At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide advice on welfare benefits and support tailored to individual customer needs.
- Company: Join a supportive team dedicated to financial inclusion and community welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, fixed-term contract, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Fixed term until March 2027 with annual progression and in-person interviews.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives by helping them navigate welfare services.
- Qualifications: HNC level education and strong customer service skills required.
The predicted salary is between 32610 - 35639 € per year.
37 hours per week, fixed term to 31 March 2027
£32,610 – £35,639 per annum (inclusive of £2,997 Distant Islands Allowance)
The post holder will provide advice and guidance on welfare benefits (Scottish and National) and other services tailored to the individual needs of customers. The post holder will also be required to liaise with external agencies including Social Security Scotland, Department for Work and Pensions, Job Centre Plus, the Assessor and Western Isles Citizens Advice.
You must have good customer service skills as you will be required to handle situations where customers may be angry or upset. You should have knowledge of welfare benefits and have the ability to explain entitlement and assessment processes clearly to customers.
It is essential you are educated to HNC level or equivalent. Appointment to the post is fixed term until 31 March 2027. Salary for the above post is inclusive of Distant Islands Allowance. Appointment to the post will be on the first point of grade with annual incremental progression.
It is vital you read the attached job description and person specification. In your Experience statement please detail how you meet each of the essential criteria we ask for in the person specification.
Interviews will be conducted in person, providing candidates with the chance to personally meet the team and experience our work environment.
Closing Date: Monday 8 June 2026
Financial Inclusion Officer (7814) - CNS06243 employer: Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
As a Financial Inclusion Officer, you will join a supportive and dynamic team dedicated to making a positive impact in the community. Our organisation values employee growth, offering training and development opportunities to enhance your skills in welfare benefits and customer service. Located in the picturesque Distant Islands, we provide a unique work environment that fosters collaboration and a strong sense of purpose, ensuring that every day is both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Inclusion Officer (7814) - CNS06243
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company and its values before your interview. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested in what we do, especially in financial inclusion. Research our projects and think about how your skills can contribute.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Since you'll be dealing with customers who might be upset, role-play some scenarios with a friend. Show us you can handle tough situations with empathy and professionalism.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare questions for us! Interviews are a two-way street, and we love when candidates ask insightful questions. It shows you’re engaged and thinking critically about how you fit into our team.
✨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 gives you a chance to showcase your enthusiasm for the role right from the start.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Inclusion Officer (7814) - CNS06243
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description and person specification carefully. We want to see how you meet the essential criteria, so take notes on what’s important and tailor your application accordingly.
Craft a Strong Experience Statement:In your experience statement, be specific about how your skills and experiences align with the role. Use examples that highlight your customer service skills and knowledge of welfare benefits, as these are key for us in this position.
Keep it Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep your language clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and ensure your points are easy to understand. This will help us see your qualifications quickly!
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 Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
✨Know Your Benefits Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of welfare benefits, both Scottish and National. Familiarise yourself with the entitlement and assessment processes so you can explain them clearly to customers during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples of how you've handled difficult customer situations in the past. Think about times when you've turned an angry or upset customer into a satisfied one, as this will demonstrate your ability to manage challenging interactions.
✨Research the Agencies
Get to know the external agencies you'll be liaising with, like Social Security Scotland and Job Centre Plus. Understanding their roles and how they interact with your potential position will show your commitment and readiness for the role.
✨Tailor Your Experience Statement
When detailing your experience, make sure to align it with the essential criteria outlined in the person specification. Use specific examples that highlight your qualifications and how they relate to the job description.
