Housing Benefit Appeals Officer

Enfield, United Kingdom | Posted on 04/06/2026

At Civic Recruitment and Limited, we know that individuals are more than just fixed expenses; they are the cornerstone of every thriving organisation. That’s why we are passionate about transforming recruitment in the public and private sectors.

In the modern job market, organisations in both public and private sectors face significant workforce challenges. Public sector entities, such as local councils and central government departments, often struggle with lengthy recruitment processes, limited access to qualified candidates, and stringent budgetary and regulatory constraints. Private sector businesses, on the other hand, encounter high turnover rates, difficulties managing a mix of permanent and temporary staff, and challenges in sourcing specialised talent for niche industries.

These sector-specific obstacles, coupled with the universal complexities of payroll management, create a pressing need for efficient workforce solutions.

Civic Recruitment Limited addresses these challenges with innovative recruitment and payroll solutions tailored for diverse organisational needs. Recognising the critical hurdles organisations face, the company leverages its expertise to streamline processes, reduce recruitment times, and alleviate administrative burdens. With an extensive database of over 1 million pre-screened candidates, Civic Recruitment Limited is well-positioned to cater to the specific needs of both public and private sectors.

Job Description 3-month contract position with a local authority
Summary

• This is a 3-month contract position with a local authority, aimed at providing specialist expertise in reviewing, preparing, and submitting Housing Benefit appeals, particularly those related to specified and exempt accommodation. The role is crucial in ensuring that cases are legally sound, compliant, and efficiently progressed to help reduce the backlog of appeals.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of Housing Benefit appeals, including specified and exempt accommodation cases.
• Review decisions to determine whether cases should be revised, withdrawn, or progressed to Tribunal.
• Prepare and submit high-quality Tribunal documentation, including Statements of Case, written submissions, and evidence bundles.
• Ensure all appeals are progressed in line with statutory deadlines and Tribunal requirements.
• Represent the organisation at Tribunal hearings where required.
• Apply and interpret Housing Benefit Regulations, DWP guidance, and relevant case law.
• Assess whether cases meet the legal definition of specified and exempt accommodation.
• Review complex issues including rent liability, support provision, contrived tenancies, and commerciality.
• Evaluate rent levels, eligible service charges, and restriction decisions.

Requirements

• Significant experience in Housing Benefit administration, including appeals or dispute resolution.
• Strong knowledge of specified and exempt accommodation cases.
• Experience preparing Tribunal submissions and managing cases to deadlines.
• Ability to interpret complex legislation and case law.

Essential Qualifications Required

• Relevant qualification in Housing, Law, Public Administration, or a related field (desirable).
• Ongoing professional development in Housing Benefit or welfare benefits (preferred).

Additional Information

• Working hours:
  
  35 hours per week.
• We work on a bi-weekly schedule.
• The role closes on 9th June 2026, apply ASAP.

#J-18808-Ljbffr