Job Description

Positive Employment is currently recruiting for a Financial Resilience Officer for our client a local government organisation based in Teignbridge.

The successful post holder will support financially vulnerable residents by identifying and determining entitlement to all forms of support available within the organisation and the wider community. Working with residents to help identify the root causes of poverty and financial hardship, whilst working collaboratively with internal services, statutory agencies, charities and partner organisations to help residents build long-term financial resilience.

This role is a temporary contract initially for 3 months with the possibility to extend.

Duties and Responsibilities but not limited to:

• Work with residents who are financially vulnerable or at risk of becoming financially vulnerable by undertaking financial needs and budget assessments.
• Identify and determine entitlement to financial support schemes available through the organisation, including discretionary housing payments, exceptional hardship funding, crisis and resilience support schemes and other available assistance.
• Carry out income maximisation assessments and provide support to help residents access benefits and financial assistance available to them.
• Build trusted relationships with residents and confidently manage sensitive and difficult conversations in a professional and empathetic manner.
• Assess whether applicants are owed a housing duty under homelessness legislation where applicable.
• Work collaboratively with internal departments and external agencies to provide a joined-up, person-centred approach to support.
• Make referrals to external organisations and support services where appropriate to help residents access long-term solutions.
• Maintain accurate case records, monitor outcomes and ensure all relevant information is recorded in line with data protection requirements.
• Keep up to date with financial support schemes, welfare benefits and services available to residents experiencing financial hardship.
• Support safeguarding responsibilities, risk management and fraud prevention within the service.
• Assist with monitoring expenditure and ensuring budgets relating to support schemes are appropriately managed.
• Contribute to the development of best practice, policies and procedures across the service.

Personal Requirements:

• GCSE Grade C/4 or above in English and Mathematics or equivalent qualification/experience.
• Current or recent experience of supporting vulnerable residents experiencing financial difficulties, hardship or homelessness.
• Knowledge of welfare benefits, income maximisation and financial support schemes.
• Understanding of housing and homelessness services and person-centred approaches to support.
• Experience of carrying out financial and budget assessments with customers.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively with people from a wide range of backgrounds.
• Ability to manage difficult or conflict situations using tact, diplomacy and empathy.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage workload and prioritise effectively.
• Good understanding of confidentiality, GDPR and data protection requirements.
• Ability to work collaboratively with internal departments, partner agencies and external organisations.
• Experience of maintaining accurate records and updating databases.

Working Hours: 37hrs / Monday - Friday

Pay: £27.06 - £28.82 per hour

Please note this role may fall within the scope of IR35.