Local Welfare Assistance Officer Local Authority - West LondonRemote Working (occasional visit to office, W5 2HL) 22.02 PAYE / 29.17 Umbrella per hour35 hours (Mon-Fri, between 7.30am - 6pm, must work core hours, 10am-2pm/3.30pm, with 1hr lunch)4-week assignment (backlog of DHP and DCTD claims) - possibility of extensionASAP Start About the RoleWe are seeking a dedicated Local Welfare Assistance Officer to join our Financial Assessments team. In this vital role, you will help residents access discretionary financial support, including Discretionary Housing Payments, Council Tax Support Hardship Fund, and Local Welfare Provision. You''ll provide money and debt advice, carry out home visits, and work closely with internal teams and external organisations to ease financial hardship. Key ResponsibilitiesProcess applications for discretionary funds in line with council policies and statutory regulations.Provide comprehensive welfare benefits advice and assist with form completion.Manually calculate benefit entitlements and discretionary payments.Liaise with internal departments and external agencies to support residents.Conduct home visits and interviews to assess applications.Advise on debt management and expenditure minimisation.Maintain accurate records and supply statistical data.Identify and refer potentially fraudulent claims. What We''re Looking ForStrong knowledge of welfare benefits legislation and experience in benefits assessment.Comprehensive knowledge of Housing Benef