Ruth Smeeth MP is seeking to recruit a 30 hours per week constituency support officer to work with her across Stoke-on-Trent North and Kidsgrove. The successful candidate will meet the following criteria:

Essential
Good knowledge of key social policy issues – welfare, immigration, housing and tax;
Ability to carry out tasks quickly and to a high standard, with a clear and concise written style;
Strong IT skills;
Excellent interpersonal skills and experience of dealing effectively with the public;
A proven team player with good organisational skills, with ability to work independently and maintain own workload;
A commitment to improve the lives of the people of Stoke-on-Trent North & Kidsgrove and the ability to work with partner organisations and community groups to facilitate real change.

Desirable
Experience of working in a similar role previously would be advantageous;
Experience of handling casework or sensitive correspondence would be advantageous.

The job description includes, but is not limited to:
Representing the MP in public forums – engaging with key community partners and groups to build alliances to deliver genuine change;
Casework and correspondence - Correspond with constituents on community and policy related casework matters. Provide information, advice and support for community groups on a range of issues including anti-social behaviour, community campaigns and funding opportunities;
Liaise with government agencies, the voluntary sector and others to resolve problems;
Communicate with constituents clearly and sensitively in person and over the telephone;
Assist with responding to constituents' email and letter correspondence;
Support MP advice sessions in the office and across the constituency;
Research and projects - Occasionally undertake research on straightforward subjects, particularly in relation to assisting with constituent responses;
Lead on constituency-related project work as and when required.

General Administrative Duties
Assist in day to day running of the constituency office and assist with the work of other team members as required;
Maintaining an up-to-date knowledge of local issues and how they may affect residents;
Competent use of all IT and ensure cases are dealt with in a timely and confidential manner, adhering to the Data Protection Act.

While membership of the Labour Party is not a requirement, candidates should sympathise with the aims and values of the Labour Party

A clean driving licence.