Job Description
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:
o Engage with residents to understand their circumstances and determine suitable support packages.
o Assess, award, and process Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) in accordance with internal guidelines.
o Conduct thorough benefit checks to identify underclaiming and maximize residents' income from benefits such as Council Tax Reduction, Universal Credit, and Pension Credit.
o Collaborate with residents to create plans for sustaining tenancies, including advice on downsizing or increasing work hours.
* Triaging and Administration:
o Review and triage incoming applications daily, assigning them appropriately.
o Manage the shared team inbox and respond to resident queries, particularly those concerning supermarket vouchers.
o Process payments for cash support schemes via BACS transfers.
o Maintain accurate and secure records on systems like Academy and Jigsaw.
* Collaboration and Support:
o Liaise with landlords, with resident consent, to prevent evictions.
o Work closely with colleagues across Here To Help and other services to provide comprehensive support for residents with complex needs.
o Draft clear, empathetic decision letters explaining the support offered.
Requirements
* Essential Experience & Knowledge:
o Strong understanding of welfare benefits and ability to identify income maximization opportunities.
o Experience in assessing DHPs in line with policy and guidance.
o Proficiency in using benefits systems, including Academy, Comino, and Searchlight.
o Proven experience in an administrative or support role, preferably within a welfare or social care environment.
o Experience handling sensitive and confidential information with integrity.
* Skills and Abilities:
o Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with sensitivity and empathy in challenging situations.
o Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
o Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities efficiently.
o Collaborative team-player attitude with a flexible approach to changing priorities.
Requirements
Requirements: Full-time availability for a year Ability to work 36 hours per week Resilient and able to thrive in challenging situations Attention to detail and creative problem-solving skills Comfortable with confrontation and able to deal with difficult situations Availability for out-of-hours meetings and lone working Daily use of a car and a full driving license