Debt quality advice manager jobs

Background
VCKC empowers people to develop skills, knowledge, confidence, and positive relationships through rewarding volunteering. We enable people to improve and maintain their health, find paid work where that is one of their aims, and increase their independence.

VCKC helps local community organisations to recruit and manage volunteers to provide their vital services, while also ensuring placements are accessible, inclusive and safe, and that volunteers have a good quality experience that responds to their volunteering goals.

Main Purpose of Job
● To provide people with criminal records released (or about to be released) from prison or secure hospital with advice, assistance, and advocacy services in order to improve their wellbeing, enable them to establish and sustain independent
lives, and reduce their risk of re-offending
● To help InsideOut participants to maintain and develop strong, healthy relationships with those around them – friends and family, neighbours, civil society, and those able to support them or offer them opportunities to support others
● To use volunteering to develop participants’ skills, knowledge, and confidence
● To enable participants to gain paid employment/self-employment where this is their aim
● To develop and maintain good working relationships as part of the VCKC team (maximising potential to contribute to a positive culture and to achieve our shared objectives)
● To liaise with a wide range of statutory and non-profit stakeholders, including prison staff, health, and probation service teams, to further the objectives of the programme
● To promote the impact of the service and the needs of participants

Please refer to the job description for further information. 

In your cv and cover letter, please outline how you meet the requirements of the role and why you would like to work for us. You must account for any gaps in your employment history.

Interviews will be held on Tuesday, 22 July. Interview questions and presentation tasks will be shared with shortlisted candidates in advance. 

Webinar and Q+A: For a chance to find out more about our organisation, the Inside Out project and this particular role, join our webinar and Q+A session on Thursday 10 July from 12pm to 1pm.

Please click on the ‘How to apply’ button to access the full application instructions, inlcuding the sign up link to our webinar, and how to contact us for an informal 1:1 chat.

Job Purpose

This role sits within our crisis alternative service, Safe Space, which is a core and out of hours service providing a safe and welcoming space for people who are feeling distressed and experiencing crisis. Our aim of the service is to keep individuals well in the community and prevent readmission into hospital. The service operates 365 days a year from 14:00-22:00pm across all of our boroughs.

Staff within the service will provide person-centred, practical and emotional support, face to face or via telephone or virtual on a one-to-one basis to individuals experiencing mental health crisis or preventing crisis.

The objectives of the service include:

• To improve the mental wellbeing of people experiencing mental health and social crisis in HFEH.
• To proactively work with keeping people well in the community to reduce re-admitters into hospitals by working with WL NHS teams (e.g. discharge, LPS, CATT, MINT and SPA)
• To provide a true alternative to A&E via a non-clinical drop-in service to support clients
• To provide support to clients accessing the service- for instance: signposting, de-escalation and crisis recovery planning.
• To contribute to an improvement in individual mental wellbeing.
• To remain a source of independent support for all clients.
• To treat service users with respect, dignity and personalised support
• To raise awareness of mental health services available with the goal to improve long term mental health and reduce social isolation
• To increase self-management skills of those accessing the service
• To reduce the use of police, ambulance and statutory mental health services whilst experiencing crisis via a drop-in service.
• To reduce the use of statutory crisis services by people experiencing mental ill health without positive outcomes for the individual

The Role

The role of the team manager will be to support the rest of the team in delivering interventions on a one-to-one. The role will also involve triaging and assessing all clients accessing the service, signposting and delivering collaborative self-management plans with clients to improve mental wellbeing. The role will also include line management and supervision of senior support workers and support workers within the service. Team managers are responsible for management of their site; including report writing, audits and being the named manager for the site and allocated borough following the borough-based approach. This role directly supports the service managers in keeping to a high standard service. The role will include implementing a smooth running of the service including facilitating debriefing and providing senior support onsite. The role of the team manager is non-clinical.

Key Responsibilities

• Providing a person centred and recovery orientated approach in all aspects of the roles and responsibilities.

• Guiding the team, responding to referrals and planning each shift in terms of staffing, activities and case allocation

• Understanding of risk and risk management

• Understanding safeguarding adults and children processes and legal requirements

• To work autonomously in a fast-paced environment and under pressure

• Oversee re-admitters and clients being discharged on a weekly basis

• Good time keeping skills - Essential

• Responsible lead for allocated site, attend and lead discussions with MDT teams

• Responsible for keeping allocated site to a high standard and reporting any health and safety concerns

• To facilitate weekly team meetings with minutes and feedback any internal and external changes

• This role will be considered a key worker role

• Understanding of safety planning and de-escalation

• Experience of working with challenging behaviour

• Keep minutes of all meetings attended and feedback to the wider team

• Working collaboratively with clients to understand their needs and developing flexible and realistic crisis support packages/person centred plans

• Promoting people’ rights and responsibilities

• Considering each person as an individual

• Listening to clients and encouraging positive steps towards self-management of crisis and recovery

• To attend all mandatory training including safeguarding and GDPR.

