Citizens Advice Jobs in Southwark
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
We are looking for an energetic Immigration Adviser to provide advice to destitute migrants with No Recourse to Public Funds in hospitals.
Praxis Community Projects is a dynamic, award-winning human rights charity supporting migrants in crisis or at- risk, ensuring that their essential human needs are met and that they are able to overcome the barriers they face. We provide legal advice, housing projects and a range of welfare support including group work. We build community, challenge exclusion and discrimination, influence policy, improve services and inspire solidarity with migrants.
This project is delivered in partnership with Pathway, the UK’s leading homeless healthcare charity. Supported by a project supervisor, you will be responsible for the overall project and delivery of immigration advice and casework to migrants at risk referred by selected Pathway Homeless Healthcare Teams across England. This service is delivered through a mixture of channels including telephone, digital, face-to-face and hybrid working.
The ideal candidate will have an in-depth knowledge of the issues faced by refugees, asylum seekers and migrants at risk (including EU migrants). The post holder will have a good understanding of the challenges faced by homeless migrants with NRPF and will be able to demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a range of stakeholders.
At Praxis, we work to build community, challenge exclusion and discrimination, influence policy and improve services. We played a leading role in exposing the Windrush scandal and advocate and campaign for lasting changes to policy and practice to address the root causes of the issues faced by at-risk migrants.
Praxis is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourage applications from those with lived experience of migration, and from diverse applicants regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital/civil partnership status, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or pregnancy/maternity leave status.
Our Attractive Benefits Package Includes
-
Opportunities for flexible working arrangements
-
A hybrid work model
-
25 days annual leave (pro rata), increasing annually to the maximum 30 days (plus paid Bank Holidays)
-
You can buy up to 3 days annual leave each year
-
A defined contribution pension scheme
-
Our employee assistance programme offers counselling and support for you 24/7.
-
A season ticket loan to help you spread the cost of your commute
If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please email our Recruitment team who will contact you to discuss how we can help.
For further details, please contact Daniel Ashwell.
Please see our website to find out more about our work.
To apply, send us your CV and cover letter demonstrating your capabilities in relation to each of the points of the job description marked ‘A’. Where relevant use your answers to illustrate how your competencies have helped you to achieve positive results. This will give you the best possible chance to be shortlisted. Applications will only be accepted with a cover letter.
Please note that this advert is being posted at the same time as another part time Immigration Advisor role (Immigration Advisor – Asylum Support hotels), if you would like to apply for both roles as a full-time post then this will be considered and we would welcome you doing so. If you do wish to do so, please submit one application as detailed above and state clearly that you are applying for both posts, explaining how you meet each person specification. You do not need to submit two separate applications.
Deadline: 16/05/204
To apply, send us your CV and cover letter demonstrating your capabilities in relation to each of the points of the job description marked ‘A’. Where relevant use your answers to illustrate how your competencies have helped you to achieve positive results. This will give you the best possible chance to be shortlisted. Applications will only be accepted with a cover letter.
When politicians treat migrants with cruelty, we refuse to accept it. We give legal support, demand change, and never give in. Join us.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
We are looking for an energetic Immigration Adviser (OISC L1 essential, L2 desirable) for an exciting position providing immigration advice to individuals in Asylum Support hotels in Islington.
The project is delivered through funding from Islington Local Authority and will will include advice and casework for residents of two Asylum Support hotels in the borough. The project was initially funded to respond to an urgent need for specialist legal advice to assist with asylum questionnaires and has since expanded to support with a range of different advice issues including reinstatement of asylum claims, Asylum Support challenges and appeals work.
The ideal candidate will have an in-depth knowledge of the issues faced by migrants at risk and refugees/asylum seekers. They will have a good understanding of the challenges faced by those navigating the UK asylum system. They will have experience and a commitment to supporting migrants at risk in need of immigration advice. They will be able to demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a range of stakeholders.
Praxis is a dynamic, award-winning human rights charity supporting migrants in crisis or at-risk, ensuring that their essential human needs are met and that they are able to overcome the barriers they face. We work to build community, challenge exclusion and discrimination, influence policy and improve services. We played a leading role in exposing the Windrush scandal and advocate and campaign for lasting changes to policy and practice to address the root causes of the issues faced by at-risk migrants.
We are an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourage applications from those with lived experience of migration and from diverse applicants regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital/civil partnership status, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or pregnancy/maternity leave status.
Our Attractive Benefits Package Includes
-
Opportunities for flexible working arrangements
-
A hybrid work model
-
25 days annual leave (pro rata), increasing annually to the maximum 30 days (plus paid Bank Holidays)
-
You can buy up to 3 days annual leave each year
-
A defined contribution pension scheme
-
Our employee assistance programme offers counselling and support for you 24/7.
