We have an exciting opportunity for 2 Permanent, Full Time, Private Rented Accommodation Officers to join Southampton City Council (SCC) in the Homelessness Service.
About The Team
The post holder must share in the work of the Homelessness Unit, in the community, whose function includes prevention and relief of homelessness and the provision and management of accommodation for homeless households and the discharge of the duties of the City Council under the Housing Act 1996 / Homelessness Act 2002 Part 7 (Housing the Homeless) and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.
About The Role
The duties and responsibilities highlighted in this job description may vary over time. Post holders are expected to undertake other duties and responsibilities relevant to the nature, scope and grading of the post.
* Conduct comprehensive assessments of clients' housing needs, financial circumstances, and support requirements.
* Provide advice and support on housing options, including private rented accommodation.
* Assist clients in developing and implementing housing plans.
* Identify suitable properties in the private rented sector that meet clients' needs and ensure the appropriate checks are completed prior to the household moving into the property.
* Negotiate with landlords to secure tenancies for clients.
* Assist clients with tenancy applications, referencing, and deposit payments.
* Assist with resolving tenancy issues, such as rent arrears or disputes with landlords or neighbours.
* Offer advice on budgeting, tenancy rights and responsibilities.
* Assist clients in accessing financial support, including benefits such as Universal Credit and housing allowances.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with landlords, letting agents, and other housing providers.
* Collaborate with other agencies and organizations to provide comprehensive support to clients.
* To record and maintain confidential case notes and client records on IT systems in accordance with professional and Council guidelines. To record accurate statistical information associated with homelessness to enable completion of statutory returns on homelessness required by government departments. To comply with all legal requirements set out under data protection legislation at all times.
* Post holder to be fully aware of all safeguarding concerns and reporting any such concerns using the appropriate referral process.
* The post holder must be able to travel around the city to access all types of accommodation and ensure when carrying out visits that lone working procedures are fully adhered to.
* To have a good standard of IT literacy that enables use of self-service, digital user platforms, applications and MS Office and Council data systems (Northgate, Home-connections).
For further information about this role please view the job description.
About You
* Ability to use manual and electronic filing systems.
* Telephone skills.
* Communication skills both written and verbal.
* Appreciation of customer care.
* Team working.
* To demonstrate an understanding of equality issues and how they affect the workplace and individual behaviours.
* To have an excellent level of I.T. literacy to be able to use self-service, digital user platforms and applications including Microsoft office.
* To have the confidence to support and challenge behaviours to those families who have experienced the trauma of homelessness.
* Appreciate and understand tenant's often complex needs and aspirations.
* To compose clear and concise letters, memos, reports and file notes.
* Competent lone worker.
* Be aware of and follow health and safety guidance.
* Knowledge of homelessness legislation and the benefits system.
If you feel you have the necessary background, experience, and skills to undertake this role we would like to hear from you.
What We Can Offer You
Salary: The salary band for this role is £37,280 - £40,778. Starting salary is £37,280 with annual progression through the salary bands.
Here at SCC we have a range of different benefits, a few examples can be found below.
* Excellent
* Death in service benefit of x3 salary, and optional salary sacrifice shared cost AVC (additional voluntary contribution)
* Generous holiday 25–31 days, based on role and service
* Flexible working options (role-dependent)
* Family-friendly policies - Maternity, Paternity, Adoption, Shared/Unpaid Parental Leave, Time off for Dependents
* Training and development, including coaching and mentoring
* Health and wellbeing support - Employee Assistance Programme, Menopause Pledge, Mental Health First Aiders and access to a variety of staff networks
* Veteran-friendly employer with the Armed Forces Covenant
* Retail discounts and savings through the Southampton City Council benefits platform
* Discounted memberships at local sports and fitness centres
* Sustainable travel benefits - low emission car scheme, cycle to work, season ticket loans
* Employee volunteering scheme with 2 paid days leave to volunteer
Benefits
For further information on our benefits package please visit:
Please note: This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application.
Contact Details For Informal Discussion
For further information and details regarding the role, please contact Chris Payne, Homelessness Service Manager by email
Recruitment contact details:
Tel: 023 8083 4033
For More Information About SCC Please Visit
Follow us on social media for regular updates on our featured jobs and latest news.
#J-18808-Ljbffr