At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable clients through foodbank services and adviceline, using your listening and questioning skills.
- Company: A dedicated organisation focused on social welfare and community support.
- Benefits: Make a real difference in people's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Other info: Diverse workplace that values equality and encourages applications from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Empower individuals and help them navigate challenging situations in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of Social Welfare Law and strong client interaction skills required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
In the role as a Frontline Adviser you will be working on the food bank project based in Oldham, with minimal supervision. You’ll have experience of interviewing clients using sensitive listening and questioning skills to get to the root of the issues and empower clients, whilst maintaining structure and control of meetings. You will ideally have a demonstrable understanding and knowledge of Social Welfare Law advice in one of the following areas of law: Welfare Benefit, Money, Energy, Housing, Immigration. When not on the foodbank project you will be providing support via our adviceline service and other digital channels.
This is a great opportunity for someone looking to make a difference to people's lives, supporting some of the most vulnerable people in society - helping them find a way forward. 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.
Requirements
- Demonstrable understanding and knowledge of Social Welfare Law advice in one of the following areas of law: Welfare Benefit, Money, Energy, Housing, Immigration.
- Experience of interviewing clients using sensitive listening and questioning skills to get to the root of the issues and empower clients, whilst maintaining structure and control of meetings.
- Demonstrate both telephone and in person skills.
- Experience in delivering outstanding customer service to clients and of writing and maintaining case records that conform to a quality standard.
- Ability to research, analyse and interpret complex information and produce and present clear reports verbally and in writing.
- Commitment and a desire to work in a culture that enables collaboration, where a supportive environment for colleagues is provided and where open and honest communication is championed.
Frontline Adviser (Foodbanks & Adviceline) employer: Citizens Advice SORT Group
As a Frontline Adviser at our Oldham-based food bank project, you will join a compassionate team dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals. We foster a supportive work culture that values diversity and encourages personal growth, offering opportunities for professional development while championing open communication and collaboration. With a focus on social welfare, you will find meaningful and rewarding employment that aligns with your passion for helping others.
Contact Details:
Citizens Advice SORT Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Frontline Adviser (Foodbanks & Adviceline)
✨Connect with Local Charities
Get in touch with local charities and community centres — they're often looking for volunteers in social work. This not only gets your foot in the door but also helps you build that all-important network in the social work community.
✨Show Up at Community Events
Attend community events, workshops, or local forums focused on social issues. It's a great way to meet people who are already working in social work and can offer insights, advice, or even opportunities at organisations like Citizens Advice SORT Group.
✨Leverage Online Platforms
Check out platforms like VolunteerMatch or local Facebook groups dedicated to volunteering. Many organisations post their volunteer needs there, and it’s a prime way to connect with those who share your passion for social work.
✨Speak Directly to Organisations
Don’t shy away from approaching organisations you admire, like Citizens Advice SORT Group. Pop in for a chat or drop them an email expressing your interest in volunteering — sometimes, it’s the direct approach that stands out!
We think you need these skills to ace Frontline Adviser (Foodbanks & Adviceline)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:When writing your application, share your enthusiasm for social work. Talk about why you want to volunteer in this field and any personal experiences that have motivated you. It's all about demonstrating your genuine commitment to helping others, as we all know that passion can make a huge difference.
Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences:Make sure to showcase any relevant skills or experiences you have, like working with vulnerable populations or strong communication abilities. Mention your ability to handle challenging situations and your empathy—these are key traits in social work, and they should shine through in your application.
Explain Your Availability:Since this is a volunteer role, be transparent about when you can commit. Whether you’re available for a few hours a week or more flexible, let them know your schedule. This helps Citizens Advice SORT Group understand how you might fit into their needs and ensures you’re on the same page from the get-go.
Reflection on Learning Opportunities:In your application, reflect on what you’re hoping to learn from this volunteer experience. Discuss your desire to gain hands-on insight into social work, develop your skills, or understand the community better. This is a great way to show that you’re not just looking to give, but you’re also eager to grow, and that’s something we value at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Citizens Advice SORT Group
✨Showcase Your Compassion
For a social work volunteer role, it's all about demonstrating your empathy and understanding. Be ready to share personal stories or experiences where you’ve helped others or made a positive impact. This can show Citizens Advice SORT Group how you relate to different communities.
✨Know the Key Issues
Familiarise yourself with the current social issues relevant to the community Citizens Advice SORT Group serves. Whether it’s homelessness, mental health, or child welfare, understanding these challenges will not only impress during the interview but can also help you articulate how you can contribute to solutions.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario Questions
Social work often involves handling real-life situations. Expect questions that present you with hypothetical scenarios, asking how you would respond. Practising your answers to these can help us articulate our thought processes and decision-making skills effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
As a volunteer, showcasing your eagerness to gain experience is crucial. Mention instances where you've actively sought out learning opportunities, whether through previous roles, workshops or courses related to social work. This highlights your commitment and readiness to grow with Citizens Advice SORT Group.
