Benefits and Housing Needs Officer

Posted 05 October 2025
Salary 220
LocationHackney E2 United Kingdom
Job type Full time
Sector Community & Social
Reference120157

Job description

3 months contract with local authority

As a Benefits and Housing Needs Officer, you will play a crucial role in assessing applications and managing administrative processes to ensure the smooth operation of our services. You will support approximately 10-15 residents weekly, providing essential financial and non-financial assistance. Your work will involve evaluating applications, processing payments, and collaborating with various stakeholders to sustain tenancies and prevent evictions.

Responsibilities

  • Casework and Assessment:
    • Engage with residents to understand their circumstances and determine suitable support packages.
    • Assess, award, and process Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) in accordance with internal guidelines.
    • Conduct thorough benefit checks to identify underclaiming and maximize residents' income from benefits such as Council Tax Reduction, Universal Credit, and Pension Credit.
    • Collaborate with residents to create plans for sustaining tenancies, including advice on downsizing or increasing work hours.
  • Triaging and Administration:
    • Review and triage incoming applications daily, assigning them appropriately.
    • Manage the shared team inbox and respond to resident queries, particularly those concerning supermarket vouchers.
    • Process payments for cash support schemes via BACS transfers.
    • Maintain accurate and secure records on systems like Academy and Jigsaw.
  • Collaboration and Support:
    • Liaise with landlords, with resident consent, to prevent evictions.
    • Work closely with colleagues across Here To Help and other services to provide comprehensive support for residents with complex needs.
    • Draft clear, empathetic decision letters explaining the support offered.


Requirements


  • Essential Experience & Knowledge:
    • Strong understanding of welfare benefits and ability to identify income maximization opportunities.
    • Experience in assessing DHPs in line with policy and guidance.
    • Proficiency in using benefits systems, including Academy, Comino, and Searchlight.
    • Proven experience in an administrative or support role, preferably within a welfare or social care environment.
    • Experience handling sensitive and confidential information with integrity.
  • Skills and Abilities:
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with sensitivity and empathy in challenging situations.
    • Ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
    • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities efficiently.
    • Collaborative team-player attitude with a flexible approach to changing priorities.