This is an exciting opportunity to join Citizens Advice Doncaster’s advocacy service, supporting both Deaf and hearing people in Doncaster to ensure their voices are heard and their rights upheld.
The role focuses on statutory and non-statutory advocacy, supporting people to understand information, participate in decision-making, and navigate social care, health, and mental health systems. This role does not involve personal care.
You will provide advocacy support to Deaf and hearing people through a range of methods, including face-to-face meetings, online platforms, and email. You will attend meetings with professionals and ensure that Deaf people can fully access and understand complex information using British Sign Language (BSL), while supporting hearing people using appropriate communication methods.
Working hours are flexible, Monday to Friday.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide advocacy support to Deaf and hearing people in Doncaster
* Support people to participate in meetings with health, social care, housing, and other professionals
* Help people understand information and contribute to decisions about their care and support
* Represent individuals under statutory advocacy roles including IMCA, IMHA, Care Act advocacy, and Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR)
* Support people subject to the Mental Capacity Act, Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), and Mental Health Act
* Obtain and represent the views and wishes of people who may lack capacity
* Maintain accurate, confidential records in line with data protection requirements
* Identify and report safeguarding concerns
* Work independently and remotely, while remaining an active member of the advocacy team and the wider VCSE community in Doncaster
You Will Work With People of All Ages, Including:
* Deaf people and people with sensory impairments
* People with learning disabilities
* Autistic people
* People with dementia
* People with mental health needs
* People with physical disabilities or acquired brain injuries
About You
You will be able to demonstrate that you:
* Are proficient in British Sign Language (BSL) (essential)
* Understand the principles and purpose of advocacy
* Have experience working in the voluntary, health, or social care sector with people who have additional needs
* Have a good working knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act, Care Act, Mental Health Act, and related legislation
* Can produce clear, accurate written reports
* Have excellent communication and negotiation skills (in BSL, written English, and spoken English where appropriate)
* Are confident using IT systems
* Can manage your own online calendar and case management systems
* Can manage and prioritise a varied and complex workload
* Maintain accurate records in line with Data Protection requirements
* Are able to reflect on practice and learn from experience
* Use supervision and peer support effectively
* Are self-motivated and able to work on your own initiative
* Work ethically, honestly, and with integrity
* Are flexible, positive, and committed to continuous learning
* Can signpost people to other services when appropriate
* Can work remotely and as part of a team through online and in-person meetings
Additional Requirements
* You must be able to travel independently within Doncaster
* A full driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes is essential
* Travel expenses will be paid within the contract working area
* Due to the independent nature of advocacy, you must not be employed by another health or social care organisation at the time of appointment
Equality and Accessibility
Citizens Advice Doncaster is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We particularly welcome applications from Deaf candidates and BSL users, and from people with lived experience of the issues our clients face.