At a Glance
- Tasks: Help tenants manage financial challenges and provide essential welfare benefits advice.
- Company: Join a supportive housing association dedicated to improving lives in Merseyside.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive pay, and the potential for contract extension.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while gaining valuable experience in social housing.
- Qualifications: Experience in money advice services and a full UK Driver’s Licence required.
- Other info: This is a temporary role with opportunities for growth and learning.
Castlefield Recruitment are currently recruiting a Welfare Benefits Advisor for a housing association based in Merseyside. The role is an initial 5 month temporary contract, paying between £21 and £23.50 per hour via umbrella agency, with the possibility of extension. The role also offers hybrid working.
The role:
- Engage and assist tenants who are experiencing financial hardship to enable them to successfully sustain their tenancy through intensive debt, welfare benefits and money advice.
- Provide welfare benefit, money and debt advice to tenants through multiple platforms such as interviews, home visits and telephone.
- Provide pre-tenancy money advice to ensure incoming tenants can sustain their tenancy.
- Monitor progress of tenants through effective communication and accurate record management.
- Advocate on behalf of tenants through written reports for reviews of benefit decisions.
- Signpost tenants to specialist legal advice when an issue falls beyond the remit of service.
The person:
- Experience with money advice services in the social housing sector.
- Experience of providing debt advice, financial inclusion and welfare benefits with the aim of maximising tenants’ income.
- Keep up to date with any changes in legislation and regulations that affect the payment of Housing Benefit, Universal Credit and other benefits.
- Full UK Driver’s Licence and access to vehicle.
Welfare Benefits Advisor employer: Castlefield Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Castlefield Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Welfare Benefits Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest welfare benefits legislation and regulations. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in a constantly changing field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the social housing sector. Attend relevant workshops or webinars where you can meet others in the field, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for role-play scenarios that may come up during the interview process. Practising how to handle difficult conversations with tenants can showcase your communication skills and empathy.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the specific housing association you're applying to. Understanding their values and mission can help you tailor your responses in interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in working with them.
We think you need these skills to ace Welfare Benefits Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in welfare benefits, money advice, and social housing. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to assist tenants in financial hardship.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities of the Welfare Benefits Advisor role. Explain how your background aligns with the job requirements and express your passion for helping tenants sustain their tenancies.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Emphasise skills such as communication, advocacy, and record management in your application. Provide examples of how you've successfully used these skills in previous roles to support tenants.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Castlefield Recruitment
✨Show Your Empathy
As a Welfare Benefits Advisor, you'll be working closely with tenants facing financial hardship. Demonstrating empathy during the interview will show that you understand their struggles and are committed to helping them. Share examples of how you've supported individuals in similar situations.
✨Know Your Legislation
Stay updated on the latest changes in legislation regarding Housing Benefit and Universal Credit. During the interview, be prepared to discuss recent updates and how they impact tenants. This knowledge will highlight your expertise and commitment to the role.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully communicated complex information to clients. Whether through interviews, home visits, or phone calls, showcasing your ability to connect with people will set you apart.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills
In this position, you'll need to advocate for tenants and help them navigate financial challenges. Prepare to discuss specific instances where you've identified problems and implemented solutions. This will illustrate your proactive approach and ability to think on your feet.