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- Tasks: Provide vital advice on housing and welfare benefits to support local residents.
- Company: Join Wealden Citizens Advice, a community-focused organisation making a real difference.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, training opportunities, and a chance to help those in need.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and community impact.
- Why this job: Be a key resource in preventing homelessness and empowering individuals to improve their lives.
- Qualifications: Experience in advising or supporting clients, with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: Crowborough, Hailsham & Uckfield offices
We are looking for a qualified Citizens Advice Generalist Adviser to provide advice and practical support to Wealden residents on housing, welfare benefits as well as crisis prevention and income maximisation. Many of our clients face multiple challenges, including benefit delays, rent arrears, and complex housing needs, all exacerbated by the ongoing cost‑of‑living pressures. With the increasing responsibilities on landlords for timely repairs and maintenance, this adviser role will be a key resource for Wealden residents, helping to resolve housing issues before they escalate into crises.
Role Description
- Ability to interview clients using sensitive listening and questioning skills whilst maintaining structure and control of meetings.
- Ability to manage clients independently with remote support from supervisor when needed.
- Identify the root causes of issues, research and explore options and implications so that clients can make informed decisions.
- With a clear focus on preventing homelessness and supporting tenants to maintain their current tenancy.
- Assess housing issues, advise on rights, support clients including with homelessness applications, housing applications and drafting letters.
- Advise on crisis and resilience fund, council tax hardship funds and other charitable grants.
- Signpost clients to our specialist Money Advice team for budgeting, debt support, and financial capability guidance as appropriate.
- Conduct benefit checks, assist with first time claims, mandatory considerations, and appeals.
- Act with the client where appropriate, for example by negotiating, drafting correspondence, or making telephone calls.
- Refer internally or to other specialist agencies as appropriate.
- Negotiate with third parties such as statutory and non‑statutory bodies as appropriate.
- Liaise and work with local partners, including WDC Housing & Revenues & Benefits teams, to coordinate advice and wrap‑around support.
- Support clients with welfare benefits and disability forms.
- Use the Citizens Advice Public Site and AdviserNet website to find, interpret and communicate the relevant information.
- Maintain detailed case records for the purpose of continuity of casework, information retrieval, statistical monitoring, and report preparation.
- Conduct any other tasks that may be within the scope of the post to ensure the effective delivery and development of the service.
To request a job pack please email da@wealdencitizensadvice.org.uk
Housing & Welfare Benefits Adviser employer: Citizens Advice BANES
Contact Detail:
Citizens Advice BANES Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing & Welfare Benefits Adviser
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the housing and welfare benefits sector. Attend local events or join online forums where you can connect with others. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills! Mock interviews with friends or family can help you feel more confident. Focus on showcasing your ability to handle sensitive situations and your problem-solving skills, which are key for this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the organisation! Understand their values and the specific challenges they face in the community. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
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 at Wealden Citizens Advice.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing & Welfare Benefits Adviser
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that match the role of a Housing & Welfare Benefits Adviser. We want to see how your background aligns with the challenges our clients face, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Listening Skills: Since this role involves sensitive client interactions, emphasise your ability to listen and ask the right questions. We’re looking for someone who can manage meetings effectively while being empathetic, so share examples of how you've done this in the past.
Highlight Problem-Solving Abilities: We need someone who can identify root causes and explore options for clients. In your application, give us a glimpse of your analytical skills and how you’ve helped others navigate complex issues, especially in housing or welfare.
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 makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at Citizens Advice BANES
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in housing and welfare benefits. Brush up on the latest policies, especially those affecting Wealden residents. Being able to discuss specific cases or examples will show your expertise and commitment.
✨Practice Active Listening
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to listen sensitively. Use role-play scenarios to practice how you would handle client interactions. This will help you convey empathy and control during discussions, which is crucial for this role.
✨Showcase Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss how you’ve identified root causes of issues in past roles. Think of examples where you’ve researched options and helped clients make informed decisions. This will highlight your analytical skills and ability to support clients effectively.
✨Familiarise with Local Resources
Research local partners and resources that you might work with, such as WDC Housing & Revenues & Benefits teams. Being able to mention these in your interview shows you’re proactive and ready to collaborate for the benefit of clients.