Job Overview:
* We are seeking a proactive and empathetic Recovery Officer to join the Income & Assessments team on a 6-month interim basis.
* This role focuses specifically on the recovery of Adult Social Care (ASC) charges, supporting the wider Recovery Team in maximising income for the Local Authority while maintaining a professional and sensitive approach with vulnerable residents.
* This role plays a vital part in ensuring the recovery of outstanding ASC charges, while maintaining a sensitive and professional approach when working with vulnerable residents and complex cases.
* You’ll be responsible for managing a caseload of debt recovery matters, engaging with service users and their representatives to resolve queries and negotiate payments.
* You’ll also work closely with internal teams and external partners to ensure accurate record-keeping, compliance with statutory guidance, and effective resolution of disputes.
Key Responsibilities:
* Proactively recover Adult Social Care debt using appropriate recovery methods.
* Manage a caseload of ASC debt recovery matters, including complex and sensitive cases.
* Engage with service users and their representatives to resolve queries and negotiate payment plans.
* Liaise with internal teams, care providers, and external stakeholders (e.g., enforcement agents, voluntary sector).
* Prepare documentation for court hearings and write-off cases.
* Administer the Deferred Payments Scheme, ensuring legal and financial safeguards are in place.
* Support the Senior Recovery Officer with reporting and service development.
* Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and best practice in ASC debt recovery.
Essential Skills & Experience:
* Strong understanding of Adult Social Care debt legislation (Care Act 2014) and recovery practices.
* Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with a sensitive approach to vulnerable individuals.
* Ability to manage a high workload and meet tight deadlines.
* Experience working in a local authority recovery or income environment.
* Good IT skills and familiarity with systems such as Mosaic