Senior Benefits & Welfare Officer in Devon, Exeter

Shared Lives South West is an award-winning charity that provides long-term and short break care and support services throughout Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset.

We are now looking for a passionate individual to join us as a Welfare Benefits Officer on a part-time, permanent basis, working 30 hours per week, with flexibility to extend to 37.5. As a Welfare Benefits Officer, you will provide efficient and effective funding and benefit support to Shared Lives Carers and the people we support.

You will bring strong organisational and communication skills, alongside a practical and supportive approach to working with people and managing sensitive financial information.

• Hybrid working
• 25 days annual leave pro rata (rising to 27 days with service)
• Pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Additional day off to mark your birthday
• Wellbeing Hour (one hour per week)
• Paid dependant and Carer leave
• 24/7 access to GP telephone service
• Option to buy additional annual leave
• Cycle to Work Scheme

This is a varied and detail-focused role where you will support Shared Lives Carers and the people we support with funding, welfare benefits and financial processes, helping to ensure individuals receive the financial support and entitlements available to them.

You will also conduct financial assessments, apply relevant charging policies and support the management of more complex benefit issues in collaboration with the Funding & Benefits Team Leader. Alongside this, you will maintain accurate records across a range of systems, monitor changes to benefits and payments, and support payment processes for Shared Lives Carers providing long-term services.

• Audit accounts, savings and spending activity
• Deliver funding and benefits training for Shared Lives Carers and staff

To be considered as a Welfare Benefits Officer, you will need:

• At least one year's experience of welfare benefits working within welfare benefits, financial support, money advice or a related field
• Experience of supporting applications for welfare benefits, particularly for adults with support needs
• Experience of working with benefits agencies, local authorities, and other external organisations
• Experience of working within a health or social care environment
• GCSEs at Grade C/Level 4 or above in Maths and English, or equivalent
• Relevant training in welfare benefits, money advice or financial administration
• A full, valid driving licence and the ability to travel according to the needs of the role

Please note, appointment is subject to a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check and pre-employment checks.

Shared Lives South West recruits, trains, and supports carers who share their homes and lives with people who have care and support needs. This enables people to experience real relationships, be part of family and community life, develop skills, and maintain their independence.

We are a values-led social care charity, rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission, with a strong track record of delivering high-quality, person-centred support. So, if you're ready to step into a meaningful role as a Welfare Benefits Officer, supporting people throughout the South West, select the apply button today.