At a Glance
- Tasks: Help tenants with debt and benefits advice through various communication methods.
- Company: Join Cottsway Housing, a leading social housing provider in West Oxfordshire.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible hours, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team that empowers tenants and promotes financial wellbeing.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; just a passion for helping others.
- Other info: This is a permanent role with 23 hours per week, perfect for students or part-time seekers.
The predicted salary is between 25848 - 25848 £ per year.
Cottsway Housing Association has partnered with Citizens Advice Oxfordshire to provide a free information and advice service to all their tenants. As the largest local registered provider of social housing in West Oxfordshire, Cottsway Housing has expanded to Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, and Wiltshire. The aim of this advice service is to ensure equal access to advice and information for all Cottsway Housing tenants, regardless of their location.
Tenants will have access to a free telephone and digital service offering triage, signposting, information, advice, and casework. We are seeking a team member to provide information, advice, and casework to Cottsway Housing tenants through face-to-face appointments, including some home visits, as well as via telephone, email, webchat, and video call. The role also involves offering financial capability sessions and information at events organized by Cottsway Housing.
Job details:
- Location: Witney, Oxfordshire
- Pay Rate: £25,848 pro rata (full-time 37 hours), £16,067 actual salary for 23 hours per week
- Application deadline: Midday (12 Noon), Wednesday 25 June 2025
- Hours: 23 hours per week
- Contract: Permanent
We are a certified Oxford Living Wage employer.
VACANCY: Citizens Advice – Debt and Benefits Caseworker employer: ocva.org
Contact Detail:
ocva.org Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land VACANCY: Citizens Advice – Debt and Benefits Caseworker
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of Cottsway Housing tenants. Understanding their unique challenges regarding debt and benefits will help you tailor your approach during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to providing effective support.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of social housing and advice services. Attend local events or workshops related to debt and benefits advice, as this can provide valuable insights and connections that may enhance your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential role-play scenarios during the interview process. As a Debt and Benefits Caseworker, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to handle sensitive situations, so practice responding to common tenant concerns in a compassionate and knowledgeable manner.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the services offered by Citizens Advice and Cottsway Housing. Being well-versed in their mission and the resources available will show your enthusiasm for the role and your readiness to contribute to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace VACANCY: Citizens Advice – Debt and Benefits Caseworker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Debt and Benefits Caseworker position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these specific needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only introduces yourself but also explains why you are passionate about providing advice and support to tenants. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle casework and provide effective advice.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any previous experience in social housing, advice services, or casework. Include details about your communication skills, ability to work with diverse groups, and any relevant qualifications or training.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at ocva.org
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Debt and Benefits Caseworker. Familiarise yourself with the services offered by Citizens Advice and Cottsway Housing, as well as the specific needs of their tenants.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As this role involves face-to-face appointments and various forms of communication, be prepared to demonstrate your ability to communicate clearly and empathetically. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully helped someone through a difficult situation.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle sensitive situations. Practice how you would approach common issues faced by tenants, such as debt management or accessing benefits.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Since you'll be working as part of a team, be ready to discuss your experience in collaborative environments. Share examples of how you've worked effectively with others to achieve a common goal, especially in a support or advisory capacity.