FAQs

How do I apply for a job at the ISA?
You can apply on-line at this website.
I require information in a different format, what should I do?
If you require information in an alternative format; or if you require a translation, please contact us. We will ensure that you receive information in your preferred format. Please either telephone 0845 456 3211 or email ISACaseworkers@Barkers.co.uk.
Can I send you my CV?
We ask all candidates to complete the same application forms for our roles. We therefore do not hold CVs on file.
What can I expect after submitting my application?
All candidates whether selected for interview or not, will be notified of the outcome of their application by e-mail.
Will my application form be accepted if it is received after the closing date?
No. All application forms must be received by no later than 5pm on Wednesday 28th November.
Applications received after this time will not be accepted.
If I apply but am unsuccessful, can I reapply?
You may reapply to the same role after 12 months have passed since your original application by completing a new application form.
Will you hold my details on file until a suitable vacancy arises?
No, unfortunately we can't accept speculative CVs.
Do you have a register for people interested in employment with the ISA?
We will not be holding a register, but we would encourage you to keep an eye on the recruitment website for other posts that may be advertised.
Do I need any formal qualifications before I start?
No. Caseworker jobs do not require you to have any formal qualifications or formal training before you start. When you begin working you will be given induction and other work-related training to ensure that you know how to do your job properly and safely.
Are there any checks I need to go through before becoming employed?
Offers of posts in the ISA will be dependent upon successful completion of pre-employment checks. Initiation of the checks will be subject to your prior and explicit consent. All related information will be dealt with on a strictly confidential basis and in accordance with Data Protection legislation.
The relevant questionnaires can be found here.
Can I apply for a job on a job share basis?
Yes, most jobs with the ISA can be applied for on a job share basis. If they are not, they will be made exempt at the point of advertising. If you wish to apply for a job on a shared basis, please indicate this during the recruitment process. An assessment will be made based on the operational needs of the service and the hours you have requested to work. The ISA will consider positively and carefully all requests to work on a job share basis.
Can I request flexible working hours?
Yes, you can request that your application is considered on a flexible working basis and the ISA will carefully and positively consider your request. All requests made will be considered according to the needs of the business and where feasible, requests will be granted.
How do I know I will be treated fairly during the recruitment process?
The ISA will aim to ensure that it does not discriminate against any individual during recruitment. In addition, we aim to ensure that all managers have received recruitment and selection training, which covers equality and diversity issues.
Will reasonable adjustments be made as part of the interview process?
Yes, where you make your disability or condition known at the point of application, you will be asked about the specific adjustments which you require. This may relate to issues of access, or may require you to have additional time during an interview or any testing used as part of the application process. The ISA will ensure that all reasonable adjustments are made on the day of your interview.
I have a disability; will the ISA make adjustments to a job for me?
The ISA will consider all requests to make reasonable adjustments to a specific role, as part of the recruitment process. Should you wish to apply for a position with the ISA and think that a reasonable adjustment may be required, please contact us. We will arrange for you to speak to a member of staff, independent of the recruitment process, who will discuss with you the specific changes needed to the job. They will liaise with the service manager on your behalf and an assessment will be made on whether the ISA can make the reasonable adjustments required. Decisions will be based on business need and all requests will be positively and carefully considered.
What is the guaranteed interview scheme and how does it work?
The guaranteed interview scheme has been developed for disabled candidates, or those with a long-term impairment or ill-health condition, which means that they cannot meet all of the job requirements. In these instances, the individual will be offered a guaranteed interview if they meet the minimum requirements of the job or if the minimum requirements could be met if reasonable adjustments to premises, working practices or equipment were made. If you think you may be eligible for a guaranteed interview, please contact us or fill in the relevant section on the application form.
What opportunities are there for career progression?
The ISA is a new and growing organisation. This means that as you grow and develop, there may be opportunities for you to progress your career with us. We will have highly structured learning and development opportunities for all staff and a management development programme for our managers. We cannot guarantee opportunities for career progression but there will be good quality jobs with variety and enrichment; good performance will be rewarded.
What benefits do the ISA offer?
A full statement of benefits etc on offer can be found here.
Will there be secondment opportunities at the ISA?
People who are working in other areas of the public sector such as police officers, local authority staff and civil servants will be able to apply for positions on a secondment basis within the ISA. All potential secondment applicants will need support from their current employers in order to be considered for any vacant positions.
Will I have to move to Darlington?
Caseworkers are office based roles and the ISA’s office is based in Stephenson House, Darlington. Given the sensitive and confidential nature of the ISA’s work remote working is not an option.
The ISA will be based in new premises on the Morton Palms Business Park. More information can be found here and here.
Information about living and working in the Darlington and the Tees Valley area can be found here:
http://www.teesvalleyregeneration.co.uk/pages/project/project=haughtonroad
I have technical problems with the on-line application. Who do I contact?
Please either telephone 0845 456 3211 or email ISACaseworkers@Barkers.co.uk.
What if I have more questions?
Please either telephone 0845 456 3211 or ISACaseworkers@Barkers.co.uk.