ensuring the proper organisation and management of our finances to enable our mission.

Key responsibilities:

• overseeing the Circuit’s day to day financial management
• supervising payroll and staff expenses
• financial reporting
• working with our accountants to produce annual accounts
• helping the Circuit to plan for the future
• advising on all financial matters

Benefits:

• £12,376 per annum based on 14 hours a week (£17.00 per hour; equivalent to £33,592 pa full-time)
• pension contribution of 6%
• working from home, with occasional in-person meetings
• flexible working
• 30 days a year annual leave (f/t equivalent, including bank holidays)
• annual leave increases with long service
• opportunity for additional hours, by mutual agreement
• supportive staff team
• helping local communities thrive and serve those in need

For more details, please see the detailed job and person specification, and the terms & conditions.

This is a new role for the Circuit, replacing a volunteer. In designing the position, the Circuit has aimed for maximum flexibility to secure the best candidate for the role. Initially, the person will need physically to attend some meetings to familiarise themselves with the Circuit's operations and ensure a smooth hand-over. For the right person, though, there will be considerable flexibility about how the duties are fulfilled in the longer-term. It is specifically expected that the role will allow for flexible scheduling to accommodate other responsibilities, including caring.

The Richmond & Hounslow Circuit comprises seven churches in southwest London. As with all Methodist circuits, these churches function autonomously yet collaborate closely in their ministry and mission efforts. The Circuit oversees joint resources, including staff and property. Presently, it employs four full-time ordained ministers, one full-time lay pastor, and a part-time administrator. As a part of the Methodist Church, its mission is “to respond to the gospel of God’s love in Christ and to live out its discipleship in worship and mission”. To fulfil this mission, the Circuit fosters a broad spectrum of ministry within its congregations, focusing on worship but also engaging in outreach to the homeless, asylum seekers, new parents, and various other groups. Joining a welcoming team, the successul applicant will be a crucial part of an organisation committed to serving Christ and the community.

Closing date for applications: 10 May, 2024 (to begin work as soon as possible)*

* Please note that we will offer interviews earlier than the closing date for suitable applicants, so we strongly encourage you to apply as soon as possible, if interested.

The successful applicant will have the right to live and work in the UK. Although this post is home-based, the Officer will need routinely to attend meetings in London. Owing to the nature of the employment, we are unable to offer support in obtaining a working visa.

Safeguarding Solicitor – National Legal Team

Salary - Grade 6 - £42,697 per annum

Closing date: Sunday 12th May 2024 at 11.30 pm

Fixed term 12 month contract with possibility of extension

Flexible location - can be based in any of Shelter's 11 hubs in England or home based.

Are you a Solicitor with housing law knowledge and experience of safeguarding?  If so then consider a move to Shelter you could soon be making a real difference to people affected by the housing emergency.

About Shelter

A home is a fundamental human need, as essential as education or healthcare. Yet millions of people across Britain struggle on a daily basis with homelessness, bad housing conditions, soaring rents, discrimination, and the threat of eviction. So, we are striving for change, with individuals, in communities, across society, and leading the way to a safe home. We need ambitious, best-in-class individuals who are passionate about our cause to join us at this exciting time. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

At Shelter we are united by our purpose to defend the right to a safe home. Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. We believe that to win that fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement for change. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, fair, equitable and transparent.

We have committed to combat racism both within and outside Shelter and welcome you on our journey to becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.

About The Team

Shelter’s Legal Team provide legal expertise and representation across our Services. You will be part of our National Legal Team and will work closely with our Telephone and Online Advice Service (TOAS) to identify trends in issues experienced by people using the service.  

About the role

Your role will be to work within the National Legal Team to support the TOAS team to recognise vulnerable clients who need urgent legal help, at the sharpest end of the housing crisis, struggling to advocate for themselves in appalling housing conditions or stuck in temporary accommodation.

Your role will be to provide legal early intervention to clients and families who have safeguarding concerns.

You will act on a consultancy basis for TOAS and provide advice and legal representation on behalf of the client and/or their family, authorising and arranging temporary accommodation and any associated hardship claims. Should a safeguarding referral be made, you will follow up on those referrals to ensure that the appropriate outcome is achieved.

You will also be supported to work with relevant stakeholders to address systemic matters that contribute to homelessness and advocate for systematic change to break the cycle for other vulnerable clients and their families.

About You

Qualified as a Solicitor, you will have a strong knowledge of housing law and be used to managing your caseload including time recording. You will need to meet the Housing/Debt Supervisor standard and have demonstrable experience in litigation and court advocacy, carry out file reviews and be proactive about your professional development and continuous improvement.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave, enhanced family friendly policies, pension and interest free travel loans. Our employees also have access to a tenancy deposit loan, payroll giving, cycle to work scheme and an employee assistance programme.

Shelter helps millions of people every year struggling with bad housing or homelessness through our advice, support and legal services. And we campaign to make sure that, one day, no one will have to turn to us for help. We’re here so no one has to fight bad housing or homelessness on their own.

Home is everything. We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Join us in ending the devastating impact the housing emergency has on people and our communities.

We are happy to talk about flexible working, personal growth, and to promote a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit. 

How to Apply

Please submit your CV with a supporting statement with responses to the 'About You' points 1-7 outlined in the job description of no more than 1000 words. Please provide specific examples following the STAR format and ensure you demonstrate how you address the behaviour below throughout your responses:

• We prioritise diversity and have an inclusive and open mindset 

Safeguarding Statement

Safeguarding is everyone's business. Shelter is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. All our staff will be expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies.

Recruitment Agencies

Shelter does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.