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- Tasks: Be the go-to person for Council Tax and Benefits queries, helping residents daily.
- Company: Join Folkestone & Hythe District Council, a community-focused organisation making a real impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, up to 31 days leave, and corporate discounts.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and IT proficiency are essential; experience in admin roles is a plus.
- Other info: Work from our Civic Centre at least one day a week and enjoy a vibrant team culture.
The predicted salary is between 21800 - 24900 £ per year.
Employer: Folkestone & Hythe District Council Salary: Grade C/D (£25,344-£31,247 per annum) Dependent on experience Location: Civic Centre, Castle Hill Avenue, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 2QY / Flexible Contract: Permanent Working Pattern: Flexible Hours/Full Time Hours: 37 hours per week. DBS Check: Yes Closing Date: 25/08/2025 at 23:59 Reference: GF01/25/320295
Are you a proactive and detail-oriented, with a passion for delivering excellent customer service? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, multi-channel environment and enjoy making a real difference in your community?
Folkestone & Hythe District Council is seeking an efficient and skilled Council Tax & Benefits Officer to join our dynamic Council Tax, Benefits & Welfare Team. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a service that supports residents across the district, ensuring accurate billing, collection, and benefit processing.
What Youll Be Doing
- Acting as the first point of contact for Council Tax and Benefits enquiries across various platforms (phone, email, web chat).
- Processing applications and changes efficiently and accurately in line with legislation and council procedures.
- Supporting customers to self-serve and signposting to relevant agencies for additional support.
- Managing Council Tax accounts, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction claims, and recovery processes.
- Collaborating with internal teams and external partners to deliver joined-up services.
What Were Looking For
- Strong communication skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritise effectively.
- A customer-focused approach with experience in administrative or support service roles.
- IT proficiency, particularly in Microsoft Office.
- Minimum of one day per week to be based in our Civic Centre offices.
- For Level 2 applicants: demonstrable experience in Council Tax or Benefits administration and the ability to handle complex cases independently.
Why Join Us?
Benefits
Folkestone & Hythe District Council is proud to offer a supportive and inclusive working environment with a wide range of benefits:
- Up to 31 days annual leave plus bank holidays, birthday leave, and Christmas office closure.
- Flexible, agile, and hybrid working options.
- Local Government Pension Scheme .
- Learning and development opportunities to help you grow your career.
- Family-friendly policies and health & wellbeing initiatives, including an Employee Assistance Programme.
- Salary sacrifice schemes for cycle to work and lease cars.
- Corporate discounts on shopping, entertainment, gym memberships, and more.
- Free office parking and a town centre location close to transport links.
Closing date for receipt of all completed applications is 11:59pm on 25th August 2025
Interviews will take place 4th – 5th September 2025.
For an informal discussion about this role, please contact Andrew Hatcher Council Tax, Benefits & Welfare Manager: , Tel: 01303 853348
How To Apply
Please apply online via the link provided below. Please note that we do not accept CV\’s without a fully completed application form.
Further information on this vacancy
- Council Tax & Benefits Officer JDPS
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Council Tax & Benefits Officer employer: Folkestone & Hythe District Council
Contact Detail:
Folkestone & Hythe District Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Council Tax & Benefits Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific legislation and council procedures related to Council Tax and Benefits. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in customer service or administrative roles during your conversations with us. Being able to showcase your ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritise effectively will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview questions by thinking about scenarios where you've successfully resolved customer issues or handled complex cases. This will show your problem-solving skills and customer-focused approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure to connect with current employees or reach out to Andrew Hatcher for an informal chat. Gaining insights from those already in the role can provide you with valuable information and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Council Tax & Benefits Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Council Tax & Benefits Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with what Folkestone & Hythe District Council is looking for.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasise any previous experience in customer service or administrative roles, particularly in council tax or benefits administration. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to manage multiple tasks and your attention to detail.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Write a compelling personal statement that showcases your passion for delivering excellent customer service and your proactive approach. Make sure to mention your communication skills and how you can contribute to the team at Folkestone & Hythe District Council.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you complete the application form fully as specified. Remember, Folkestone & Hythe District Council does not accept CVs without a completed application form. Double-check for any specific instructions regarding submission before sending your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Folkestone & Hythe District Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of a Council Tax & Benefits Officer. Understand the legislation and council procedures related to council tax and benefits, as this will help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've delivered excellent customer service. Highlight how you managed enquiries and supported customers, as this role heavily focuses on interacting with residents.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Be ready to discuss how you ensure accuracy in your work. You might be asked about handling complex cases or processing applications, so share specific instances where your attention to detail made a difference.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, the challenges faced by the Council Tax & Benefits team, and opportunities for professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.