-
A season ticket loan to help you spread the cost of your commute
If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please email our Recruitment team who will contact you to discuss how we can help.
For further details, please contact Daniel Ashwell.
Please see our website to find out more about our work.
To apply, send us your CV and cover letter demonstrating your capabilities in relation to each of the points of the job description marked ‘A’. Where relevant use your answers to illustrate how your competencies have helped you to achieve positive results. This will give you the best possible chance to be shortlisted. Applications will only be accepted with a cover letter.
Please note that this advert is being posted at the same time as another part time Immigration Advisor role (Immigration Advisor – Asylum Support hotels), if you would like to apply for both roles as a full-time post then this will be considered and we would welcome you doing so. If you do wish to do so, please submit one application as detailed above and state clearly that you are applying for both posts, explaining how you meet each person specification. You do not need to submit two separate applications.
Deadline: 16/05/2024
To apply, send us your CV and cover letter demonstrating your capabilities in relation to each of the points of the job description marked ‘A’. Where relevant use your answers to illustrate how your competencies have helped you to achieve positive results. This will give you the best possible chance to be shortlisted. Applications will only be accepted with a cover letter.
When politicians treat migrants with cruelty, we refuse to accept it. We give legal support, demand change, and never give in. Join us.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Disability Advice Service Lambeth (dasl) is Lambeth’s peer-led Disabled People’s Organisation.
You will lead a two-year project contributing to the work of the No Wrong Door partnership – local organisations and local residents working together to ensure there is ‘No Wrong Door’ for Black Disabled people seeking employment, as they can expect excellent support from any organisation.
We want to change the system, influencing employment support providers and their Commissioners to ensure support for Black Disabled people who are seeking employment is appropriate, accessible and inclusive.
You will have excellent project management skills and use your lived, personal experience of race and disability equity issues to implement change, working collaboratively with residents (Lived Experience Leads), partner organisations and employment support providers. Your role will involve working primarily with Black Disabled Lambeth residents. You will understand and encounter the intersections between being Black and Disabled and the barriers to employment and be able to demonstrate creative and people-centred approaches to influencing change.
dasl’s success comes from dedicated work of our skilled staff, many of whom are Disabled people. You will be valued for who you are in our supportive and friendly team. We pride ourselves on the support we offer staff. We work flexibly between home and office. Our office in Brixton is accessible.
We highly recommend contacting us to learn more about this exciting role. We can offer a 1:1 informal meeting via phone or video call.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Hours: 30 hours/week (0.8 FTE), Part time or Job share applications welcomed
About Us
Citizens Advice Epsom & Ewell is a local charity that provides advice and information for anyone that lives, works or studies in Epsom and Ewell.
We deliver our service through as many different channels as we can, to make sure we are accessible to everyone. This includes face to face, phone, video conferencing, and email. The role is based in our Epsom office.
About the Role
We are looking for a self-motivated individual with proven ability of managing and supervising a team. You will have recent relevant experience of working in a local Citizens Advice or similar advice organisation, and be able to demonstrate a good knowledge and understanding of the issues facing local communities.
This role involves the supervision of advice sessions, providing guidance and assistance to those working in our Epsom office as well as to staff working from home or in outreach locations.
The post is responsible for ensuring the smooth running of the day to day service and the implementation of consistent processes to maintain quality standards. In addition you will manage volunteer advice staff and work closely with the Training team to support their training and development.
This is a great opportunity for someone looking to make a difference in people’s lives, supporting some of the most vulnerable people in society and helping them to find a way forward.
About You
- Highly motivated with proven ability of managing and supervising others including the ability to develop and motivate staff as well as give and receive feedback objectively and sensitively.
- Recent relevant experience of working in a local Citizens Advice or similar advice setting.
- Ability to plan and manage your own work and the work of others in a pressured environment, including: setting priorities; meeting deadlines; and monitoring performance
- Flexibility and willingness to work as part of a team including advice work if required.
- Ability to identify ongoing training needs and deliver appropriate support to ensure high quality of service.
- Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
- Proficient in the use of IT systems, including office, case management and benefit calculation systems.
- Commitment to work within the aims, principles and policies of the Citizens Advice service, demonstrating an understanding of issues affecting society and the implications on our clients and service.
We value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic groups, as they are currently under-represented in our workforce.
Closing date: 20th May 2024
Interview Dates: 23rd May 2024
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Location: The post holder will have a normal place of work in Hampton Hill, London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and will be required to travel throughout the borough to support our other offices and outreach venues.
