At a Glance
- Tasks: Log and manage complaints and FOI requests while supporting the Council's administrative functions.
- Company: Join a busy Local Authority team in Bexleyheath with a focus on community support.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hybrid working, and a chance to make a difference in local governance.
- Other info: Immediate start available with ongoing temporary assignment.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital team ensuring transparency and accountability in public services.
- Qualifications: Experience in complaints handling and FOI requests is essential.
The predicted salary is between 15.68 - 15.68 £ per hour.
Location: Bexleyheath (Hybrid Working)
Office Attendance: 2 days per week (typically Tuesdays and Wednesdays) central Bexleyheath
Home Working: 3 days per week
Start Date: Immediate Start Available
Contract: Ongoing Temporary Assignment
Pay Rate: £15.68 per hour PAYE
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:48am - 5:00pm
About the Role
We are recruiting for a Complaints & FOI Business Support Officer to join a busy Local Authority team based in Bexleyheath on an ongoing temporary basis. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced business support professional with previous experience handling complaints, Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, member enquiries, case management systems, and data redaction processes. The successful candidate must have relevant experience in the duties outlined below and be able to start immediately.
Key Responsibilities
- Logging complaints, Freedom of Information (FOI) requests and Member Enquiries onto the Council's case management system, iCasework.
- Allocating cases to the relevant service areas for investigation and response.
- Monitoring and tracking due and overdue cases on a weekly basis.
- Supporting the Council in meeting statutory deadlines and performance targets.
- Maintaining accurate records and updating case management systems.
- Redacting Children's Social Services Subject Access Requests (SARs).
- Ensuring all third-party personal data is removed in line with data protection requirements.
- Preparing files for review by Social Workers prior to release.
- Providing high-quality administrative and business support to the Complaints and Information Governance function.
Essential Requirements
- Previous experience processing and managing complaints and FOI requests.
- Experience working with case management systems (iCasework experience highly desirable).
- Knowledge of Subject Access Requests (SARs) and document redaction processes.
- Strong administrative and organisational skills.
- Excellent attention to detail, particularly when handling sensitive and confidential information.
- Ability to monitor workloads, track deadlines and manage competing priorities.
- Experience gained within a Local Authority, Public Sector, Information Governance, Complaints, FOI, or Business Support environment.
Applications will only be considered from candidates who have relevant experience in complaints handling, FOI administration, case management and/or SAR redaction.
Complaints & FOI Business Support Officer in Bexleyheath employer: Ontapjobsearch
As a Temporary Part-Time Administrator in Gosforth, you will join a supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity and encourages personal growth. With benefits like weekly pay, generous annual leave, and discounts at high street brands, we prioritise employee well-being and satisfaction. Our commitment to direct employment ensures you are part of a team that fosters collaboration and professional development, making this an excellent opportunity for those seeking meaningful and rewarding work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Complaints & FOI Business Support Officer in Bexleyheath
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Complaints & FOI Business Support Officer in Bexleyheath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ontapjobsearch
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Ontapjobsearch.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Ontapjobsearch that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
