Yasmin Qureshi MP is seeking a full-time Caseworker to work in her constituency office.

Applicants should have an interest in local & national politics, an awareness of the constituency & be sympathetic with the values of the Labour party. Mature applicants welcome.

Occasional evening/weekend work will be required. There will be a requirement to attend induction & occasional training days in London or other locations. Travel for training will be paid.

Key Responsibilities

• Deal with & monitor all incoming telephone & visitor enquiries, respond to emails & letters, efficient data & file management.
• Manage own caseload, ensuring all cases are logged, updated with any actions taken & outstanding queries are followed up, with urgent cases reported to the Member or Office Manager
• Ensure office records are kept, adhering to the Data Protection Act principles & respecting the confidentiality of data at all times.
• Build & maintain links with local organisations & elected representatives.
• Provide advice & support to constituents on a broad range of issues, such as financial, housing, welfare benefits, & help to resolve problems through liaison with government agencies, local government agencies & voluntary sector organisations.
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of relevant guidelines/legislation as appropriate.
• Attend surgeries & other meetings
• Provide general secretarial & administrative support to ensure the smooth running of the constituency office.

Person Specification

Essential

• Excellent oral & written communication skills to a high professional standard
• Excellent IT skills including Microsoft Word, Excel & Outlook & the Internet
• Excellent organisational & administrative skills with the ability to prioritise tasks, meet tight deadlines, work independently & with minimum supervision as well as the ability to work effectively as part of a small team
• An ability to help constituents in a positive, helpful, sympathetic, sensitive & non-judgemental manner

Desirable

• At least one year experience in a similar role
• Competence in using CFL Caseworker
• Experience of: managing & progressing casework, handling sensitive issues; working with confidential information; working with people who have mental health difficulties
• Existing security clearance.