Hours: This role is for 28 – 35 hours per week depending on ability to carry out IT management alongside other duties. We are open to part-time, job-share, and/or flexible working requests. Normal working hours 9.00 – 17.00 excluding lunch break. Some evening attendance is required at governance meetings – time off in lieu will be offered.
Background
Citizens Advice Richmond (CAR) is a thriving advice organisation that is part of the national Citizens Advice network. We provide information, advice and casework support to around 5,000 people a year. Our services are delivered by a team of around 17 paid staff and 75 volunteers. We have a typical annual turnover of £700,000 and in addition to our core advice service, funded by Richmond Council, we have a range of projects funded by other charities.
This is a unique and crucial position in our charity – it is not client-facing but is essential to the running of the organisation. We need someone motivated by our aims and dedicated to ensuring the smooth and efficient running of our ‘back-office’ functions.
It is your approach that is most important – you must be flexible, approachable and able to deliver on commitments. For this role, you must have experience in a similar role.
Role purpose
The post-holder will lead on premises, facilities, IT and personnel and administration systems to support the effective delivery of CAR services to clients and management of the organisation.
Reporting to the CEO and responsible for the management of administration volunteers, the post holder will lead on maintaining our office systems and processes.
We are a friendly and diverse office. We support clients across our community, and aim to reach the most vulnerable and excluded in our community.
Closing date for applications:Rolling – if we fill the role we will withdraw the advert
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Citizens Advice Hertsmere is a great place to work, with a friendly and supportive team. We are looking to take on a Debt Caseworker to join our small debt advice team. You will be providing advice to clients supporting them through the debt advice process, including dealing with emergencies, income maximisation, budgeting advice and ultimately helping with a debt strategy.
You will need to:
- Prepare and present cases to the appropriate statutory bodies
- Negotiate with third parties in writing and on the telephone
- Act for clients where necessary by calculating, negotiating, drafting or writing letters and telephoning
- Be numerate and able to analyse data and draw conclusions
- Have good communication and IT skills
Role purpose
To deliver an excellent quality debt advice service to clients, with due regard to the aims, policies and procedures of the organisation and service, working within a client focussed and responsive team.
About Us
Citizens Advice Hertsmere (CAH) is an independent local charity and a member of the national Citizens Advice network. We deliver high-quality advice across Hertsmere and campaign on issues that matter to residents. Our primary office is in Elstree with outreach locations in Bushey and Potters Bar.
Our staff and volunteers supported clients with a wide range of issues including benefits, debt, employment, housing, relationship, and consumer issues. We provide our advice face to face, telephone, and email.
We are a forward-thinking organisation, committed to continually improving, expanding, and developing our services to better serve our local community.
We are a friendly, supportive team, and we are looking for another person to strengthen our debt team. There are opportunities for progression within our service and we encourage and support our staff to achieve their potential. We believe that what we do matters.
Citizens Advice Kingston is an innovative, welcoming and friendly local Citizens Advice office, and we provide a high quality advice and information service to local people across a range of topics.
We operate a hybrid model of working which is heavily reliant on digital elements. The post holder will work with the Chief Executive and other senior staff to lead the team in maintaining and developing effective models of administration.
The ability to work remotely as required and also support and supervise others using remote systems is essential to this role. Remote working systems rely significantly on the use of IT over a range of applications so a positive and creative approach to digital services and systems is essential.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive and you will be responsible for the smooth running of the administration of the organisation.
We are looking for someone with strong administrative skills and excellent computer skills, who is an effective communicator with experience of building relationships at all levels. You must also have experience of managing a diverse workload, and have strong planning and organisational skills.
Closing Date: 5pm on 21st May Interviews: 24th May
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
“Providing free, independent, confidential and impartial advice”
Citizens Advice Southwark has a track record of delivering high-quality services from its offices in Peckham and Walworth and outreach locations across Southwark and South East London. We sort out problems together, for good, by providing free, independent, confidential and impartial advice across all areas of social welfare law, and through using the experience of our clients to bring about positive change through research and campaigns.
This post is advertised as an exciting opportunity for an experienced Advice Session Supervisor to consolidate their skills and experience or as a development opportunity for an advisor to train to become an Advice Session Supervisor within six months of starting in post. If applying as a trainee the starting salary will be on NJC Scale 6 - £33,194 for the first six months whilst undertaking the training.
The post holder will be required to work across all of our offices and outreaches in Southwark according to operational needs.
The role includes:
- Providing advice to the public and undertaking casework on social welfare law issues
- Supervising advice and gateway assessment sessions
- Supporting and supervising staff and volunteers
To be successful you will need:
- Recent experience of giving advice to the public. This should include having undertaken advice casework.
