Job Description
Pertemps Network Group are delighted to be assisting a reputable housing provider for a Housing Solutions Officer to join their Housing Solutions team.This is a frontline statutory role requiring strong technical knowledge of homelessness legislation, excellent decision-making capability, and the ability to manage complex caseloads with minimal supervision. The successful candidate will play a key role in preventing homelessness, assessing statutory duties, and delivering high-quality, legally compliant decisions.Salary: £22-23 PAYELine Management: NoneWorking Pattern: Hybrid (Minimum 3 days office-based)Role OverviewThe Housing Adviser will provide a comprehensive housing advice and homelessness assessment service in accordance with:
* Housing Act 1996 (Part VII as amended)
* Homelessness Reduction Act 2017
* The Homelessness Code of Guidance
* Relevant case law and statutory guidance
You will be responsible for assessing applications, issuing legally robust decisions, and maximising prevention opportunities to reduce reliance on temporary accommodation.Key ResponsibilitiesHousing Advice & Prevention
* Act as a first point of contact for residents seeking housing assistance via face-to-face, telephone, email and written communication.
* Conduct comprehensive housing options interviews in a person-centred manner.
* Create, implement and review Personal Housing Plans.
* Maximise prevention and relief opportunities to sustain existing accommodation or secure suitable alternatives.
Statutory Homelessness Decision Making
* Assess and determine homelessness applications under Part VII of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended).
* Conduct detailed investigations, verify documentation and carry out enquiries including home visits where appropriate.
* Accept, refuse or discharge duties in line with legislation, guidance and case law.
* Issue fully reasoned and legally compliant decision letters within statutory timescales.
Case & Caseload Management
* Proactively manage a varied caseload through continuous assessment and review.
* Ensure accurate and timely case recording across all relevant systems.
* Maintain detailed file notes and ensure statutory notifications are issued correctly.
Temporary Accommodation & Affordability
* Undertake affordability assessments.
* Recommend placements into temporary accommodation where prevention options have been exhausted, ensuring compliance with statutory duties and financial considerations.
Housing Register & Allocations
* Assess applications to join the housing register.
* Verify evidence and determine priority in accordance with the allocations scheme.
Safeguarding & Risk Management
* Carry out safeguarding and risk assessments for vulnerable applicants.
* Escalate concerns in line with child and adult protection procedures.
Legal & Review Work
* Assist with statutory reviews under the Housing Act 1996.
* Support responses to legal challenges including County Court appeals and Judicial Reviews.
* Liaise with Legal Services and attend court where required.
Partnership Working
* Work collaboratively with internal departments and external partners.
* Refer cases to appropriate agencies and attend case conferences as necessary.
* Liaise with Corporate Anti-Fraud services where fraudulent applications are suspected.
About YouWe are seeking a driven and technically competent housing professional with:
* Detailed working knowledge of the Housing Act 1996 and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.
* Experience assessing and determining homelessness applications.
* Ability to interpret and apply complex legislation and case law.
* Experience managing a demanding caseload with minimal supervision.
* Strong written skills with the ability to draft legally defensible decision letters.
* Confidence in conducting interviews and making evidence-based decisions.
* Experience working within a performance-driven environment.
* Excellent partnership and stakeholder engagement skills.
Core Competencies
* Complex problem-solving: Ability to navigate statutory frameworks and deliver clear, practical solutions.
* Critical thinking: Evidence-based decision-making using analytical reasoning.
* Creativity: Applying innovative approaches to prevent homelessness and improve outcomes.
* People-focused approach: Strong interpersonal capability and collaborative working style.
* Emotional intelligence: Managing sensitive conversations with empathy and professionalism.
* Judgement & accountability: Making sound decisions in ambiguous or high-pressure situations.
* Negotiation: Influencing outcomes with landlords, partners and stakeholders.
* Service excellence: Commitment to delivering high standards of customer care.
* Cognitive flexibility: Ability to adapt to legislative change and service transformation.
Why Apply?This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking housing provider committed to delivering high-quality statutory housing services and meaningful homelessness prevention outcomes.Apply now for the Housing Solutions role.