Overview
A Homeless Persons Officer is a technical specialist focused on detailed, rigorous investigations and robust decision-making. This role delivers an effective statutory homelessness service, ensuring timely decisions to our customers.
Responsibilities
* Manage a caseload to determine eligibility for assistance and make complex, sometimes contentious decisions under statutory homelessness duty.
* Prepare robust decision letters that can stand up to legal scrutiny, correctly interpreting relevant legislation, case law, and housing rights.
* Identify risks and implement appropriate mitigation actions, forging effective relationships with internal and external partners.
* Maintain accurate case records using IT systems, ensuring all documentation is complete and up to date.
* Communicate clearly with customers, providing support, advice, and guidance in a complex environment.
* Manage expectations through negotiation and influence, handling difficult conversations and negative decisions with empathy and resilience.
Qualifications
* Minimum 3 years of experience in a similar role with a high level of competence.
* In-depth knowledge of housing legislation, specifically Part VI and VII of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended 2002) and the Homeless Reduction Act 2017, plus related statutes such as RIPA, Investigatory Powers Act 2016, and the Homeless Code of Guidance.
* Strong investigative skills: ability to identify gaps in evidence, request relevant documentation, and analyse complex information to form reasoned arguments.
* Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to maintain clear and accurate case records.
* Proficiency in using IT systems for case management.
* High level of organisation, time‑management, and the ability to meet deadlines while handling a workload of complex cases.
Benefits
* Generous annual leave (26‑32 days plus bank holidays, pro‑rata if part‑time).
* Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental, adoption and dependants leave.
* Two volunteering days per year.
* Flexible and Smarter Working Scheme.
* Adjustable work arrangements and Google Chromebooks.
* Learning and development portal with a range of courses.
* Discounts on local shops, restaurants, gyms, and leisure centres.
* Interest‑free season ticket loans.
* Local Government Pension Scheme.
* Bicycle loan facilities and cycle‑to‑work scheme.
* Electric vehicle leasing scheme.
* Confidential health & wellbeing and counselling support.
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