At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals in understanding financial assessments for care services.
- Company: Join Westmorland and Furness Council, making a real difference in the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, and enhanced annual leave.
- Other info: Flexible working options and opportunities for professional development await you.
- Why this job: Empower people to navigate complex financial situations and improve their lives.
- Qualifications: Empathy, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to customer service are essential.
The predicted salary is between 34434 - 35412 £ per year.
The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Job reference: REQ00000019901
Date posted: 21/04/2026
Application closing date: 17/05/2026
Location: Kendal
Salary: £34,434 - £35,412
Contractual hours: 37
Basis: Full time
About this opportunity:
The Community Finance Team plays a vital role in the delivery of Adult Social Care, supporting people to understand how their care and support is charged and helping to ensure fair and lawful outcomes. As a Community Finance Officer covering the South Lakes area, you will work in a busy operational service carrying out legally compliant financial assessments for people receiving residential and non-residential care, in line with the Care Act 2014 and Council policy.
This is a customer focused role where you will spend time meeting people in their own homes or care settings, listening to their circumstances and supporting them to understand charging arrangements, including making sure they are accessing the welfare benefits they are entitled to. You will need to be confident in problem solving, managing a varied workload, maintaining accurate records and audit trails, and consistently working to legislative, policy and information governance requirements.
Working closely with colleagues across Adult Social Care and partner organisations, you will take a proactive approach to account management, respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment. This is a varied role where no two days are the same and where your work will make a real difference to people’s lives.
Due to the geographically diverse nature of the South Lakes area, a full UK driving licence and access to a suitable vehicle are essential, as the role involves travelling to customers’ homes and care settings. The post is primarily office based, with some flexibility for home working.
Who we are looking for:
- We are looking for someone who is empathetic, customer focused and adaptable, with a genuine commitment to supporting people to understand and navigate often complex financial situations.
- You will be someone who puts the customer at the heart of everything you do, taking time to listen, explain information clearly and respond with patience and understanding.
- Is confident engaging with customers and their representatives in their own homes or care settings, building trust while discussing sensitive financial matters.
- Enjoys working in a changing and evolving environment, responding positively to new legislation, service developments and ways of working.
- Demonstrates resilience and professionalism, remaining calm, fair and solutions focused in challenging or emotional situations.
- Takes pride in working accurately and transparently, understanding the importance of consistency, equity and compliance.
- Has a curious and analytical approach, with the ability to problem solve and make balanced decisions.
- Can manage competing priorities, organise workloads and adapt to interruptions in a busy operational service.
- Works well independently while also valuing and supporting wider team objectives.
- Is committed to continuous learning, improvement and professional development.
- Understands the importance of safeguarding.
Experience of Adult Social Care and an understanding of welfare benefits are desirable; however, the right behaviours, values and willingness to learn are equally important.
What can we offer you:
Working at Westmorland and Furness Council you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other various perks and discounts schemes.
For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council and what we can offer you, please visit our Careers site.
If you have any queries about this role or would like an informal chat about this opportunity, then please contact Abby Barrett on 07901 758820.
Interview date: W/c 1st June 2026. We are currently operating in-person interviews; if you are invited for interview and have any concerns or adjustments needed, we are happy to discuss.
If you experience any technical difficulties applying for this role, please contact the HR Systems Team at HR.Systems@cumbria.gov.uk.
Community Finance Officer - WMF2891e employer: The Cumbria County Council
Contact Detail:
The Cumbria County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Finance Officer - WMF2891e
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Westmorland and Furness Council. Understand their values and how they support the community. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your skills align with the Community Finance Officer role, especially your customer-focused approach and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share real-life examples! Think of situations where you've demonstrated empathy, adaptability, and resilience. These stories will help you stand out and show that you can handle the challenges of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the team, the role, or the council's future plans. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you figure out if it's the right fit for you. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Community Finance Officer - WMF2891e
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Community Finance Officer role. We want to see how you can bring your unique touch to our team!
Showcase Your Customer Focus: Since this role is all about supporting people, let us know about your past experiences where you've put customers first. Share specific examples that demonstrate your empathy and problem-solving skills.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key points stand out without unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Cumbria County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the Care Act 2014 and how it relates to financial assessments. Brush up on welfare benefits too, as you'll need to explain these to customers clearly.
✨Show Empathy
This role is all about customer focus. Practice how you would approach sensitive conversations with clients in their homes. Think about how to listen actively and respond with patience.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled complex situations in the past. Be ready to discuss how you can manage competing priorities and adapt to changes in a fast-paced environment.
✨Be Professional and Resilient
Think about scenarios where you had to remain calm under pressure. Show that you can handle challenging situations with professionalism and fairness, which is crucial for this role.