Advice on Prescription (APP) Adviser

Main Responsibilities

• Interview clients using sensitive listening and questioning skills in order to allow clients to explain their problem(s) and empower them to set their own priorities.

• Use the Citizens Advice Adviser Net website to find, interpret and communicate the relevant information.

• Research and explore options and implications so that clients can make informed decisions.

• Act for the client where necessary by calculating, negotiating, drafting or writing letters and telephoning.

• Negotiate with third parties such as statutory and non-statutory bodies as appropriate.

• Up to date knowledge of welfare benefits and demonstratable evidence of competence in providing benefits advice to clients in an audited environment.

• Refer internally or to other specialist services as appropriate, including but not limited to welfare, debt, housing and link work support services

• Ensure that all work conforms to the organisations’ office manual and the Citizens Advice quality standard and any other funding requirements, as appropriate.

• Ensure that work reflects and supports the Citizens Advice Service’s equality and diversity strategy.

• Maintain detailed case records for the purpose of continuity of casework, information retrieval, statistical monitoring and report preparation.

Social policy

• Assist with social policy work by providing information about clients' circumstances through the appropriate channel.

• Alert clients to social policy options.

Professional development

• Keep up to date with legislation, policies and procedures and undertake appropriate training.

• Read relevant publications.

• Attend relevant internal and external meetings as agreed with the line manager.

• Prepare for and attend supervision sessions/team meetings/staff meetings as appropriate.

Other duties and responsibilities

• Complete the required training to comply with quality assurance processes.

• Carry out any other tasks that may be within the scope of the post to ensure the effective delivery and development of the service.

• Demonstrate commitment to the aims and policies of the Citizens Advice service.

• Abide by health and safety guidelines and share responsibility for own safety and that of colleagues.