Benefit Assessment Officer

CV's to be submitted by Friday 12th April at latest and shortlisting will take place from Monday 15th April and Interviews to take place towards the end of next week.

Main Purpose of the job:

The efficient processing of benefit claims and enquiries to a satisfactory conclusion at the first point of contact.

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Summary of Responsibilities and Personal Duties:

1. Ensure benefit claims are processed efficiently and effectively and in accordance with regulations and agreed procedures including awards of discretionary housing payments.
2. Deal with enquiries promptly in writing, by telephone call or on-line.
3. Provide effective advice including budgetary support to customers to ensure awareness of welfare reform and prevention of homelessness.
4. Maintain spreadsheets and databases and prepare statistics as required
5. Ensure overpayments are correctly identified and classified for subsidy purposes and action is taken in accordance with agreed procedures.
6. Respond to enquiries from all external bodies including Lewisham Homes, DWP, Housing Needs and Housing Associations.
7. Process system output and reports as required.
8. Prepare casework for The Appeals Service.
9. Maintain a working knowledge of all relevant legislation, procedures and technology and welfare support provision including employment schemes and training opportunities.
10. Represent the council at court or The Appeals Service as necessary.
11. Adhere to and promote the council’s core values.
12. Promote and implement the council’s Equal Opportunities Policies.
13. Take positive action to promote the take up of benefits where appropriate and help to participate in outreach work eg customer surgeries.

Detailed knowledge of all legislation and issues relating to the administration of benefits and benefit subsidy

S

Knowledge of Housing Benefit and all associated computer systems

S

Understanding of performance objectives that are set to measure individuals, teams and the Benefit Section

S

To implement new policies

To work accurately under pressure to tight deadlines

(Skills can only be used as shortlisting criteria if the skill is to be tested) (To Be Tested - S)

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

S

Excellent computer skills to ensure that benefit claims are updated accurately

Good time management skills

Ability to conduct home visits, telephone, or face to face contact to provide welfare advice and support

S

Ability to process benefit claims accurately in the office, during face to face interview or through telephone calls.

S

Experience of assessing housing and council tax benefit claims within a benefits environment

Experience of dealing with customers enquiries by letter, telephone or in person

Experience of working accurately under pressure to targets and timescales

S