Housing Options Officer-Band 8

Job Role - Housing Options Officer
Location - Darlington
Job Type - Ongoing
Hourly Rate - £16.62 - £21.02 per hour
Working Pattern - Monday to Friday 37 Hours per week - Hybrid

Job Purpose

To provide housing advice on all available housing options and manage a caseload of homelessness applications. The post holder will investigate claims of homelessness and potential homelessness, arrange temporary accommodation when required, and support people to secure suitable longer-term housing solutions.

Key Responsibilities
 
Provide information, advice, support and assistance to people in housing need
Advise on all housing options including council housing, housing associations, specialist providers and the private rented sector
Record homelessness applications and interview homeless or potentially homeless applicants
Investigate circumstances, verify information, complete case reports and make recommendations
Manage casework and negotiate with applicants, landlords and partner agencies to prevent homelessness
Carry out home visits and basic property inspections
Arrange temporary accommodation when required
Participate in an out-of-hours on-call rota to respond to homelessness emergencies
Liaise with internal departments and statutory and voluntary agencies
Attend and contribute to multi-agency meetings  Essential Requirements
 
Approx. 2 years' experience working in housing, social care, or a related field
Knowledge and experience of homelessness legislation
Understanding of housing issues, including health and disability considerations
Experience working with vulnerable individuals and liaising with partner agencies
Ability to manage a caseload and work under pressure, prioritising to meet deadlines
Strong decision-making skills, working in line with housing policies and procedures
Ability to interpret and apply complex legislation and guidance
IT literate, including Microsoft Word, Excel and Office packages
Willingness and ability to participate in out-of-hours on-call duties
Capable of independent travel to carry out home visits and other duties