GP Surgery Project Adviser - Citizens Advice Edinburgh

Citizens Advice Edinburgh works in partnership with the Edinburgh Integration Joint Board to deliver an outreach advice service from 8 GP Practices in Edinburgh.  4 part-time staff members provide weekly sessions for these sites.

The present vacancy comprises ½ day client contact and ½ day follow-up work for Ferniehill Surgery and 1 day client contact and 1 day follow-up work for Gracemount, however the specific practices served may change.  The total weekly hours are 21hrs.

The project delivers welfare rights and health-related advice to patients of the named practices, on site, at the practices.

Research indicates that resolving problems with benefits, debt, employment, housing, and family issues can have a positive effect on patient health. Embedding advice services within GP Practices has also been shown to reduce repeated contact between patients and GPs, and to successfully engage clients who have not sought advice elsewhere.

The successful candidate must be experienced in giving advice, particularly in relation to benefits, including appeal and tribunal work. They must have an understanding of the role within the healthcare environment and the impact of poverty on health. The post holder will be required to assertively develop and maintain links with NHS staff, Community Link Workers, CAE specialists and external agencies.

The health sector can be a challenging environment in which to work.  Clients are frequently extremely unwell and may present with multiple, complex advice issues.  In addition to possessing the necessary practical knowledge, candidates will therefore require energy and resilience to make the project a success.

Appointment is subject to Right to Work checks and Disclosure