Area estate services manager jobs

BACKGROUND

For over thirty years, Asylum Aid has been providing legal representation to some of the most vulnerable people seeking asylum in the UK. Our welfare advice team provide generalist advice on welfare benefits, housing, asylum support and related issues to Westminster residents with refugee and migrant backgrounds who do not have English as a first language and who would otherwise be unable to access vital advice which enables them to avoid destitution, homelessness and food poverty. We deliver this advice as part of the Westminster Advice Services Partnership through a drop in and outreach at local community venues, and supported by local volunteers many of whom speak community languages.

The post of Appeals Support Advisor is a new post established with the benefit of a grant from Westminster City Council. The post holder will support clients with appeals and reconsideration requests in relation to welfare benefits and housing. This will allow us to provide a more comprehensive service for our clients, many of whom struggle to lodge appeals and reconsideration requests, and to gather evidence in support of their appeals without advice, due to language barriers.  The post holder will deliver advice in community languages, including with the assistance of interpreters, to local residents as part of our partnership work. Most of our clients are refugees, people seeking asylum and others with a refugee or migrant background. The Appeals Support Advisor will work with clients referred from Asylum Aid’s Information and Advice Service (including our weekly drop in) and from other partners in the local community. They will also provide training and supervision to the Generalist Advisor and our volunteers. External supervision will be arranged for the post holder.

The ideal candidate will be resident in or near to the City of Westminster and fluent in one or more community languages. In particular, fluency in one or more of the following is highly desirable: Arabic, Bengali, Farsi, Kurdish Sorani/ other Kurdish dialects, Somali, Amharic, Tigrinya.

As this is a new post delivering a specialist appeals and casework service from within our generalist advice team, it offers an exciting opportunity to set up and establish systems for the delivery of this service during the six month fixed term contract, including ensuring that case management processes are established which meet the requirements of our Lexcel quality mark and that clear referral procedures are established with the drop in service and our partners.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The post-holder will:

• Be part of a generalist advice service, with special emphasis on language support, as part of the Westminster Advice Services Partnership (WASP), a collaboration of advice agencies Asylum Aid, Westminster Citizens Advice, Age UK Westminster, and Deaf PLUS Westminster Advice Service.
• Provide specialist appeals casework and support to clients who do not speak English as a first language and need to challenge decisions, request  mandatory reconsiderations, internal housing reviews, lodge appeals in relation to welfare benefits and housing.
• Provide ongoing casework support up to the Tribunal stage, including helping clients to gather evidence in support of their mandatory reconsiderations and appeals and preparing for hearings (but not including representation at hearings)
• Where capacity allows, help to deliver generalist face to face and telephone advice and information, in a community language and English, to migrants and asylum seekers on issues related to welfare benefits, housing and asylum support in accordance with Asylum Aid’s contract within the WASP partnership, and taking responsibility for the quality of advice given.
• Provide training and supervision to the Generalist Advisor and to volunteers, supporting the development of their advice skills and ensuring the quality of advice delivered throughout the advice service.
• Maintain a high standard of electronic case records (using AdvicePro) for the purpose of continuity of casework, information retrieval, monitoring and evaluation of the service, and to help identify issues to be raised through policy advocacy.
• Ensure that all casework is conducted in accordance with the Lexcel quality standard, including by establishing case management procedures for the delivery of specialist advice which meet the Lexcel standard, and participate as required in annual Lexcel quality mark audits
• Attend external and in-house training organised by Asylum Aid and regular supervision sessions to develop and maintain the skills and knowledge required to help deliver a quality advice service, and to keep up to date with changes in welfare benefits, housing and asylum support law
• Cascade information, changes,  and developments in social welfare law, including learning from external training, to other staff and volunteers who assist with the delivery of the welfare advice service
• Work effectively with partners to provide a seamless service for clients, making and receiving referrals and maintain up to date information about other service providers for the purposes of referrals and signposting. 
• Be responsible for achieving relevant targets for quality and quantity set by the WASP coordinator
• Provide case studies and other information from the work of the advice service to support policy advocacy and strategic legal work in support of Asylum Aid’s vision of fair and dignified treatment of people seeking asylum, refugees and other vulnerable migrants 
• Carry out any other tasks within the scope of the post to ensure the effective delivery and development of the service.

