Contract: Temporary / Ongoing
Rate: £26.80 per hour (Umbrella / Limited)
Working Pattern: Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm Hybrid – 2 days in the office, 3 days remote
We are currently recruiting for an experienced Temporary Accommodation Officer to join Lewisham Council, delivering a people-focused income collection and arrears recovery service to support residents and sustain tenancies.
Main Purpose of the Role To provide an effective, resident-focused income collection service that maximises rental income and minimises rent arrears, while supporting residents living in temporary accommodation.
Key Responsibilities
Proactively manage a caseload of rent accounts, ensuring income is maximised and tenancies are sustained
Engage with residents via telephone, home visits, and office interviews
Support residents to maximise income and prevent financial exclusion
Represent Lewisham Council in County Court possession proceedings
Maintain accurate records, prepare legal documentation, and progress arrears cases in line with council policies
Ensure all arrears recovery actions are completed within agreed timescales
Attend evictions when required, completing inventories and arranging removals and storage of goods
Work closely with external partners including Housing Benefit, DWP, Social Services, and Housing Options
Liaise with internal teams to resolve issues such as disrepair, succession, or abandonment
Meet individual and team performance targets relating to income collection and customer service
Provide training and induction support to new staff and work placements
Deliver excellent customer service at all times and take responsibility for personal development
Comply with all Lewisham Council policies, including Health & Safety and Equality & DiversityKey Requirements
Experience in temporary accommodation, income recovery, or housing management
Strong knowledge of arrears recovery processes and tenancy sustainment
Experience representing or supporting cases at County Court (desirable)
Excellent communication and customer service skills
Ability to manage a busy caseload in a performance-driven environment
Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
Experience working within a local authority or public sector housing service
PLEASE NOTE: All applications are monitored and shortlisted candidates will be contacted via phone call or email
Salary description
£26.80 - £26.80 per hour