• Providing advice, information, practical and emotional support to clients

• Proactively recognising the indicators of deteriorating mental health and facilitate appropriate action, whilst liaising with relevant agencies e.g. CATT, Emergency Duty Teams, CMHTS, etc

• Engaging with clients to show empathy, inspire hope and promote recovery

• Establishing supportive, empowering and respectful relationships with clients and carers/ family

• Maintaining accurate records, detailing interventions

• Ensuring that outcomes, outputs and impact are recorded

• Understanding CQC standards and NICE guidelines around mental health

• Providing administrative support to the team

• Overseeing and provide shadowing to new staff members and volunteers

• Attend reflective practice, peer supervision and line management supervision

• Create and maintain good working relationships with partner agencies

• Actively participate in training and development

• Provide guidance to support workers and volunteers

• To work with service managers and assist with reporting and monitoring

Person Specification

• Minimum of 1 year working in mental health services and with clients experiencing mental health distress and crisis

• Experience of line management within a mental health setting

• Experience of de-escalation

• Experience of managing challenging behaviour and dealing with clients with complex needs

• Evidence of continual professional development

• Understanding of the Recovery Model in mental health

• Understanding of the principles of trauma informed care

• Understanding of suicide prevention and safety planning

• Experience of managing safeguarding risks and understanding legal requirements for safeguarding adults and children

• Understanding of how to report and mitigate risks

• Understanding of the relationship between mental health and social issues and how these issues may impact on physical, mental and emotional wellbeing

• Understanding of relevant legislation and policies

• Understanding safeguarding adults and children processes and legal requirements

• Awareness of issues in mental health service provision

• A good understanding of mental health conditions

• Experience of working with vulnerable individuals

• Creative and flexible approach to working with individuals

• Ability to deal with stressful and difficult situations in a calm manner and de-escalate challenging situations

• Ability to prioritise and manage workload

• Ability to involve clients and carers in all aspects of work

• Empathy and non-judgemental approach

• Good communication skills

• Capacity to work within an agreed shift pattern

• Experience of delivering information and advice (housing, benefits, debt etc)

• Experience of non-clinical, therapeutic interventions like psychoeducation

• Good IT skills including Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint, with proven ability to input and extract information and produce reports

• Understanding of different databases such as Views, Salesforce and NHS

• Car driver with sole ownership of a vehicle and ability to travel to multiple locations (e.g. NHS sites and community sites) would be essential.

• Ability to work out of hours and on weekends at multiple locations including NHS sites and community sites

About the Role

Key duties and responsibilities

• Provide court representation for clients, including emergency actions, by attending hearings at Liverpool Civil and Family Court.
• Prepare and present cases ready for court hearings by checking time limits, adherence to pre action protocols by creditors, completing relevant court forms and checking fees/remissions.
• Negotiate with and signpost/refer to third parties as appropriate.
• Assist client with alternative dispute resolution cases e.g. Financial Ombudsman Service.
• Assist clients with other related problems where they are an integral part of their case and refer to other advisers or specialist agencies as appropriate.
• Provide advice and assistance to other staff across a range of debt issues.
• Ensure that all work meets the quality standards of the AQS Debt Advice Services, the Citizens Advice quality assurance scheme and the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) quality framework.
• Meet the individual performance targets and engage positively in discussions with the Line Manager to maintain required levels.
• Provide regular reports and feedback to the Line Manager as required.
• Assist with social policy work by providing information about clients' circumstances through the appropriate channel.
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies, Liverpool Civil and Family Court user groups, local authority and other local statutory and voluntary organisations to increase access to the service and to the range of support and advice needed according to individual circumstances.
• Work as part of the CAL Money Advice Team and contribute to effective service provision.
• Work independently in the Liverpool Civil and Family Court with clients as well as working from home and at different sites within Liverpool according to client appointment need.

General

• Ensure achievement of MaPS accreditation to Court Representation level within 3 months of starting the role, if not already achieved.
• Attend relevant internal and external meetings as agreed with the Line Manager.
• Maintain an up to date working knowledge of all new relevant legislation through reading monthly subscriptions including relevant case law.
• Keep up to date with Citizens Advice aims, policies and procedures and ensure these are followed.
• Ensure that work reflects and supports the Citizens Advice service's equality, diversity, and inclusion strategy.
• Abide by health and safety guidelines and share responsibility for your own health and safety and that of colleagues.
• Identify own learning and development needs and take steps to address these with your Line Manager, including engaging in team meetings and supervision sessions.
• Carry out any other tasks within the scope of the post to ensure the effective delivery and development of the service.

Requirements

1. Knowledge and experience of court representation, complex debt casework, covering priority and non-priority debt advice, options and insolvency solutions.
2. Experience of achieving performance and quality targets/KPIs.
3. Ability and willingness to undertake training and development to comply with MaPS Caseworker accreditation to court representation level, and Citizens Advice quality standards.
4. Effective oral and written communication skills.
5. Numerate to the level required by the tasks.
6. Ability to prioritise own work, meet deadlines, manage workload and targets in a pressured environment.
7. Ordered approach to casework and an ability and willingness to follow and develop agreed procedures.
8. IT literate with an ability to use software packages including Microsoft Office products in the provision of advice and preparation of formal written materials.
9. Ability to give and receive feedback objectively and sensitively and a willingness to challenge constructively.
10. Ability and willingness to work as part of a team.
11. Understanding of and commitment to the aims and principles of the Citizens Advice service and its equalities and diversity policy

Desirable

1. Citizens Advice Generalist Advice learning/certificate.
2. Institute of Money Advisers Certificate in Money Advice Practice or MaPS accreditation to court representation equivalent.

How to Apply

For more information and to apply, please click on the Apply button.