The post holder will need to be able to travel to and within Westminster to deliver advice at outreach locations as well as at a drop-in in or around the Church Street Estate. Travel expenses will be paid to attend locations away from Asylum Aid’s office(s) and the main location of our drop-in service (currently the Church Street library).

Other duties:

• Respect for client confidentiality at all times in line with Asylum Aid’s confidentiality agreements and consent forms. 
• To attend staff meetings as required.
• To undertake other duties which are generally compatible with the functions of the post.
• To comply with the organisation’s policies and procedures, particularly those relating to safeguarding, health and safety, diversity, equity & inclusion, confidentiality and security, as set out in the Office Manual as well the policies of other relevant partner organisations.

Person Specification

Essential skills, knowledge and experience:

• At least 12 months’ experience of supporting benefits appeals through to Tribunal stage and Housing Reviews
• At least 5 years’ experience of working face to face with clients to deliver generalist advice in different areas of law including welfare benefits and housing
• Knowledge on a range of issues on which advice may be sought including health and social care, housing and welfare benefits, including a thorough and up to date understanding of social security and welfare benefits legislation and policy  
• Experience of managing a case load
• Knowledge or ability to understand and use relevant legislation
• Have completed Advice UK’s Learning to Advise training or hold the Citizens Advice Generalist Adviser certificate or an equivalent qualification
• Be fluent in written and spoken English as well as a second language spoken by a substantial proportion of the Westminster population, ideally Arabic, Bengali, Farsi, Kurdish Sorani/ other Kurdish dialects, Somali, Amharic, Tigrinya (to a standard that enables accurate advice to be given in the language)
• Experience of working with interpreters in the delivery of advice
• Able to meet deadlines, work under pressure, meet performance targets and take responsibility for their work, while working flexibly within a team environment
• Able to relate to a wide cross section of clients in a non-judgmental way.
• Able to use a range of IT systems and packages confidently and competently to be able to support and encourage others in using online systems and resources to enable them to self-help.
• Able and willing to learn and assimilate new knowledge in a working environment.
• Able to give and receive feedback objectively and sensitively.
• Able and willing to work both on own initiative and as part of a team.
• Understanding of and commitment to the aims and principles of Asylum Aid service and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Good understanding of the needs of migrants and asylum seekers and the issues and barriers that affect them in UK.

Desirable:

• Experience of specialist advice work, including appeals and mandatory reconsiderations
• Friendly, polite, and patient
• Experience of working under a relevant quality mark such as the Advice Quality Standard or Lexcel
• Understanding of the housing and other support available to people seeking asylum who do not have the right to work in the UK
• Experience of working with volunteers
• Experience of supervising other advisers, including volunteers  
• Demonstrable understanding of issues facing vulnerable clients whose English is not the first language and many with mental health problems.
• Lived or learned experience of the difficulties that migrants and refugee communities face when they have to deal with the UK welfare system
• Personal experience and/or Knowledge of the advice process and experience in the areas of either benefits, housing or debt.
• Experience of using interpersonal skills, including sensitive listening, and questioning skills to understand the needs of others,
• Ability to communicate with other organisations, housing, and welfare departments.

How to apply 

The first stage is to complete on our online application form on our website by 9am on 7th July 2025.

The website form will ask you to:

1. Upload a short covering letter. Please tell us why the position appeals to you, and how your

relevant skills and experience, including any voluntary experience and lived experience, matches the listed responsibilities and person specification. Please also state in your covering letter when you would be available to start the role.

2. Upload your current CV

3. Complete an online Equal Opportunities monitoring form – completion of this form will help us ensure that our recruitment procedures operate in such a way as to provide genuine equality of opportunity. The questions are entirely optional and this information will not be available to members of the selection panel.

Selection Process

We anticipate that we will invite candidates to an initial 15-minute online screening meeting week commencing 16 June 2025, followed by shortlisted candidates attending in-person interview week commencing 23 June 2025. We will also ask you to complete a short written task on the day.

We regret that we can only respond to applicants who make it to the interview stage.

Eligibility

Please note that the successful candidate must have the right to work in the UK (as a small charity we do not have the capacity to sponsor work visas).

