Homelessness Prevention Officer

Join our dedicated team as a Homelessness Prevention Officer, where you will work directly with individuals and families to prevent homelessness.

This role offers a hybrid working environment, balancing between home and designated council workplaces, and requires regular travel within the Borough. Day-to-day of the role:
Collaborate with the Housing Options team to provide support and advice to households to prevent and relieve homelessness. Conduct interviews with customers presenting as homeless or in housing need, offering specific advice and information on homelessness prevention and securing accommodation. Develop personalized housing plans through comprehensive assessments for eligible and homeless clients and produce necessary documentation such as plans and decision letters.

Manage a caseload of clients, engaging in hands-on homelessness prevention work, including negotiating with landlords and advocating with various organisations and agencies. Build and maintain relationships with colleagues, partner agencies, housing providers, and community groups to enhance knowledge of homelessness services and establish effective referral routes. Visit clients at various venues to assess their current and future accommodation needs, ensuring a high level of trust and rapport.

Assist clients with paperwork and online forms relevant to securing and sustaining accommodation. Attend case conferences and meetings related to clients' housing situations. Support the team in maintaining a high-quality and confidential housing options service, especially during resource constraints. Keep accurate and comprehensive case records to inform fully about homelessness decisions when prevention is not possible. Required Skills &

Qualifications:

GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English (Level
2) or equivalent qualification, or demonstrable experience. Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes (reasonable adjustments considered for candidates with disabilities). Proven knowledge of housing options available to clients at risk of homelessness. Experience working with vulnerable people in various settings. Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. Experience in a multi-agency context and managing competing deadlines.

Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workload to meet service demands. Excellent negotiation, assertiveness, and communication skills. Proficiency in IT packages, including Microsoft Office software. Benefits:
Flexible hybrid working model. Opportunities for professional development and training. Supportive team environment focused on safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the community. Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.

How to apply:

To apply for the Homelessness Prevention Officer position, please submit your CV detailing how you meet the essential and desirable criteria listed above. Ensure your application includes evidence of your qualifications and experience relevant to the role. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check with both Adult and Children's Barred List Checks. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults and expect all staff to share this commitment.