1 year contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• The postholder will be responsible for delivering a comprehensive and customer-focused Benefits and Housing Needs service.
• This includes the assessment and administration of Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Discretionary Housing Payments, and welfare support.
• The role also covers housing advice and homelessness prevention, housing assessments and reviews, management of the Housing Register and lettings, and the procurement and maintenance of temporary accommodation.
• The officer will work with a wide range of vulnerable individuals and households, providing accurate and timely assistance while safeguarding public resources and ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Administer and assess Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, and discretionary awards in line with legislation and corporate policy.
• Provide detailed housing advice, preventing homelessness through proactive support and signposting.
• Conduct homelessness assessments and manage temporary accommodation placements where required.
• Maintain and manage the Housing Register, ensuring accurate data and fair prioritisation based on need and medical assessments.
• Coordinate lettings of social housing, including allocation procedures and associated initiatives.
• Monitor and manage the procurement and supply of private rented sector accommodation.
• Oversee the maintenance and health and safety of temporary accommodation, supporting residents with resettlement and move-on plans.
• Deliver high standards of customer care, managing enquiries, complaints, and Freedom of Information requests in a timely and professional manner.
• Identify and prevent fraud or error through rigorous assessments and casework reviews.
• Support financial monitoring processes within the service, promoting income collection and cost efficiency.
• Mentor and support new or less experienced team members, sharing knowledge and promoting best practice.
• Represent the service at internal and external meetings, supporting the implementation of policies and procedures.
Skills/Experience:
• Strong knowledge of legislation and guidance relevant to benefits and housing, including Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, homelessness law, and welfare reform.
• Experience delivering frontline services in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.
• Ability to assess complex cases and apply policy and legal frameworks accurately.
• Experience in housing needs assessments, lettings processes, and temporary accommodation management.
• Competence in financial monitoring, income collection, and fraud prevention.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to handle sensitive issues professionally and confidentially.
• Skilled in using IT systems and maintaining accurate case records and statistical data.
• Experience of mentoring or supporting other team members.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work independently under minimal supervision.
Additional Information:
• The closing date: 08/06/2025 @17:00.