Anyone a EO Work Coach for DWP?

[Outdoorsywithgin]

They are advertising this position and I'm in two minds whether to apply. Pay is good, and there is job security (although it's a 12m fixed contract) but is it very stressful?

I don't work as one. So I can't really tell you about the stress levels but I imagine it's pretty high. I also imagine staff are under immense pressure to sanction claimants.. Could you handle that on your conscience some one going hungry and I hate to say this but possible ending their life ( sounds dramatic maybe but these things do happen) because you've put them forward for a sanction that you've been forced to give them and not having a reason won't wash you'll have to find one!. I'm sorry if I've came across as catty. I hope I've not upset you.

I think I’d rather be a traffic warden. Sorry.

I think it could be both rewarding and very difficult. You will be dealing with some very vulnerable, unemployable people and people with a lot of social problems and barriers to getting into work. It can be rewarding if you can help them to overcome these barriers, but I think some of it could just be difficult. If you are really resiliant you may be ok. I have thought about this work, but I think I would find it hard to be putting people under pressure to find employment when some people really have so much stacked against them. May be I am just a bit of a soft touch. I think it would also be upsetting at the moment seeing so many people who have previously never been out of work and on benefits, having to be checked up on to see if they have done their 35 hours a weeek job seeking to get a pittance of Universal credit. It must feel totally degrading for them and I think it would be upsetting. Does depend what type of person you are though and like i said it would be hugely rewarding if you can help people get back into employment quickly.

I was hoping the "rewarding" bit would outweigh the shitty sanctions bit, but i'm really not sure now...

Hi OP I applied for and started the job last year (later left but that’s unrelated to the job!)
The way I was trained wasn’t sanction heavy at all. Particularly not in the time of covid. The current view is ‘trust and protect’ so as to ensure that those who need the help get it. There are clearly people playing the system and it’s frustrating but yes it can be rewarding. I think the down side to it at the moment is that the job market is in the toilet so with the best will in the world really brilliant candidates are struggling. The training was great, the peiole are lovely and I think it’s likely to be extended past 12 months the way things are going!
If you decide to apply good luck!

Thank you KTD27. I have about 26 hours to decide and get my application in!

I used to be one (the old version) .. and my friend is now a team manager for that role.
I was fixed term for 2 years and loved it. That was 11 years ago.
Good pay and pension, flexible hours, and less stress than the job I do now for less money.

Thank you again to you all for your advice. I have written my application statement today.
Still a bit unsure, but willing to throw my hat in the ring!