Homeless Prevention Caseworker

Job Description

There is only one 18 month fixed term vacancy that is still available for this role.

This position is part of the Homeless Prevention Service, committed to reducing homelessness and delivering tailored support to individuals and families in need. In this role, you will manage a caseload, assess statutory duties under homelessness legislation, and work closely with applicants to identify solutions and resolve their housing challenges.

• Casework Management – You will hold a varied caseload, working with individuals and families who are threatened with or already experiencing homelessness. This includes conducting interviews, gathering evidence, and creating Personalised Housing Plans tailored to each applicant’s needs.
• Assessing Statutory Duties & Making Legal Decisions – You'll assess applications under the Housing Act 1996 (as amended by the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017) to determine what legal duties the Council owes. This involves issuing statutory decision letters and ensuring compliance with legislation, case law, and local policies.
• Supporting People in Times of Crisis – Many applicants will be in vulnerable situations, such as fleeing domestic abuse, leaving prison, or facing mental health challenges. You'll provide empathetic, practical support, liaise with partner agencies, and explore all options to prevent or relieve homelessness.
• Multi‑Agency Collaboration – Work closely with statutory and voluntary agencies, such as social care, probation, and health services, to coordinate support and secure sustainable housing solutions.
• Problem‑Solving & Advocacy – You'll negotiate with landlords, housing providers, and other stakeholders to resolve disputes, prevent evictions, and secure accommodation. This includes advising on tenancy rights, welfare benefits, and alternative housing options.
• Compliance & Record‑Keeping – Maintain accurate case records, prepare reports, and ensure all actions meet statutory deadlines and quality standards.

This is a customer‑facing role, and therefore the statutory English language requirement for public sector workers applies.

An enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check will be required for this position.

Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Hybrid working arrangement combining home and office‑based work, with an expectation to attend the offices throughout Cornwall and work alongside the Homeless Prevention teams at least two days per week.

Face‑to‑face client work will be required.

Driving licence required.

• Strong Communication Skills – Ability to engage with customers in a compassionate and professional manner, even in challenging situations.
• Problem‑Solving & Decision‑Making – Skilled at analysing information, making sound decisions, and finding practical solutions under pressure.
• Organisational Skills – Able to manage a busy caseload, prioritise tasks, and meet statutory deadlines.
• Negotiation & Conflict Resolution – Confident in negotiating with landlords, agencies, and other stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes.
• IT Proficiency – Comfortable using Microsoft Office and case management systems to maintain accurate records and reports.
• Resilience & Adaptability – Ability to work flexibly and remain calm in crisis situations.
• Teamwork & Collaboration – Work effectively with colleagues and external partners to deliver joined‑up support.

Knowledge of housing and homelessness legislation is essential – but don’t worry if you’re not an expert yet! Come with a willingness to learn, and we’ll provide full training and support to help you develop the technical knowledge you need.

Cornwall Council’s ambition is to be an employer of choice, a high‑performing Council and a learning organisation. We commit to providing a reward and benefits package to attract, motivate and reward our employees. We offer a range of flexible working options to our staff, helping to provide a greater work/life balance while still ensuring that service needs are met.

Our core employee rewards and benefits include:

• a competitive salary.
• a defined benefit pension scheme, based…