Are you passionate about making a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable residents? Do you have experience providing specialist housing and welfare advice in a local authority setting?
We are looking for an experienced Housing & Welfare Officer to join a Housing Solutions team, working for a local authority in the West Midlands. In this vital role, you will deliver a responsive, customer-focused service supporting residents across the borough to access secure housing, maximise income, and improve overall wellbeing.
You will offer expert advice on housing rights, homelessness legislation (Part VII, Housing Act 1996), and welfare benefits, working closely with internal teams and external partners to prevent homelessness wherever possible. You'll also manage complex caseloads, represent customers at Tribunals and Court Hearings, and provide guidance to those navigating the private rented sector.
Key responsibilities include:
·Conducting housing options interviews and assessing homelessness applications
·Supporting applications for Housing Benefit and other welfare entitlements
·Preventing homelessness through early intervention and negotiation with landlords and other stakeholders
·Referring complex cases to appropriate services, including mental health and substance misuse support
·Managing nominations for temporary, social, and private rented housing
You must have excellent communication skills, a detailed knowledge of relevant housing and welfare legislation, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment with empathy and professionalism.
This is a hybrid position, requiring on-site attendance for a minimum of two days per week.
How to Apply