At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals in making informed decisions about Direct Payments for care and support.
- Company: Join Powys County Council, dedicated to improving social care services.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, training opportunities, and a guaranteed pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Strong communication, analytical skills, and proficiency in ICT software required.
The predicted salary is between 28142 - 29540 £ per year.
The Direct Payment Advisor plays a key role in ensuring that individuals in Powys are supported to make informed decisions about receiving care and support through a Direct Payment. This role involves identifying the suitability of Direct Payments at two critical stages: before an application is made to the Care Practice Forum, and again six weeks after implementation to confirm the arrangement is appropriate and sustainable.
About you
- Ability to communicate with a wide range of stakeholders, including senior managers, Council members, and members of the public, including vulnerable adults.
- Strong numerical and analytical skills.
- Above-average report writing and presentation skills.
- Proficiency in ICT software packages, particularly Excel, as well as web-based systems.
- Ability to adapt quickly to the use of customised software, e.g., WCCIS, Corporate Insight Center, MapInfo, Crystal Reporting, Lime Survey, etc.
- Ability to focus for extended periods while manipulating, extrapolating, and analysing data using spreadsheets, graphs, and multiple data sources simultaneously.
What you will do
- Carry out structured discussions to determine whether a Direct Payment is suitable for an individual before an application is made to the Care Practice Forum.
- Evaluate the suitability of the Direct Payment six weeks after implementation, ensuring it remains appropriate, safe, and aligned with the individual’s outcomes.
- Provide clear, evidence-based advice to allocated workers, individuals, carers, and Suitable Persons on the responsibilities and implications of receiving a Direct Payment.
- Assist clients who lack technological capability by helping them log in to the necessary managed account portal, navigate, and authorise timesheets based on schedules.
- Record discussion outcomes and recommendations in line with Powys County Council policies and within WCCIS or other relevant systems.
- Contribute to wider service improvement by identifying common barriers, risks, or support needs and feeding these into process development or training.
Enhanced DBS Check required (regulated activity under the Safeguarding of Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 as amended by the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012).
Service: Adult Social Care
Salary: Grade 6 Point 11 to Point 14 (£28,142 to £29,540) per annum pro rata (£14.58 to £15.31) per hour
Please note that at this point, Powys County Council is not accepting applicants who require a Skilled Worker visa as a prerequisite to a right to work in the UK. Applicants should ensure they have the right to work in the UK before applying for a vacancy.
What we offer
- We will train you and develop your skills
- Flexible Working
- Guaranteed defined benefit Pension Scheme
Direct Payment Advisor — Flexible Social Care Role employer: Powys County Council
Powys County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work environment that prioritises employee development and flexibility. As a Direct Payment Advisor, you will benefit from comprehensive training, a guaranteed defined benefit pension scheme, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable adults in Powys. Our inclusive culture encourages collaboration and innovation, ensuring that every team member can thrive while contributing to the improvement of social care services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Direct Payment Advisor — Flexible Social Care Role
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the social care sector, especially those who work with Direct Payments. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to Direct Payments and social care. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your analytical skills! Bring examples of how you've used data to make decisions in past roles. This will demonstrate your ability to evaluate Direct Payment suitability effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Direct Payment Advisor — Flexible Social Care Role
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Direct Payment Advisor role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since you'll be interacting with a variety of stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication prowess. Include examples in your application that showcase your ability to engage with different audiences effectively.
Highlight Your Analytical Skills:We need someone who can handle data like a pro! Make sure to mention any experience you have with numerical analysis or using software like Excel. This will help us see that you're ready to tackle the analytical aspects of the role.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While we love a friendly tone, remember to keep your application professional. Share a bit about yourself and why you're passionate about this role, but ensure it aligns with the formal nature of the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Powys County Council
✨Know Your Direct Payments
Make sure you understand the ins and outs of Direct Payments. Familiarise yourself with the application process, eligibility criteria, and the role's responsibilities. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be interacting with a variety of stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated complex information to different audiences, especially vulnerable adults or senior managers.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Prowess
Brush up on your numerical and analytical skills. Be ready to discuss how you've used data analysis in previous roles. You might even want to bring along a sample report or presentation that showcases your ability to interpret and present data effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Software
Get comfortable with the ICT software mentioned in the job description, particularly Excel and any other systems like WCCIS. If possible, take a quick online tutorial to refresh your skills, so you can confidently discuss your proficiency during the interview.
