Job Description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Benefits Officer for Wincanton Cares

Initially a one-year contract, 6 hours per week (27k pro rata)

working from home

Job Purpose

To support residents in the BA9 postcode area in making successful benefit applications that will enable them to live their best life.

Main Responsibilities

Work collaboratively to promote awareness of WINCANTON CARES Benefits service to prospective users

Provide accurate information regarding welfare benefits

Provide an advice service which is flexible to need, and which will likely include delivery via local hubs, home visits, email and telephone as well as face to face appointments.

Provide assistance to complete applications for a range of benefits and support acting as the client's advocate

Work in partnership with the WINCANTON CARES Project Officer, representatives of Citizens' Advice Bureau and other agencies

Work autonomously with a minimum of supervision

Handle correspondence, maintain records of meetings and design and implement office procedures

Lead on associated Benefits-related publicity material, social media, reports for the Steering Group, Board of Trustees and other stakeholders.

Manage any allocated budget alongside the Balsam Centre's Finance Officer

Maintain clear IT systems including data bases.

Report regularly to the WINCANTON CARES Steering Group, The Balsam Centre Board of Trustees and other interested parties

Maintain confidentiality at all times unless it impacts negatively on the safeguarding of vulnerable adults.

Respect difference, diversity and the lived experiences of service users and providers whilst promoting equity and inclusion.

Ensure the welfare of vulnerable residents by following WINCANTON CARES' Safeguarding procedures, referring concerns, in the first instance, to the line manager or Safeguarding Lead.

Comply with WINCANTON CARES' policies and procedures

Undertake any other reasonable duties as identified by the line manager.

Desirable Qualifications and Experience

To empathise with, and understand the needs of, vulnerable people in the community and work in a person-centred way.

Understanding of the personal and financial implications of rural isolation, age, illness, disability and end of life care.

Effective communication and networking skills

Ability to interpret the legislation in relation to benefits

Good administrative, numeracy and literary skills

Good IT skills and be administratively self-supporting

Hold a clean, current Driving Licence

To show a desire to make a difference in the local community.

The ability to work both independently and as part of a team

To think creatively, take the initiative and to be both forward thinking and act proactively

To multi-task, prioritise and be adaptive

To understand relationships and adapt to the differing needs of residents

Exhibit outstanding interpersonal skills

Take a positive approach to professional development by updating skills and knowledge to ensure quality service delivery

To take part in regular, reflective supervision and appraisals to ensure both the delivery of a good quality service and personal and professional development.

To attend any required training that will increase knowledge and proficiency in the specified area of work.

To attend any meetings as deemed necessary by management.

To work collaboratively and restoratively with colleagues, stakeholders, people who are supported.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: 27,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person