- Experience of undertaking the role of Advice Session Supervisor or to demonstrate the ability to undertake this role with training provided within 6 months of starting
- To understand, empathise with and be committed to the Service’s aims, principles and equal opportunities policies
Closing date: 9.00 am Monday 20th May 2024
Interviews: Friday 24th May 2024
For further information and an application pack please visit our website via the apply button
We offer a range of employee benefits, including generous annual leave, an employer matched pension contribution up to 10% salary, and training and development opportunities to continue your professional development.
Citizens Advice Southwark is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all applicants who meet the person specification irrespective of sex, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief, age, or disability.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
LOCATION: Across Citizens Advice Hammersmith & Fulham sites with the potential for some hybrid working following completion of successful probationary period.
Citizens Advice Hammersmith and Fulham is recruiting for Advice Services Managers, who will be responsible for the supervision, quality and monitoring performance of the advice and information team. This busy and varied role will rely on your ability to mutli-task and bring out the best in paid and volunteer staff, to ensure the highest quality of advice across our many and varied projects. Working as part of a team with other Advice Services Managers, you will also be responsible for all aspects of risk relating to advice delivery, complaints handling, safeguarding and GDPR.
It is essential that you have the required management skills and a good understanding of the main advice enquiry areas including welfare benefits, housing, debt, and employment as well as a combination of the following attributes:
- Excellent and effective communicator
- Experience in managing and developing staff and volunteers
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and assess priority order
- Ability to research, analyse and interpret complex information
- Experience of working with colleagues to maintain a positive working and learning environment, ensuring equality and diversity principles are upheld
If you are an experienced Generalist Advisers, and don’t have all the skills required, please consider applying as we are willing to consider appointing the right candidate as a training and development role.
What we can offer you:
We value our people and can offer a supportive culture within a high performing and award winning organisation. 86% of our workforce recommend us as a place to work. We are committed to being an inclusive employer and workplace to represent the diverse communities we service. We are committed to increasing our diversity and whatever your background, we welcome your application. We offer an attractive remuneration package with excellent terms including:
- Generous holiday entitlement starting at 25 days per year (in addition to bankholidays) and rising to 30 days with long service
- Learning, development and personal growth opportunities
- Mental health and Well-being support helpline
We will interview on a rolling basis. We reserve the right to close the applications earlier if suitable candidates are found so encourage early applications.
Closing Date: Thursday 16th May 2024
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Location: Home or office (Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire) working available. This role is available fully remotely.
Hours of work: This role is offered between 15 and 36.25 hours per week. This will be discussed with candidates at the interview.
Contract: This is a temporary position. Because of the uncertainty of the availability of funding, the Company cannot at this stage confirm exactly how long this will be for and cannot guarantee you any minimum or maximum period of employment.
*Candidates should be able to start as soon as possible and no later than 29 May 2024
About the role
The Welfare Scheme Assessor will be a part of a small, but committed team with big ambitions that works cohesively and effectively together to get things done.
You’ll be an important and valued member of the team and, with the support of North Lincolnshire Citizens Advice, will be responsible for ensuring client focused outcomes are met in a pressurised environment.
You’ll be the first point of contact for residents applying for support from the welfare assistance scheme. You’ll offer applicants a holistic assessment designed to maximise household income, reduce expenditure and build greater financial wellbeing.
You’ll enable people to move as quickly as possible to problem resolution and to manage their essential needs so they are less likely to fall into debt and manage cost of living increases.
You’ll be responsible for making decisions on applications for financially based welfare support and will administer funds to households who would otherwise struggle to buy food or pay essential utility bills or meet other essential living costs.
You’ll enable people to take control of their financial wellbeing and signpost them to local statutory services and community groups that provide practical, social and emotional support.
What we offer our staff
We provide an employee assistance scheme managed by LifeWorks. Benefits include:
- 24/7 - 365 telephone helpline
- LifeWorks online support website
- LifeWorks app
- 6 sessions of face to face counselling per issue – unlimited issues per annum
- Employee legal helpline
- Consulting services – financial, debt advice, housing, relocation, parenting, eldercare, work performance, health and wellness advice and much more
- Childcare and eldercare matching service
- Savings on everyday purchases and life events
- Access for family members and dependants – excluding counselling and legal advice
Annual leave: Annual leave is 25 days from 1st January to 31st December, plus 8 bank holidays. We offer additional long service leave of 5 days after 4 years of employment
How to apply:
The recruitment process and how to apply You should submit:
- A CV no longer than two pages
- Cover letter detailing how your skills and experience will help you in the role.
