We have an opportunity for a Specialist Academy Benefits Officer Level 3 within the Bromley Benefits team. The main purpose of the role will be to perform specialist tasks within the team, including compilation of responses to Subject Access Requests, Freedom of Information Requests and sharing of information via liaison with the dedicated benefit fraud team within the DWP Single Fraud Investigation Service. The role also includes assessing some Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support claims and changes in circumstances and the maintenance of the Supported Exempt Accommodation register. This role involves close liaison with London Borough of Bromley Client officers and client teams. You will be required to liaise with customers both verbally and in writing, and to respond to sometimes complex benefit queries. This role is a hybrid role to incorporate office-based working at Bromley Civic Centre, and home working.
Key tasks and responsibilities:
* Respond to Subject Access Requests within the prescribed timescale
* Respond to Freedom of Information Requests within the prescribed timescale
* Provide requested information to the DWP Single Fraud Investigation Service and our own Internal Audit & Anti-Fraud Team.
* Maintain the Supported Exempt Accommodation register and liaise with managers and LBB Client to ensure compliance with SEA requirements
* Process applications for Housing Benefit/Council Tax Support, including changes in circumstances.
* Deal with complex correspondence relating to claims for benefit.
* Ensure the Performance Management tool is completed accurately and weekly performance table provided to the Line Manager in a timely manner.
* Play an active role in weekly and monthly Employee review (121) meetings.
* Ensure knowledge is kept up to date in relation to Liberata and site policies
Essential Skills and Attributes:
* Currently trained as a Level 2 Academy Assessor as minimum.
* Educated to GCSE level or equivalent with minimum 5 grades A-C including English and Maths
* Excellent attention to detail
* Experience\understanding in meeting targets and developing own performance.
* Competency in use of various IT systems.
* Good verbal and written communication skills