At a Glance
- Tasks: Help people with housing, debt, and welfare benefits while receiving full training.
- Company: Join Accommodation Concern, a charity dedicated to supporting those in need.
- Benefits: Enjoy 23 days of annual leave, comprehensive training, and personal growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, strong communication skills, and a can-do attitude required.
- Other info: Flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, and a fun, dynamic work environment.
The predicted salary is between 18800 - 26450 £ per year.
Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £23,625 per annum
Holiday entitlement: 23 days annual leave plus statutory bank holidays
Based at: Kettering, North Northamptonshire
Accountable to: Direct reports: None
Closing Date: Monday 2nd December at 12pm
The Role: We are seeking a compassionate and motivated individual to join our Advice Services team as a Trainee Housing, Debt & Welfare Benefits Advisor. This is an exciting opportunity to develop your skills through comprehensive training while making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals in your community.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide advice and casework support in housing, debt, and welfare benefits (full training provided).
- Assist clients with identifying needs, setting goals, and taking actions to achieve desired outcomes.
- Support with food parcel allocation and distribution, including record-keeping and reporting.
- Conduct initial client interviews and maintain accurate records using statistical software.
- Advocate for clients with other agencies and authorities to secure necessary support.
- Work collaboratively with team members to ensure high standards of service delivery.
- Adhere to organizational policies, including safeguarding and confidentiality requirements.
About You: We are looking for someone with a flexible, can-do attitude and a passion for helping others. You should be able to engage effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, especially those living in poverty, facing homelessness, or other challenges.
Essential Skills and Qualifications:
- GCSE-level qualifications in English and Maths (or equivalent).
- Confident in using Microsoft Office and basic IT tools (email, calendars, databases).
- Experience in providing advice or guidance (this can be informal, e.g., helping friends or family).
- Strong communication skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage your workload, work independently, and as part of a team.
- A valid driving license and access to a car.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends when required.
- A sense of humour and adaptability in a dynamic environment.
What We Offer:
- Comprehensive training and induction program.
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth within a supportive team.
- The chance to make a tangible difference in your community.
How to Apply: To apply for this role, please complete an application form and send to HR@a-c.org.uk. CV’s without an application form will not be accepted. Interviews will take place as soon as a suitable application is received. We have the right to withdraw this advert prior to the closing date if we find a suitable candidate. Join us in creating a positive impact on the lives of those who need it most. We look forward to hearing from you!
Note to Recruitment Agencies: We kindly request that recruitment agencies refrain from contacting us regarding this vacancy. We are managing the recruitment process in-house and do not wish to receive unsolicited assistance. Thank you for your understanding.
Accommodation Concern is a registered charity (number 1146257), and a company limited by guarantee (number 07945758).
Trainee Housing, Debt & Welfare Benefits Advisor employer: Accommodation Concern
Contact Detail:
Accommodation Concern Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Housing, Debt & Welfare Benefits Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the key issues surrounding housing, debt, and welfare benefits. Understanding the challenges faced by individuals in these areas will help you engage more effectively during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in the advice sector. Attend local community events or workshops related to housing and welfare benefits to gain insights and make connections that could support your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experiences in providing informal advice or guidance. Think of specific examples where you've helped friends or family, as this will showcase your ability to empathise and communicate effectively with clients.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your flexibility and adaptability during the interview process. Be ready to discuss how you can manage a varied workload and your willingness to work outside of standard hours, as this is crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Housing, Debt & Welfare Benefits Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and skills required. Tailor your application to highlight how your experiences align with the role of a Trainee Housing, Debt & Welfare Benefits Advisor.
Craft a Compelling Application Form: Since CVs are not accepted without an application form, ensure you complete it meticulously. Use clear and concise language, and provide specific examples of your relevant experience, especially in providing advice or guidance.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Mention any experience you have with Microsoft Office and IT tools, as these are essential for the role.
Show Your Passion: Convey your motivation for helping others and your understanding of the challenges faced by individuals in poverty or homelessness. A personal touch can make your application stand out, so share why this role resonates with you.
How to prepare for a job interview at Accommodation Concern
✨Show Your Compassion
As a Trainee Housing, Debt & Welfare Benefits Advisor, it's crucial to demonstrate your compassion during the interview. Share examples of how you've helped others in the past, whether formally or informally, to showcase your genuine desire to make a difference.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Issues
Before the interview, take some time to research current issues related to housing, debt, and welfare benefits. Being knowledgeable about these topics will not only impress the interviewers but also help you engage in meaningful discussions about the role.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Be prepared to discuss how you've effectively communicated with diverse individuals in the past. Use specific examples to illustrate your ability to listen, empathise, and advocate for clients.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Adaptability
This position requires a flexible approach, so be ready to discuss how you've adapted to changing situations in previous roles. Highlight any experiences where you've successfully managed your workload or worked outside of standard hours to meet client needs.