We are recruiting for a Homeless Intervention Officer to support the delivery of a proactive homelessness prevention and statutory housing service within a local authority setting.
This role is focused on early intervention, preventing homelessness, and managing crisis responses to alleviate homelessness where it occurs. You will work directly with individuals and families at risk, including vulnerable customers, ensuring the council meets its statutory duties under housing legislation.
This role will provide experience working across a wide range of complex cases, including statutory homelessness assessments, prevention and relief duties, and multi-agency partnership working.
Key Responsibilities
* Triage new approaches and provide high-quality housing advice to prevent or delay homelessness across all customer groups, including those in priority need.
* Conduct full homelessness assessments and determine the council’s statutory duties in line with legislation.
* Develop, implement, and review Personalised Housing Plans to support prevention and relief of homelessness.
* Make and review statutory homelessness decisions, ensuring they are robust and legally compliant.
* Undertake all necessary enquiries and prevention activities in accordance with Part 7 of the Housing Act 1996 and the Homelessness Reduction Act.
* Work closely with internal teams and external partners, including landlords, health professionals, and support agencies, to resolve housing issues.
* Assess eligibility for transitional and temporary accommodation and support placements where required.
* Conduct interviews and home visits to assess housing needs and provide tailored advice.
* Identify safeguarding concerns and make appropriate referrals, particularly in cases involving children, older people, or domestic abuse.
* Maintain accurate records, case notes, and reports in line with policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
* Provide advice on housing options, including private rented accommodation, hostels, and social housing pathways, managing customer expectations.
* Liaise with outreach services and specialist teams to support individuals with complex needs or a history of rough sleeping.
* Support clients in moving from temporary to permanent accommodation in collaboration with relevant teams.
* Keep up to date with housing legislation, case law, and guidance, including equality and care responsibilities.
* Attend team meetings and contribute to service development as required.
Skills and Experience
* Experience working within homelessness services, housing options, or a related field.
* Strong knowledge of homelessness legislation, including the Housing Act 1996, Homelessness Act 2002, and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.
* Experience conducting housing assessments and managing complex casework.
* Ability to make sound, legally compliant decisions under pressure.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with vulnerable individuals and stakeholders.
* Ability to manage a varied workload and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
* Experience working collaboratively with internal departments and external agencies.
* Understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and procedures.
Additional Information
This role is expected to be office-based approximately two days per week. Candidates must be able to attend council office locations as required and participate in team meetings.