Successful candidates will also be subject to a basic DBS check. If appointed, you will also be required to give your consent to the charity to receive regular updates on your criminal records status throughout your employment and to disclose any relevant convictions incurred during your time with us.

Adjustments

We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible. If you require a different format of the application form, such as large print or Word format, or if you would like to discuss any specific requirements, please get in touch with us.

About the Role

The Assistant Reserves Officer is one of our team managing and developing the Trust’s nature reserves for people and wildlife.  Your work place includes internationally recognised wetlands and woodlands along with nationally important meadows, chalk grasslands and heathland across Hertfordshire and Middlesex.

You will need to have strong experience in practical habitat management, including the use of power tools and machinery, such as chainsaws, brush cutters and BCS mowers. You will have experience of working within a dynamic team and leading volunteers. You will need to have a keen interest in wildlife and preferably a knowledge of the habitats in our area.

No two days are the same as an ARO at HMWT; you will get the opportunity to utilise and develop your practical habitat management skills across our nature reserves including tree felling, coppicing, scrub clearance, hay cutting and pond/ditch management. You will also undertake the maintenance of site infrastructure; assist with the management of livestock; and perform surveying and monitoring of habitat/species, tree safety and infrastructure. These tasks will be delivered working closely with members of the nature reserves team; our volunteer wardens and our practical conservation volunteers.

Willingness to travel throughout our work area and flexibility to work occasional irregular hours is required for this post.

As an employer we are committed to promoting and protecting the physical and mental health of all our staff.

About the Trust

Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust is a local conservation charity working to protect wildlife and help people connect with nature. With a team of volunteers we care for wild places so that nature has a place to thrive. We help people experience the wildlife on their doorsteps and to take steps to protect it.

We believe that wildlife should have space to thrive alongside our everyday lives and that everyone benefits from having access to nature.

Our head office is based in the attractive setting of Verulamium Park on the outskirts of St Albans.

Our staff team is enthusiastic, friendly and committed to wildlife conservation and exemplifies our values of professionalism, valuing contributions by others and continuing to improve.

How do we support you?

The Trust strives to be a positive employer supporting our staff through flexible and hybrid working, and training and development. We recognise the importance of our staff team and looking after their health and wellbeing. Our values and expected behaviours reflect the culture which the Trust seeks to maintain to ensure productive, efficient, effective and pleasant workplaces and roles.

In support of this, we offer an excellent benefits package, ranging from office perks, generous leave entitlements and financial benefits. You can find out more by visiting the Hertfordshire & Middlesex Wildlife Trust website.

Role Title: SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment & Quality) Officer

Contract Type: Regular

Reporting To: Director of Global Workplace Services, Global Operations

Program/Department/Unit Name: Global Operations

Location: London

Team Name: Workplace Services

Role Purpose

The SHEQ Officer is responsible for overseeing, implementing and managing health, safety, environment and quality management systems to ensure a safe, compliant, sustainable and efficient working environment. This role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities across our global workplace portfolio:

• Development and management of our global Health and Safety management system.
• Development and management of workplace environmental, sustainable and wellbeing practices.
• Development and management of a workplace quality and supplier governance system to ensure efficient, effective, and safe workplace operations as delivered by external vendors or otherwise.

Key responsibilities

As the SHEQ Officer, your key responsibilities are as follows:

Health & Safety:

• Develop, implement, and maintain a health and safety system that complies with legal requirements and best practices.
• Conduct regular audits, inspections, and risk assessments to identify potential hazards and implement corrective actions.
• Oversee the creation and maintenance of local risk registers
• Deliver health and safety training to employees, promoting a culture of safety and awareness.

Environment, Sustainability and Wellbeing: 

• Develop, implement, and maintain an environmental management system that aligns with legal regulations and sustainability best practices. 
• Conduct regular environmental audits, inspections, and impact assessments to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.
• Implementing, maintaining and continually improving office initiatives across the organization  
• Provide training and guidance to employees on environmental policies and sustainability to promote responsible practices.

Quality Management & Supplier Governance:

• Develop, implement, and maintain quality practices that meet industry standards and regulatory requirements. 
• Conduct regular quality audits, inspections, and process evaluations to ensure continuous improvement and compliance with quality standards. 
• Establish and oversee supplier governance programs to ensure vendors meet quality, compliance, and performance expectations. 
• Perform supplier audits and assessments, working closely with vendors to drive improvements and maintain product and service quality. 
• Provide training and support to employees on quality procedures and best practices to enhance consistency and efficiency.

