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- Tasks: Assess housing benefits and manage appeals and complaints for local residents.
- Company: Join a respected public sector organisation making a difference in the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive rate of £32.54 per hour and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact while working in a supportive team environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in Housing Benefit and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Contract is 4 months with a strong view to extension.
Specialist Housing Benefits Officer – Appeals & Complaints
Before applying for this role, please read the following information about this opportunity found below.
Location: Hybrid (Office based in Fulham & Remote)
Contract: 4 months (with strong view to extension)
Hours: Full-time
Rate: £32.54 per hour
About the role:
Red Personnel is recruiting on behalf of a respected public sector organisation for a Specialist Housing Benefits Officer with a focus on discretionary payments, appeals, and complaints. This role offers the chance to work within a supportive team delivering critical housing and council tax benefit services to local residents.
Key responsibilities:
Accurately assess Discretionary Housing Payments, Council Tax Support, and benefit appeals
Investigate and manage Stage 1 and Stage 2 complaints, including MP and Councillor enquiries
Represent the organisation at benefit tribunals
Keep up to date with legislative changes and maintain procedural guidance
Identify and prevent fraudulent claims in line with policy
Collaborate with Housing, Revenues, and Resident Access teams
Candidate profile:
Proven experience in Housing Benefit, Universal Credit, and discretionary benefits
Skilled in appeals, complaints handling, and tribunal representation
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
Empathetic and clear communicator
IRRV Technician qualification or equivalent desirable
Why apply?
Competitive hourly rate of £32.54
Hybrid working with office base in Fulham, offering flexibility
Opportunity to make a positive impact in public service
Contract with potential for extension
To apply, please contact imran Makda at Red Personnel today to discuss this exciting opportunity
Specialist Housing Benefits Officer employer: Red Personnel
Contact Detail:
Red Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Housing Benefits Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest legislation and policies related to Housing Benefits and discretionary payments. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in this field.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for potential scenario-based questions by thinking through common appeals and complaints situations. Practising how you would handle these can showcase your problem-solving skills and empathy during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the housing benefits sector, either through LinkedIn or local events. Building connections can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals, increasing your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the organisation's values and recent initiatives in public service. Being able to discuss how your personal values align with theirs can make a strong impression during your interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Housing Benefits Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Specialist Housing Benefits Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your proven experience in Housing Benefit, Universal Credit, and discretionary benefits. Be specific about your skills in appeals and complaints handling, as these are crucial for this role.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: Provide examples in your application that demonstrate your strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Use real-life scenarios where you successfully managed complaints or represented an organisation at tribunals.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Craft a personalised cover letter that addresses the specific requirements of the job. Mention your empathy and communication skills, and explain how they will help you succeed in delivering critical housing and council tax benefit services.
How to prepare for a job interview at Red Personnel
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the latest housing benefit legislation and policies. Being able to discuss recent changes and how they impact discretionary payments will show your expertise and commitment to the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially in handling appeals and complaints. Prepare examples from your past experience where you successfully resolved issues or represented clients at tribunals.
✨Demonstrate Empathy
As a Specialist Housing Benefits Officer, you'll be dealing with vulnerable residents. Show your ability to communicate clearly and empathetically during the interview, highlighting your understanding of their needs and concerns.
✨Research the Organisation
Understand the public sector organisation's mission and values. Be ready to explain how your skills align with their goals and how you can contribute positively to their team and the community they serve.