About us

The Court Specialist (Housing) Debt Adviser is responsible for providing a quality court representation service for clients facing court proceedings for housing and personal debt, including mortgages, secured and unsecured loans, who are not eligible for housing legal aid.

The project joins a programme funded by the Access to Justice Foundation that aims to sustain and improve access to early social welfare and family legal support and advice, to enable people to resolve these problems as early as possible and avoid the need for court or tribunal proceedings where possible. Where court or tribunal proceedings are needed, the project will provide the support needed to help people navigate the process effectively, including where support to prepare for court and at court is required. The focus of this project will be to provide housing debt court/tribunal support and representation to increase homelessness prevention.

To be successful in this role, you will need to be confident, motivated and willing to try new things, have excellent communication skills with an ability to work under pressure to achieve targets and outcomes with minimum supervision. You will need to have knowledge and experience of complex debt casework, and (county) court money claim, and possession proceedings as well as priority and non-priority debt advice, options and insolvency solutions.

About Citizens Advice BANES

Citizens Advice Bath and NE Somerset is an independent local charity providing information and advice to residents of the BANES council area. We aim to empower people to resolve their problems and change their lives for the better.

We provide free, independent and confidential advice; whoever you are, whatever the problem. We help people overcome their problems and campaign on big issues when their voices need to be heard. We value diversity, champion equality, and challenge discrimination and harassment.

We’re here for everyone in the Bath and NE Somerset area and we work in partnership with other local services to provide the best possible advice and information to meet the needs of local residents.

We value diversity and promote equality and would welcome suitably qualified people with disabilities and minority ethnic applicants as these groups are under-represented in our workforce.

Role Purpose: You will play a vital role leading and managing a team and service, with overall responsibility for delivering high-quality outcomes and providing clear, effective leadership. You will oversee a multi-skilled team, ensuring they remain motivated, supported, compliant and efficient in their roles. A key focus of the role is to foster a collaborative and client focused environment, where services are seamless and centred around the needs of those we support.

About our generalist advice service

We are contracted by Bath & NE Somerset council to deliver a generalist advice service to residents of the area. The contract was won by competitive tender in 2022 and runs for five years until March 2028.

The service is accessible by phone five days a week and face-to-face at three outreach locations in Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton. Follow up appointments are available by phone, at our offices or outreach locations.

Our impact
During 2024-25:

• We helped 5,961 people
• We dealt with 20,960 advice issues
• Top three advice issues – welfare benefits, utilities & energy, debt
• 63% of clients disabled or long-term health condition; 12% BAME
• Recorded financial gains of £7,010,650 for local communities
• 90% of clients would recommend the service

What we offer our staff

• 6% employer pension contribution
• Employee assistance programme
• Five weeks paid annual leave, plus all bank and public holidays.
• Flexible working arrangements

Recruitment timetable
Closing date for applications: Monday 7 July 2025 at 10.00am
Interviews: week commencing 14 July 2025 (to be held in central Bath)

About Citizens Advice Watford

At Citizens Advice Watford, we pride ourselves on the values that make our workplace not just productive but also enriching and fulfilling. Our collaborative spirit is at the heart of everything we do, fostering a teamwork environment where every individual’s contribution, staff or volunteer, is recognised and appreciated. We are proactive, anticipating the needs of clients, and take the initiative to provide the best service possible. We value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from suitably skilled candidates from all backgrounds.

Context of the Role

We are seeking a Volunteer Manager (Learning and Development) who shares our vision of a thriving and supportive workforce. Through your management of volunteers and your coordination of the training and development we will maintain excellent quality of advice for clients and a fulfilling work environment for all staff and volunteers. An environment in which everyone has the knowledge, skills and confidence to excel in their role. As a key part of the senior management team, you will enjoy working collaboratively and effectively to deliver the aims and objectives of the organisation.

Role Purpose

• Recruit, induct, train and retain volunteers into various roles within the advice service
• Provide a supportive environment for volunteers throughout their time at CA Watford
• Plan and coordinate internal and external training to ensure that everyone is skilled in their role
• Implement annual training programmes to ensure the workforce is skilled and knowledgeable ensuring we maintain high quality of advice.

What we give our staff

• We provide an employee pension scheme with a 6% employer contribution
• Our Employee Assistance Programme Telus gives immediate access to professional and confidential counselling and advisory services
• Flexibility – our roles are open to discussion about flexible working
• Employees are entitled to 6.6 weeks paid annual leave in each year. In the case of full-time employees working a five-day week, this equates to 33 days paid annual leave (including the 8 statutory bank holidays). Pro-rata for part-time employees
• Training provided to support continuous professional development. There will be opportunities to progress within the organisation.
• We are a disability confident employer

Recruitment timeline:

Closing date for applications – Monday 7th July 2025

Interviews week commencing – Monday 14th July 2025

Please note, this job was originally posted as Learning and Development Manager.

Salary - Grade 3 - £31,133 per annum

Contract- Fixed term until April 2026

Location- Blackburn Central Library with outreach work in Lancashire

Hours- Full time, 37.5 per week

Closing date: Wednesday 2nd July 2025 at 11:30pm

Do you have experience of providing debt advice and advocacy? Then join Shelter as a Debt Adviser and you could soon be playing a vital role in standing up to the housing emergency.

