Housing Benefits Officer

Vacancy: Benefits and Housing Needs Officer
Location: Hackney

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced and dedicated professional to join our Benefits and Housing Needs Service in Hackney.

Purpose of the Role:
The successful applicant will be responsible for delivering a comprehensive and high-quality service across a range of housing-related functions, including but not limited to Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction assessments, discretionary awards, homelessness prevention and advice, temporary accommodation management, and the administration of the Housing Register and lettings.

This role demands a strong grasp of relevant legislation and guidance, a commitment to customer care, and the ability to work collaboratively across teams to support vulnerable residents.

Key Responsibilities:

• Accurate and timely assessment and administration of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction

• Delivery of homelessness prevention and advice services, including statutory assessments and reviews

• Management of temporary accommodation, including financial monitoring and compliance

• Administration of the Housing Register and coordination of lettings

• Development of housing supply through procurement and partnership

• Responding to complaints, FOIs, and Member enquiries in line with Council standards

• Conducting home visits and outreach activities where required

• Maintaining accurate records and adhering to audit and confidentiality standards

• Supporting new team members and sharing best practice

Person Specification:
Applicants must possess substantial experience in at least one of the following areas: homelessness, temporary accommodation, housing benefits, housing procurement, or lettings and allocations. A strong working knowledge of the associated legislation and regulations is essential.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Proven ability to manage competing priorities

• Strong organisational and IT capabilities

• Experience of working with vulnerable individuals

• A flexible, solution-focused approach and commitment to continuous service improvement

Desirable Qualifications:

• Membership of the Institute of Revenues, Rating and Valuation and/or the Chartered Institute of Housing is advantageous