Constituency case worker/researcher

Job Description:

Claire Sugden - MLA Constituency Case Worker/Researcher

Key Responsibilities:

Constituency Casework:

• Dealing with a wide range of constituents’ queries and problems - From sign posting to existing sources of assistance,to end-to-end case management of complex cases.
• Liaising with Government agencies, statutory bodies etc. to resolve constituent  issues
• Managing case files, ensuring that all relevant information is recorded and actions are carried out in a timely manner
• Keeping constituents informed of progress with their cases
• Managing  correspondence related to cases
• Managing regular surgeries - appointments, file preparation, follow up etc.

Communication & Constituency Outreach:

• Building relationships with the local business, voluntary and community sectors
• Liaising with local groups, organising attendance at community events - handling invitations, correspondence etc.
• Handling media queries, interview requests etc.
• Managing social media presence, Facebook, Twitter etc.
• Issuing regular press releases
• Organising and attending local events as needed

Research

• Keeping up to date with Assembly & relevant Westminster legislation
• Managing a database of constituency information
• Developing a good understanding of local issues

Administration

• Managing written correspondence, email etc.
• Maintaining up to date files
• Managing data in line with data protection act and Freedom of Information Act requirements

Other duties as required

Personal Specification:

Essential Criteria

• Degree or 5 years relevant experience
• At least 2 years’ experience working with the public in an office environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to deal with all types of people and with people who may be in distress
• Good organisation and time management skills - ability to manage own workload
• Good IT skills - particularly MS Office and social media - Facebook and Twitter
• Good problem solving skills

Desirable Criteria

• Recent experience in case management 
• Good people skills
• A good knowledge of local and regional Government & Political structures
• An understanding of local issues

Job Information

• 30 hours per week
• Located in Constituency office - 1 Upper Abbey Street, Coleraine, with attendance at Parliament Buildings, Stormont as needed
• Salary based on experience

Application Information

Please apply by sending in a recent CV with covering letter explaining how you meet the criteria.

Closing date is 5pm on Monday 15th August. Apply either by email to [email protected]  or in hard copy to Claire Sugden MLA, 1 Upper Abbey Street, Coleraine, BT52 1BF.

Interviews will take place on Thursday 25th August at the above address.