At a Glance
- Tasks: Support families by processing Free School Meal applications and responding to enquiries.
- Company: Join Dudley Council's Children's Services team, dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, supportive team environment, and the chance to impact local families.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a diverse and inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a positive difference in children's lives while developing your administrative skills.
- Qualifications: Organised, customer-focused individuals with a knack for data management.
The predicted salary is between 18900 - 23100 £ per year.
Job Reference: DUDLEY/TP/209/5038
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Hours: 16.5
Location: Cable Plaza, Waterfront W, Brierley Hill
Closing Date: 12/08/2026
Job Type: Administrative / Clerical / Secretarial inc PA
Sector: Local Councils
Business Unit: Children's Services
Job Introduction
Business Support Officer – Free School Meals Team
16.5 hours per week - Days of work are open to discussion to align personal preferences with operational needs.
Grade 4
We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly organised Business Support Officer to join our Free School Meals Team. This rewarding role is ideal for someone who enjoys providing excellent customer service, working with data and systems, and making a positive difference to children and families across the borough.
As part of a busy and supportive team, you will play a vital role in administering Free School Meal applications and ensuring that parents, carers and schools receive a professional and efficient service. You will be responsible for processing applications, maintaining accurate records, responding to enquiries and supporting the effective operation of the Free School Meals service.
About the role
- Act as a first point of contact for parents, carers and schools, responding to enquiries by telephone, email and through the MyDudley portal.
- Assess and process Free School Meal applications, ensuring eligibility criteria are met and records are accurately maintained.
- Update and manage information within the Synergy database.
- Issue correspondence to parents and carers regarding application outcomes and entitlement decisions.
- Liaise with schools to communicate eligibility decisions and resolve queries.
- Manage and monitor pending applications, carrying out additional checks and obtaining further information where necessary.
- Ensure all work is completed accurately, efficiently and in accordance with relevant legislation, policies and procedures.
Workplace Attendance: Working in the office 3+ days a week (pro-rata) or onsite full time.
All applicants must be able to provide documentation to prove their right to work in the UK. Please note: Dudley MBC does not currently offer sponsorship for candidates without the Right to Work in the UK.
Dudley Council will check the information that you have provided against any details already held for accuracy and completeness. The Council will check, share and cross match your information both internally within the council and with external organisations to protect public funds and prevent or detect crime, only where the law allows us to do so.
N.B. We reserve the right to close this vacancy prior to the advertised date should we receive a large number of applications.
Business Support Officer - Free School Meals employer: Hurst Green
Hurst Green is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its employees. With a strong emphasis on professional development and flexible working arrangements, the company empowers its staff to make a meaningful impact in the lives of care-experienced young people in Brierley Hill. Join a passionate team that values relationship-building and offers opportunities for growth while making a positive difference in the community.
