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.
Contact for more information: Angela Hucker at angela_hucker@bathnes.gov.uk and Robert John at robert_john@bathnes.gov.uk.
Interview date: TBC.
No Agencies, please.
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 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 supportive work culture fosters professional growth through training and development opportunities, while our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion ensures that every employee feels valued and empowered. Join us in making a meaningful impact as a Welfare Support Officer in a role that truly matters.
Contact Detail:
BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Welfare Support officer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Bath & North East Somerset Council and understand their values and mission. 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, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to communicate clearly and empathetically. Role-play with a friend or family member to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario-based questions! Think about how you would handle specific situations related to welfare support. This will help you articulate your thought process and problem-solving skills during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Welfare Support officer
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 the Welfare Support Officer position.
Show Your Empathy:Since this role involves supporting vulnerable residents, it’s crucial to convey your empathetic approach in your written application. Share examples of how you've handled challenging situations with sensitivity and care.
Be Clear and Concise:When explaining your qualifications and experiences, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your points are easy to understand, especially when discussing complex information.
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at BATH & NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL
✨Know Your Welfare Support Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of welfare benefits and processes. Familiarise yourself with the key legislation and how it impacts vulnerable residents. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're serious about the role.
✨Practice Empathetic Communication
Since this role involves sensitive conversations, practice how to communicate complex information clearly and empathetically. Role-play with a friend or family member to get comfortable explaining difficult topics in a way that’s easy to understand.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you manage your workload and keep accurate records. Think of examples from your past experience where you successfully handled multiple tasks or maintained confidentiality under pressure. This will demonstrate your organisational prowess.
✨Prepare for Challenging Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would handle difficult situations or challenging customers. Think of specific examples from your previous roles where you managed conflict or escalated safeguarding concerns effectively. This will highlight your resilience and problem-solving skills.