About the role

Your role will manage a varied caseload providing high quality debt and housing related advice and support. You will need to work flexibly across the Lancashire area, including Blackpool. Working with clients you will do an initial needs assessment and develop support/case plans with aim of maximising their income by reducing outgoings, assessing affordability, setting up budgeting plans, helping to secure a home and repay debts.

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.

About you

You will need experience of providing debt advice and advocacy and the ability to carry out casework related interviews, maintain detailed case records and deliver group workshops and presentations. You will need the ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders, particularly those with lived experience of homelessness, as well as collaborating with people from other teams and organisations.

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.

About the Team

Lancashire hub’s local community priorities are homelessness and temporary accommodation, social housing and private rented sector and individuals and communities living in poverty.

About Shelter

Home is a human right. It’s our foundation and where we thrive. Yet every day millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We need ambitious, passionate people to join us. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. To win this fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, equitable and transparent. We are committed to combating racism both within and outside Shelter. We welcome you on our journey to becoming truly anti-racist.

How to apply

Please click ‘Apply for Job’ below. You are required to submit a CV and a supporting statement. Your supporting statement should include responses to the first four ‘About You’ points in the job description of no more than 350 words each. 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

You do not need to address the points 5 - 8 in the 'About You' section, these will be assessed at interview stage for shortlisted candidates. Any applications submitted without a supporting statement will not be considered.

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.

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

Are you ready to make a real difference in people's lives by providing specialist debt, benefit, and money advice? We are:

- Self-funded! We don’t bid for external funding, we are not subject to funding constraints or time limits, and we are not bound by external targets.
- Holistic! We are not limited to a specific amount of time per case, and we always want to support the whole person. We have our own services which support with areas such as drug and alcohol, homelessness, and dementia and importantly, we provide funding directly to pay off priority debts and insolvency fees.  Our services can change people’s lives.
- Connected! We work from home as part of a strong Regional & National team and manage our own diaries accordingly.
- Dynamic! We pride ourselves on our learning & development, constantly improving our expertise through training to ensure we are providing the best quality service to those we support.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our dynamic team at the Royal British Legion. As a Benefits, Debt and Money Advisor you will provide expert guidance to those facing financial difficulties. Through face-to-face, telephone, and email interactions, you’ll offer tailored advice on legal rights, debt solutions, and benefits entitlements.

What you’ll do:

- Provide specialist debt casework, ensuring compliance with FCA regulations.
- Conduct benefit calculations and maximise income opportunities
- Provide specialist level welfare benefits casework including the preparation of written submissions and representation at first tier tribunal (full training provided when progressing to dual specialism)
- Advocate for clients by drafting letters, gathering medical evidence, and researching case law.
- Maintain accurate case records for continuity, reporting, and analysis.
- Build strong relationships with MOD, DWP, NHS, local authorities, and service charities.
- Stay up to date with changes in debt and social security legislation.
- Deliver a holistic, person-centred service, ensuring coordinated support.
- Manage referrals and caseloads to provide timely assistance.

RBL offers a holistic Benefits & Debt advice service, with the expectation that the successful candidate will develop knowledge, skills & experience in welfare benefits (full training and supervision provided) to be able to support clients in challenging social security benefit decisions via the appeals process.

The role is homebased with occasional travel required throughout East and West Midlands. This includes travel to home visits and tribunal locations. In addition, travel to team meetings and training, usually in London, is required. You may also be required to attend national BDMA Service annual events held across the UK. We do cover travel expenses.

Living within the East or West Midlands area is essential in being able to undertake this role.

This position is also subject to pre-employment checks including an Enhanced DBS check.

What we’re looking for:

- Experience in debt advice and FCA compliance
- Knowledge of welfare benefits and benefit calculations
- Ability to manage your own caseload
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and case management systems
- Money Advice Practice Certificate (or equivalent) or debt advice experience
- Accredited / Associate Membership of the Institute of Money Advisors

Come and be part of the leading Armed Forces charity, making a difference to the lives of those who have served to keep us safe and protect our way of life.
Employee benefits include:

- 28 days’ paid holiday (plus bank holidays) increasing with service, with optional annual leave purchase scheme of up to 5 working days
- Generous pension contributions, with employer contributions ranging from 6% to 14%
- Range of flexible working options may be available, depending on your role
- Employee Assistance Programme providing confidential counselling, financial and legal advice
- Range of courses delivered by learning specialists to support your development goals and objectives
- Opportunities to volunteer
- Travel loans, Cycle to Work, and more!

For more detailed information about the role, please see our Vacancy Information Pack attached to our direct advert.

RBL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive organisation, reflecting the diversity of the armed forces community and of wider society. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and personal characteristics and aim to operate an inclusive recruitment process.

We may close this vacancy early if we believe we have enough strong applications to be able to successfully fill the role(s). Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Two Rhythms is seeking a dynamic Business Manager to spearhead their operational and financial success, ensuring the charity's sustainability and growth. This pivotal role involves driving earned income, managing financial health, and expanding the reach of their therapeutic arts programs across South Wales and the UK.

The Business Manager will oversee the operational and financial management of the charity, ensuring the organisation is efficient, sustainable, and aligned with its mission. They will focus on earned income generation and working to increase it in line with the business plan. They will be outward-facing, generating new business with local authorities, care providers, schools, hospitals and hospices. They will work closely with the CEO, and Head of Programme to introduce the 2R programme to new guests across South Wales, and with the Membership Officer to extend our membership programme across the UK.

