Temporary Accommodation Officer Location: South East London
Contract: Temporary / Ongoing
Rate: £26.80 per hour (Umbrella / Limited)
Working Pattern: Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm Hybrid - 2 days in the office, 3 days remote
We are currently recruiting for an experienced Temporary Accommodation Officer to join Lewisham Council, delivering a people-focused income collection and arrears recovery service to support residents and sustain tenancies.
Main Purpose of the Role
To provide an effective, resident-focused income collection service that maximises rental income and minimises rent arrears, while supporting residents living in temporary accommodation.
Key Responsibilities
* Proactively manage a caseload of rent accounts, ensuring income is maximised and tenancies are sustained
* Engage with residents via telephone, home visits, and office interviews
* Support residents to maximise income and prevent financial exclusion
* Represent Lewisham Council in County Court possession proceedings
* Maintain accurate records, prepare legal documentation, and progress arrears cases in line with council policies
* Ensure all arrears recovery actions are completed within agreed timescales
* Attend evictions when required, completing inventories and arranging removals and storage of goods
* Work closely with external partners including Housing Benefit, DWP, Social Services, and Housing Options
* Liaise with internal teams to resolve issues such as disrepair, succession, or abandonment
* Meet individual and team performance targets relating to income collection and customer service
* Provide training and induction support to new staff and work placements
* Deliver excellent customer service at all times and take responsibility for personal development
* Comply with all Lewisham Council policies, including Health & Safety and Equality & Diversity
Key Requirements
* Experience in temporary accommodation, income recovery, or housing management
* Strong knowledge of arrears recovery processes and tenancy sustainment
* Experience representing or supporting cases at County Court (desirable)
* Excellent communication and customer service skills
* Ability to manage a busy caseload in a performance-driven environment
* Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
* Experience working within a local authority or public sector housing service
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