Immigration and Asylum Caseworker

Immigration and Asylum Caseworker

This charity has an exciting opportunity as an Immigration and Asylum Caseworker (IAA LEVEL 2/3) to make a real difference to asylum seekers and refugees in the Reading area.

Position: Immigration and Asylum Caseworker (IAA LEVEL 2/3)

Location: Reading

Hours: Full-time, Office based

Contract: 1-year contract – renewed subject to funding

Salary: £32,364 - £33,559 + 6% pension

Closing date: 5pm on Friday 23rd May 2025

Interview date: Thursday, 29th May 2025 in person

Benefits: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (additional day per year of employment, max 5 days), cycle to work scheme, confidential counselling support and welfare days.

About the role:

We are looking to recruit an experienced one full-time Caseworker IAA level 2 or above to join our Casework Team and directly support our clients by advising and addressing issues including immigration, asylum and holistic matters. The successful candidate will also take the lead on our newly implemented fee charging service.

We are looking for an experienced and methodical caseworker who is able to prioritise cases competently and confidently follow the processes already in place. You will be working at our Reading or Newbury office and be available to do outreach work as and when required.

Key areas of responsibility include:  

• To provide competent IAA level 1 and level 2 Asylum and Immigration advice, specifically to, undocumented persons, asylum seekers and refugees in Berkshire area.
• Casework includes supporting service users with initial asylum applications, fresh claims and supporting with actions following refusal.
• Casework under the fee charging service would include running immigration applications including extensions/renewal of leave to remain.
• You will be able to manage your own caseload and oversee the current casework team providing supervision and guidance on processes.
• Adhere to casework procedures as outlined in the office manual and the IAA standards where applicable.
• Conduct all tasks permitted under the direction of your manager with competence.
• Lead on the continuing development of our new fee charging service.
• Interview clients sensitively and professionally to enable them to explain their problems.
• Keep updated with legislation, case law, policies and procedures relating to immigration, welfare benefits and housing advice issues.
• Participate in team & staff meetings and other relevant meetings and events.

About you:

The role would suit someone who is confident in communication, has some cultural awareness and can uphold the values of the charity. All candidates should have strong ethical standards, and team spirit and be passionate about working with asylum seekers and refugees. You will have practical IT skills, be able to work to strict deadlines and have good organisational and methodical skills.

Key skills required for this role:

• Qualified to IAA level 1& level2
• Ability to work from the office – Reading or Newbury
• Ability to handle own case work
• Experience of providing or managing provision of a client focused advice service
• Undergraduate degree in law or similar subject or at least two-year experience in a relevant role, paid or voluntary
• An understanding of how the UK’s Asylum and Immigration system works.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in the English language.
• Proficient in MS/other office applications
• Excellent time management and organisational skills.

About the organisation:

The employer is a charity in Berkshire that offers comprehensive assistance to refugees, including free legal advice through IAA (formerly OISC) accredited solicitors, integration support via a drop-in centre, social activities, and a refugee football team. They also engage in advocacy and campaigns for refugee rights. The organization encourages community involvement through fundraising, volunteering, and membership. They have made significant impacts, such as providing extensive casework support and distributing food parcels.

The employer aims to be an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

You may also have experience in areas such as: Refugee Support Worker, Community Caseworker Integration Caseworker,  Immigration Caseworker, Welfare Officer, Resettlement Officer, Migrant Support Worker, Support Worker, Key Worker, Outreach Worker, ETC

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.