At a Glance
- Tasks: Assess financial circumstances and provide support to clients needing care services.
- Company: Join a dynamic Community Finance Team within the council.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and training opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Embrace a varied role with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and excellent communication abilities required.
The predicted salary is between 34434 - 35412 £ per year.
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £34,434 - £35,412 per annum
Hours: 37 hours per week
Location: Carlisle
An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Community Finance Team for a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join us as a Community Finance Officer. In this role, you will assess the financial circumstances of clients eligible for both residential and non‑residential care services. You will determine their ability to contribute towards the cost of their care in accordance with the Care Act 2014 and Council policy. Collaborating with partner services including Client Affairs, Brokerage, and Social Work teams, you will deliver a high‑quality, customer‑focused service. You will undertake financial assessments and provide clear, accurate advice and support to vulnerable adults and their carers, ensuring a professional and empathetic approach at all times. This is a fast‑paced and varied role where no two days are the same. We seek proactive, resilient, and passionate individuals with strong communication skills and a commitment to excellent customer service. In return, you will join a dynamic and supportive Community Finance Team that works closely with the wider council. We offer flexible working arrangements and a range of training and development opportunities to support your ongoing professional growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Collect, analyse and maintain accurate and up‑to‑date financial information to ensure informed decision‑making and the best possible outcomes for clients.
- Undertake comprehensive financial assessments and reassessments in line with relevant legislation, policy and best practice, using appropriate methods (face‑to‑face, written or digital).
- Interpret complex financial information provided by clients, identify discrepancies or missing details and carry out further investigation where necessary.
- Deliver sensitive, person‑centred financial support, ensuring clients fully understand their financial position, options and responsibilities.
- Conduct benefits checks and verify financial evidence to ensure clients are receiving correct entitlements and support.
- Manage client accounts, including monitoring balances, addressing arrears, supporting income recovery and processing refunds where appropriate.
- Communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including clients, families, carers and partner organisations, always acting in the client’s best interests.
- Work collaboratively with internal and external partners to support financial wellbeing and deliver coordinated, holistic outcomes.
- Maintain accurate, timely and compliant records in line with organisational and regulatory requirements.
- Contribute to continuous service improvement by identifying efficiencies, sharing best practice and supporting process development.
Qualifications and Skills
- Strong ability to analyse financial data, identify trends and draw meaningful insights.
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail in maintaining financial records, ensuring compliance and reliable reporting.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial information to non‑financial stakeholders.
- Effective problem‑solving skills, with the ability to identify financial issues and develop practical, client‑focused solutions.
- Commitment to maintaining transparency, integrity and ethical standards in all financial practices and decision‑making.
Equal Opportunities
We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, dependent care responsibilities or military service experience.
Application Information
Closing date: 2nd June 2026
Community Finance Officer - CMB2525e employer: Cumberland Council
Join our dynamic Community Finance Team in Carlisle, where we prioritise a supportive work culture and offer flexible working arrangements to ensure a healthy work-life balance. As a Community Finance Officer, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable adults while benefiting from ongoing professional development and training opportunities. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity and encourages personal growth, making us an excellent employer for those seeking a rewarding career in community finance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Finance Officer - CMB2525e
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the finance and care sectors, attend local events, or join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to financial assessments and client interactions. Role-play with a friend or use our resources to get comfortable explaining complex financial info in simple terms.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for customer service! During interviews, share examples of how you've gone above and beyond for clients in the past. This will highlight your commitment to delivering a high-quality, empathetic service.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities right there, tailored just for you.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Finance Officer - CMB2525e
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Community Finance Officer role. We want to see how you can contribute to our team, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves a lot of interaction with clients and stakeholders, it’s crucial to demonstrate your excellent verbal and written communication skills. Use clear examples in your application to show how you've effectively communicated complex information in the past.
Highlight Your Problem-Solving Abilities:We’re looking for proactive individuals who can tackle financial issues head-on. In your application, share specific instances where you’ve identified problems and developed practical solutions, especially in a client-focused context.
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 gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cumberland Council
✨Know Your Financial Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around the Care Act 2014 and how it impacts client assessments. Being able to discuss relevant legislation confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Practice Empathy
Since this role involves working with vulnerable adults, practice how you would communicate sensitive financial information. Role-play scenarios with a friend or family member to ensure you can deliver advice in a clear and compassionate manner.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This position requires collaboration with various teams. Be prepared to share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team before. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve contributed to achieving common goals.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready for your interviewers. This could be about their approach to client care or how they measure success in the Community Finance Team. It shows your interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
