Housing Options Officer

Housing Options Officer
Ashford
Full Time
Temporary
Provide expert housing advice and support to prevent homelessness, working for a leading housing association in Ashford. THE ROLE
As a Housing Options Officer, you will deliver the Council’s Homelessness Strategy, providing professional advice and practical solutions to prevent and relieve homelessness.
Key responsibilities include:

• Conduct sensitive interviews and investigations with individuals threatened with homelessness to determine their housing needs.
• Provide advice on housing options, including prevention and relief solutions, in line with Housing Act 1996, Homelessness Act 2002, and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.
• Liaise with landlords, statutory agencies, and voluntary organisations to resolve housing issues and prevent homelessness.
• Negotiate tenancy retention plans, Discretionary Housing Payments, and Homelessness Prevention Loans to support clients.
• Undertake home, hospital, or prison visits to assess housing situations and deliver advice.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure cases are progressed and monitored in line with legislation and Council procedures.
• Represent the Council at multi-agency meetings, case conferences, and court hearings as required.

THE CANDIDATE
We are seeking candidates with previous experience in housing options, homelessness prevention, or related roles within local authorities or housing associations.
Additional experience required:

• Knowledge of statutory housing duties under the Housing Act 1996, Homelessness Act 2002, Localism Act 2011, and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.
• Experience in conducting interviews and investigations with vulnerable individuals and households.
• Strong negotiation skills to resolve disputes and secure tenancy retention.
• Ability to analyse complex legal and financial information to make informed decisions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with clients, stakeholders, and external agencies.

THE CONTRACT
Working Hours: Monday–Friday, 09:00–17:00
Length of Contract: 3 Month Temporary Contract
Rate: The pay for the role is £19.23 per hour LTD company rate. The PAYE equivalent is £16.50 per hour, inclusive of holiday. HOW TO APPLY
If interested in this role, please apply directly or email bethany.wiles@servicecare.org.uk or call 01772 208 966 and ask for Beth to discuss further
Know someone perfect for this role? We offer a £250 referral bonus for successful candidate recommendations!