Caseworker

Applications are welcome from internal and external candidates. For all IOM vacancies, applications from qualified and eligible first-tier candidates are considered before those of qualified and eligible second-tier candidates in the selection process. For the purpose of this vacancy, internal candidates are considered first-tier candidates.
  Context

The International Organization for Migration in the United Kingdom (IOM UK) delivers a range of programming which includes the provision of immigration advice and casework support to vulnerable migrants in the United Kingdom. IOM UK is a registered Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) Level 3 Immigration and Asylum and Protection organisation. 

Under the technical supervision of the Casework Supervisor and the overall supervision of the Senior Project Associate, Senior Programme Coordinator and Chief of Mission of IOM London, the incumbent will provide technical support to IOM’s Immigration Advice unit, IAA regulated casework and representation. The incumbent will also support the Casework Supervisor and Senior Project Associate in liaising with relevant stakeholders on matters related to policy, project development, implementation, and reporting, as well as participate in external forums and meetings.

The caseworker will provide IAA Level 1 Immigration Advice within community settings across Belfast, providing support, information and technical inputs to third sector organisations, second tier support, as well as direct one-to-one casework support to asylum seekers. This will also involve working with interpreters where necessary.

Based on identified needs and vulnerabilities, it is expected the caseworker will offer support predominantly to asylum seekers, but may include refugees, irregular migrants and people who have No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF).

Please note that this role will be based in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

1. Provide immigration advice and deliver casework support for asylum seekers, ensuring the highest standard of client care, managing own caseload and reporting.
2. Comply  with case management systems, administrative procedures and quality standards as required by donors, the IAA and by IOM. 
3. Provide training, awareness raising and input to statutory and voluntary agencies and others and maintain and develop relationships with relevant partner agencies and donors as appropriate for funded project delivery. 
4. Keep up to date with relevant changes in legal policies and sector priorities and initiatives, analyse and disseminate to colleagues legal information from domestic and international case law and legislation, and support policy development on these issues for IOM UK;
5. Travel to locations around Belfast as required for the delivery of this work.
6. Perform such other duties as may be assigned. Education
   • IAA (Immigration Advice Authority) Level 1 or higher Immigration accredited (mandatory)

     and

     • High School diploma with at least five years’ experience of immigration and asylum casework

       or

       • Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law or related fields from an accredited academic institution with three years of relevant professional experience. Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.   Experience
         • Minimum of two years (depending on level of education) experience of immigration and asylum casework, at least one of which should be working at OISC Level 1.
         • An ability to manage a caseload and to prioritise effectively working under pressure and meeting deadlines, using relevant case management systems.
         • Proven ability to deal sensitively and with empathy, with clients who may be vulnerable and distressed, while communicating effectively in order to give and receive key information.
         • Experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national/international institutions, United Nations agencies and non-governmental organizations;
         • Experience in working with migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking and other vulnerable groups; and,
         • Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations, non-government or government institutions/organization in a multi-cultural setting is an advantage.  Skills
           • Good organisational, prioritising and time management skills.
           • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
           • Excellent interpersonal skills Languages
             • Fluency (written and oral) in English is required for this role IOM’s official languages are English, French and Spanish. Proficiency of language(s) required will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.   Required Competencies   IOM’s competency framework can be found at this link. Competencies will be assessed during the selection process.   Values - all IOM staff members must abide by and demonstrate these three values:
             • Inclusion and respect for diversity: Respects and promotes individual and cultural differences. Encourages diversity and inclusion.
           • Integrity and transparency: Maintains high ethical standards and acts in a manner consistent with organizational principles/rules and standards of conduct.
         • Professionalism: Demonstrates ability to work in a composed, competent and committed manner and exercises careful judgment in meeting day-to-day challenges.
       • Courage: Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.
     • Empathy: Shows compassion for others, makes people feel safe, respected and fairly treated. Core Competencies – behavioural indicators (Level 1)
     • Teamwork: Develops and promotes effective collaboration within and across units to achieve shared goals and optimize results.
   • Delivering results: Produces and delivers quality results in a service-oriented and timely manner. Is action oriented and committed to achieving agreed outcomes.
7. Managing and sharing knowledge: Continuously seeks to learn, share knowledge and innovate.