Applicants will be assessed and interviews offered on a rolling basis.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Young Lives vs Cancer (YLvC) help families to find the strength to face everything cancer throws at them.
Citizens Advice Hammersmith and Fulham working in partnership with the national charity YLvC delivers a pioneering project via multi channels (telephone/email/web) providing advice to families of young people affected by cancer.
The project is expanding and we are recruiting a Welfare Rights Benefits Adviser and a Housing Adviser.
The project requires dynamic advisers who can sensitively, engage with families in an often difficult time. Reassure them in terms of options and steps they can take to address the welfare rights/housing issues they are experiencing. Knowing they have options to consider gives them reassurance in a time of uncertainty.
Working with the YLvC team who are located across the UK, advice provided by the project Advisers will also support YLvC social workers, to better help the families and young people accessing the charity support.
Housing Adviser - YLvC-Hgs1
Hours: 22. 5 hours per week equivalent to three days per week
Location: Hammersmith and Fulham Potential hybrid delivery on completion of probationary period
Salary Range: £31-£33k (pro-rata full time salary)
Type of Contract: Fixed Term one year from appointment (extension subject to performance)
Welfare Benefits Adviser - YLvC-Wel1
Hours: 15 hours per week equivalent to two days per week
Location: Hammersmith and Fulham Potential hybrid delivery on completion of probationary period
Salary Range: £31-£33k (pro-rata full time salary)
Type of Contract: Fixed Term one year from appointment (extension subject to performance)
What we can offer you:
We value our people and can offer a supportive culture within a high performing and award winning organisation. 86% of our workforce recommend us as a place to work. We are committed to being an inclusive employer and workplace to represent the diverse communities we serve. We are committed to increasing our diversity and whatever your background, we welcome your application. We offer an attractive remuneration package with excellent terms including:
- Generous holiday entitlement starting at 25 days per year (in addition to bank holidays) and rising to 30 days with long service
- Learning, development and personal growth opportunities
- Mental health and Well-being support helpline
We will consider applicants who apply for Welfare Benefits Advisor and Housing Advisor roles combined in one full-time post.
We interview on a rolling basis and therefore reserve the right to close the applications earlier if suitable candidates are found, so encourage early applications.
To find out more please visit our website via the apply button
Closing Date: Thursday 16th May 2024
Hours: Full- and part-time positions
Contract: Permanent
Location: CAML charity offices and outreach venues
Salary (pro rata for part time): From £28,000 per annum
Annual Leave: 25 days (pro rata for part time), Charity Day, plus public holidays
Pension: The charity operates a pension scheme
The charity offers an employee assistance programme
Deadline: 6pm, Thursday 16th May 2024
Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML) is the leading advice charity supporting individuals and families across the London boroughs of Lambeth, Merton and beyond. We provide a range of information, support and advice services. We also work to raise awareness and understanding of the challenging issues affecting our clients and communities.
We are looking for an accredited Debt Adviser to provide comprehensive debt advice and support to those in need. If you have at least one year’s experience as an accredited debt adviser, passionate about supporting individuals and families in need and interested in joining a dedicated, professional team we would love to hear from you.
If you are not an accredited Debt Adviser but you are an accredited Generalist Adviser with at least one year’s experience, are willing to complete the relevant training, passionate about supporting Merton and Lambeth residents, we would love to hear from you.
The successful candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to work flexibly with clients. You will be meticulous in your work, especially when supporting clients and maintaining case records for continuity of casework. You will also be very well informed with regards to legislation, case law and policy changes relating to debt and benefits.
Our offices have excellent public transport links and Mitcham also has a carpark. We offer a friendly and welcoming work environment and can provide flexible work opportunities dependent on service demands.
Main duties and responsibilities
-
Provide comprehensive, full range of debt advice in line with Financial Conduct Authority and Debt Advice Quality Framework
-
Commit to train for debt adviser (if trainee) and ongoing training/development (all roles) as requested by the charity
-
Provide generalist advice in benefits, income maximisation and housing as required
-
Complete Debt Relief Orders on behalf of clients (if accredited)
-
Use your interpersonal skills to explore, listen and understand complex problems as they affect each individual and tailor approach to advice accordingly
-
Provide a clear plan of action and follow-up on actions relating to cases as appropriate
-
Follow-up on actions relating to cases as appropriate
-
Identify and escalate serious problems, including safeguarding, appropriately
-
Ability to work to own initiative within a team environment.
