At a Glance
- Tasks: Support refugees and vulnerable migrants through one-to-one casework and guidance.
- Company: Join the British Red Cross, the UK's largest humanitarian organisation.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, training, and cover for travel expenses.
- Other info: Volunteering available every other Thursday for at least 12 months.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while being part of a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and empathy; second language preferred.
Do you want to make a difference to the lives of refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants? You could help them to draw on their own strengths to cope with crisis and to rebuild their lives. The British Red Cross is a volunteer led organisation and the UK’s largest independent provider of services and support for refugees and people seeking asylum.
Our Casework volunteers work one-to-one with refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants at a time which many will find difficult and distressing. We help to make sure people have choices and opportunities available to them to move forward with their lives in a new country.
We would like you to:
- Be available to volunteer on a regular basis.
- Be available to volunteer on a Thursday from 10am to 3pm, every other week.
- Be able to commit to volunteering for a minimum of 12 months.
- Have access to your own IT equipment.
- Speak a second language for example, Kurdish or Farsi.
- We would be particularly interested to hear from you if you have experience of being a refugee or asylum seeker.
Due to the nature of this role, applicants must undergo Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. Applicants will be asked to provide ID documents in support of the DBS check. Unfortunately we aren't able to accept applications from 15 – 17 year olds for this role. Please get in touch and we can support you to find another role in your area.
Diversity is something we celebrate. We want you to be able to bring your authentic self to the Red Cross and feel that you belong. We want to create an inclusive environment, and promote and spread the power of kindness.
As part of creating an inclusive space we have an expenses policy that prioritises volunteers not being out of pocket for expenses linked to your role. If up front costs are difficult, you can speak to your volunteering manager about this to find alternatives. We want volunteering to be accessible to everyone.
Health and Safety Statement: We take an individual approach to ensuring your safety. We may ask you to complete a simple risk assessment and will also have a conversation with you to discuss and identify any adjustments you may need.
Are you passionate about supporting people in crisis? We are looking for empathetic and professional casework volunteers to help people access the vital services and opportunities they need. You will enjoy being part of a supportive team, working to a high level of accuracy and attention to detail and dealing with complex and personal information.
Due to the intensity and complexity of parts of our services, it is essential that our casework volunteers work to the highest standards so that we can provide a safe, high quality and effective service.
What you will be doing:
- Giving one to one support to people e.g. advice on accommodation and healthcare
- Leading sensitive and comprehensive conversations and interviews with people to assess their needs
- Agreeing a plan of action to help people access their rights and entitlements
- Using your Red Cross training to give emotional support to adults and children
- Referring people to other support services e.g. mental health and loneliness support
- Working effectively with interpreters as well as people from the Home Office and other charities
- Identifying and responding appropriately to safeguarding and protection issues
The skills you need:
- Strong communication skills and empathetic about the situation and needs of refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants
- Able to volunteer in a multicultural environment
- Emotionally resilient as you may need to deal with challenging or difficult situations
- Previous experience of face to face client work or casework would be helpful
- Speak English; knowledge of another language would be helpful (particularly one used in the current local refugee population)
- Keep the people we support at the heart of what you do
- Willing to complete a criminal record check
What's in it for you:
- Meet new people and be part of a supportive and inclusive team
- A great opportunity to develop your existing skills and gain new ones
- All training and induction for the role (there is no charge for training)
- Reasonable pre-agreed travel expenses
- An opportunity to be part of the world’s largest humanitarian organisation and the knowledge that you are making a difference to people’s lives
Refugee Support - Casework Volunteer (Stretford, Manchester) employer: Cash Hub
The British Red Cross is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of refugees and vulnerable migrants in Stretford, Manchester. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and diversity, volunteers are supported through comprehensive training, reasonable expense coverage, and a collaborative work culture that fosters personal and professional growth. Join us to be part of a compassionate team dedicated to providing vital support and creating positive change in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Refugee Support - Casework Volunteer (Stretford, Manchester)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research the British Red Cross and their values. This will help you connect your passion for supporting refugees with their mission during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former volunteers on platforms like LinkedIn. They can give you insider tips and maybe even refer you directly, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills! Mock interviews with friends or family can help you articulate your experiences and show your empathy, which is key for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Refugee Support - Casework Volunteer (Stretford, Manchester)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your passion for helping refugees and vulnerable migrants shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in making a difference, so share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. Mention any previous volunteer work or casework experience that showcases your ability to support people in crisis.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read, so make sure to proofread for clarity and accuracy.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a positive impact.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cash Hub
✨Know Your Why
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on why you want to support refugees and asylum seekers. Be ready to share your personal motivations and experiences that connect you to this role. This will show your passion and commitment to making a difference.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Organisation
Research the British Red Cross and its mission. Understand their values and the specific services they provide for refugees. This knowledge will help you answer questions more effectively and demonstrate your genuine interest in being part of their team.
✨Practice Empathy in Your Responses
Since this role requires strong communication skills and empathy, think about how you can convey these qualities during the interview. Use examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported others, especially in challenging situations.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you would handle sensitive situations or difficult conversations. Prepare by thinking through potential scenarios you might face as a casework volunteer and how you would approach them. This will help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
