Preston Doorways Community Support Services provides support to clients in urgent crisis. Assistance provided includes food vouchers, food parcels, budgeting assistance, interest-free loans or help with paying bills. Clients are engaged in Casework where deeper issues are present.

The Caseworker engages clients in a consultation and assessment process to determine their needs, before issuing financial or material aid, assisting with more complex issues, or referring to other agencies for support. The position also contributes to overall strategic planning for Preston Doorways Community Support Services, staff & volunteer coordination, resource management and the daily running of the Emergency Relief centre.

This is a permanent part time position, at 15 hours per week, negotiable within the centre operating hours of 9:30 – 3:30 Monday to Thursday, and 9:30 – 12:30 on Friday.

The successful applicant will ideally hold a Diploma or Degree qualification in a Social, Counselling or Psychology stream. Applicants with a Certificate 4 qualification in Welfare, Community/Human Services able to demonstrate experience in a similar role will also be considered. You will have superior interpersonal abilities, and verbal and written communication skills. You will also have a passion for The Salvation Army’s Mission and Values.

Key Responsibilities:

• Interview clients to determine and provide the appropriate level of Emergency Relief,
• Transition clients to case management where appropriate,
• Engage clients in Case Management (up to 30% of the role)
• Ensure accuracy of data entered to the Service And Mission Information System,
• Assist with monthly emergency relief vouchers and other negotiable items,
• Other duties as reasonably requested by Corps Officer or Team Leader.

Personal qualities we are looking for include a strong customer focus, impeccable attention to detail, sensitivity to socio-cultural diversity and empathy for people of disadvantaged socio-economic status.

Key Selection Criteria:

1. Willingness to work in accordance with The Salvation Army’s mission and values, and comply with Official Minutes, policies and procedures.
2. Knowledge of the theory, and demonstrated experience in a client interview setting in the Welfare, Community or Human Services Sector,
3. Exemplary communication skills, including demonstrated experience in sensitively communicating with vulnerable people.
4. Demonstrated ability to formulate options and implement holistic strategies with individuals and families who are in crisis.
5. Uses technology and software applications – in particular Microsoft Excel, Word and browser based applications - effectively in accordance with task requirements.
6. Handle finances and records accurately and in accordance with policy and procedures.

A full position description is available below.