-
Work closely with service colleagues and wider CAML team
-
Support clients in CAML offices and outreach venues
Monitoring Quality and Case Recording
-
Ensure all client engagement and support is comprehensively and accurately recorded
-
Review your work, and monitor quality standards, as per the Citizens Advice quality framework
-
Ensure data protections regulations are adhere and office procedures followed
-
Work with your line manager, senior managers and charity colleagues to develop and improve services, and your own standards.
Other Duties and Responsibilities
-
With wider charity team and other organisations, ensure clients are supported with related advice issues
-
Ensure all work is fully compliant with our policies and procedures and Citizens Advice Quality Standard
-
Assist and contribute to the charity’s communications, research and campaigns work
-
Maintain positive working relations with our stakeholders
-
Professionally represent Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth
-
Other duties as requested by your line manager, senior manager and Chief Executive
Professional Development
-
All our team receive comprehensive induction to the charity and our work. We support Advisers in their professional development to ensure we’re up to date with recent legislation, case law, policies and procedures relating to benefits and debt and undertake appropriate training as agreed with your line manager (Head of Advice Services).
Person Specification
-
Generalist Adviser certificate (Citizens Advice or equivalent) – Essential
-
Accredited debt adviser (either through relevant Citizens Advice debt training, Wiser Adviser training). – Essential for accredited role
-
Willingness to undertake training and development to comply with Citizens Advice quality standards
-
Experience of using client management databases (we use Casebook) - Desirable
-
Ability to prioritise work, meet deadlines and manage caseload - Essential
-
IT competency and experience - Essential
-
Ability and willingness to work as a team - Essential
-
Understanding of and commitment to the aims and principles of Citizens Advice service - Essential
This job description and personal specification does not form part of any contract.
If you’re interested in the role and joining us, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please follow the link to our website to find out how to apply. (please note we will not consider CVs for this role).
The deadline for applications is 6pm, Thursday 16th May 2024.
If you do not hear from us, we are afraid your application was unsuccessful.
We reserve the right to close applications early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.
We are registered with the Information Commissioner's Office and will process your personal data in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation and Data Protection Act 2018. Please refer to our online Privacy Policy for more information on how your personal data will be processed and stored.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
8.5% pension contribution after successful completion of probation period. Inflationary pay award pending
Hours: 35 hours per week. Normal working hours 9.30 to 5.30. Open to part-time, job-share, and flexible working
Location: Blended between home and office (Battersea and Roehampton)
About us
We’re a thriving advice organisation that is part of the national Citizens Advice network. We provide information, advice and casework support to around 10,000 people a year. Our services are delivered by a team of around 40 paid staff and 60 volunteers. We have a typical annual turnover of £2 million and in addition to our core advice service, funded by Wandsworth Council, we have a range of projects funded by trusts, foundations, and our local Integrated Care System.
While we’re proud of the number of residents we support, we know that we can’t meet demand for advice and that marginalised communities don’t always come to established organisations for support. Because of this, we place equal value on improving reach and access through creative collaboration with equity-led organisations, partnership development and capacity building.
Why we need you
Supported by existing project funding and a long-term grant from the Access to Justice Foundation, we’re looking for two people to join our Senior Management Team and help lead the next phase of our innovative and award-winning development work. The Head of Core Service and Head of Community Partnerships will work together to:
- Continue developing our approach to community engagement, helping reduce access barriers for people from the most marginalised communities.
- Embed changes to our core service that make it more accessible and responsive to those communities.
Both roles also have overall responsibility for a range of funded projects and services and, as leaders and managers, responsibility for:
- Ensuring we live up to our values, standards and ambitions.
- Managing contracts and relationships with funders, partners and other stakeholders.
- Developing organisational strategy and identifying new funding and partnership opportunities.
With a focus on operational compliance and core delivery, the Head of Core Service role would suit applicants with a strong track record of managing advice services, ideally within the Citizens Advice network. We’re not necessarily looking for someone with an advice background for the Head of Community Partnerships role, but great project management, people management and relationship building skills are essential. Both roles require an understanding of and commitment to our values and ambitions, including being a more inclusive workplace where everyone gets the support they need to do their best.
Why you should join us
We’re a dynamic organisation with a culture of quality and innovation. We’re ambitious about delivering advice services that make a real difference to local people and being a great place to work and volunteer. You’ll be part of a diverse and friendly team of staff and volunteers who are passionate about helping the people who need us most. Working with us means seeing yourself and your colleagues have a positive impact on the lives of ordinary people and protecting our communities from hardship, poverty and crisis.
We also believe that investing in and listening to our teams makes us a better organisation. We involve staff and volunteers extensively in the design and delivery of our services, as well as in long-term planning. You’ll benefit from working at an organisation with a strong commitment to professional development and continuous training – we’re proud of our teams and in return offer excellent opportunities for personal development and career growth.
