At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate and correct errors in low-income benefits to support those in need.
- Company: Join Social Security Scotland, a supportive and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and a commitment to diversity.
- Other info: Engage in a dynamic team with opportunities for growth and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your analytical skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in low-income benefits or carer support is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 £ per year.
Social Security Scotland’s Fraud and Error Resolution Unit (FERU) is seeking a Low-Income Benefits Interventions Officer to join their friendly and supportive Interventions Team. If you are looking for a role where you can use your strong analytical skills and get involved in unit-wide initiatives to influence change, then this may be the role for you.
The team’s main objective is to utilise error control measures to respond to official and client error in the administration of devolved low-income benefits. As a Low-Income Benefits Interventions Officer, you will undertake payment error control activity, playing an important part in contributing to the safeguarding of vital resources for the people of Scotland who need them. You will review error cases to determine whether an error has occurred, then take corrective action, issue any underpayments to the clients, or refer the overpayment to our Recoveries Team. You will also determine classifications and root causes of errors and be able to explain your decision with a written explanation.
Responsibilities
- Investigate and correct errors for low-income benefits based on our Decision Maker’s guidance.
- Provide accurate advice, using balance of probability decisions to identify root cause error classification and where appropriate, liability status.
- Engage with clients in writing and on the telephone, to request further information if required and explain the outcome of error correction/case reviews.
- Provide feedback to operational team leaders on identified errors and error risks, technical advice, and support.
- Provide technical insight to working groups and stakeholders, collaborating with model office to understand error risk and identify mitigation.
- Accurately record error causes and classification for trend analysis and contribute to identification of candidates for continuous improvement.
- Support pilot exercises and benefit launches to identify the best methods of delivering services.
- Instigate appropriate error resolution methods (such as referral to Debt Management or issuing arrears).
Qualifications
We use an assessment framework called ‘Success Profiles’ which lists the elements we test and provides detailed descriptions of each. For this post, the following Success Profile elements will be assessed:
- Experience: Experience in working in either Low-Income Benefits or Carer Support Payment.
- Behaviours: Changing and Improving – (Level 2), Making Effective Decisions – (Level 2), Managing a Quality Service – (Level 2), Delivering at Pace – (Level 2).
- Technical / Professional Skills: You will demonstrate the following skills within the Operational Delivery Profession (ODP) Capability Framework: Data and Insights (Level: Awareness).
Aware of organisational and legal protocols for managing information: Data Protection Act, Declaration of Confidentiality, Official Secrets Act, Freedom of Information Act, Electronic Media Policy. Aware of procedures for managing customer information and data - including how to collect, retrieve, supply, retain, record, and dispose. Identify the actions to take if gaps, errors or irregularities in information and data management occur.
How to Apply
Apply online, providing a CV and a Supporting Statement (of no more than 1000 words) which provides evidence of how you meet the Success Profiles above. Both the CV and the supporting statement provided will be assessed against the criteria for the role. If invited for further assessment, this will consist of an interview and a job simulation exercise. Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can be used to support your application, but all statements and examples provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified, applications will be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action.
Information Session
We are holding a candidate information session to provide you with information about the application and interview process, as well as further information on the role and team. The session will be held on Thursday 6th August 14:00 – 15:00.
Expected Timeline
Sift – 18th - 28th August 2026. Interviews – week commencing 7th September 2026. Location – Interviews will be held via Microsoft Teams.
Reserve List
In the event that there are more successful candidates than posts available, a reserve list will be kept for up to 12 months.
About Us
Social Security Scotland is an Executive Agency of the Scottish Government. Our benefits help people from all walks of life in Scotland. We offer rewarding careers and employ people across Scotland in a wide range of professions and roles. We are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that is representative of the clients we serve.
Working Pattern
Our standard hours are 35 hours per week and we offer a range of flexible working options, depending on the needs of the role. We embrace a hybrid working style where all colleagues will spend time in either our Glasgow or Dundee offices. There is an expectation of a minimum 2 days per week in your assigned location, which will be either Glasgow or Dundee.
