4-month contract position with a local authority

Summary

This is a 4-month contract position with a local authority, focused on delivering a targeted, customer-focused service as part of the Council’s Crisis Resilience Fund (CRF). The role is crucial in supporting residents experiencing or at risk of financial hardship. Responsibilities include administering crisis and housing-related payments, working with residents to maximize income, reduce expenditure, and build long-term financial resilience. The postholder will also contribute to the broader Benefits service delivery, including Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support, and debt prevention activities.

Responsibilities

• Process applications for Crisis Support Payments and Housing-related payments accurately and in line with policy.
• Make timely, well-reasoned decisions, prioritising urgent and vulnerable cases.
• Ensure all awards are fully assessed, verified, and recorded.
• Identify and escalate safeguarding concerns where appropriate.
• Proactively engage with residents (primarily via telephone) to assess financial needs.
• Identify opportunities to increase household income, including benefit entitlement and grants.
• Support residents in reducing expenditure through budgeting, utility savings, and debt management.
• Provide tailored, holistic financial advice based on individual circumstances.
• Refer residents to appropriate internal teams and external agencies (e.g., debt advice services and voluntary organizations).