Job Description
Homelessness Officer (2 Positions Available), Crawley
Expected duration of contract: 3 months
Full - Time
Hybrid/Remote - No requirement to be in office
As part of a dedicated Housing Options Team, you'll play a vital role in providing comprehensive housing advice and support to prevent homelessness and maximise the use of quality housing across all tenures. The main focus of your role will be to make enquiries in relation to the 5 tests of homelessness Issue S184 homelessness decisions to a backlog of overdue cases who are beyond the 56 day relief period. Please note, A standard DBS is required.
You will:
1. Provide comprehensive housing advice to prevent homelessness and enable informed decisions.
2. Implement statutory homelessness duties, processing applications and discharging subsequent duties.
3. Offer free, confidential advice on housing rights, legislation, and Council policy.
4. Investigate homelessness cases, determine Council duties, and arrange temporary accommodation.
5. Ensure effective use of temporary accommodation and refer applicants to other authorities when necessary.
6. Provide support with landlord and tenant disputes, debt counselling, and money advice.
7. Liaise with legal, voluntary, and statutory organisations as required.
8. Represent clients in court when appropriate.
Essential Requirements
9. Excellent communication, negotiation, and decision-making skills
10. Ability to manage a caseload and work under pressure
11. Proficient in IT and report writing
12. Understanding of housing legislation, homeless duties, and welfare benefits
13. Working knowledge of tenancy agreements and homeless prevention initiatives
14. Good standard of general education
15. Housing-related and homelessness training or qualification preferred
16. Familiarity with housing market and court procedures
17. Positive attitude, self-motivated, and committed to customer care
18. Ability to work in a team and handle confrontational situations
19. Willingness to work unsocial hours