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 dependent 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 GCSE’s 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.
Great communication skills and 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 up to 24 days per year. 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 are currently implementing our Smarter Ways of Working strategy, as 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 have any specific queries regarding our hybrid working, please get in touch.
If you enjoy a high paced working environment, have a passion for delivering high quality customer service and have the expertise and skills within a Benefits environment that we are looking for then we would love to hear from you.
For more information please contact Sulinder Mahey, Benefits Team Leader, for an informal discussion on 0121 704 8289.
To apply for this vacancy you need to complete an application form. Please visit Benefit Assessor job with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council | 178240 (wmjobs.co.uk) to apply online.
Closing date: 19 November 2023
Interview Date: 30 November and 1 December 2023
Location: Flexible
