Benefits Officer

Location: Romford, United Kingdom (Hybrid)

Salary: £32,655–£35,109 per year

Company

hirify.global is a local authority serving Havering residents and delivering public services across the borough.

What you will do

• Assess new claims, changes in circumstances and reviews for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support.
• Calculate entitlement accurately using relevant systems and manual calculations where required.
• Handle complex cases involving self-employed claimants, students, people from abroad and eligible housing costs.
• Identify overpayments, recommend recovery action and refer suspected fraud in line with procedures.
• Communicate decisions clearly with residents, landlords, colleagues and partner organisations.
• Manage caseloads, support quality assurance and contribute to peer learning and service improvements.

Requirements

• Good experience assessing Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support or comparable means-tested benefits.
• Ability to interpret legislation, guidance and evidence and translate them into accurate decisions.
• Strong numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills with close attention to detail.
• Clear and respectful communication skills, including when explaining complex or sensitive decisions.
• Ability to plan and prioritise effectively, take ownership and work confidently with appropriate guidance.
• Commitment to excellent customer service, equality, confidentiality and safeguarding.
• Ability to work positively with colleagues and partners, share knowledge and support others.
• Adaptability, willingness to learn and motivation to improve personal practice and wider service delivery.

Culture & Benefits

• Hybrid working in a collaborative and knowledgeable benefits team.
• Opportunity to contribute to the financial wellbeing of Havering residents.
• Varied casework, shared learning and opportunities to develop benefits expertise.
• Accuracy, fairness, excellent customer service, initiative and continuous improvement are valued.
• Anonymised recruitment is used, and candidates with a disability who meet the essential criteria are guaranteed an interview.

Hiring process

• Submit a CV and a supporting statement of no more than two sides of A4 explaining how experience, knowledge and leadership qualities meet the role requirements.
• Internal candidates and redeployees receive priority consideration.
• A Disclosure and Barring Service check may apply for roles involving children, young people or vulnerable adults.