Your new company An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Assessment & Advice Officer to join a busy Housing Options and Homelessness service on a temporary basis. The postholder will support the delivery of housing advice, statutory homelessness assessments, and early intervention activity aimed at preventing homelessness.You'll play a key role in helping individuals access appropriate housing options, ensuring assessments are accurate, person‑centred, and compliant with all legal and regulatory requirements.This is an excellent fit for someone with experience in homelessness services, housing advice, housing options or related statutory assessment roles who can hit the ground running. Your new role Carry out statutory homelessness assessments in line with legislation. Deliver in‑depth housing options assessments, providing a range of housing advice and solutions. Provide advice on private rented sector issues, including signposting to legal support. Support homelessness prevention, enabling people to remain safely in their current accommodation where possible. Complete basic financial assessments, income maximisation checks and benefits advice, referring on to specialist teams where required. Undertake support needs assessments for referral to internal support teams. Progress the securing of permanent accommodation and involving clients fully in the process. Manage Section 11 referrals and liaise with landlords and housing providers regarding allocations and Section 5 referrals. Work closely with multi‑agency partners, ensuring coordinated assessments and support. Contribute to prevention pathways (e.g., hospital discharge, criminal justice). Manage a housing options and homelessness caseload effectively and efficiently. Maintain confidentiality and adhere to all statutory, regulatory and organisational requirements. What you'll need to succeed Essential experience and skills include: Experience of multi‑agency working to achieve positive outcomes. Ability to work with vulnerable individuals, providing trauma‑informed and person‑centred support. Understanding of homelessness legislation and housing options approaches. Strong communication skills and ability to complete accurate written assessments. Confident using IT systems, digital tools and case management systems. Ability to work independently, using initiative and sound professional judgement. Commitment to equality, diversity, health & safety and value for money. Desirable (not essential): Knowledge of local housing providers and allocation policies. Understanding of Housing Benefit or welfare systems. Experience of Rapid Rehousing or Housing First. Driving licence and access to a vehicle. What you'll get in return 2-month temporary contract (initially) What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk