Debt & Benefits Specialist Adviser

Debt & Benefits Specialist Adviser - Trussell Trust Financial Inclusion Project

Benefits: 

• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme
• 25 days annual leave per annum + bank holidays + 3 days over December shutdown (pro rata)
• Flexible hybrid working available by agreement with line manager

Aim of the Role

This funding will allow us to work with Letchworth Food Bank and the Letchworth community to ensure that food bank users and local residents can access and engage with the specialist advice that many of them need. This project aims to overcome the barriers to accessing Citizens Advice that exist for some food bank users and local residents through the provision of a presence at our local food banks and an offer of local help through partnership working.  

The adviser will provide clients with specialist debt and benefits advice and casework tailored to the client’s capability and the complexity of the issues.  They will work to improve clients’ financial positions by maximising clients’ income including advice and support with applying for relevant benefits, advice on debt management options, basic budgeting advice, and advice on managing energy bills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide advice up to casework level on debt management, financial capability and welfare benefits, ensuring that the work conforms to required quality standards.
• Research and apply debt strategy, options and implications, so that clients can make informed decisions.
• Act for clients where necessary or make appropriate referrals.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records.
• Keep up to date with relevant legislation and policy changes.
• Meet project targets, keeping accurate data for statistical and reporting purposes.
• Ensure all work conforms to their systems and procedures.

About You:

• Knowledge in all areas of money advice, financial capability and welfare rights.
• Strong understanding of UK welfare benefits system and debt solutions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good practical knowledge of IT systems for case recording, internet/emails, and online resources.
• Ability to understand statistics and check accuracy of calculations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Certified DRO Intermediary is desirable.

To find out more about this position and how to apply please reach out via the contact details found via the 'How to apply' button.

We value inclusion and welcome applications from disabled people, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBTQ+ and non-binary people, and people from Black Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities