At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals managing their personal budgets through Direct Payments and provide ongoing assistance.
- Company: Join Calderdale Council's Direct Payment team, dedicated to enhancing social care services.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by helping others achieve independence and control over their care.
- Qualifications: Experience in customer service and knowledge of Direct Payments principles is preferred.
- Other info: Applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged; digital interviews may be used.
The predicted salary is between 22400 - 24800 £ per year.
The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Job details
Application closing date 07/09/2025 Location Halifax Salary Scale 4/5, SCP 7 – 17, £26,403 – £31,022 per annum Package 37 hours per week, 12 months Fixed Term Job category/type Council Attachments Applicant Booklet – CMBC.pdf RP – Direct Payments Officer.pdf Employee Benefits Leaflet.pdf
Post Ref: CC504
Please note: Priority may be given to internal applicants.
This is an exciting opportunity to join our Direct Payment team, which is part of the System and Finance service, within Integrated Commissioning and Partnerships, at Calderdale Council. The Team supports both the Adults and Children’s Social Care directorates and is responsible for supporting people that have an assessed social care need and want to manage their personal budget through a Direct Payment, to provide greater choice, control and independence.
The team’s remit is dealing with the setup of Direct Payments, supporting individuals to understand Direct Payments and their responsibilities, and dealing with queries promptly and professionally from both internal, external colleagues and customers.
We are looking to recruit a professional, friendly, and customer-focused Direct Payment Officer to become part of the Direct Payment team. You will be required to promote and maintain a customer focussed high-quality service and your duties will include meeting with people and/or their representatives who are new to Direct Payments, providing on-going support to individuals in receipt of a Direct Payment, and undertaking reviews to ensure compliance with the Direct Payment Agreement, providing support where needed.
If you have experience of working within a Direct Payment/Customer Service team, we welcome your application. The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:
• Experience of working within a customer focused role, using a range of media including telephone, emails, letters and meeting face to face with people understanding the differing needs they may have.
• Experience of dealing positively with challenging situations, either face to face or by phone.
• Be able to deal empathetically with customers in challenging situations to achieve a positive outcome.
• Knowledge of the principles of Direct Payments under the Care Act 2014, the Care and Support Statutory guidance and an understanding of how Direct Payments can be used to support independent living and other outcomes for individuals, would be a benefit.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff to share this commitment. Applicants to posts that are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act will require a DBS from the Disclosure and Barring Service before the appointment is confirmed.
Closing Date: 7th September 2025
Interview Date: 19th September 2025
We may utilise digital interview methods.
As part of our Vision (https://www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision/) we aim to be a talented, resilient and inclusive community. We welcome applications from all and offer a variety of flexible working / job share opportunities.
On 30 January 2019, the Council declared a climate emergency in a bold move to step up its action to tackle climate change.
Calderdale Council embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and we are committed to providing an environment that is inclusive. We encourage applications from people who share our commitment to challenge inequality and promote diversity across Calderdale. We particularly welcome applications from communities that are currently under-represented in our organisation. All applications are anonymised before being seen by the selection panel.
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Direct Payment Officer employer: Calderdale Council
Contact Detail:
Calderdale Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Direct Payment Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the principles of Direct Payments under the Care Act 2014. Understanding these regulations will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to supporting individuals in managing their personal budgets.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for potential interview questions by thinking about how you've handled challenging customer service situations in the past. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your empathy and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Calderdale Council's vision and values, as well as their approach to diversity and inclusion. Being able to align your personal values with those of the organisation can make a strong impression during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of the Direct Payment team if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the role and the team dynamics, which can help you tailor your approach during the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Direct Payment Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read through the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Direct Payment Officer. Make sure you can demonstrate how your experience aligns with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in customer service and knowledge of Direct Payments. Use specific examples that showcase your ability to handle challenging situations and support individuals effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for the role and the values of Calderdale Council. Mention your understanding of the principles of Direct Payments and how you can contribute to promoting independence for individuals.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Calderdale Council
✨Understand Direct Payments
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the principles of Direct Payments under the Care Act 2014. Familiarise yourself with how these payments can support independent living, as this knowledge will be crucial during your interview.
✨Showcase Customer Service Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience in customer-focused roles. Be ready to provide examples of how you've handled challenging situations positively, whether face-to-face or over the phone, as this is key for the Direct Payment Officer position.
✨Demonstrate Empathy
Highlight your ability to deal empathetically with customers in difficult situations. Think of specific instances where you achieved positive outcomes through understanding and support, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Research Calderdale Council
Take some time to learn about Calderdale Council's vision and values, especially their commitment to diversity and inclusion. Being able to align your personal values with those of the organisation can set you apart from other candidates.