Paralegal - Welfare Benefits - First Love Foundation

Deadline for applications: 6 July 2025 at 23.59

Reports to: Advice Service Manager

Salary: £32,500 - £35,000 (depending on experience)

About First Love Foundation

First Love Foundation is a Christian charity committed to transforming lives through justice, dignity and equality. Based in East London, we are an AQS-accredited organisation that works with individuals and families facing crisis due to income shocks, welfare denial, serious illness, homelessness, domestic abuse and more. Our vision is a Britain without poverty. We provide integrated support services through a trauma-informed, holistic approach via outreach, in-person and telephone-based advice. We empower people to move from crisis to independence with love, professionalism and a commitment to justice. We actively welcome applicants from all backgrounds and faiths and especially encourage applications from people with lived experience of the issues we tackle.

Purpose of the Role

We are seeking a motivated and compassionate Paralegal to join our Advice and Advocacy Team. This role is ideal for someone with legal training who is enthusiastic about social justice and wants to specialise in welfare benefits law. You will provide direct advice and support to clients navigating complex welfare systems, while receiving structured supervision and development opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide advice on Universal Credit, PIP, ESA, Housing Benefit and other entitlements
• Assist clients with benefit applications, mandatory reconsiderations and tribunal appeals
• Draft legal documents, letters and case summaries
• Conduct legal research and stay updated on welfare legislation and case law
• Maintain accurate records using AdvicePro case management system
• Empower clients with knowledge and tools to navigate welfare systems
• Handle sensitive cases with empathy, professionalism and confidentiality
• Work within a trauma-informed, client-centred framework
• Participate in team meetings, reflective practice and training sessions
• Shadow experienced advisers and receive regular supervision
• Contribute to impact reporting and case studies (with client consent)

Person specification

Essential

• Legal qualification or paralegal training
• Interest in welfare benefits or public law
• Experience working with vulnerable individuals
• Strong written and verbal communication
• Legal research and drafting skills
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• Sympathetic to Christian values and mission

Desirable

• Familiarity with AdvicePro or similar CRM
• Experience with tribunal representation or appeals

Training and Supervision

• Daily supervision by the Advice Service Manager
• Mentoring by a specialist Welfare Benefits Adviser or solicitor
• Access to CPD, legal updates and welfare law resources
• DBS check required (provided at no cost)

Why Join Us?

• Be part of an innovative charity tackling crisis and social injustice
• Gain firsthand experience in welfare law and advocacy
• Structured development pathway to become a Welfare Benefits Specialist
• Work in a supportive, values-led team making real impact

How to apply

Send your CV and a detailed cover letter outlining how you meet the person specification and why you are interested in the role by email to radhika@firstlovefoundation.org.uk by the deadline. Please note candidates must have approved right to work in the UK to commence this role.