Housing Benefit & Universal Credit Support Officer - #2150382

Housing Benefit & Universal Credit Support Officer

Birmingham | Up to £30,000 per annum | Permanent | Full-Time

Hours: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday

We are recruiting for a Housing Benefit & Universal Credit Support Officer to join a growing organisation within the housing sector.

This is a varied role requiring strong knowledge of Housing Benefit together with experience and understanding of Universal Credit. It would suit someone from a benefits administration, supported housing, welfare benefits or local authority background who is organised, accurate and confident dealing with claimants, councils and other external organisations.

You will play an important role in supporting tenants with benefit-related matters, ensuring Housing Benefit claims are processed accurately and efficiently and providing guidance around Universal Credit where appropriate. You will maintain records, monitor claims and work proactively with local authorities to resolve outstanding issues.

The Role

Your responsibilities will include:

• Processing and monitoring Housing Benefit claims
• Providing support and guidance in relation to Universal Credit and benefit entitlement
• Supporting tenants with Housing Benefit and Universal Credit-related queries
• Inputting new tenancy details and claim information onto internal systems
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of claims and decisions
• Liaising directly with local authorities regarding outstanding Housing Benefit claims
• Monitoring Housing Benefit portals for suspensions, cancellations and other changes
• Investigating suspended or cancelled claims and obtaining further information where required
• Helping to identify benefit-related issues that may affect a tenant's claim or entitlement
• Tracking outstanding queries and escalating unresolved issues
• Managing and organising sensitive documentation relating to benefit claims
• Supporting payment schedules and providing information to the finance team
• General administration including data entry, post handling and file management
• Assisting with the preparation of reports and audit information

The position involves regular communication with local authorities and tenants and requires someone who is comfortable dealing with detailed benefit information and following issues through to resolution.

About You

We are particularly interested in candidates who have:

• Good knowledge and practical understanding of Universal Credit
• A good understanding of Housing Benefit legislation, regulations and guidance
• Previous experience within Housing Benefits, Universal Credit, welfare benefits, supported housing or a local authority environment
• The ability to explain benefit-related information clearly and confidently
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong administration and organisational skills
• The ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
• Confidence dealing with sensitive documentation
• A professional and empathetic approach when dealing with claimants
• Strong customer service skills, including the ability to handle challenging conversations
• The ability to work effectively as part of a team
• An understanding of confidentiality and data protection

Experience using Housing Benefit systems, working with local authorities, knowledge of tenancy agreements or relevant qualifications within social welfare/public administration would also be beneficial.

What's on Offer?

• Salary up to £30,000 per annum
• Permanent, full-time position
• 35-hour working week
• Monday to Friday working hours
• Opportunity to join an established organisation operating within the housing sector
• Varied role with responsibility and regular interaction with tenants and local authorities

If you have experience within Housing Benefit and Universal Credit and are looking for your next opportunity, apply today with your CV for further information.