3 months contract with local authority As a Benefits and Housing Needs Officer, you will play a crucial role in assessing applications and managing administrative processes to ensure the smooth operation of our services. You will support approximately 10-15 residents weekly, providing essential financial and non-financial assistance. Your work will involve evaluating applications, processing payments, and collaborating with various stakeholders to sustain tenancies and prevent evictions. Responsibilities Casework and Assessment: Engage with residents to understand their circumstances and determine suitable support packages. Assess, award, and process Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) in accordance with internal guidelines. Conduct thorough benefit checks to identify underclaiming and maximize residents' income from benefits such as Council Tax Reduction, Universal Credit, and Pension Credit. Collaborate with residents to create plans for sustaining tenancies, including advice on downsizing or increasing work hours. Triaging and Administration: Review and triage incoming applications daily, assigning them appropriately. Manage the shared team inbox and respond to resident queries, particularly those concerning supermarket vouchers. Process payments for cash support schemes via BACS transfers. Maintain accurate and secure records on systems like Academy and Jigsaw. Collaboration and Support: Liaise with landlords, with resident consent, to prevent evictions. Work closely with colleagues across Here To Help and other services to provide comprehensive support for residents with complex needs. Draft clear, empathetic decision letters explaining the support offered. Requirements Essential Experience & Knowledge: Strong understanding of welfare benefits and ability to identify income maximization opportunities. Experience in assessing DHPs in line with policy and guidance. Proficiency in using benefits systems, including Academy, Comino, and Searchlight. Proven experience in an administrative or support role, preferably within a welfare or social care environment. Experience handling sensitive and confidential information with integrity. Skills and Abilities: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with sensitivity and empathy in challenging situations. Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure. Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities efficiently. Collaborative team-player attitude with a flexible approach to changing priorities.