Housing Benefit Appeals Officer

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 Review decisions to determine whether cases should be revised, withdrawn, or progressed to Tribunal.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.