At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team delivering essential financial support services and tackle inequalities.
- Company: Scottish Borders Council, dedicated to community improvement and diversity.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, permanent contract, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Support available for applicants from diverse backgrounds and veterans.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while shaping service improvements.
- Qualifications: Experience in welfare rights or financial inclusion and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 21.04 - 22.83 £ per hour.
Grade: 8A
Hourly Rate: £21.04 - £22.83
Contract Duration: Permanent
Hours: 35
Please note Interviews will be held on the week commencing 30th November 2026.
Role Purpose
We are inviting applications for this permanent role of Lead Officer in our Financial Support & Inclusion Team. This is an opportunity to lead a specialist team delivering high quality financial inclusion services, including Discretionary Housing Payments, Scottish Welfare Fund assessment functions, outsourced advice provision and welfare benefits support. The postholder will manage day-to-day operations, support policy and strategy development, and work collaboratively with colleagues and partners to reduce inequalities and improve outcomes for customers across the Scottish Borders.
What you will be doing
- Lead and manage the Financial Inclusion Team, including Financial Support and Assessment Team Leader, Financial Inclusion Officers, Financial Inclusion Supervisors and Scottish Welfare Fund Assessors.
- Provide advice on financial inclusion, welfare benefits, Scottish Welfare Fund, Discretionary Housing Payments and related policy areas.
- Support performance management, quality assurance, service planning and continuous improvement across the team.
- Contribute to poverty reduction, welfare reform, benefits take-up and reducing inequalities work across the Council.
- Oversee complex casework, appeals and tribunal-related activity where required.
- Work with internal colleagues, contracted providers, partner agencies and external organisations to deliver effective and customer-focused services.
- Prepare reports, management information, briefings and presentations to support service delivery and decision-making.
- Promote a positive, inclusive and high-performing team culture.
About you
We’re looking for someone with experience in a welfare rights or financial inclusion environment, and with knowledge of, or ability to interpret and apply, social security and related law and practice. You will have demonstrable experience of managing staff and confident setting objectives, supporting performance, improving services and working collaboratively with colleagues and partners.
You should bring strong leadership, communication, organisational and customer service skills, along with the ability to manage a varied workload, respond positively to change and contribute to strategic and corporate priorities.
Why apply?
This role offers the chance to lead a committed team delivering services that make a practical difference to individuals, households and communities. You will help shape service improvement, support colleagues across the Council and contribute directly to work focused on tackling poverty and reducing inequalities.
Essential
HND level qualification or equivalent in a relevant area, or Demonstrable relevant experience.
Informal Enquiries
Informal enquiries may be made to Scott Stewart by telephone or by email.
Scottish Borders Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all minority groups and individuals who identify with one or more of the protected characteristics as defined by the Equality Act 2010. In particular from candidates who assess themselves as having a disability, under the Disability Confident Employer scheme this guarantees an interview to those individuals who meet the essential criteria of the post. All appointments will be made on merit.
Scottish Borders Council is committed to providing support for Armed Forces Veterans. Showing its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, the Council guarantees an interview to veterans who meet the essential criteria of the post. All appointments will be made on merit.
Employability Support
The Employability Service - For support on completing job applications, Scottish Borders residents can access free support from our specialist Employability Team.
Team Leader (Lead Officer Financial Support and Inclusion)- Paton Street Galashiels - SBO10511 employer: Scottish Borders council
Earlston High School, part of the Scottish Borders Council, is an excellent employer that prioritises the professional development and well-being of its staff. With a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusion, teachers are encouraged to grow through continuous professional development opportunities while making a meaningful impact on the lives of young learners in a vibrant community. Located in the picturesque Scottish Borders, the school offers a unique environment where educators can thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Team Leader (Lead Officer Financial Support and Inclusion)- Paton Street Galashiels - SBO10511
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Scottish Borders council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
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We think you need these skills to ace Team Leader (Lead Officer Financial Support and Inclusion)- Paton Street Galashiels - SBO10511
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 Scottish Borders 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 Scottish Borders council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Scottish Borders 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!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
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 Scottish Borders council.