The Business Manager will play a crucial role in managing the charity's financial health, ensuring resources are effectively utilised to support its mission and goals. This hands-on role involves overseeing financial planning, budgeting, reporting, and compliance while supporting their leadership team colleagues with financial insights and strategies.

They will prepare reports for the management team, CEO and Trustees as required and they will liaise with our external accountants, helping to prepare annual accounts and other statutory documents.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

OPERATIONAL

1. Business and Operational Management:

• Oversee daily operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across departments.
•  Design and implement new processes to monitor trading performance.
• To act a responsible point of contact for managing day-to-day facilities and building issues.
• Management of external contracts relating to facilities and running of the organisation. 
• Review environmental considerations of the organisation in-line with the requirements and policies of our funders, landlords and partner organisations.
• Support the administration of session bookings, liaising with finance and management colleagues.

2. Compliance and Governance:

• Working as part of the charity’s Safeguarding team helping to ensure best practice across the charity’s activities and operations. (Appropriate training will be provided)
• Ensure the charity complies with relevant financial regulations and reporting requirements.
• Manage risk and protect the charity’s financial reputation and assets.
• Maintain accurate records and policies, working closely with trustees or board members.

FINANCE

3. Financial Management and Planning:

• Prepare and manage budgets in collaboration with the leadership team.
• Monitor and control income and expenditure to ensure financial sustainability.
• Develop financial forecasts and plans to support strategic decision-making.
• Manage invoicing, liaising with external clients and contractors with respect to debt management, reviewing and improving booking processes where necessary. 

4. Accounting and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate financial records and oversee day-to-day bookkeeping.
• Prepare monthly management accounts, including variance analysis.
• Produce annual financial statements and manage the year-end accounting process.

5. Donor and Grant Management:

• Track restricted and unrestricted funding, ensuring proper allocation and reporting.
• Provide financial reports and updates for donors and grant applications.

PEOPLE

6. Supporting Stakeholders:

• Work closely with trustees and the senior leadership team, providing clear insights.
• Contribute to the charity's overall strategic planning and growth.
• Attend board meetings, ensuring accurate minutes and record keeping.

7. Leadership and Team Support:

• Work closely with Senior Management colleagues to provide strategic advice and insights.
• Manage and support staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Lead by example, promoting the charity’s values and mission in all actions.

COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY

• Work with the team to drive sales, pursue new clients and increase the charity’s earned income, collaborating with Programme, Membership and Marketing colleagues and the CEO to further the charity’s work.
• Lead on our engagement with the health and social care sector, including private and public organisations.
• Assist the CEO in submitting reports to funders, regulatory bodies, and trustees.
• Support the development of funding proposals with accurate financial input.
• Assist the CEO in building relationships with external partners and stakeholders, including corporate and commercial clients.

Are you looking to join a team that values people and partnerships and is dedicated to creating transformational experiences for our community?

Would you like to work for an organisation that values growth, with the opportunity to learn, develop, and grow in a collaborative and supportive culture?

If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for someone with great interpersonal skills and an advice background for the role of Advice and Advocacy Officer with Spring Community Hub.

The project aims to identify those in Welfare, Health, Wellbeing, Employment, housing, and/or food crisis who have had unresolved issues over a prolonged period and provide support for them to overcome the immediate crisis and work towards longer-term stability

The Advice and Advocacy Officer will provide holistic advice and advocacy to guests, supporting them on issues such as debt, welfare, housing, employment, and business support, in a trauma-informed and empowering way.

The postholder will be a key part of growing the Hub’s  Advice and Advocacy/ Pastoral / Wrap-around services, working as a team with our partners, providing support to guests and volunteers.

• Working with a Caseload of Guests on a 1-1 and group basis and providing support via multiple channels, including Telephone, Email, In Person, virtually, and other project locations, develop action/support plans

• Working with a caseload of guests to provide support/signpost

•  Facilitate group workshops, Coffee Mornings, and information sessions

• Provide Information, advice, guidance, and resilience

• Support for people facing hardship.

• Providing Support, Supervision, mentoring, and guidance to Volunteers in our Advice and Advocacy / Pastoral Teams

• Attend meetings/ events/Training/networking opportunities and  undertake outreach to promote the work of Spring Community Hub 

The post holder will be required to be flexible to the changing needs of the organisation and, as such, undertake tasks and responsibilities not specifically listed here but relevant to the smooth running of SCH, including general office and administrative tasks and aspects of service delivery, as directed by the CEO and Trustees.

We’re committed to building a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all sections of society. If this opportunity excites you and if you believe you possess the skills and experience we need, we look forward to hearing from you.

