Benefits Appeal and Subsidy Specialist

Are you a benefits expert looking for a new role in local government?

Who are we looking for?


We are looking for a Benefits expert with IRRV qualifications or equivalent experience with strong knowledge of Housing Benefits and Council Tax Reduction, who also has experience of completing the Housing Benefit subsidy claim as well as being responsible for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction Appeals and Revisions.


What will the role involve?


- Delivering a high-quality, compliant Benefits service (reporting to the Specialist Services Manager).
- Protect HB subsidy and CTR spend through accurate, lawful decisions.
- Complete the annual HB subsidy claim and support audit (to deadline).
- Manage revisions, reconsiderations and appeals; prepare tribunal submissions.
- Produce statutory/performance reporting and use data to reduce risk.
- Drive improvements, automation and system/process changes.

- Handle complex escalations (complaints/FOI/MP) and be a point of contact for colleagues.

What skills, knowledge and abilities do you require for the role?

- Expert HB/CTR knowledge and confidence applying complex legislation and guidance.
- Subsidy & audit experience (returns/claims, reconciliations, evidence and challenge).
- Appeals & tribunal capability: prepare strong submissions and represent the Council.
- Clear communicator: explains decisions to customers/stakeholders; strong report writing.

What do we offer?

- Competitive salary & pension scheme.
- Incremental progression subject to satisfactory performance.
- A friendly, supportive team.
- Opportunities for continuing professional development.
- Hybrid working.


About Wealden

Wealden District Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.

We are committed to maintaining a diverse workforce and an inclusive work environment. We value the differences that people bring from all backgrounds and communities, and all applications will be treated on merit.

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. At Wealden District Council, we are committed to fair, accessible recruitment and supporting colleagues with the adjustments they need to thrive. Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria are guaranteed an interview. Join a workplace that values inclusion, wellbeing and equal opportunity.

Ethical Use of AI in Applications

We welcome innovation and do not automatically exclude candidates who use AI tools during the application process. However, we assess each application to ensure the candidate genuinely understands the role and its requirements.

AI may be used ethically and responsibly, provided it supports, rather than compromises our core values of integrity, transparency, and fairness. During assessments and interviews, candidates must present their own skills and experience without assistance from others, external resources, or AI, unless explicitly instructed otherwise.