At a Glance
- Tasks: Process claims for Council Tax Reduction and Housing Benefit while delivering top-notch customer service.
- Company: Join Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, a supportive and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, generous leave, and access to training and development.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for career progression and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while growing your career in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English or equivalent skills; strong communication and attention to detail required.
The predicted salary is between 22600 - 31600 £ per year.
Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council
Hours: 37.0 Hours per Week
Band C/D - £26,824 to £37,280 per annum. Candidates can be appointed at Band C or Band D level. Incremental progression between bands is dependent on experience, performance and undertaking the additional specified criteria of the Band D role.
We are looking for experienced Benefits Assessors with a passion for delivering high quality customer service and with a detailed knowledge of Benefit legislation to join our Benefits team at Solihull Council.
You will be responsible for:
- Processing new and change of circumstances claims for Council Tax Reduction and Housing Benefit
- Dealing with queries and requests raised by members of the public by telephone, email or letter
- Liaising with other sections, departments and outside bodies e.g. Department for Work and Pension, Landlords and Housing Associations
- Undertaking report checking and analysis
- Updating office procedures and training members of staff within the Division
- Producing high quality, accurate work to agreed performance levels and meeting agreed service standards
This is a career graded post and applicants can be appointed at a grade C or D dependant on their level of existing experience. At Band D level, your responsibilities will also include:
- Assisting in the investigation and collation of information for complex complaints and MP Enquiries
- Making appropriate revisions and decisions on reconsiderations in relation to Housing Benefit & Council Tax Reduction entitlement
- Assisting with the implementation of new legislation and budget announcements, reading Government guidance, making recommendations what to test, developing test plans, carrying out the testing and reporting any issues
- Assisting with staff development and training and carrying out accuracy checking where appropriate
- Assisting with the preparation of data for subsidy, subsidy workbooks and audits
- Reviewing, analysing and making decisions on Specified and Supported Exempt Accommodation of all types
To join our team, you will need GCSEs Maths and English grades A*-C or 4-9 (or equivalent Level 2 qualifications) or be able to demonstrate an equivalent level of numeracy and literacy skills regarding processing Housing Benefit and Council Tax reduction. Great communication skills, accuracy and attention to detail are also essential.
As an employee Solihull Council offers you:
- A friendly working environment with a range of flexible and agile working options including flexi leave
- The role will be on a hybrid basis and include a combination of office and home-based working
- Generous annual leave entitlements
- Family and carer friendly policies
- Opportunities for training and development
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme – a 24 hour independent, free and confidential advice and support service
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Employee benefits including a staff discount card
We recognise that work is what you do and not necessarily where you go. Whilst your geographical location isn’t important, you will need to be able to commute to our offices in Solihull as required in order to fulfil the needs of the service.
If you enjoy a high paced working environment, have a passion for delivering high quality customer service and have expertise and skills within a Benefits environment, we would love to hear from you.
For more information please contact Sulinder Mahey for an informal discussion on Interview date – week commencing 2nd February 2026.
This post is covered by the Fluency Duty, as outlined in the Code of Practice on the English language requirements for public sector workers.
Solihull Council has a responsibility for, and is committed to, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk, and requires all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
This post requires the following Disclosure and Barring check: DBS standard.
Solihull Council is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees - a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit.
Benefits Assessor employer: WMJobs
Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council is an excellent employer that prioritises a supportive and inclusive work culture, offering flexible working options and generous annual leave entitlements. Employees benefit from comprehensive training and development opportunities, access to a 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme, and a commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare. With a focus on high-quality customer service and a passion for community support, this role provides a meaningful career path in a friendly environment located in Solihull.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Benefits Assessor
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Solihull Council and their Benefits team. Understanding their values and mission will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be dealing with queries from the public, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to communicate clearly and effectively. Try role-playing common scenarios with a friend or family member to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how you would handle complex complaints or difficult situations related to Benefits Assessing. Having examples ready will show that you can think on your feet and are well-prepared for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you're proactive and keen to join the team at Solihull Council. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Benefits Assessor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience as a Benefits Assessor. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for and how you fit the bill.
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills in customer service and knowledge of Benefit legislation make you the perfect fit for our team. We want to see real examples of your work!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your points are easy to understand. This will help us see your attention to detail right from the start.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our team there!
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨Know Your Benefits Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the latest Benefit legislation before your interview. Understanding the ins and outs of Council Tax Reduction and Housing Benefit will show that you're serious about the role and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples of how you've delivered high-quality customer service in previous roles. Think about specific situations where you dealt with queries or complaints effectively, as this is crucial for the Benefits Assessor position.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be liaising with various departments and the public, practice clear and concise communication. You might even want to do a mock interview with a friend to get comfortable articulating your thoughts.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Bring along examples of your work that highlight your accuracy and attention to detail. Whether it's reports you've checked or data you've analysed, showing that you can produce high-quality work will set you apart from other candidates.
