Deputyship Finance officer (SO1)

Who You Are

You will be an enthusiastic and positive team player with:

• Experience in financial safeguarding, banking, or financial administration, ideally with direct customer contact.
• Experience dealing with complex cases, including adults who may lack capacity.
• Strong numeracy, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• Knowledge of the Court of Protection, Office of the Public Guardian, and relevant legislation.
• Ability to use online banking, finance, and CRM systems.
• Empathy and the ability to interview and support vulnerable clients.
• Willingness to travel within the Borough for client visits.

Desirable:

• Relevant financial or administrative qualification (e.g., AAT, APAD Accreditation).
• Experience making decisions related to Court of Protection Orders.

What the Job Involves

• Manage your own caseload of deputyship and appointeeship clients, ensuring all actions are fully documented and compliant with statutory obligations (Mental Capacity Act 2005, Care Act 2014).
• Prepare applications to the Court of Protection and Department for Work and Pensions.
• Oversee day-to-day finances, including banking, tax returns, and benefit claims.
• Liaise with internal teams, support workers, and external agencies (e.g., Office of the Public Guardian, DWP, HMRC, banks).
• Provide advice and information to stakeholders on Court of Protection and appointeeship processes.
• Conduct regular reviews of clients’ income, funds, and expenditure.
• Assist with property searches, safeguarding valuables, and arranging Public Health Act funerals as required.
• Ensure all work is carried out in line with Council policies, safeguarding, equality, and health & safety standards.

Skills

• Financial safeguarding experience
• Banking and financial administration
• Handling complex cases
• Numeracy and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of relevant legislation
• Online banking and finance systems
• Empathy and client support
• Communication and liaison skills
• Travel willingness