Helen Hayes MP is looking for a highly motivated and experienced individual to work across her busy Parliamentary and Constituency Offices.

The role will include overseeing the casework team as well as providing information, advice and support to constituents on a variety of issues and liaising with government agencies, the voluntary sector and others to help resolve matters on behalf of constituents.

Job Description
• Handling correspondence from constituents, drafting responses and providing advice and support to constituents on a variety of issues (eg immigration, housing, benefits) through liaison with Government agencies, the voluntary sector and others.
• Supervise other members of casework staff.
• Manage own caseload and progress of casework, ensuring all cases are dealt with in a sensitive and confidential manner and accurate records are kept in adherence to the principles of the Data Protection Act.
• Attend surgeries and other meetings to assist the Member in dealing with constituents’ issues.
• Draft responses or respond to constituents on any issues raised on behalf of the Member.
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of relevant guidelines/legislation as appropriate in dealing with casework.
• Analyse and evaluate patterns of enquiries and produce reports.
• Liaise with relevant groups within the constituency and communicate appropriately with internal and external contacts.
• Work with policy/research staff to provide support as necessary.

Person specification
• Previous experience of handling casework, either in an MP’s Office, the Civil Service, or a third sector organisation such as the CAB is essential.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and confidence in interacting with people at all levels.
• Able to prioritise a demanding workload to meet deadlines.
• Able to deal with issues in a confidential manner.
• Able to work effectively in a small team.
• Competent use of IT including full proficiency in using Microsoft Office, Outlook and the internet. Experience of a casework management system or similar database would be an advantage.
• Experience of working and dealing with the general public.
• Awareness and understanding of current political issues.
• Sympathetic to the aims and objectives of the Labour Party.