Immigration Advisor - IAA (Level 1 to 3) or Practising Solicitor with IAAS accreditation

About us: 

The Refugee and Migrant Forum of Essex and London (RAMFEL), is a not-for-profit organisation and one of the largest immigration and asylum advice charities in the UK, supporting refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants to access justice. An OISC level 3 accredited organisation, our focus is on providing immigration advice, destitution services, integration support and campaigning to improve the lives of refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants across London and Essex. We also actively campaign for a fairer and more humane immigration system.

We particularly welcome and encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic individuals, and those who are migrants or refugees, and who have lived experience of the impact of UK immigration policy and/or of rough sleeping. This includes individuals with direct experience or experience gained through supporting family members with the challenges posed by immigration and asylum practices- those who have been or could have been clients of RAMFEL.

Purpose of the role:

The purpose of the role is to assist some of the most vulnerable people in our society with immigration legal advice and representation. The focus of the legal work is on non-legal aid funded matters, supporting people who otherwise have no access to legal advice and support and who are facing a crisis.

We are only considering applicants with relevant legal experience. Qualifications needed are IAA, IAAS or Solicitor with 1 year+ immigration experience.

Relationships: This post will report to an Immigration Manager

Hours of work: The role is primarily a full-time position, requiring 37.5 hours per week. However, for the right candidate, we may consider accommodating part-time working hours. Given the nature of RAMFEL’s work, there may be instances where the Supervisor will need to exceed the standard hours. In such cases, compensatory time off can be arranged with the Head of Services

Solicitors with less than 1-year experience will be paid at IAA level 1. IAAS level 2 qualified advisors (non-solicitors) may be considered for the role and would be at the IAA level 1 pay.

28 days annual leave plus statutory holidays and 6% pension contribution.

Other benefits: Cycle to work scheme, tech scheme, and employee assistance program.

Specific Responsibilities

Case management

• Manage own caseload, working to advance the best interests of the client
• Adhere to standards set out by IAA/SRA and AQS to deliver high-quality advice
• Provide advice and representation up to IAA level 2/3.
• Engage with the Line Manager to create and follow a training plan to ensure compliance with IAA CPD, keeping up to date with changes in law, policy and guidance to ensure clients receive accurate and high-quality advice
• Liaise directly with the UKVI and related governmental agencies
• Complete forms, letters and immigration applications
• Liaise with and refer clients to Legal Aid Solicitors or other advisers, as appropriate
• Manage clients’ expectations by discussing deadlines, outcomes and timing
• Deliver legal advice outreach surgeries/drop in as and when required
• Progress cases in a timely manner in line with regulatory requirements
• Implement organisational priorities into day-to-day casework.

Please refer to the job description for more details and application instructions.