Our commitment to EDI
We’re passionate about promoting equity, valuing diversity and working inclusively. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified people but particularly people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic groups and people with disabilities, as these groups are currently under-represented in our team.
How to apply
CV and supporting statement accepted, find out more on our vacancy page by clicking the apply button.
Closing date: 10am on 15 May 2024
Interviews: Week beginning 20 May 2024, Battersea Library, SW11 1JB
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you passionate about supporting people to uphold their rights?
Disability Advice Service Lambeth (dasl) is Lambeth’s peer-led Disabled People’s Organisation.
We want to appoint a Professional Advocate who shares our ethos and values and is committed to supporting Lambeth residents achieve their legal rights.
dasl have provided an advocacy service for Lambeth Council for 12 years and since 2020 we have played a key role in the Lambeth Advocacy Hub, a single point of access for all statutory independent advocacy services for Lambeth residents aged 16 and over. We manage referrals and enquiries and provide independent Care Act advocacy and a range of non-statutory advocacy.
We provide a high quality service - we hold the Advocacy Quality Performance Mark. You will hold, or be working towards, a qualification such as the Certificate/Diploma in Independent Advocacy (Level 3), or be able to show the necessary skills and relevant experience in a formal or informal advocacy role.
dasl’s success comes from dedicated work of our skilled staff, many of whom are Disabled people. You will be valued for who you are in our supportive and friendly team.
We work flexibly between home and office. Our office in Brixton is accessible.
This is a rolling recruitment - applicants will be shortlisted and interviewed as soon as possible. We encourage you to apply as soon as you are able.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Description
The Head of Advocacy and Policy will be responsible for developing an excellent Advice Service and Retention Team to support and advise students effectively to enable excellent student experience and satisfaction.
This role will lead on the development of effective insights, representation and support initiatives/campaigns for students, across our three campuses at Greenwich, Avery Hill and Medway.
This role will enhance work with the diverse student population of the University of Greenwich and lead a dynamic team to ensure students have consistent and accessible services that contribute to positive student experience.
This role sits within the wider Membership Services department, together with other key areas consisting of; Activities, Sport, Academic Communities, Representation and Democracy, we provide a high-quality service for students, that they can shape, steer and be at the heart of.
This postholder will be part of the GSU Senior Leadership Team and will be expected to contribute to department and organisation wide strategic development.
The post holder will:
- Have expert knowledge in areas of in relation to Advice and Retention and policies and legislation relating to such activity
- Support and develop strong student-led communities and campaigns in areas of: Advice, wellbeing and retention so that members can thrive
- Provide line management support to staff so that the team have up to date, specialist advice skills, knowledge and understanding of University regulations, policies and procedures that may affect the work of the Advice service and oversee engagement across Greenwich’s 3 campuses
- Undertake casework and provide expert advice for the team on all aspects of Advice
- Lead on the project management of wellbeing/health promotion campaigns and initiatives throughout the year, as well as any external bids through bodies such as OfS
- Oversee the Retention and Wellbeing Project work, and other relevant projects with external partners
- Lead on insights work relating to retention, wellbeing and support
- Lead on responses to external consultation and enquiry responses, including but not limited to OfS, Department for Education, OIA and Universities UK
- Support elected officers to deliver on campaigning priorities
- Ensure the Advice service has the skills and is equipped to support the diverse needs of students at Greenwich and Kent at Medway.
- Provide regular insights and reports on the GSU Membership to inform our strategy and service provision
- Work with other Heads to develop relevant and modern Front of House services for each GSU campus ensuring ease of access and consistency for all members.
Key Areas
- Be an engaged and active member of the Senior Leadership team, contributing regularly and working collaboratively with peers
- Provide leadership, strategic direction and day to day operational management to the Advocacy and Policy: recruiting and inducting members of staff, motivating, supporting and developing team members to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge for their roles as well as manage performance
- Develop a proactive results driven culture within the team, ensuring agreed objectives and targets are delivered, whilst promoting a collaborative approach to working with internal departments
- Develop succession plans and identify training and development opportunities within the team
- Be accountable for the quality of outputs of the team
- Provide support to the Officer team helping and equipping them, particularly in their roles as representatives and providing pastoral support and guidance.
- Ensure the whole organisation is aware of and understands the work of the Advocacy and Policy Team and its contribution to our strategic objectives
- To maintain expert and up-to-date knowledge on sector policies and regulations relating to advice, retention and student success, providing relevant guidance to officers and staff as required.
