Housing Options Officer

Neway International are seeking a Housing Options Officer - Housing to join our client based with Somerset Council. Somerset Council supports approximately 7,000 households each year with housing-related issues and works closely with a wide range of internal teams and external partners. Their Housing Options service plays a vital role in preventing homelessness, supporting vulnerable applicants, and ensuring statutory compliance across all housing duties.

The team operates within a high-demand environment and is committed to delivering accessible, fair, and effective housing advice.

As a Housing Options Officer, you will provide advice, information and assistance to applicants who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. You will assess needs, progress applications under Parts 6 and 7 of the Housing Act, create personalised housing plans, and work collaboratively with partner agencies to prevent and relieve homelessness. This role requires strong communication skills, detailed case management, and the ability to work sensitively with applicants in challenging circumstances.

• Provide advice on homelessness prevention, housing options, tenure rights and security of tenure.
• Communicate with applicants and representatives via phone, email and written correspondence.
• Make enquiries, gather evidence and complete verification checks to support decision making.
• Progress all homelessness applications (Part
  7) in line with legislation and the Homelessness Code of Guidance.
• Progress housing applications (Part
  6) under the Homefinder Somerset scheme.
• Carry out assessments of circumstances, needs and risks, identifying causes of homelessness and support requirements.
• Create personalised housing plans to help applicants secure or retain accommodation.
• Make statutory decisions within required timescales, ensuring full legislative compliance.
• Maintain accurate, timely and secure case notes and records.
• Assist applicants to access private rented accommodation, including assessing financial eligibility for bond or deposit schemes.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners including mental health services, police, landlords, voluntary organisations, MAPPA and MARAC.
• Visit applicants in their homes where required.
• Participate in occasional evening, weekend or on-call duties to respond to emergencies.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work sensitively with a wide range of people in varied circumstances.
• Ability to manage applicant expectations realistically.
• Strong caseload management skills with attention to detail.
• Accurate and timely record-keeping.
• Good organisational and administrative skills.
• Fluent English (Immigration Act 2016 requirement).
• Education to A-Level standard or equivalent NVQ Level 4 knowledge.
• Commitment to continuous professional development.
• Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships.
• Resourceful, solution-focused and persuasive.
• Strong time management and ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Full driving licence and access to own vehicle.

• Knowledge of homelessness legislation (Housing Act 1996, Homelessness Act 2002, Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, Suitability Order 2012).
• Knowledge of landlord and tenant law.
• Understanding of housing options for those at risk of homelessness.
• Knowledge of data protection requirements.
• Negotiation skills.
• Understanding of equality and diversity in a housing context.
• Experience with in a Housing Options team, housing association or local authority.
• Experience supporting vulnerable applicants.
• Experience of partnership working leading to positive outcomes.