• Facilitate workshops ( Job Club/ Community Cafe/ Coffee Morning/ Information sessions  ) and Group Sessions - in person/ virtually 

• Support guests in the Centre and virtually, and undertake initial Assessments and follow-up Calls

• Represent Spring Community Hubs Service and project at relevant forums and meetings at a  local level

• Collate monitoring data from all project streams, providing regular updates to the Head of Compliance / Development 

• Contribute to providing information for funders and monitoring reports to the Head of Compliance and Development 

• Assist in the induction/ onboarding and support of volunteers 

• Assist in and facilitate Team Training Sessions, Workshops, Presentations, and Project meetings, and produce progress reports, papers, agendas, and minutes in line with direction from the Head of Compliance and Development 

• Develop and contribute to the creation, maintenance, improvement, and expansion of our range of debt, immigration, and welfare benefits information resources

• Contributing to building testimonials /case studies and impact measurement, and monitoring 

• Lead/ Support the team  with the design and development of resources for the benefit of all users of the debt and welfare benefits system, and help drive forward our safeguarding and co-production culture

• To work with the Head of Compliance and Development to ensure the quality of the support given by the team/volunteers through assisting  with case reviews, training, and development

• Research, analyse, and interpret relevant policies, legislation, and programmes related to the sector with the support of the Head of Compliance and Development 

• Work with the Head of Compliance and Development to proactively identify gaps in information provision across our programmes and implement solutions. 

• Working closely with the Head of Compliance and Development, Leadership / Service and Operations Team/  wider service and partners to ensure guests are supported.

Person Specification

• Experience delivering advice & Advocacy/ Wrap around care  in at least one relevant area,/Relevant qualifications for the post 

•  Understanding of trauma-informed and inclusive practice

•  Experience with group facilitation (desirable)

• Commitment to empowerment and diversity

• Willingness to undertake further training, including Information Advice and Guidance L2/L4 or as relevant to the role

• Experience in working with individuals who are experiencing significant poverty and may also have multiple and complex needs. You will have the ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of people.

• Experience in/willingness to learn the use of  databases for the recording, processing of advice given, and reviewing the quality of team records/ usage 

• Experience in establishing and maintaining good working relationships with external stakeholders

• IT Literate / Proficient in Microsoft/Google Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Slack, and experience with project management software / Communication tools (e.g., Zoho, Trello) is a plus.

• Time-management skills, with the ability to work successfully both alone and as part of a team

• Ability to communicate effectively (oral and written) with a wide variety of people at all levels, including statutory, voluntary, and other colleagues 

• Ability to organise and prioritise own work, especially when under pressure

• Ability to work accurately and confidently with figures (statistics) and with attention to detail

• Commitment to the concept of continuous improvement of procedures and practices

• Ability to remain calm in challenging situations and reinforce boundaries

• Ability to support people in managing difficult feelings, and communicate their needs effectively

• Knowledge of best practice for lone working, data protection, and safeguarding adults

• Ability to recognise and work within the boundaries of the role, including confidentiality, and the working protocols between agencies

• Strong sense of self, and ability to set and maintain boundaries, and lead by example 

• Ability to communicate effectively in person on a one-to-one basis and with groups, as well as over the telephone and in writing

• Excellent listening skills

• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and others.

• Willingness to work outside normal working hours, as and when required.

• Understanding of the needs of disadvantaged, disaffected, and vulnerable people, and the ability to work with them in a positive way

• A clear commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and confidentiality

• Professional and positive approach, with a commitment to professional development and self-improvement.

• Ability to think and plan strategically to inform decision-making. 

• Qualifications, Training, or Relevant experience in IAG, Welfare Benefits, Housing, Immigration, Employment, Law, or Similar 

• Clear communication skills, face-to-face and on the phone, or via email

•  Ability to troubleshoot difficult situations and deal with them calmly, efficiently, and effectivel

• Knowledge of food security/poverty issues in the UK and working with diverse communities..

• Delivering projects relating to Social Change and Social Justice

• Willingness to undertake further training as required by Spring Community Hub.

• Commitment to the concept of continuous improvement of procedures and practices.

• A compassionate and empathetic approach, with a genuine interest in the well-being of others.

• Knowledge of safeguarding policies and procedures, including child protection and vulnerable adult support.

Responsible for staff/equipment 

Advice & Advocacy / Pastoral Team Volunteers  / Phone / Laptop

Reporting to…

The Head of Compliance & Development/ Chair of Trustees

Why Join us / Benefits

• A warm, welcoming, and passionate working environment

• People-focused with a friendly and supportive workplace culture

• We are a London Living Wage Employer

• An active commitment to equality and diversity

• We offer continuing opportunities for learning, and personal and Professional development together with regular supervision, training, and support for all our staff and volunteers

• Generous annual leave entitlement: 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays)

• Company pension scheme

• Frequent team away days and celebrations, as part of a friendly and collaborative team.

Application Process:

1. Complete our Application form 

2. Submit your CV with a Supporting Statement.

3. Initial Telephone interview - shortlisted candidates will be invited for a Telephone interview

4. If you are shortlisted from the Telephone Interview, you will be invited to a formal interview, which will consist of the following: 

• A  Presentation topic will be shared with you in advance

• 60-minute Panel Interview with members of the SLT / Board of Trustees 

• Questions will be shared with you before the interview so that you can prepare. 

• Role-specific Practical Task

Citizens Advice Camden is looking for a committed Money Adviser – or someone ready to become one – to join our respected team, supporting people in North Camden with high-quality debt advice.

Citizens Advice Camden is a well-respected local charity with more than 85 years of experience delivering free, independent and impartial advice and casework services that meet the evolving needs of local residents. Our mission is to provide the advice people need for the problems they face and to improve the policies and practices that affect their lives.

About the role

We are recruiting a Money Adviser (or Trainee Money Adviser) to provide debt advice and casework to residents living within our funder’s area of benefit in North Camden. You will support clients via a mix of telephone, digital, and face-to-face appointments, helping them address complex debt problems and improve their financial wellbeing.

