Investigator in Child Maintenance Financial Affairs

4 weeks ago


Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom Department for Work and Pensions Full time

Job Overview

The Child Maintenance Service, a division of the Department for Work and Pensions, is dedicated to ensuring that parents who are separated contribute financially to the upbringing of their children. This initiative plays a crucial role in alleviating child poverty and minimizing welfare costs.

The Financial Investigations Unit (FIU) is a nationally recognized team responsible for conducting criminal inquiries and financial assessments, particularly in cases where clients have complex tax situations that affect their maintenance obligations.

The FIU is integral to the DWP's operational framework, aiming to enhance the lives of individuals by addressing fraud, error, and financial integrity within the child maintenance sector. Our Executive Officers are pivotal in minimizing fraud and ensuring that maintenance calculations accurately reflect the financial circumstances of parents, while safeguarding the welfare of vulnerable individuals.

Key Responsibilities

Your role will encompass various responsibilities, adaptable to shifting business needs. Examples of your duties include:

  • Leading financial and criminal investigations to ascertain the appropriate income for child maintenance calculations.
  • Evaluating and analyzing evidence to effectively advance investigations towards resolution.
  • Managing fraud investigations in compliance with legal and policy standards, exploring all reasonable avenues, including surveillance and engaging with customers and witnesses.
  • Conducting thorough interviews with clients, either via phone or in person.
  • Preparing and developing prosecution cases, representing the department in court and providing testimony in criminal proceedings and appeals.
  • Collaborating effectively within a team to meet collective goals.
  • Coordinating with various departments and organizations, such as Local Authorities, Police, and HMRC, under existing partnership agreements.

Essential Skills

To excel in this role, you will need:

  • Strong leadership capabilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Outstanding organizational and planning abilities.
  • Sound judgment and decision-making skills.
  • The capacity to present information professionally to diverse audiences.
  • The ability to manage a caseload adhering to strict evidential standards.
  • Proficiency in working both independently and collaboratively.
  • Experience in dealing with challenging and vulnerable individuals.
  • The capability to provide evidence in court and tribunal settings.
  • The skill to identify and address risks that may impact investigations or outcomes.

Candidate Requirements

Please note the following:

  • This position requires regular travel to various CMS locations and potentially across DWP sites nationally. Flexibility in working hours and locations is essential, including the possibility of overnight stays or early starts.
  • Successful candidates will undergo a comprehensive background check due to the nature of the role, particularly regarding court testimony on behalf of DWP.
  • A valid driving license is necessary due to the geographical distribution of the team and potential fieldwork requirements.
  • Candidates must commit to completing a Level 3 Public Sector Compliance Inspector Apprenticeship or GCFIP and maintain a license to operate, with a commitment to remain within the FIU for two years post-completion unless promoted.

Desirable Attributes

Ideal candidates will demonstrate:

  • Knowledge of CMS processes and procedures.
  • Previous experience in criminal investigations, especially in arrest and custody protocols.
  • Experience in conducting formal interviews under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act.

Benefits

Working with the DWP offers numerous benefits, including tailored learning and development opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Employees also enjoy a Civil Service Pension with substantial employer contributions.

The CMS prioritizes the wellbeing of its employees, providing support through Wellbeing Advocates and initiatives aimed at promoting health and wellness in the workplace.

Employees are encouraged to participate in various National Network Groups that focus on diversity and inclusion, fostering a supportive community within the organization.

Working hours are structured between 07:45 and 20:00, Monday to Friday, and 08:45 to 17:00 on Saturdays, with access to flexible working options.

For further details regarding the role and benefits of working with the DWP, please refer to the candidate information pack.



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