Benefits and Housing Needs Officer

Benefits & Housing Needs Officer London (On-site) £200 per day (Umbrella)

Are you passionate about supporting residents and preventing homelessness? Do you possess a sound understanding of the welfare benefits system and enjoy making a tangible difference to people's lives?

We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Benefits & Housing Needs Officer to provide vital support to residents experiencing financial hardship. This is a crucial frontline role where you will assess applications, offer financial assistance, and empower residents to achieve long-term stability.

• Assess, award, and process Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) in line with policy and guidance.

• Conduct comprehensive benefit checks to identify underclaimed entitlements and maximise residents' income.

• Provide tailored advice and action plans to help residents sustain their tenancies.

• Review and triage applications, manage shared inboxes, and process BACS payments for support schemes.

• Maintain accurate and confidential records across systems such as Academy and Jigsaw.

• Liaise with landlords and partner agencies to prevent evictions and ensure holistic support.

• Draft clear, empathetic decision letters that communicate outcomes effectively.

The ideal candidate will be a proactive and organised individual with:

• A strong understanding of welfare benefits and income maximisation.

• Experience assessing Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs).

• Proficiency in systems such as Academy, Comino, and Searchlight.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with empathy and professionalism.

• The ability to remain calm under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.

• Experience handling sensitive information with discretion and integrity.