Financial Assessments & Benefits Officer x2

We are seeking a dedicated Financial Assessments & Benefits Officer to join our Financial Assessments & Benefits Team. The Team are responsible carrying out the means tested assessments to determine how much a person is expected to contribute towards their care services. We cover the whole of the county and work closely with our colleagues in the Adult Social Care Teams. The work is fast paced, high volume and varied. Some assessments are straight forward whereas others can be more complex requiring a lot of time and investigation.

In this role, you will; be required to carry out a range of activities working within existing procedures and in line with the Care Act Charging Regulations. You will resolve routine technical and process problems and queries, escalating the more complex to others.

You should, on occasion, be able to meet service users and/or their representatives in their own homes, hospital or other suitable location or process user submitted financial assessments ensuring that all relevant paperwork is completed in full.

It is vital that we maximise income for our service users, so a knowledge of welfare benefits would be desirable. As would an awareness and understanding of Disabilities and Mental Health and the impact of these on service user's daily lives.

Key responsibilities:

- Complete financial assessments in a timely way whilst maintaining accuracy.

- Ensure that charges are applied fairly and in line with national legislation and local policies.

- Help service users or their representatives understand their financial responsibilities.

- Signpost to additional benefits or support they may need/be entitled to.

- Manage the Deferred Payment Scheme.

This position is exempt under the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions) Order 1975 and is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Valid driving licence and own transport, or be able to provide alternative, suitable method of travel is an essential condition for this role.

Work style.

At North Somerset Council, we offer a hybrid working environment based on four distinct work styles. Depending on the role and personal circumstances, you will fall into one of these categories. However, please note that during the induction period, it may be necessary to spend more time in the office to support your learning and development. We are flexible and open to discussions about your preferred working style, and if you wish to be in the office more frequently, this can be negotiated.

This role falls into the category of Mobile/Field Worker which means you can expect to work in the following way:

- 0-1 day in the office.

- Includes field workers who primarily work remotely.

- Comes into the office for meetings or focused work. Virtual connections with the team are essential, with portable technology supporting work on the go.

What we offer.

At North Somerset Council, we value our employees and provide a supportive and inclusive work environment.

North Somerset Council is committed to providing high-quality services to our community. We are committed to creating a fair, green, and more inclusive environment for all our residents. Join us and contribute to making a positive impact on our community.

Competitive salary and benefits.

- Flexible working arrangements.

- Local Government Pension.

- Opportunities for professional development.

- Inclusive Staff groups including Carers, Disabled, LGBTQ+, REACH (Race, Ethnicity, and Cultural Heritage), and Young Staff Forums.

- Opportunity to purchase up to an additional 10 days annual leave each year.

- Dedicated in house Wellbeing Team.

- Salary sacrifice Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes.

Further details of our excellent rewards package can be found in our Benefits booklet.