Job Description
We are currently recruiting for a Financial Support Officer to join a local authority's Resident Financial Support Service. The successful candidate will assess applications for discretionary financial assistance, determine eligibility and administer financial support schemes for residents experiencing financial hardship. Full time and part time applications are considered. The Role Assess applications for financial support schemes, including crisis payments, housing payments and essential household assistance. Review income, expenditure, benefits, savings and housing costs to determine eligibility for financial assistance. Make independent decisions on discretionary awards in accordance with Council policies and funding criteria. Assess housing-related financial assistance, including rent shortfalls, to support tenancy sustainment and homelessness prevention. Identify and prioritise urgent applications from residents experiencing financial hardship. Verify supporting documentation using Council systems, DWP records and other relevant sources. Process applications, communicate award decisions and maintain accurate case records. Identify potential fraud, misrepresentation or errors and escalate concerns appropriately. Ensure compliance with financial controls, data protection and audit requirements. Support application reviews, quality assurance and service performance reporting. Key Requirements Experience in financial support, welfare benefits, discretionary housing payments or a similar local authority service. Knowledge of welfare benefits, financial assistance schemes and housing-related support. Experience assessing applications and making evidence-based eligibility decisions. Ability to interpret benefit awards, income and expenditure information and supporting documentation. Understanding of discretionary financial assistance, crisis support or housing payment schemes. Experience using financial assessment or case manage