Reporting to: General Services Co-ordinator

Role Purpose: The Trainee Caseworker will provide advice and information (money advice and benefits) service to people in East Lothian. Full training will be given.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct welfare benefit assessments with clients to determine eligibility.

• Explain benefits entitlements to clients in a clear and concise manner.
• Advise clients on suitable benefit entitlements and assist in completing necessary forms.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of welfare benefits regulations and any changes coming up.
• Ensure accurate records are kept of each client interviewed and their benefits applications.
• Assist clients in challenging benefit decisions, including representing them in appeal tribunals where necessary.
• Maintain a high level of confidentiality when dealing with sensitive personal and financial information.
• Conduct money advice interviews with clients.
• Assess client income and expenditure to provide a clear picture of their financial situation.
• Identify a client's level of debt and create a plan for paying it off.
• Provide support to clients who need assistance in completing debt management plans or other repayment plans.
• Advise clients about statutory debt solutions, such as bankruptcy, when necessary.
• Keep detailed and accurate records of each client's situation and progress.

Requirements:

• Experience (or training to be given) in casework and/or welfare benefit assessment and money advice services.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and eligibility criteria for welfare benefits.
• In-depth knowledge of debt advice and experience in assessing clients' income and expenditure.
• Strong communication skills to explain complex and sensitive information clearly to clients.
• Good attention to detail and accuracy in record-keeping.
• Ability to work well under pressure, manage a high workload, and prioritize multiple tasks effectively.
• Empathy and patience in dealing with clients who may be vulnerable or in distress.