Direct Payments Officer

As a Direct Payments Officer, you’ll play a vital role in enabling service users to take control of their care. You’ll provide advice, guidance, and hands-on support to individuals receiving or applying for Direct Payments—helping them set up and manage personalised care packages that meet their assessed needs, while ensuring compliance with policy and financial frameworks.

You’ll work closely with internal teams including Social Work, Finance, and Procurement, as well as external service providers, to promote the use of Direct Payments and deliver excellent outcomes for residents.

Key Responsibilities

• Support service users in understanding and managing their Direct Payments effectively.

• Offer clear, tailored advice on options and responsibilities within the Direct Payments framework.

• Visit residents in their homes to provide practical support, monitor usage, and resolve issues.

• Work in partnership with social care and voluntary sector providers to help residents build customised care packages.

• Maintain accurate records, manage reconciliations, and ensure funds are used appropriately.

• Monitor returns and investigate any discrepancies, including potential mismanagement of funds.

• Lead engagement with voluntary sector partners and contribute to improving Direct Payments services.

• Provide training and induction for new team members and social care staff.

• Actively promote Direct Payments as a flexible and empowering alternative to traditional care models.

About You

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Experienced in working within social care, particularly with Direct Payments or similar funding streams.

• A confident communicator who can work empathetically with service users and their families.

• Financially literate, with the ability to support residents in managing budgets and accounts.

• Collaborative and well-organised, with a solution-focused approach to challenges.

• Proactive in improving processes and sharing best practice across teams and local authorities.

Essential Qualifications & Requirements:

• NVQ Level 3 in a relevant subject or equivalent experience.

• Strong knowledge of social care processes and Direct Payments frameworks.

• Full UK driving licence and ability to travel across the borough.

• Flexibility to meet the needs of service users, including occasional early morning or evening work.

What We Offer

• A dynamic and supportive team environment.

• Opportunities to contribute to service development and innovation.

• Ongoing professional development and training.

• A chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of Hillingdon residents.

Ready to help our residents take control of their care? Apply today and be part of a team that puts people first.

• Flexible Working Hours – We recognise the importance of flexibility in managing your work and personal life.
• 36 Hour Week – Enjoy a standard 36-hour workweek for all full time staff.
• Generous Holiday Entitlement – You will receive a minimum of 26 days annual leave each year, in addition to bank holidays. This entitlement increases to a maximum 37 days after 10 years of service.

• Hillingdon Sport Leisure – Stay active and healthy with discounts at council owned leisure centres and swimming pools across the borough.
• Cycle Purchase Scheme – Promote eco-friendly commuting with our cycle purchase scheme.
• Discount on Golf Fees – Enjoy up to 30% discounts on green fees at council owned golf courses.
• Financial Benefits – Secure your future with access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and membership to the Credit Union.
• Vivup Benefits – Access a variety of offers and discounts through our Vivup Benefits.
• Eye Care – We contribute towards eye tests and lenses for Display Screen Equipment
• Mental Health Support – Our mental health first aiders are trained to identify, understand, and help employees experiencing mental health issues.
• Support and Counselling Services – Access free 24-hour confidential advice and counselling as well as a legal advice service for you and your immediate family.

• Travel Support – Make your daily commute easier with our season ticket loans and free car parking. We also provide bicycle parking, lockers, and showers at the Civic Centre.