Caseworker

Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten.

More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers. Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.

Upon accepting a potential beneficiary’s case, a caseworker becomes their SSAFA point of contact. Caseworkers listen without judgement, gather information, and assess support needs. They then complete a written case report outlining the help required.

A successful outcome could mean securing funding for special equipment for someone with a disability, adaptions to a property so a beneficiary can remain at home, or for a rental deposit.

Caseworkers also sign-post people to specialist advice for example, support with benefits, housing, debt, and mental health. The assistance provided through casework will often be life changing.

Requirements

Access to public transport or a car to travel to appointments is desirable, or alternatively use of a private space where confidential phone calls can be carried out. You will need access to IT equipment such as a laptop and the internet to carry out the administration related to casework.

Time commitment

Depending on an individual’s circumstances, the time required to complete a case can vary, usually taking about one month. This role suits people who can spare one to two hours per week, once they have accepted a case.

Support

Full training is provided for this role. You will be supported by SSAFA’s regional office team, who will provide advice and guidance.

SSAFA Values and BRAVE standards

At SSAFA, our values of commitment, compassion, integrity, and understanding underpin everything we do, and we ask that all volunteers are equally committed to them.

Accessibility

If you require any adjustments to make or support an application to volunteer, please get in touch with us.

This role requires vetting to enhanced DBS standard. To find out more please contact us for our volunteer vetting guidance.

After making an application

Once you’ve applied, you’ll receive updates to the email address you provided in your application. Sometimes the emails we send go into junk folders, so do keep an eye out in the days following your application.

What you will be doing

• Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
• Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
• Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
• Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
• Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Non-judgemental
• Reliable
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Access a range of training and learning opportunities

Feel free to get in touch to find out more or visit our website.