You’ll provide advice on the full range of debt issues – helping clients reduce their debts, increase their income, and gain the confidence to manage their money effectively. You’ll work towards achievable targets and high-quality standards, maintain accurate case records, contribute to local outreach work, and support clients in accessing income maximisation opportunities including benefits, grants and cost reductions.

Who we’re looking for

Experienced Money Adviser

We’re seeking an experienced adviser with:

• At least two years’ recent debt advice casework experience
• Ideally, the Certificate in Money Advice Practice (CertMAP) and
• Approval as a Debt Relief Order (DRO) intermediary
• Confidence in managing complex cases and working to quality standards
• A client-centred approach and a commitment to achieving positive, lasting outcomes

We will support your continuing professional development through supervision, training and opportunities to grow your expertise.

Trainee Opportunity

We also welcome applications from candidates who:

• Have significant experience in delivering generalist, benefits or housing advice
• Possess some knowledge of debt advice
• Are committed to developing into a fully qualified debt adviser

If this sounds like you, we can offer a trainee role with a structured training programme, ongoing support, and development opportunities.

Closing date: Monday 7 July

CVs are not accepted

Citizens Advice Camden is an equal opportunities employer. We encourage applications from all sections of the community.

The Association for Cultural Enterprises (AfCE) supports over 500 member organisations across the UK and internationally, helping the cultural sector generate earned income through commercial activity. As an Arts Council England-funded organisation, AfCE delivers sector-leading training, benchmarking, data-led insights, events, and advocacy to drive financial resilience in arts, heritage, and culture.

AfCE runs a year-round programme of live training events around the UK and Europe, as well as its signature annual Cultural Enterprises Conference and Trade Show. We have ambitions to grow attendance at these events, as well as growing our membership.

The Association is a charitable organisation, which also has a trading company, Cultural Enterprises (Trading) Limited (CET).

We are looking for a new Finance Manager to join a small, friendly, and ambitious team, to review the day-to-day processes and policies and identify opportunities to improve reporting  and make operational efficiencies. The Association is growing, so now is an exciting time to join our team and work with our members across the cultural sector.

Job Summary

The purpose of this role is to provide sound financial management for the Association and CET through:

• Statutory financial reporting in line with Charity SORP/UK GAAP, including annual returns to Companies House and the Charity Commission

• Management accounting, reporting and analysis to funders, management, staff, and Trustees/Directors

• Preparation and maintenance of budgets, forecasts and plans, including cashflows and project budgets

• Supervision and control of day-to-day accounting transactions, including oversight of the finance aspects of the Apprentice role

• Oversight and implementation of robust financial systems, policies, and procedures

• Responsible for financial queries, working with the Apprentice as first point of contact for external contacts
   

Main Duties

• Supervise day-to-day accounting operations and ensure accurate financial record keeping, including coding, allocations, reconciliations, and tax accounting

• Oversee invoice generation and debt recovery processes

• Process payments and staff expenses for authorisation

• Produce regular management accounts on an accruals basis, providing interpretation and advice to the Executive Team, Finance & Risk Committee, Trustees/Directors, and funders

• Lead on budget preparation and forecasting, including project-specific budgets; monitor and reforecast as needed

• Prepare statutory accounts in compliance with charity SORP and liaise with external auditors and the Treasurer

• Manage contracts with financial services providers, including bookkeepers, auditors, banks, and investment managers

• Attend AfCE and CET Board meetings

• Fulfil company secretarial duties, including:

  • Filing confirmation statements and annual accounts for ACE and CET with Companies House and Charity Commission

  • Filing changes in Trustees/Directors

• Complete Arts Council England (ACE) returns, including provision of financial information for quarterly payment processes when required

• Negotiate and implement insurance policies including:

  • General insurance

  • Cyber security

  • Life assurance

  • Staff sickness policy

  • Trustees’ liability

  • Conference insurance

• Oversee monthly payroll, including statutory payments to HMRC and pension providers, and liaise with bookkeepers for payroll updates or changes

• Review VAT returns for accuracy before submission to HMRC
   

Note on External Bookkeepers
External bookkeepers currently provide support limited to payroll and VAT processing.

Person Specification

Personal Qualities

• Self-disciplined, organised, proactive and self-motivating

• Logical and methodical approach to finance and administration

• Trustworthy, honest, reliable and conscientious

• Confident, professional, and personable, able to communicate easily within a small team and with external stakeholders
   

Professional Competencies

Essential

• Professional accounting qualification such as ACA, ACCA, or CIMA

• Strong knowledge of charity SORP and charity finance regulations, including VAT and Gift Aid

• Experience with Xero or equivalent cloud-based accounting systems

• Strong reporting skills

• Team player with excellent interpersonal skills

• High level of accuracy and attention to detail

• Experience producing management accounts and supporting senior leadership and boards

• Ability to interpret financial data for non-financial colleagues
   

Desirable

• Experience working in a small charity or business

• Understanding of the cultural or charitable sector

• Experience of remote working
   

Benefits

• Unlimited holiday policy

• 5% employer pension contribution

• Life insurance

• Flexible working arrangements by agreement with the CEO

We are an inclusive, equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment is decided on the basis of experience, merit and organisational need.