Emergency Preparedness & Disaster recovery & Business Continuity:

Partner with our Global Security team, local Global Operations staff and other key Operations units to:

• Develop and maintain local office emergency response, disaster recovery, and business continuity plans to minimize disruptions.
• Conduct risk assessments and regular training to ensure employees are prepared for office related emergencies.

Reporting & Documentation:

• Maintain accurate records of health and safety risk registers, incidents, maintenance activities, compliance reports and file with relevant authorities.
• Analyze data to identify trends, assess risks, and provide insights for continuous improvement.

Continuous Improvement & Innovation:

• Identify opportunities for improving safety practices, energy efficiency, and sustainability in Workplace Services.
• Stay up to date with industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes, implementing best practices as applicable.

Key internal relationships

Global Operations Associate Directors, Global Operations Officers; Global Security and Risk; Real Estate Portfolio Renewal.

Key external relationships

Facility Management and Real Estate Projects partners.

The ideal candidate

• Relevant Health and Safety qualification
• Relevant qualifications in Environmental, Quality and Wellbeing practices, including audits.
• Educated to a degree level (or equivalent substantial industry experience).

Health & Safety Experience:

• Proven experience in health and safety management, including developing and implementing safety policies and procedures.
• Familiarity with safety legislation, regulations, and standards (e.g., OSHA, ISO 45001).
• Experience conducting risk assessments, safety audits, and incident investigations.

Environmental Management Experience:

• Proven experience in developing and implementing environmental policies and management systems. 
• Strong knowledge of environmental regulations, standards, and best practices (e.g., ISO 14001, EPA regulations). 
• -Experience conducting environmental audits, impact assessments, and sustainability initiatives.

Quality Management & Supplier Governance Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in quality management, including implementing and maintaining quality control systems. 
• Familiarity with industry quality standards and frameworks (e.g., ISO 9001, Six Sigma, GMP). 
• Experience in supplier governance, including supplier audits, performance evaluations, and compliance monitoring.

Training and Communication:

• Proven experience delivering health and safety training to employees across various levels.

Emergency Response and Preparedness:

• Experience in developing and implementing local office emergency response plans, disaster recovery, and business continuity plans including evacuation procedures and first-aid readiness.
• Familiarity with conducting emergency drills and training staff on office safety protocols.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Experience in gathering and analysing data, tracking key performance indicators, and providing reports.
• Ability to identify trends and recommend improvements.

Languages:

• An excellent knowledge of English. Fluency in other languages, would be an asset.

What we offer 

• Exceptional opportunities to learn, grow, and make an impact; from a generous annual professional development allowance for every employee to onsite training and learning conversations with visiting experts.
• Excellent benefits and perks to promote well-being and a healthy work-life balance, including:
  • Generous time off, as well as our standard Open Society close at year-end (where vacation days are not required) and flexible work arrangements.
  • Employer-paid health insurance and dental plans for individuals and families (no employee contribution required).
  • Exceptional retirement savings plan (non-contributory for employees) and life insurance.
  • Progressive paid parental leave, reproductive and family planning support, and much more.
• A commitment to nurturing a diverse and inclusive workplace, so you can bring your whole self to work and make a positive impact.

Who we are

Open Society Foundations aim to establish vibrant and inclusive democracies where governments are accountable to their citizens. Our operating model organizes grantmaking around specific, time-limited projects, developed alongside support for established partners, enabling us to respond swiftly to emerging needs. We are committed to promoting human dignity, equality, and rights; reimagining democratic ideals and practice; and advancing equity in governance systems.

Guided by our founder’s values and the belief in the art of the possible, we engage directly with global entities, individuals, and policymakers through grants, advocacy, impact investing, and strategic human rights litigation to drive positive change. At the heart of our mission is a deep commitment to rights, equity, and justice, inspiring every action we take.

Additional information

Open Society Foundations is committed to building an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We actively seek applications from talented individuals across all backgrounds, identities, and life experiences. Each candidate is evaluated solely on their unique qualifications without regard to race, age, sex, religion, ethnic origin, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, or any other legally protected characteristics.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities.