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- Tasks: Lead the Benefits team to ensure timely administration of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction.
- Company: Cumberland Council, committed to excellent public service and community support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, guaranteed interviews for eligible applicants, and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Leadership skills and a passion for delivering excellent customer service.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with a focus on personal development.
The predicted salary is between 40777 - 41771 £ per year.
Salary: £40,777 to £41,771 per annum
Hours: 37 hours per week
Location: Carlisle
Contract: Temporary (12 months)
The Revenues and Benefits Service is responsible for the administration and collection of local taxation, the assessment and payment of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction, and the recovery of overpayments. The service ensures compliance with statutory requirements, delivers excellent customer service, and supports residents in accessing financial assistance. It plays a key role in maximising income for the Council, reducing fraud and error, and contributing to corporate priorities such as financial sustainability, social inclusion, and digital transformation.
To lead and manage the Benefits team, ensuring the accurate and timely administration of Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, and related services in line with legislation, Council policies, and service priorities. The role focuses on delivering excellent customer service, improving processing times, and supporting continuous improvement.
We’re looking for individuals who embody our organisation's core values: ambitious, collaborative, compassionate, empowering, and innovative. We believe in the power of these values to drive positive change, deliver excellent public services and shape a better future for our communities. We’re also about potential over perfection and we can help you grow in the role and thrive in your career.
For more information about the role or to arrange an informal chat prior to your application, please contact Reg Bascombe by email at Reg.Bascombe@carlisle.gov.uk.
This role requires a DBS check. The level of check for this role is: Basic DBS check.
We offer a guaranteed interview to the following applicants as long as your application can demonstrate you meet the essential criteria for the role:
- Those who consider themselves disabled as defined by the Equality Act 2010
- Those in care or who have left care and are aged 24 and under
- Those who identify as a member of the British Armed Forces community (service leavers, veterans, their partners or spouses, reservists, cadets).
If you meet one or more of the criteria above, and wish to be considered for this scheme, select 'yes' to the appropriate question during your application.
We’re dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. That’s why we’re a proud Disability Confident Leader and also an Age Friendly Employer – to provide opportunities for everyone to thrive.
If you need any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let either the hiring manager or our Resourcing Team know by emailing Resourcing@Cumberland.gov.uk. While adjustments aren’t always guaranteed, we’ll always listen and we’ll try our best to accommodate your needs.
Closing date: 12/02/2026
Interview date: 25/02/2026
Please note this role may close early subject to demand. If you’re interested in applying, you should apply well before the advised closing date. We cannot accept applications once the role has closed.
Benefits Team Leader-CMB2284i in Carlisle employer: Cumberland Council
Contact Detail:
Cumberland Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Benefits Team Leader-CMB2284i in Carlisle
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Cumberland Council and their values. When you understand what they stand for, you can tailor your approach in interviews to show how you embody those values.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to benefits administration and customer service. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online resources to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience! Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to improve processes. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can drive positive change.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the role and keen to be part of the team at Cumberland Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Benefits Team Leader-CMB2284i in Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Benefits Team Leader. We want to see how you embody our core values like being ambitious and collaborative!
Showcase Your Customer Service Skills: Since delivering excellent customer service is key for this role, share specific examples of how you've provided top-notch service in previous positions. We love hearing about your compassionate approach!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your potential.
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 Cumberland Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the key responsibilities of the Benefits Team Leader role. Brush up on legislation related to Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction, as well as the council's policies. This will show that you’re not just interested in the job, but that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Values
The organisation values ambition, collaboration, compassion, empowerment, and innovation. Think of examples from your past experiences that demonstrate these qualities. Be prepared to discuss how you embody these values and how they can drive positive change in the team.
✨Customer Service Focus
Since delivering excellent customer service is a priority, come prepared with specific examples of how you’ve improved customer satisfaction in previous roles. Highlight any strategies you’ve implemented to enhance service delivery or resolve issues effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or how the council measures success in the Benefits team. It shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
