At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide vital advice and support to service users on welfare, debt, and housing.
- Company: Join a collaborative team at Citizens Advice Woking and i-access.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive pay, and a chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Empower individuals while gaining valuable experience in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in client advising and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
This position is a joint venture between Citizens Advice Woking (CAW) and i-access, a specialist drug and alcohol community service in Surrey. The role is a fixed-term i-access Generalist Caseworker working 3 days per week. It is expected to run until the end of March 2027, with a possibility of continuation pending funding.
Responsibilities
- Provide information, advice, and casework to i-access service users, both remotely and in person.
- Deliver generalist advice with a focus on welfare benefits, debt, and housing.
- Cope with a demanding caseload and manage own workload to meet deadlines.
- Travel to the i-access locations in Guildford, Redhill, and Chertsey, as well as CAW’s office in Woking, while maintaining the option for remote work from a confidential workspace with reliable Wi-Fi.
- Maintain high standards of courtesy, patience, and empathy when interacting with service users.
Qualifications
- Recent experience advising clients at Citizens Advice or a comparable organisation.
- Strong organisational skills and ability to manage a demanding caseload independently.
- Excellent communication, listening, and problem-solving skills.
- Demonstrated patience and empathy with diverse clients.
Additional Information
Successful candidates will undergo a DBS screening. A criminal record is not necessarily a bar to employment.
Diversity and Equality
The Citizens Advice service values diversity, promotes equality, and challenges discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, and in particular from disabled and Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic applicants, who are currently under-represented in our workforce.
For more information about the role and how to apply, please see the job pack.
i-access Generalist Adviser in Woking employer: Citizens Advice
As a joint venture between Citizens Advice Woking and i-access, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community while working in a supportive and inclusive environment. Employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, professional development opportunities, and a commitment to diversity and equality, making it an excellent place for those passionate about helping others. With locations across Surrey, including Guildford, Redhill, and Chertsey, you will have the chance to engage with diverse service users and contribute to their well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land i-access Generalist Adviser in Woking
✨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, 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 i-access Generalist Adviser in Woking
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. 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. 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
✨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.
✨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 i-access Generalist Adviser role at Citizens Advice, 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 that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
