Role Purpose:
The Trainee Caseworker will provide advice and information (money advice and benefits) service to people in East Lothian. Full training will be given.
Contractual Conditions:
The post will necessitate travel throughout East Lothian. There will be a balance of home working and being office based.
Staff Managed:
None
Salary Band: £25,000 to £27, hours per week)
Responsibilities:
· Conduct welfare benefit assessments with clients to determine eligibility.
· Explain benefits entitlements to clients in a clear and concise manner.
· Advise clients on suitable benefit entitlements and assist in completing necessary forms.
· Maintain up-to-date knowledge of welfare benefits regulations and any changes coming up.
· Ensure accurate records are kept of each client interviewed and their benefits applications.
· Assist clients in challenging benefit decisions, including representing them in appeal tribunals where necessary.
· Maintain a high level of confidentiality when dealing with sensitive personal and financial information.
· Conduct money advice interviews with clients.
· Assess client income and expenditure to provide a clear picture of their financial situation.
· Identify a client's level of debt and create a plan for paying it off.
· Provide support to clients who need assistance in completing debt management plans or other repayment plans.
· Advise clients about statutory debt solutions, such as bankruptcy, when necessary.
· Keep detailed and accurate records of each client's situation and progress.
Requirements:
· Experience (or training to be given) in casework and/or welfare benefit assessment and money advice services.
· Knowledge of regulatory requirements and eligibility criteria for welfare benefits.
· In-depth knowledge of debt advice and experience in assessing clients' income and expenditure.
· Strong communication skills to explain complex and sensitive information clearly to clients.
· Good attention to detail and accuracy in record-keeping.
· Ability to work well under pressure, manage a high workload, and prioritize multiple tasks effectively.
· Empathy and patience in dealing with clients who may be vulnerable or in distress.
Please contact for full job pack.