We are working closely alongside a Local Authority in West Northamptonshire to assist with the appointment of a Subsidy Officer, on a 6-month contract, highly likely to be extended at clients discretion. Please apply with your CV for immediate consideration.
Rate of Pay: £22.55 - £31.00 per hour
Summary:
The Subsidy Officer is responsible for ensuring Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction claims are assessed accurately and in line with legislation and guidance. The role supports the completion of annual subsidy returns, works closely with auditors, and helps maximise subsidy income to the Council while improving overall performance and compliance within the Benefits team.
Responsibilities:
* Maintain up-to-date knowledge of Housing Benefit and Council Tax legislation, case law, software updates, procedures, and policies.
* Assist in the preparation, completion, submission, and audit verification of annual Housing Benefit subsidy claims, including liaison with external auditors.
* Support the Training and Resilience team in preparing and delivering subsidy-related training to improve team performance and awareness.
* Provide structured feedback to Team Leaders based on subsidy audits and checking outcomes, identifying specific development and training needs.
* Undertake targeted checks in high-risk subsidy areas to minimise financial loss and improve accuracy.
* Make recommendations to improve claim assessments and overpayment classifications to maximise income to the Council.
Qualification:
* Educated to GCSE level including Maths and English
Essentials:
* Experience working within a Revenues & Benefits environment
* Strong understanding of Housing Benefit and Council Tax legislation and the ability to interpret complex regulations.
* ICT proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications.
* Strong communication and influencing skills, with the ability to handle sensitive situations tactfully.
* Analytical skills with the ability to gather and interpret information accurately.
Please note:
* You should be available to work immediately or at a short notice.
* You should have right to work in U.K
* This role requires a Basic DBS
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. Your DBS must be either through us or be accompanied by a subscription to the DBS updating service.
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