At a Glance
- Tasks: Help people access housing benefits and council tax support while managing claims.
- Company: Join North Northamptonshire Council's supportive Revenue and Benefits team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, hybrid working, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Enjoy a flexible work environment with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community by supporting those in need.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, plus 2 years of relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Overview
North Northamptonshire Council is recruiting within its Revenue and Benefits team for multiple experienced Benefits Officers.
The Revenue and Benefits Service is undergoing a restructuring, creating opportunities to join the team as a Benefit Officer.
As a Benefit Advisor, you will be responsible for establishing eligibility for housing benefit and council tax support, ensuring correct entitlement is awarded and managing payments.
Responsibilities
- Receive applications for Housing Benefit and Council Tax support and determine eligibility.
- Request documentation to support claims.
- Ensure correct entitlement is awarded in accordance with legislation.
- Process claims accurately to support Housing Benefit subsidy requirements.
- Maintain accurate records.
- Resolve and respond to customer queries and provide advice.
- Proactively identify false claims.
- Issue invoices.
- Recover Housing Benefit overpayments.
- Manage all aspects of casework from initial enquiry through to decision-making and award/payment of benefits.
Qualifications
- English and Maths GCSE Grade C or above.
- Good IT skills.
- Minimum 2 years experience assessing claims for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support.
- Ability to understand government legislation and keep up to date with changes.
- Good verbal and written communication.
- Negotiation skills.
- Work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
- Attention to detail.
- Work on own initiative.
- Use discretion and judgment.
- Demonstrate awareness and understanding of equal opportunities.
Benefits
We offer a competitive salary, a pension scheme with a significant contribution on top of your contribution, life cover and ill‑health protection, generous leave entitlement (28 days rising to 33 days) and bank holidays, the possibility to purchase up to an extra 10 days, hybrid and flexible working arrangements, an Employee Assistance Programme, wellbeing support, travel rates at HMRC rates and support for employee network groups.
Our Values and Behaviours
Our values are Customer‑focused, Respectful, Efficient, Supportive and Trustworthy.
They guide our interactions with customers and colleagues and underpin our commitments to deliver quality services.
Equal Opportunities
North Northamptonshire Council is a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to providing an inclusive recruitment process.
We offer interviews to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role.
We also support equal opportunity in all aspects of employment.
Interview Dates
Interviews will take place on 11th or 12th August.
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Hybrid Benefits Advisor: Housing & Council Tax employer: North Northamptonshire Council
North Northamptonshire Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where legal professionals can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the community. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive salaries, and a supportive culture, this role provides unique opportunities for growth and collaboration within a dedicated team focused on public service.
Contact Details:
North Northamptonshire Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Hybrid Benefits Advisor: Housing & Council Tax
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We think you need these skills to ace Hybrid Benefits Advisor: Housing & Council Tax
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for North Northamptonshire Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at North Northamptonshire Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with North Northamptonshire Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
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Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for North Northamptonshire Council.
