Benefits Adviser, full time, fixed-term until 31 March 2021, Argyll & Bute

Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau, is an independent and innovative advice organisation providing holistic advice and support to local people.  

The Citizens Advice network in Scotland currently delivers a comprehensive, enhanced support service called Help to Claim. From April 2019 Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau has provided the advice and support people need to submit their claim for Universal Credit and support them through to their first payment.

Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau is now expanding this provision to include wider benefits support and is looking for a client-focused individual with experience of providing specialist level advice, to join as a Benefits Adviser and to help ensure clients get the support they need.  This includes supporting with online forms, the evidence required, and verifying their identity online using face-to-face and telephone advice. 

The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate relevant recent experience and knowledge of the welfare benefit system including Universal Credit & PIP as well as the appeals processes involved.  Applicants should demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills, be well organised and be proficient in using a range of IT tools to carry out their work, including case recording systems, Microsoft Office, benefit check programmes and be able to make and manage benefit claims. 

Committed, results-driven and supportive to the needs of others, the successful applicant will be able to work both on their own initiative as well as part of a team and must be willing to follow and develop agreed procedures.

This is a unique opportunity to give citizens access to free, impartial and confidential advice helping them to make informed decisions, whenever they need it and however they choose to access it.

Applicants may be required to travel between across Argyll & Bute and although it is expected the majority of your work will be home based, you will have access to office premises either in Helensburgh or Lochgilphead.

Employee benefits

Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau offers excellent terms and conditions, including a total of 25 days (pro rata) annual leave plus public holidays and a pension scheme with a 6% employer contribution.  Argyll and Bute Citizens Advice Bureau is an inclusive employer considering flexible working arrangements where appropriate