Neway is currently looking for a Discretionary Funding Officer / Benefits Overpayment Officer to join our client based with North Yorkshire Council.
Location: County Hall, Northallerton, DL7 8AE (Remote working available)
Client: North Yorkshire Council
Duration: 27 October 2025 – 28 December 2025
Hours: 37 per week (Mon–Fri, 09:00–17:30)
Pay Rates: PAYE: £15.06/hour Umbrella/Ltd: £18.79/hour
Role Overview
North Yorkshire Council is seeking a skilled and proactive Discretionary Funding Officer / Benefits Overpayment Officer to support a temporary peak in workload within the Welfare & Benefits Service. This Grade G role is ideal for candidates with experience in discretionary funding and/or benefits overpayment administration.
You’ll be responsible for assessing and processing claims, managing overpayments, and supporting customers through accurate advice and empathetic service. The role can be completed remotely, though you may be required to collect IT equipment from a designated NYC office.
Key Responsibilities
* Administer and assess Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction claims, including discretionary awards and overpayments.
* Investigate and determine recoverability of overpayments, ensuring correct recovery methods are applied.
* Provide clear, accurate advice to customers via phone, email, and digital channels.
* Liaise with internal teams (e.g., Revenues, Housing, Income Maximisation) and external partners (e.g., DWP, Citizens Advice).
* Maintain accurate records and contribute to performance targets.
* Promote digital communication in line with the Council’s “Digital by Default” strategy.
Candidate Requirements
Essential:
* Experience as a Benefits Officer, ideally with a focus on discretionary funding or overpayments.
* Strong understanding of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction legislation.
* Excellent communication and customer service skills.
* Ability to analyse complex information and make confident decisions.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant benefits systems.
Desirable:
* Knowledge of Northgate or similar benefits software.
* IRRV qualification.
* Experience working in a local authority or DWP environment.
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