At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable residents with crisis support and welfare advice.
- Company: Bath & North East Somerset Council, dedicated to improving lives.
- Benefits: Training, development opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in customer-facing roles and knowledge of welfare benefits.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
At Bath & North East Somerset Council we have one overriding purpose – to improve people’s lives. We are seeking a committed and empathetic Welfare Support Officer to join our Welfare Support service. This frontline role supports vulnerable residents across Bath and North East Somerset to access timely crisis support and receive appropriate advice and signposting during periods of financial hardship.
About the role
You will assess Welfare support applications, administer Housing Payments and Crisis Support funds, and communicate decisions clearly and sensitively to customers often in challenging circumstances. The role involves speaking to customers by telephone, reviewing supporting evidence, and maintaining accurate and confidential records. You will identify and appropriately escalate safeguarding concerns and work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners to ensure customers receive timely and effective support. You will also carry out quality checks and contribute to ongoing service improvement.
What we’re looking for
- You’ll bring experience in customer‑facing or welfare support roles, with strong knowledge of welfare benefits and Benefit processes.
- NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) or the ability to work at this level.
- IRRV Technician qualification (or willingness to work towards it).
- Good understanding of relevant legislation, including data protection.
- Strong organisational, communication and IT skills.
- The ability to explain complex information clearly and empathetically.
- Resilience and confidence in managing challenging situations.
Fixed term until 31.03.2029
Why join us?
You’ll be part of a supportive service that makes a real difference to people’s lives. We offer training, development opportunities and a values‑led culture. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Safeguarding statement: The council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable groups. Anyone working in a post with children or vulnerable groups will be expected to undertake an Enhanced DBS check with/without barred list checks.
Note: This advert may close earlier than the stated closing date due to high demand. Apply as soon as possible.
Welfare Support officer in England employer: BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL
At Bath & North East Somerset Council, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer dedicated to improving lives in our community. Our Welfare Support service fosters a supportive and inclusive work culture, offering extensive training and development opportunities for our staff. By joining us as a Welfare Support Officer, you will play a vital role in making a meaningful impact while benefiting from a values-led environment that champions equality and diversity.
Contact Detail:
BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Welfare Support officer in England
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Bath & North East Somerset Council and their values. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills. Since the role involves speaking to customers in challenging situations, role-play with a friend or family member to get comfortable explaining complex information clearly and empathetically.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insights into the role and the council's culture, which can give you an edge during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Welfare Support officer in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in customer-facing or welfare support roles. We want to see how your skills align with the needs of our Welfare Support service.
Show Your Empathy:In your written application, demonstrate your ability to communicate complex information clearly and sensitively. We’re looking for someone who can connect with vulnerable residents, so let that shine through!
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:If you have an NVQ Level 3 or an IRRV Technician qualification, make sure to mention it! We value these qualifications and they’ll help us see you as a strong candidate for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this impactful role.
How to prepare for a job interview at BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on welfare benefits and processes before the interview. Familiarise yourself with the relevant legislation, especially around data protection. This will show that you’re not just interested in the role but also knowledgeable about the field.
✨Empathy is Key
As a Welfare Support Officer, you'll be dealing with vulnerable residents. Practice how to communicate complex information clearly and sensitively. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've shown empathy and understanding in challenging situations.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you manage your workload and keep accurate records. Bring examples of how you've successfully handled multiple tasks or cases at once, as this will demonstrate your organisational abilities and attention to detail.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in real-life scenarios you might face in the role. Think through how you would assess applications or handle safeguarding concerns. Practising these scenarios can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
