Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.

Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovate environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.

Are you a compassionate and organised professional looking to make a meaningful difference to people during some of the most challenging times in their lives?

Southend-on-Sea City Council is seeking a Bereavement Services Officer to join our dedicated Bereavement and Registration team. Our Bereavement Services team plays a vital role in supporting families and communities with dignity, care and professionalism. This rewarding role is at the heart of delivering high-quality bereavement services, supporting families, funeral directors and other stakeholders with sensitivity, professionalism and care. This position is offered on a part-time (25 hours per week) and temporary basis (10 months). The working pattern is 5 hours per day across 5 days. Due to the nature of the service, a flexible approach to working hours will be required to meet the needs of the business and ensure the continued delivery of an excellent service to our residents and stakeholders.

You will be responsible for coordinating burial and cremation services, managing bookings and enquiries, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements, and maintaining accurate records. You will play a vital role in providing excellent customer service while ensuring our bereavement services operate smoothly, efficiently and with dignity.

This is an opportunity to work within a supportive team that is committed to delivering respectful and compassionate services to our community.

To be successful in this role, you will be a compassionate and customer-focused professional with excellent communication and organisational skills. You will have the ability to remain calm, sensitive and professional when supporting individuals and families through difficult and often emotional circumstances, delivering a high standard of service with empathy, care and respect.

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Experience of providing excellent customer service in a public-facing environment.
• Strong administrative and organisational skills with a high level of attention to detail.
• The ability to manage a varied workload and prioritise tasks effectively.
• Confidence in using IT systems and maintaining accurate records.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• The ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, funeral directors, clergy and members of the public.
• A professional, sensitive and compassionate approach when supporting bereaved families.

Previous experience within bereavement, cemetery, crematorium, registration or a related service environment would be highly beneficial.

If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.

Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to.

The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.