Housing Officer

Our client is a large local government organisation and looking for an experienced Housing Officer to join their team

This is initially a 3 month contract which may be extended for the right candidate

You will

To provide a comprehensive housing advice service to customers by exploring housing options in detail, advocating on customers’ behalf, offering mediation, attending court hearings or referring to other specialist agencies, as appropriate

To carry out thorough investigations in respect of applicants who present as homeless or threatened with homelessness in accordance with the Council's statutory requirements, policies and practices. This will include;

• making formal homelessness decisions on behalf of the Council
• discharging the Council’s statutory duties towards homeless households

• making decisions regarding homelessness referrals to and from other Local Authorities

Develop and maintain a high level of knowledge of tenancy rights, welfare and benefits options, and services provided by partner agencies to ensure a holistic approach is taken by the team toward addressing homelessness and housing need.

Act as a senior point of call for the team and provide case supervision when needed to support the team Leader

Proactively model and promote all corporate and service specific expectations to the team - acting as a role model and providing peer support across the service

Monitor and oversee the effective use of any funds made available for the provision of assistance in preventing homelessness ensuring where necessary affordable repayment plans are made and to ensure that such funds are used within current policies

To arrange and attend multi agency meetings; representing the Council in discussing clients and their circumstances. This will involve attending operational meetings as required, in particular those in relation to safeguarding, child protection in respect of homeless cases.

Lead on one or more specialism areas to facilitate the effective sharing of knowledge and accuracy of decision making within the team.

Proactively market the benefits of digital and self-service channels to all customers

Keep clear file notes of all contact with customers and provide concise written reports and chronologies for management when requested.

Ensure all data is held in compliance with data protection and GDPR requirements

To undertake any other relevant duties within the scope and grade of the post as may be required by the Head of Housing.

The Council has a Safeguarding Policy which outlines its responsibilities and the responsibilities of its employees. All employees need to be aware of this Policy and comply with the contents.

THIS ROLE IS INSIDE SCOPE OF IR35

HYBRID WORKING AVAILABLE