Client Financial Affairs Officer

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Hackney are currently recruiting an empathetic and detail-oriented Client Financial Affairs Officer to join our Adult Social Care Finance team at the London Borough of Hackney.

In this vital post, you will manage a dedicated caseload of finances for vulnerable adults who lack the capacity to manage their own money. Acting as a financial advocate, you will oversee Court of Protection Deputyships, DWP Benefit Appointee ships, and Direct Payment third-party arrangements to ensure residents' income is maximised, protected, and used in their best interests.

If you combine strong financial/accounting skills with a customer-centered, compassionate approach, we would love to hear from you!

• Day-to-Day Finances:
  Manage bank accounts, transfer funds, set up standing orders for bills, and issue personal spending money in line with care plans.
• Reconciliations & Reporting:
  Complete monthly bank statement reconciliations, keep meticulous database records, and submit annual OPG (Office of the Public Guardian) reports within set deadlines.
• Deceased Estates:
  Follow administrative guidelines to wind up and finalise the estates of deceased service users respectfully.

• Deputyship & Appointeeship:
  Prepare Court of Protection applications for property and financial affairs, and apply to the DWP to manage pensions and benefits.
• Income Maximisation:
  Investigate and claim all eligible benefits, allowances, and tax exemptions to maximise residents' funds.

• Scheme Administration:
  Process financial transactions for direct payment third-party accounts, ensuring prompt payroll processing, quarterly statement distribution, and compliance with council financial rules.

• Home Visits:
  Conduct visits to client's homes or care settings to carry out annual financial plans, operating under the 5 principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
• Multi-Agency Liaison:
  Act as a financial advocate for residents, working closely with social workers, care managers, the DWP, and the OPG.

• Legislative Knowledge:
  Understanding of Court of Protection Deputyships, DWP Appointee ships, and the Mental Capacity Act.
• Financial & Accounting Background:
  Proven experience in local government finance, managing service user funds, account reconciliations, or handling Direct Payments.
• Tech-Savvy:
  Skilled in using financial database systems, Excel, and standard office applications.

• Education:
  
  A qualification in Business/Finance, AAT, or equivalent practical finance/administrative experience.
• Core Competencies:
  
  Excellent numerical accuracy, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under tight deadlines.
• Communication & Care: A compassionate, customer-focused approach with the sensitivity required to communicate complex financial matters to vulnerable residents and multi-disciplinary teams.
  
  Note:
  
  This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

As part of the London Borough of Hackney, you will join an inclusive team that directly improves the lives of local residents every day. We offer a supportive environment, excellent opportunities for professional growth, and flexible working arrangements.