An exciting opportunity is now available within Wokingham Borough Councils Benefits Team to work as a Benefits Assessor on a full time, permanent basis. We are seeking an enthusiastic and innovative Benefits Assessor to help deliver an efficient service to our residents.
As the Benefits Assessor, you will play an integral role in processing new applications for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction. You will deal with all change of circumstances that are reported to the department, ensuring claims are updated accurately and in a timely manner.
Wokingham is an attractive and vibrant historical market town surrounded by beautiful countryside, and host to several high performing schools and businesses, with a thriving community. It is easily accessible by rail and road networks.
We offer an incredible benefits package which includes generous annual leave of up to 27 days, plus bank holidays, a local government pension scheme, flexible working arrangements, an employee assistance programme, a range of discounts, onsite gym and more!
Key Duties, Responsibilities
Process applications for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction, ensuring they are paid promptly and correctly in accordance with legislation and procedures, whilst maintaining high standards of customer care.
Ensure that overpayments of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction have effective recovery set or are identified as not being recoverable in line with policies & procedures and are recommended for write off.
Provide advice on Local Welfare Provision and any Local Authority administered government schemes that come into force.
Skills & Experience
Experience in Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction processing activities – training will be provided
GCSE English & Maths grade A – C, or equivalent
Experience of working with and understanding the needs of customers
IT literate in Microsoft applications
Experience of using the NEC Northgate Revenues & Benefits System
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Kate Haynes at kate.haynes@wokingham.gov.uk
Closing Date: Sunday 5th November 2023, 11pm
Interview Date: W/C 13th November 2023
Please be aware that we will be reviewing the application we receive on a daily basis, and we reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified.
Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant employment checks.
Wokingham is an equal opportunities employer.
Further information on this vacancy can be found on Wokingham Borough Council’s website