Location: Birmingham

Salary: Grade 5 - £37,181 per annum pro rata-ed for part time

Contract: Fixed term maternity cover until March 2026

Hours: Part time – 30 per week – working pattern can be negotiated but will need to include Wednesdays

Closing date: Monday 14th July 2025 at 11.30 pm

Please note this role is being advertised as Housing Team Leader but on appointment the job title will be Team Leader.

Applications for secondments are welcomed from organisations closely aligned or who currently work with Shelter, subject to both organisations agreements.

Do you have proven experience of day-to-day staff and service management, including casework support and supervision? Then join Shelter as a Housing Team Leader and you could soon be playing an important role at the heart of our Birmingham Hub.

About The Role

The role of  Housing Team Leader is essential to the day-to-day management of the Hub and in particular the delivery of front-line services, contracts and projects. You will lead and supervise the staff and volunteer team that delivers specialist advocacy, empowerment, advice and systems change within their local community. Supporting the Hub’s strategic lead and management team to deliver our strategy locally will be important too, as will planning and supervising casework, monitoring the effectiveness of our services and helping to promote them. You will ensure we provide an excellent quality service that meets the needs of those who need our help and that everyone has access to a safe and affordable home.

About You

You will need experience of working with people facing exclusion and disadvantage and in a multi-disciplinary context with partners, community groups and other agencies. A good understanding of housing law is essential, while experience of debt advice, support services and delivery of advice in a community setting would be useful. The communication skills it takes to line manage others and promote effective working relationships, with external agencies, people with lived experience and internally across Shelter, are key. You must be proficient in the use of a range of IT tools to carry out your work, including case management systems, Microsoft applications, internet and email.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave (pro rata), 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.

About The Team

Our Birmingham hub specialises in providing housing advice and homelessness work, with a particular focus on families and people experiencing multiple disadvantage. We work in partnership with a range of organisations to improve the underlying systems that prevent people from living securely in suitable, safe, affordable accommodation.

About Shelter

Home is a human right. It’s our foundation and where we thrive. Yet every day millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We need ambitious, passionate people to join us. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. To win this fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, equitable and transparent. We are committed to combating racism both within and outside Shelter. We welcome you on our journey to becoming truly anti-racist.

How to Apply

Please click ‘Apply for Job’ below. You are required to submit a CV and a supporting statement. The supporting statement should include your responses to the points in the ‘About You’ section of the job description of no more than 350 words each.

Please provide specific examples following the STAR format and ensure you demonstrate how you address the behaviours below throughout your responses:

• Prioritise diversity and have an inclusive mindset
• We work together to achieve our shared purpose

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.

Overview 

Students’ Unions are amazing membership organisations with unique structures and ever-changing leadership. The student advisor role will be to deliver a high quality, professional advice service to students at the University of Gloucestershire Students' Union which is independent of the institution, confidential, non-judgemental and impartial. 

To all our members and stakeholders, we promise to be:

• Inclusive
• Democratic
• Courageous
• Sustainable 

Key Details

Closing Date: Monday 7th July
Interview Dates: Tuesday 22nd July
Start Date: August/September 2025

Applications are to be made by submitting a CV and supporting statement of no more than 2 pages. We advise that you look through the person specification in the job pack available on our website.

Candidates are able to arrange an informal conversation with Lou Fensome, Chief Operating Officer in advance of submitting an application. To arrange an informal conversation please contact find contact details in the job pack via our website. 

Job Details

• Job Title: Student Advisor
• Location: Across all of the main UoGSU sites, with a flexible working policy.
• Department: Student Voice & Advocacy
• Reports to: Advocacy & Campaigns Manager
• Salary: £21,436 pro-rata
• Contract Type: 0.8FTE - Part Time
• Hours: Full time, normally 9am-5pm. Some flexible hours required to meet demands of the Students’ Union.
• Working Days: Monday- Friday - to be negotiated with the successful candidate
• Benefits: 25 days holiday pro rata, contributory pension scheme available, excellent flexible working policy including some home working when appropriate

About the role

The main focus of the advice centre will be academic advice and appeals but it may need to adapt to the changing needs of students and will likely involve working with individuals who have complex situations who require support to navigate what steps to take. 

Advice and Support

• To provide specialist advice and information directly to students via physical and digital mediums as appropriate on academic matters
• To support students when referring them to appropriate internal & external agencies
• To advise and inform students of their rights and responsibilities as students of the University of Gloucestershire
• To support students at meetings, appeals and hearings within the University
• Maintain generalist advice skills, knowledge and understanding of University regulations, policies and procedures that may affect the work of the advice service
• To be able to understand and explore the issues students present with a focus on expert advice to enable students to make informed decisions
• Take referrals from with partner providers i.e University, self-referrals and those from voluntary and statutory agencies

Case Work and Procedures

• Maintain accurate records of all advice cases at the SU via the case management system
• Ensure adherence to the requirements of data
• Promote the service and outreach where necessary
• Ability to listen and communicate effectively with a diverse range of people
• Have the ability to work with autonomy and use own initiative

Reporting and Policies

• Work alongside colleagues to support the development and success of the SU enhancement projects and campaigns
• To collate key information for the Student-led projects and feed into campaigns
• To monitor the matters raised via individual student cases to identify commen trends that could inform policy

A full job pack including more details about the role and the person specification we'll be shortlisting against is available via our website. 

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.