Casework Volunteer

The Casework Volunteer will provide holistic and trauma-informed casework support for our team of specialist support workers. Our team provides advice and support to young people aged 14 to 25 years, working closely with the community, statutory and voluntary organisations to ensure that the immediate and longer term needs of young people are met.

Our 1:1 work focuses on supporting young people to be well and to be heard.  This role offers vital support to young people through individual sessions and advocacy around their wellbeing and rights. 

Every day, week to week looks slightly different depending on the needs and priorities of the team and our young people. No previous casework experience is required, but you will need a positive, open and enthusiastic approach to learning new skills, getting involved and being shoulder to shoulder with young people. 

Responsibilities: 

• Keeping up to date and accurate records 
• Making referrals to partner organisations e.g. housing, immigration, mental health support
• Accompanying young people to appointments when necessary 
• Working 1:1 with young people under the direction of the Be Well, Be Heard Team Leader and other specialist support workers 
• Supporting young people to complete forms e.g relating to welfare benefits, Universal Credit, Student Finance, college applications etc.
• Administrative tasks relating to casework 
• Identifying and responding appropriately to safeguarding and protection issues
• Work with and adhere to all organisational policies and procedures, including but not limited to: Health and Safety, Behaviour Code, Lone Working, Child Protection and Safeguarding
• Any other tasks as directed by the Be Well, Be Heard Team Leader 

We appreciate and understand that some tasks may be a completely new experience for you. We’re hoping to recruit volunteers who have a keen interest in developing their casework and advocacy skills, and with this in mind encourage volunteers to be open to new experiences. Your line manager will provide support and guidance, and will be available if you have any questions or concerns. 

What we ask from you:

• Be available to volunteer on a regular weekly basis
• Able to volunteer one full day per week (10:30 - 16:30 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday)
• Be able to commit to volunteering for a minimum of 6 months

What you can expect from us: 

• Regular 1:1 supervision with the Be Well, Be Heard Team Leader 
• Training and development opportunities that are relevant to the role and working within the refugee support sector 
• Travel (from within Sussex) and Lunch reimbursement. As part of creating an inclusive space we have an expenses policy that prioritises volunteers not being out of pocket for expenses linked to your role. If up-front costs are difficult, you can speak to your line manager about this and will do everything reasonably possible to agree on a sustainable solution. 
• An opportunity to work as part of a supportive and inclusive team
• A great opportunity to develop your existing skills and gain new ones