We are working closely alongside a Local Authority in North Yorkshire to assist with the appointment of a Benefits Officer, on a 2.5-month contract, likely to be extended at clients discretion. Please apply with your CV for immediate consideration.
Rate of Pay: £14.76 - £18.49 per hour
Summary:
The Benefits Officer plays a key role in supporting the residents of North Yorkshire by accurately administering Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Discretionary Housing Payments, and related schemes. The post holder will ensure all benefit claims and changes are processed efficiently and in accordance with Government legislation, case law, and local policy.
This role involves working as part of a dedicated Welfare & Benefits team to deliver a high-quality, customer-focused service, ensuring that vulnerable residents receive the financial support they are entitled to. Officers must have experience using NEC systems and NEC Document Management, as this is essential for performing the role effectively.
Responsibilities:
* Accurately process and assess all types of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction new claims and changes in circumstances, including complex cases (e.g., self-employed, student, and persons from abroad).
* Administer Discretionary Housing Payments and handle Housing Benefit overpayments, including calculation, recovery decisions, and method of recovery.
* Maintain accurate, secure, and confidential data records in accordance with GDPR and internal policies.
* Contribute to meeting performance targets and key service indicators (KPIs).
* Undertake necessary training and self-development to maintain a high standard of professional competence.
Qualifications:
* GCSEs or equivalent in English and Maths (Grade C / Level 4 or above) or equivalent qualifications.
Requirements:
* Experience using NEC systems and NEC Document Management (mandatory requirement).
* Experience of working in a customer-focused organisation and dealing with customers directly.
* Proven track record of delivering accuracy and efficiency in high-volume transactional processing.
* Recent experience in assessing all types of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction claims.
* Practical knowledge of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction legislation and associated guidance for England and Wales.
* Ability to interpret, analyse, and apply complex legislation, case law, and policy decisions.
* Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and ability to produce reports, letters, and data outputs.
* Understanding of data protection (GDPR), equality and diversity, and health and safety obligations.
Please note:
* You should be available to work immediately or at a short notice.
* You should have right to work in U.K
Disclaimer: Brackenberry Ltd is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy. We are committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. Unless otherwise stated all of our roles are temporary, though opening assignments can be and often are, extended by clients on a longer term basis and can sometimes become permanent.
Important: We will interpret your application as being permission to submit your CV to this role (with the right to represent you) unless you advise us to the contrary. Incase the role requires an enhanced DBS, your DBS must be either through us or be accompanied by a subscription to the DBS updating service.
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