We are looking for a motivated and compassionate Benefits Officer to join our team and play a key role in delivering our Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) service.
This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a service that provides timely financial support to residents experiencing hardship and crisis. Working within a customer-focused environment, you will help ensure that vulnerable residents receive the support they need when they need it most.
As the Crisis and Resilience Fund continues to develop, you will have the opportunity to contribute to shaping and improving the service, helping us create a responsive, accessible and resident-centred offer. From day one, your work will make a tangible difference to the lives of Dorset residents facing challenging circumstances.
What You'll Be Doing
As part of the Benefits Team, you will support the delivery of Crisis and Resilience Fund, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support applications, ensuring these are processed accurately, fairly and efficiently.
You will:
- Provide crisis support to residents experiencing financial hardship.
- Promote welfare benefit take-up and identify opportunities for additional support.
- Signpost and refer residents to relevant internal and external services.
- Assess and process applications in line with legislation, policy and guidance.
- Respond to customer enquiries by telephone, correspondence and face-to-face contact.
- Work closely with colleagues and partner organisations to achieve positive outcomes for residents.
- Handle highly sensitive personal information with professionalism and discretion.
- Contribute to the ongoing development and improvement of the Crisis and Resilience Fund service.
This role offers a rewarding opportunity to support residents at some of the most difficult times in their lives, helping them access the assistance, advice and support they need to improve their circumstances.
About You
We are looking for individuals who are organised, empathetic and resilient, with a genuine commitment to supporting residents and delivering excellent customer service.
You will have:
- Experience of working in a customer-focused environment.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain complex information clearly and in plain English.
- Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage a varied workload effectively.
- Sound decision-making skills and attention to detail.
- Experience of handling confidential and sensitive information appropriately.
- The ability to remain calm and professional when dealing with challenging situations.
- A flexible and positive approach to learning new skills and responding to changing priorities.
You will also be confident building and maintaining effective working relationships with colleagues, partners and stakeholders, recognising the value of collaborative working in achieving the best outcomes for residents.
Experience in welfare benefits, financial support services, local government administration or related areas would be advantageous, although we are equally interested in applicants who can demonstrate transferable skills and a strong commitment to supporting vulnerable people.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to be part of a service that has a direct and meaningful impact on local communities. You will join a supportive team environment where your contributions are valued, your development is encouraged, and your work helps improve the lives of residents across Dorset.