What the Job Will Be Doing
* Assessing housing applications to determine eligibility, housing need and statutory duties
* Carrying out detailed housing assessments in line with the Housing Act 1996 and the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017
* Making decisions on homelessness applications, including eligibility, priority need, intentional homelessness and local connection
* Completing Section 184 decision letters and ensuring all decisions are legally compliant and robust
* Providing housing advice and guidance to applicants on their housing options and statutory rights
* Identifying prevention and relief opportunities to reduce homelessness wherever possible
* Managing a varied caseload, ensuring statutory deadlines and performance targets are achieved
* Liaising with Housing Options, Temporary Accommodation, Allocations and external agencies to deliver effective housing solutions
* Working with vulnerable households, safeguarding concerns and complex cases requiring multi-agency support
* Maintaining accurate records and updating housing management systems
* Responding to enquiries, complaints and requests for reviews in a professional and timely manner
What You Will Need
* Experience working as an Assessment Officer, Housing Needs Officer or Housing Options Officer within a Local Authority
* Strong knowledge of the Housing Act 1996 Part VII and the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017
* Experience assessing homelessness applications and making legally robust decisions
* Experience producing Section 184 decision letters
* Strong understanding of homelessness legislation, Code of Guidance and relevant case law
* Ability to manage a high-volume caseload within a target-driven environment
* Excellent communication and interviewing skills
* Experience working with vulnerable households and safeguarding issues
* Experience using housing management systems such as NEC, Jigsaw, Locata or similar
Salary description
£28.00 - £30.00 per hour