- Develop and promote a culture of continuous improvement across the team to ensure we can adapt to changing students’ needs and priorities, as well as building on successes and preparing for the future.
Strategic Development
- Contribute to the strategic objectives of GSU, with a particular focus on advice, support and wellbeing in relation to the student experience
- Develop and oversee a new and innovative approach to proactive health and wellbeing campaigns that empower students to look after themselves and each other, as well as seeking support
- Lead on Access and Participation Plan Engagement, acting as the key contact on this area with the University.
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with relevant senior UoG staff and departments including Student Academic Services, Faculties and our partners at Kent Unio
- Develop and oversee the Advice service to support advocacy initiatives at multiple levels within the University, ensuring both students and University stakeholders view GSU as a credible and reliable source of information on the needs of students.
Monitoring and Evaluation
- Develop and oversee a structured approach to gathering, analysing and reporting on data relating to engagement of students with our services and to student views on key issues relating to retention and success
- Develop and oversee processes of collecting quantitative and qualitative data from casework to analyse trends and inform feedback for the SU and university
- Ensure evaluation mechanism are embedded in the teams working practises and that findings are shared and used to implement learnings with the goal of improving services
- Support Officers by preparing information, statistics and trends about key services to be shared within the University committee cycle
- Be responsible for the implementation of service standards for the Advocacy and Policy Team and to monitor and report on adherence to these standards
- Prepare materials to apply for any relevant quality mark accreditations for the service.
Budget and Financial Management
- Manage a budget relating to Advocacy and Policy including any restricted funds.
- Be responsible for the teams resources, ensuring these are effectively allocated, managed and controlled
- Review and establish processes, systems, polices and where appropriate standard procedures to maximise efficiency ensure deadlines are met and a positive return on investment
- Review and provide narrative for scrutiny at monthly management meetings with the Finance Team
Stakeholder management
- Collaborate with GSU colleagues, particularly the Student Voice and Engagement Teams to ensure we have a consistent approach to how we work with and support students
- Work with students through our representative structures and forums to ensure we shape services students want and need, taking into consideration the varying campus priorities
- Maintain strong relationships with key university staff to develop, deliver and evaluate collaborative projects and interventions supporting advice and retention
- Attend meetings relating to Advocacy and Policy as well as associated areas at both GSU, the University and externally, included, but not limited to regional networks
- Identify opportunities to share best practice and represent the work of GSU and your team to the wider HE community, through conferences and publication.
Personal Specification
Essential Experience
- Line management experience
- Relevant experience working in the youth, education, students’ union or other membership or advisory organisation
- Experience of leading a multi-functional team
- Experience of mentoring coaching staff/elected officers
- Experience of developing operational policies and procedures
- Experience of budget management, project management, and operational management
- Experience of working with a range of stakeholders and partnership working or strategic networking
Essential Skills and Abilities
- Ability to work with and lead a high performing team
- Ability to troubleshoot difficult situations, and deal with them calmly, efficiently and effectively
- Ability to produce confident, clear written reports and be able to write succinct documents on complex areas
- IT skills at a level that supports membership CRM systems, Advice Pro and other platforms
- Excellent time management and organisational skills with the ability to manage others to reach deadlines, within agreed budgets and to a consistently high standard
- Ability to write strategies and be able to effectively communicate vision and mission
- Ability to stay focused and efficient in the face on changing priorities
- Track record of successfully developing and implementing projects and operational change
- Able to draft policies and procures with an eye for detail and accuracy
Essential Knowledge
- Awareness of current issues within the higher education sector
- Knowledge of relevant external bodies and organisations including Advice UK, NUS, Citizens Advice, OIA, Ofs, Student Minds
- Knowledge of relevant health and safety legislation
- Knowledge of Safeguarding, advice legislation, risk assessments and GDPR
- Knowledge of providing 121 support
Education/Training
- No one specific qualification is required, but evidence of recent continuing professional development in a professional area relevant to the post is required. For example: ILM, City &Guilds etc.
Personal Attributes and other requirements
- Able to travel within the Borough and Region.
- Able to work some evenings and weekends and stay overnight where necessary.
- Works well in a team with a flexible approach to work
- Be eligible for a DBS check if needed
- A commitment to the principles and practices of equality and diversity
- An ability to apply awareness of diversity issues to all areas of work.
- Commitment to the values and ethos of GSU.
Desirable other requirements
- Visionary, creative, and innovative strategist
- A positive, solution focused leader – able to make ‘tough’ decisions; determined and resilient in order to cope with the demands of the role
- Empowering, authentic leader with high levels of emotional intelligence
We help students at the University of Greenwich become the best they can be at university and beyond.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.