Benefits Officer in Hailsham

We are looking for a self‑motivated, experienced Benefits Officer to join our team. If you do not have experience but meet the other essential criteria, we would still like to invite you to apply. We are looking for someone who is proactive and motivated to commit to a development programme to become a fully trained Benefits Officer in our busy service.

What will the role involve?

• Provide advice and accurately calculate applications for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction based on a person’s income and circumstances, ensuring that they receive the correct entitlement and provide onward signposting to further financial support.
• Proactively identify residents who are missing out on their benefits entitlement and other financial schemes available to them, assisting them to navigate these pathways.
• Work within a supported team to achieve objectives with a high focus on customer service and effective service delivery.
• Liaise with voluntary organisations, other services of the Council or other organisations, to ensure customers receive a comprehensive service, sound advice and are supported to make informed choices.

What skills, knowledge and abilities do you require for the role?

• A thorough knowledge and understanding of benefits legislation and guidance, or the clear commitment to undertake this learning, as well as strong communication and problem‑solving skills.
• A positive and proactive attitude is important, and a commitment to delivering excellent customer service, continuous improvement and to undertaking a development programme that will be planned appropriate to your experience.
• Experience of dealing with customers and/or members of the public and handling personal or sensitive information.

What do we offer?

• Competitive salary & pension scheme.
• Incremental progression subject to satisfactory performance.
• A friendly, supportive team.
• Opportunities for continuing professional development.
• Hybrid working.

Wealden District Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. We are committed to maintaining a diverse workforce and an inclusive work environment. We value the differences that people bring from all backgrounds and communities, and all applications will be treated on merit. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. At Wealden District Council, we are committed to fair, accessible recruitment and supporting colleagues with the adjustments they need to thrive. Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria are guaranteed an interview. Join a workplace that values inclusion, wellbeing and equal opportunity.

Ethical Use of AI in Applications

We welcome innovation and do not automatically exclude candidates who use AI tools during the application process. However, we assess each application to ensure the candidate genuinely understands the role and its requirements. AI may be used ethically and responsibly, provided it supports, rather than compromises our core values of integrity, transparency, and fairness. During assessments and interviews, candidates must present their own skills and experience without assistance from others, external resources, or AI, unless explicitly instructed otherwise.