Position Title: Caseworker and Client Support Officer

The Employer: Crosscare Irish Diaspora Support Project

Crosscare Irish Diaspora Support Project* is a dedicated service supporting Irish people around the world. Our mission is to provide information, advocacy and referral supports to Irish emigrants who are leaving Ireland or returning from abroad, particularly those experiencing difficulty. Through our social policy initiatives, research and outreach activities and by collaborating with key stakeholders (including Irish consular services and groups funded by Ireland’s Emigrant Support Programme) we aim to support the needs of the Irish diaspora.

The position is funded by the Government of Ireland Emigrant Support Programme.

*Crosscare Irish Diaspora Support Project builds on the work that Crosscare Migrant Project has carried out over the last 15 years with members of Ireland’s Diaspora. See www.migrantproject.ie for information.

We are part of Crosscare, a registered charity and the social care agency of the Dublin Diocese. Crosscare delivers services with a servant leadership ethos. Crosscare’s Homeless, Youth, Information and Advocacy Teams support those most in need with Love, Respect and Excellence.

Crosscare exists to support individuals and families when they face difficult challenges in life and when they find it hard to get the help they need. Crosscare focuses on helping people when they need it most or when they can’t find support anywhere else.

Location: Dublin-based. Anticipated at least two-three days per week in our Dublin 7 office, with additional days as required.

Work Schedule: Full time - 35 hours per week. Standard working hours are 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday, with some flexibility around start times.

Salary and Leave: €34,125 –  €38250.00 (commensurate with experience). 20 days annual leave (increasing to max 25 days for additional service).

Reporting to: Project Leader

The Role:

Providing information and advocacy support to Irish citizens returning to Ireland from abroad as well as Irish citizens leaving Ireland and living abroad (particularly people in crisis situations and in need of statutory supports).

Responsibilities:

• Lead on direct client support - including information provision, guidance, advice and advocacy support
• Respond to client queries and make appropriate referrals
• Advocate in relation to clients’ needs with third parties, particularly with regard to social welfare applications/appeals and housing/homeless services
• Engage with stakeholders for case collaboration and referral purposes, including the Consular Assistance Unit, Irish Embassies and Consulates, and Irish emigrant support organisations worldwide
• Develop and maintain a network of key contacts within relevant Government Departments, Local Authorities and non-profit organisations
• Develop client information resources and training material as required
• Maintain up-to-date client records
• Monitor and track client trends and issues to contribute to social policy development
• Keep up to date with issues affecting Irish emigrants, including developments in policy relating to the welfare of Irish citizens returning to Ireland in crisis
• Ensure all clients are treated with dignity, respect and in a professional manner

General

• Work collaboratively and support Crosscare Irish Diaspora Support Project colleagues
• Engage in team meetings, supervision, planning and review sessions
• Contribute regular updates and reports for funders and key stakeholders
• Maintain Crosscare confidentiality at all times, following policies and procedures, and data protection legislation

Essential Requirements:

• Full eligibility to work in the Republic of Ireland and resident in Ireland
• Degree or post-graduate qualification in social sciences or equivalent
• Fluent English and high literacy skills
• Commitment to social justice

Desirable:

• Experience of working on a one-to-one basis, providing information and advocating on behalf of clients
• Case management experience (ability to manage a varied caseload, and to prioritise and effectively manage urgent cases as they present)
• Practical knowledge of homeless prevention, housing, social welfare & related systems (applications, appeals, Habitual Residence Condition, etc.)
• Awareness of Irish diaspora-related issues
• Knowledge of Ireland’s Diaspora Strategy and relevant policies

Personal attributes:

• Strong organisational and time-management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Motivation and ability to work on own initiative
• Interested in learning and working collaboratively as part of a team
• IT skills (experience with MS Office, Zoom, CRMs - such as Salesforce)

Benefits:

• Competitive salaries
• Generous annual leave
• Additional leave for long service
• Training and Development Programmes
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Digital Doctor Service
• Competitive pension plan
• Bike to Work Scheme

In Crosscare, we approach our work with an attitude of service, showing love, care and kindness in all interactions with others. We treat people with a level of respect they will remember long after our service and support have been received. We strive for excellence in everything we do. Our clients, young people and service users deserve it.

Application Process:

To apply, please upload a comprehensive CV and cover letter (one document) detailing your suitability for the role to the link provided.

Closing date for applications is Friday 31st March 2023.

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Crosscare is an equal opportunities employer
Garda Vetting will apply to this role