Equality Statement
Social Security Scotland are committed to equality and inclusion, and we aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation. Social Security Scotland are a Disability Confident Employer. We will consider and implement any reasonable adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment process and during the course of your employment, should you be successful in securing a post.
Further Information
This role is only available to existing permanent civil servants who have successfully completed their probation period within Social Security Scotland, or the broader Scottish Government.
B1 Low-Income Benefits Interventions Officer (Glasgow) - Social Security Scotland employer: Scottish Government
The Scottish Government offers a dynamic and supportive work environment, where you can make a significant impact on customer service and safeguarding across Scotland. With a strong focus on employee development and innovation, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while working alongside a dedicated team committed to excellence in public service. Join us in shaping a high-performing organisation that values collaboration and strives for transformative results.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land B1 Low-Income Benefits Interventions Officer (Glasgow) - Social Security Scotland
✨Dive into Local Community Groups
Social work thrives on community connections, so get involved in local groups or forums specific to your interests. Whether it’s volunteering at local shelters or joining community action boards, these are great ways to boost your visibility and make direct contacts that could lead to opportunities like the one at Scottish Government.
✨Attend Social Work Events and Workshops
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences in social work. These events are fantastic for meeting professionals in the field, learning about emerging trends, and spotting job openings. Plus, you might just bump into someone from Scottish Government!
✨Showcase Your Passion and Expertise
Use platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn to share your journey and insights into the social work sector. Whether it’s writing about your experiences or sharing relevant articles, this helps to establish you as an engaged professional. Potential employers, like Scottish Government, will notice your enthusiasm!
✨Leverage Your Network
Don’t hesitate to reach out to professors, mentors, or even past colleagues who are in social work. They might have inside knowledge about openings at Scottish Government or be able to connect you with someone who’s hiring. Networking is key, especially in a full-time role where relationships matter.
We think you need these skills to ace B1 Low-Income Benefits Interventions Officer (Glasgow) - Social Security Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let us see your passion for social work shine through! Talk about the experiences that made you want to pursue this career—whether it’s volunteering, personal experiences, or academic projects. We want to know why this field matters to you.
Emphasise Relevant Qualifications:Make sure your CV highlights any relevant qualifications, like degrees in social work or certifications like a DBS check. If you've done any workshops or training, don’t forget to include those as well. We're keen to see your commitment to your professional development!
Detail Your Experience with Clients:Since this is a hands-on field, detailing any direct experience you have with clients is crucial. Whether it's internships, volunteer roles, or previous jobs, highlight those experiences in your CV to show us you've got the practical skills necessary for the job!
Tailor Your Application to Scottish Government:Before hitting send, make sure to tailor your application specifically to Scottish Government! Research our mission and values, and refer to them in your cover letter. This shows us that you understand our work and are genuinely interested in being a part of our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Understanding the Role of Empathy
In social work, understanding and demonstrating empathy is key. Be prepared to share personal experiences or scenarios where you effectively showed compassion and support. This helps show that you genuinely care about the well-being of others, which is crucial in social work.
✨Demonstrating Knowledge of Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with the frameworks and models used in social work, such as the Strengths-Based Approach or the Ecological Perspective. Be ready to discuss how these frameworks apply to your work, especially if you can tie them into real-world examples or case studies you've encountered.
✨Showcasing Your Multi-Disciplinary Skills
In a full-time social work role, you'll often collaborate with healthcare professionals, educators, and law enforcement. Be prepared to describe your teamwork experiences and how you've effectively communicated with other disciplines to achieve the best outcomes for clients.
✨Preparing for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical social work situations, such as dealing with a crisis or managing a complex case. Think through your thought process for these scenarios beforehand, considering how you'd assess the situation and what steps you'd take, as this demonstrates your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
