Housing Solutions Officer Job Gateshead area,England UK,Social Work

Who we are & what we stand for

Do you want to help make Gateshead a place where everyone thrives?

If that sounds like you, keep reading - we might be the perfect match.

We're delighted that you're interested in working with us. You'd be joining us at a very exciting time.

We pride ourselves on our ambitious and forward-thinking approach to taking care of Gateshead and its people, and we passionately believe that our employees reflect that spirit in truly enabling Gateshead to thrive.

At Gateshead Council you'd be a highly valued member of a team that recognises and respects the skills that you bring to your role, encourages creativity and passionately advocates a great work / life balance. Our actions speak louder than words, and with flexi-time and hybrid working available across many of our roles, as well as a full suite of outstanding employee benefits, we're confident that it isn't just the salary that attracts our staff.

Please note:

Gateshead's Housing Solutions Service has an exciting opportunity for three full time Housing Solutions Officers to join our team. One post is permanent, one is fixed term for 12 month and one is fixed term for 9 months - :

About the role

Reporting to the Housing Solutions Team Leader you will work with clients who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. You will be responsible for interviewing, assessing and identifying homeless prevention options while working with external partners, agencies and other internal sections such as social services or support workers to improve outcomes for our customers. The post will include home visits to some clients to help assess their situation.

We offer a full induction programme, including:

In-house training delivered by our management team
A buddy system, pairing you with more a experienced officer
Bitesize 90-minute training modules delivered by the housing charity, Shelter
Shadowing of other relevant teams to see how you would interlink with them

You will have a strong commitment to excellent customer care, equality, diversity and inclusion.

You will be dealing with people face to face in potentially difficult situations, and managing and prioritising a complex caseload. You will be able to work with vulnerable people and non-judgemental in your outlook and approach.

What you'll get to do

To assist in the provision of the Housing & Homeless advice in order to give comprehensive and consistent information on housing options in Gateshead to prevent homelessness and /or help people to obtain/sustain suitable accommodation
To ensure that the Authority's statutory duty towards vulnerable homeless people is met
To fully investigate cases of homelessness and potential homelessness and arrange placement in temporary supported accommodation as required
To assist in developing prevention services within Gateshead and provide such information as would assist clients in preventing the loss of their current home
To update and maintain computer and written records in accordance with Directorate guidelines ensuring the quality of the information noted is accurate and up to date
To update and maintain computer and written records in accordance with Directorate guidelines ensuring the quality of the information noted is accurate and up to date
To establish and promote effective working relationships with external partners, agencies and other internal sections that will improve practice and outcomes for individuals and families
To work on the out of hours service approximately one duty per week
To demonstrate a positive, diverse and inclusive attitude to both internal and external customers and colleagues
Such other responsibilities allocated which are appropriate to the grade of the post

What you'll bring

Homeless legislation and the Homelessness Code of Guidance for local authorities
Data Protection and confidentiality
Understanding of equality and diversity legislation
Full UK driving licence
Working in a housing related field
Dealing with people face to face in potentially difficult situations
Managing a complex caseload
Effective time management and organisation
Effective communication

What's in it for you

Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
Outstanding Pension Scheme: We don't just offer a great salary - we invest in your future too. Find out what benefits a Local Government Pension provides:
Generous Annual Leave: Enjoy 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years (2 of which can be fixed by the Council), plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
Flexible Working Hours
:
Benefit from up to 26 flexi days per year (subject to business needs), giving you more control over your time.
Hybrid & Flexible Working
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We support a healthy work-life balance with flexible and hybrid working options.
Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development, and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
Health & Wellbeing Support: From discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL to mental…