Summary: The Income Collection Officer in Hackney is responsible for managing temporary accommodation accounts to ensure efficient collection of rent and service charges. The role involves direct client interaction, support for housing benefit applications, and collaboration with various departments to assist vulnerable clients. Additionally, the officer represents the council in legal proceedings and provides financial advice to customers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage a patch of temporary accommodation accounts for efficient collection of rent and service charges.
• Assist with housing benefit applications as required.
• Contact clients regarding outstanding arrears, including pre-notice and pre-legal stages.
• Work at the front-of-house counter for income collection queries.
• Refer vulnerable clients to support services.
• Identify accounts requiring possession action and serve notice-seeking possession.
• Make representations to Legal Services for possession hearings and request warrants.
• Represent Hackney Council at possession hearings as needed.
• Coordinate and attend evictions as required.
• Provide excellent customer service across various communication channels.
• Visit customers in their homes to discuss accounts and provide advice.
• Offer basic financial capability advice and signpost to other agencies.
• Collaborate with other departments and agencies to support tenancy sustainability.
• Work closely with housing department colleagues for joined-up services.
• Maintain accurate records in compliance with GDPR.
• Stay informed about welfare benefits and housing legislation affecting payment ability.
• Provide cover for other Income Collection Officers during absences.
• Perform additional duties as requested by the line manager or Head of Service.

Key Skills:

• Strong understanding of housing legislation and welfare benefits.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to manage accounts and collect payments efficiently.
• Experience in working with vulnerable clients and support services.
• Knowledge of financial capability advice.
• Record-keeping skills in line with GDPR.
• Collaboration skills to work with various departments and agencies.
• Experience in legal proceedings related to possession hearings.

Salary (Rate): 29.91

City: London

Country: England

Working Arrangements: undetermined

IR35 Status: undetermined

Seniority Level: undetermined

Industry: Other