Job Description
Job Title: Development Worker - Rent Deposit Scheme
Career Family: Support & HousingReports To: Programme Manager
Role Overview
This role is focused on supporting young people to secure housing in the private rental sector through the provision of rent deposits and upfront rental payments. The post holder will promote the rent deposit scheme internally and externally, build strong relationships with letting agencies and referral partners, and support young people to establish and maintain sustainable tenancies. The role involves property checks, financial coordination, and practical tenancy support, with regular travel required across the region.
Key Responsibilities1. Housing Access & Tenancy Support
* Assist young people with securing accommodation by arranging deposits and initial rent payments.
* Ensure all properties meet minimum standards, with appropriate safety certifications and licenses.
* Provide practical assistance during the move-in process and low-level tenancy setup.
2. Partnership Working & Scheme Promotion
* Build and maintain effective working relationships with referral agencies, housing providers, and local partners.
* Promote the rent deposit scheme to appropriate internal and external audiences.
* Expand and maintain a bank of letting agents who are supportive of the scheme.
3. Tenancy Education & Practical Support
* Advise young people on their rights and responsibilities as tenants.
* Help secure available grants and support with furniture and utility setup.
* Assist with benefit applications and provide budgeting support where needed.
4. Monitoring, Recording & Compliance
* Accurately record all relevant tenant and financial data in line with privacy and data protection standards.
* Ensure timely logging of safeguarding concerns and incidents, following internal procedures.
* Comply with all relevant legislation, policies, and procedures.
5. Team Contribution & Service Development
* Contribute positively to team meetings, supervision sessions, and service reviews.
* Participate in training and continuous professional development.
* Travel within the region and to occasional national meetings or events as required.
Key Outcomes & Success Indicators
Area
Outcome Indicator
Housing Outcomes
Contribute to annual targets for successful housing placements and positive move-ons.
Financial Support
Support young people to access grants and benefits and successfully manage setup costs.
Partnership Development
Increase and maintain referral relationships and letting agency engagement.
Service Improvement
Participate in reviews and offer constructive input to improve delivery.
Property Standards
Maintain a strong pool of safe, suitable properties that meet compliance requirements.
Additional Duties
* Ensure compliance with safeguarding and all internal procedures.
* Keep records up to date and aligned with best practices in data protection and reporting.
* Stay informed on relevant legislation and housing policy to provide accurate guidance.
* Provide flexible regional support and travel as required for meetings and training.
Person SpecificationEssential
* Experience supporting young people or working in a housing or tenancy-related service.
* Good understanding of private renting, tenancy rights and housing responsibilities.
* Familiarity with safeguarding, health and safety, and tenancy compliance.
* Strong interpersonal and partnership-building skills.
* Ability to manage a varied workload and meet deadlines.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Competency in using IT systems for record keeping and communication.
* Able to work independently and as part of a wider team.
* Willingness to travel regionally and occasionally further afield.
Desirable
* Experience working with people at risk of homelessness or housing vulnerability.
* Knowledge of the welfare system, grants, and financial support available to young people.
* Familiarity with data protection legislation (e.g. GDPR) in a housing or support context.
* Relevant qualification in housing, social care, youth work, or a related field.