Information Officer

Job Title: Information Officer

Contract Type: 6-Month Contract

Location: Hackney

Compliance Requirement: Enhanced DBS Check Required

Desirable Requirement: Previous Local Authority / Council Experience

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Job Purpose

The Information Officer plays a vital role in supporting efficient information governance within Children and Education services by managing a high volume of information requests including Subject Access Requests (SARs) and Freedom of Information (FOI) requests. Under the guidance of senior colleagues the Information Officer will meticulously analyse data across various systems to ensure responses are accurate timely and compliant. This position is crucial for facilitating effective information sharing to safeguard and promote the wellbeing of children and families. The ideal candidate will be highly organized motivated and capable of managing competing priorities in a dynamic high-pressure environment.

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Key Responsibilities

• Process and respond to SARs and FOI requests ensuring compliance with statutory and local deadlines.
  
• Conduct thorough analysis and review of sensitive data across multiple systems.
  
• Ensure all responses are accurate proportionate and compliant with data protection regulations.
  
• Maintain accurate records of all requests responses and correspondence.
  
• Manage the input storage and retrieval of information for reporting and service planning.
  
• Provide clear concise and accurate reports relating to children and families data.
  
• Handle sensitive and confidential information with the highest level of discretion.
  
• Support the development and improvement of information governance processes.
  
• Collaborate across departments to ensure seamless information sharing.
  
• Provide administrative support including data entry filing scanning and mail management.
  
• Ensure compliance with Data Protection Act and GDPR requirements.
  
• Stay updated with developments in data protection information sharing and IT systems.
  
• Work with ICT teams to maintain data security and system integrity.
  
• Contribute to the implementation of new tools and process improvements.
  

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Experience Required

• Experience in an administrative or business support role.
  
• Proven experience in a busy high-volume environment managing multiple priorities.
  
• Experience handling SARs and FOI requests (desirable).
  
• Experience working within Childrens Services or Local Government (desirable).
  
• Experience managing sensitive and confidential information.
  

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Qualifications & Skills

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  
• Ability to analyse summarise and present complex information clearly.
  
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritise workloads.
  
• Proven ability to meet strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  
• Proficient in Microsoft Office / Google Workspace and case management systems.
  
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
  
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
  
• High level of customer service and stakeholder engagement.
  
• Strong understanding of Data Protection legislation and confidentiality requirements.
  
• Flexible adaptable and committed to continuous improvement.
  

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Equality Diversity & Inclusion

Hackney is committed to being an anti-racist organization. The post holder is expected to promote equality actively challenge discrimination and support inclusive practices. A commitment to public service quality equality and empowerment is essential.

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Additional Information

• Pay Rate: 26.92 per hour (Umbrella)
  
• Pay Frequency: Bi-weekly
  
• Enhanced DBS: Required
  
• Fast-paced high-volume working environment
  

Required Skills:

Requirements: Experience & Skills Required Essential Experience Experience working within Housing Benefits or a similar welfare benefits environment. Experience interpreting and applying benefit legislation and guidance. Experience in quality assurance checking or auditing of claims. Experience working with financial data and returns. Desirable Experience Experience completing Housing Benefit subsidy claims/returns. Experience working with auditors or supporting audit processes. Local authority or public sector experience. Essential Skills Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. High level of accuracy and attention to detail. Good understanding of Housing Benefit subsidy rules and compliance requirements. Ability to interpret complex legislation and apply it in practice. Strong communication skills to provide constructive feedback and guidance to colleagues. Ability to work independently and manage deadlines. Proficient IT skills including Microsoft Office (particularly Excel). Qualifications Essential Educated to GCSE level (or equivalent) including English and Maths. Relevant experience in Housing Benefits administration or subsidy work. Desirable Professional qualification in Revenues and Benefits or related field. Training or certification in Housing Benefit subsidy and compliance. --- Performance Measures Accuracy of Housing Benefit assessments and compliance with legislation. Timely and accurate completion of subsidy returns. Improvement in subsidy income and reduction in errors. Positive audit outcomes and reduced risk exposure. Identification and development of staff through quality assurance processes. Additional Information A valid DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is required for this role. We pay on a bi-weekly basis. Working hours per week: 37. Location: Northampton.

Employment Type : Full Time
Experience: years
Vacancy: 1