Information Advice and Guidance Officer

Help people move from crisis towards confidence and independence. Join Preston Muslim Forum as a Peer Navigator, providing practical advice, compassionate support and connections to essential services for individuals and families across Preston. Peer Navigator – Information Advice & Guidance Officer Preston Muslim Forum Preston, PR1 6QH

• £28,860 per annum, pro rata
• Part time, 28 hours per week
• Fixed term for 12 months, with continuation subject to further funding About Preston Muslim Forum Preston Muslim Forum is a registered charity serving people of all ages, faiths, cultures and backgrounds across Preston. Based at a local community centre, we provide services and facilities that improve people's life chances and advance economic and social welfare. Rooted in the community and open to all, we have particular expertise in reaching people who face barriers to mainstream support. About the role You'll support individuals, families and communities affected by crisis, including unexpected shocks, cost-of-living pressures, displacement, health emergencies and social vulnerability. You'll also help people facing challenges such as language barriers, digital exclusion, social isolation or discrimination. Your work will include helping people access financial support, build resilience, connect with essential services and improve their overall wellbeing. The role contributes to the objectives of the Government's Crisis Resilience Fund by delivering frontline support, strengthening community networks and enabling sustainable recovery. Your responsibilities will include:
• Providing one-to-one support, assessing individual needs and developing tailored support plans
• Helping people address the underlying issues contributing to financial shocks, hardship and crisis
• Supporting access to benefits, grants, housing and other financial assistance
• Receiving referrals from Preston City Council and supporting people who approach Preston Muslim Forum directly, referring them to other hubs where appropriate
• Helping people overcome digital exclusion and build confidence and motivation towards employment
• Engaging vulnerable and hard-to-reach groups through outreach, workshops and activities that build resilience
• Building positive relationships with communities, faith groups, local authorities, charities, health providers and other partners
• Attending monthly resilience hub meetings and connecting people with support through libraries, family hubs and warm spaces
• Advocating for service users in a culturally sensitive way, ensuring their voices are heard and respected
• Maintaining accurate records using the council's database and contributing to reporting, evaluation and service improvement
• Identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns while maintaining confidentiality, professional boundaries and compliance with organisational policies About you You'll bring empathy, sound judgement and a commitment to empowering communities. You will need:
• GCSEs or equivalent in English and Maths, plus safeguarding training or a willingness to undertake it
• Community work experience supporting vulnerable people facing crisis, financial difficulties, mental health issues, isolation or complex circumstances
• Strong communication, advocacy and problem-solving skills, with the ability to build trust and remain resilient under pressure
• Good organisational and administrative skills, with the ability to prioritise a caseload and work independently and within a team
• An understanding of marginalised communities, barriers to support and local referral pathways, alongside an empathetic, culturally sensitive approach
• A commitment to equality, inclusion and Preston Muslim Forum's mission, demonstrated through work or volunteering
• Flexibility for evening and weekend work and local travel A relevant qualification or equivalent experience in social work, community development or counselling would be advantageous. Experience of funded programmes, facilitating groups or workshops, knowledge of safeguarding and case management, and the ability to speak an additional community language are also desirable. Working with Preston Muslim Forum This is a varied community role where you'll support people through challenging circumstances and help them build resilience, access services and improve their wellbeing. You'll work alongside local organisations and community networks, contributing to support that reflects the needs of Preston's diverse communities. Some evening and weekend work is required, with time off in lieu available. The role is based at a community centre in Preston, PR1 6QH. Appointment is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and evidence of the right to work in the UK. How to apply If you have the skills and experience required for this position, click “Apply” today and check your inbox for an email providing more information on how to tailor your application and provide a cover letter or any supporting documents. You'll be asked to complete an application form and supporting statement, addressing all essential criteria in the person specification with examples of your experience, achievements and relevant voluntary work. No agencies, please. Other suitable skills and experience include: Peer Navigator, Community Support Worker, Advice and Guidance Worker, Community Outreach Worker, Family Support Worker, Welfare Adviser, Caseworker, Community Development Worker, Support Worker, Social Prescribing Link Worker.