At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide personalised debt and energy advice to help clients overcome financial difficulties.
- Company: Citizens Advice Sandwell & Walsall, a local charity empowering communities.
- Benefits: Professional development opportunities and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Fixed-term contract with potential for permanence and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and support individuals in need while growing your skills.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a desire to help others.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Citizens Advice Sandwell & Walsall (CASW) is a local charity providing free, confidential and independent advice and support to people across Sandwell and Walsall. We help people understand their rights, resolve problems and make informed decisions across areas such as benefits, debt, housing, employment and consumer issues. As The People’s Champion, our aim is to provide advice and support that empowers our communities to thrive across Sandwell and Walsall. Our work is underpinned by our ROOTS values – Trust, Inclusive, Respectful, Empowering and Evolving – which shape how we support our clients, our communities and each other.
About the Role
This is a fixed-term contract to 31st August 2028 with the potential to become permanent, subject to the availability of ongoing funding and business requirements. As an Energy Debt Adviser you will provide high-quality, personalised debt and energy advice, helping clients understand their options, maximise their income and find sustainable solutions to their financial difficulties. You will manage your own caseload, providing accurate and impartial advice while supporting clients with issues such as energy arrears, debt, budgeting, benefits, grants and financial assistance. You will also work closely with colleagues and external organisations to ensure clients receive the right support.
This is a rewarding role for someone who is passionate about helping people, can communicate confidently and empathetically, and wants to develop their knowledge and skills within the debt and energy advice sector. You will be supported to complete the relevant debt accreditation and will be expected to work towards Level 3 Energy Awareness. In return, you will have the opportunity to develop your professional skills while making a positive difference to individuals and communities across Sandwell and Walsall.
If you are motivated, organised and committed to providing excellent client-focused advice, we would love to hear from you.
Equal Opportunity Statement
We're committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued and supported. Our inclusive policies help colleagues through different stages of life and reflect our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Energy Debt Adviser employer: Citizens Advice Sandwell & Walsall
As a dedicated employer in the community engagement sector, we prioritise the well-being of our employees by offering flexible working hours and a supportive work culture that values lived experience. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through ongoing training opportunities and the potential for project sustainability beyond the initial contract, making this an ideal role for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in Sandwell and Walsall.
Contact Details:
Citizens Advice Sandwell & Walsall Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Energy Debt Adviser
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to Citizens Advice Sandwell & Walsall, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Energy Debt Adviser
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Citizens Advice Sandwell & Walsall. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Citizens Advice Sandwell & Walsall. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Citizens Advice Sandwell & Walsall
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Citizens Advice Sandwell & Walsall.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Energy Debt Adviser role at Citizens Advice Sandwell & Walsall, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Citizens Advice Sandwell & Walsall that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
