Alex Sobel MP is looking for a compassionate, motivated and highly committed individual to join his constituency team as a Casework Trainee.

This is an entry-level role intended to give someone the chance to begin a career in casework and public service. No previous casework, parliamentary or political experience is needed, full training will be provided.

We are primarily interested in applicants’ behaviours, values and potential. Experience of working with the public, particularly in a customer-facing role, responding to complaints or supporting people in difficult circumstances, would be helpful. This experience may have been gained through paid employment, volunteering, community work or other areas of life.

Key responsibilities

• Responding to enquiries from constituents clearly, accurately and sensitively
• Communicating with government departments, local authorities and other stakeholders
• Helping people who may be distressed, or facing difficult circumstances
• Drafting letters and emails
• Maintaining accurate and confidential case records
• Supporting constituency surgeries
• Working collaboratively as part of a small and busy team

Essential criteria:

• A genuine commitment to helping people
• A compassionate, patient and non-judgemental approach
• The ability to communicate confidently and respectfully with people from a wide variety of backgrounds
• Calm and professional when dealing with complaints, challenging behaviour or difficult situations
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to listen carefully and understand the key points of a problem
• Good organisational skills and attention to detail
• A willingness to learn, respond to feedback and develop new skills
• Basic IT skills, including the ability to use email and Microsoft Office
• Willing to work to the aims of the Labour Party

The ideal candidate may also demonstrate:

• Experience in a customer-facing, public-facing, voluntary or community role
• Experience of speaking to the public on phones
• Experience of responding to complaints or supporting people through difficult situations
• An interest in public service and the issues affecting people in Leeds Central and Headingley
• An interest in social policy issues such as housing, immigration, social security and access to public services
• Understanding of the work and priortties of Alex Sobel MP