Job Introduction
This opportunity is currently being offered on a fixed term contract basis of 12 months; however, if budgets allow the contract length may be extended and/or become permanent, though this is not guaranteed. If an internal council employee wishes to apply for this role, a secondment opportunity may be considered (please state this on your application).
To contribute to driving up of standards, performance, and value for money across supported housing in Medway, Swale, Tonbridge Wells and Maidstone in accordance with all relevant legislation and regulations on behalf of Medway Council.
We recognise that skills across the full spectrum of activity will take time to develop, so are looking for individuals with experience of one or more areas with the aptitude to pick up additional knowledge.
To work to deliver the aims of the SHIP project including the following:
- the detailed reviewing of policy, procedures, risk assessments and support plans included both in data/written format but also through checking operation through observation and collecting information from staff and residents. This will vary from scheme to scheme but may require a number or visits to each property.
- the accurate assessment of new claims for Housing Benefit in supported accommodation.
- the inspection of properties used by providers of supported housing for their residents.
To assist in ensuring that the council’s records are kept up to date by:
- Accurately completing reviews of claims for Council tax Reduction and Housing Benefit.
- Recording evidence regarding properties and housing related support so that standards and trends can be mapped and reported on.
To ensure that the following financial functions are implemented:
- To undertake training as identified by line manager in order to maintain responsive and well-regarded services to customers.
- To remain aware of changes in legislation generally, but in particular with regard to Council Tax Reduction, Housing Benefit and Discretionary Housing payments.
To assist with any projects or tasks pertaining to the efficient administration of Council Tax Reduction, Housing Benefit or Discretionary Housing Payments.
To liaise and correspond with Government Departments, the Department for Work and Pensions, other appropriate organisations and other officers of the Council.
To ensure that equal opportunities issues are taken into account on all service delivery and employment matters. This includes monitoring, planning and implementing change and taking action in accordance with the corporate objectives.
The successful post holder will be subject to a Standard DBS check.
If you would like to have an informal discussion with the recruiting manager please call Francesca Roma on francesca.roma@medway.gov.uk
In return we offer you:
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Generous local government pension scheme package
- Access to wider training and development qualifications
- Flexible working scheme
- Travel plan discounts
- Car Benefit Scheme from Tusker
- Access to CAREFIRST advice & counselling service
- Employee discount scheme for national and local retailers
- The Government has introduced new ways of supporting parents with childcare costs. Further details are available here: - https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/
We're committed to making Medway carbon neutral by 2050. We have developed an action plan to ensure we play our part in addressing the climate emergency. Our declaration fits into our Council Plan priority of making Medway a place to be proud of. The main outcome being a 'clean and green environment'. All Medway Council staff can access an additional day’s paid leave to undertake a volunteering activity which supports climate change.
Our organisation:
Medway is a unitary authority in the South East of England, made up of the towns of Strood, Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham and Rainham and more rural areas, including the Hoo Peninsula.
Situated in Kent in the South-East of England, the area has plenty of green spaces, excellent facilities and easy access to the national motorway and rail networks, facilitating superb transport links to London.
We provide all local Government services for a quarter of a million people, looking after education, environment, social care, housing, planning, business and much more - everything from frontline services such as rubbish collection and events like the Dickens Festival to work that goes on behind the scenes to ensure services in Medway run smoothly and cost effectively.
Working at Medway Council means that you get to be part of this journey working alongside talented, professional colleagues to drive forward change to transform the lives of our residents and the communities they live in.
Important Information-
Applicants must be able to demonstrate all essential requirements as listed in the job profile
Equal Opportunities Commitment Statement
Medway Council is committed to creating an inclusive work environment with a diverse workforce. All appropriately qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, colour, ethnic or national origin, disability, marital status, family commitments, sexual orientation, age, HIV status, religious or political beliefs, social class or trade union activity or irrelevant spent conviction.
For further information please refer to the Medway information pack available as a download or to view online.
Please be advised that if you are not contacted within 3 weeks of the advert closing date then you have not been shortlisted. All recruitment correspondence, including interview letters and contracts of employment will usually be sent out via email.
Please visit http://www.mindfulemployer.net/ for information on how Medway Council put good practices in place to ensure employees and job applicants who declare mental health issues receive the right level of support.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy at any time prior to the closing date.
