Benefits Advisor

Role Purpose:
As a Welfare Benefits Adviser, you will play a crucial role in providing expert advice to maximize income for clients and their families who have been referred to our services at Foodstock charity. You will work within the aims, principles, and policies of our organization to ensure equitable access to welfare benefits and support for our community members.

Person Specification:
- Commitment to and alignment with the aims, principles, and policies of Foodstock & Community Solidarity Hub.
- Up-to-date understanding of equality and diversity principles and their application to advice provision.
- Minimum of 2 years' experience in a benefits advice environment.
- Ability to give and receive feedback objectively and sensitively, with a willingness to constructively challenge.
- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Understanding of societal issues and their implications for clients and service provision.
- Ability to manage own caseload efficiently within available resources.
- Proficiency in monitoring, analyzing statistics, and checking accuracy of calculations.
- Capability to research, analyze, and interpret complex information.
- Negotiation skills with creditors and other agencies.
- Competency in literacy and numeracy to GCSE A-C pass.
- Prioritization skills, meeting deadlines, and managing workload effectively.
- Proficiency in using IT systems and packages for advice and casework.
- Ability to monitor and maintain recording systems and procedures.

Desirable:*
- Knowledge of public, private, and voluntary organizations' workings.
- Experience working with vulnerable clients with complex needs.

Main Areas of Responsibility:

Casework:
- Explain welfare benefit rules and eligibility criteria to clients, ensuring they claim all entitled benefits.
- Discuss options and courses of action with clients, preparing and submitting benefits appeals when necessary.
- Assist clients in completing forms, making telephone calls, and following up on mandatory reconsiderations and appeals.
- Act as an advocate for clients by liaising with relevant organizations on their behalf.
- Maintain up-to-date confidential records using in-house systems.
- Train and mentor volunteers to support welfare benefits clients.
- Stay informed about relevant legal, policy changes, and welfare reforms.

Learning, Development, and Training:
- Identify personal learning needs and maintain a record of continuous professional development.

General:
- Ensure compliance with the charity's aims, policies, and procedures.
- Develop and maintain effective admin systems and records.
- Foster teamwork, clear communication, and common practices within the bureau team.
- Adhere to health and safety guidelines.

If you are passionate about making a difference in people's lives and possess the skills and qualities outlined above, we encourage you to apply for this fulfilling opportunity. Join us in our mission to provide essential support to those in need and contribute to the well-being of our community. Apply now!