At a Glance
- Tasks: Help people find housing and prevent homelessness with expert advice and support.
- Company: Join the London Borough of Slough, dedicated to improving community living standards.
- Benefits: Enjoy weekly payments, a personal account manager, and a welcome pack.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in housing advice and knowledge of relevant legislation is essential.
- Other info: Home visits may be required to assess housing applications.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Job Description
We are seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Housing Options Officer to join our Housing Solutions team. You will provide advice, guidance, and practical solutions to households who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, helping them access suitable housing and support services. This role requires strong case management skills, excellent knowledge of housing legislation, and the ability to work with vulnerable clients.Key Responsibilities• Assess housing needs and homelessness applications in line with statutory duties under Part VII of the Housing Act 1996• Advise clients on housing options, including temporary accommodation, social housing, private rental sector options, and prevention measures• Manage complex cases, including vulnerable households and those with additional needs, ensuring timely and effective resolutions• Liaise with external partners including landlords, housing providers, social services, and voluntary organisations to secure housing solutions• Maintain accurate records and case management systems, ensuring compliance with policies and statutory requirements• Respond to enquiries, complaints, and requests for review, escalating cases where necessary• Contribute to the development and delivery of homelessness prevention strategies and local housing initiativesAbout You• Experience in housing, homelessness prevention, or a related social care/housing role• Knowledge of housing legislation, homelessness law, and statutory duties• Strong case management, problem-solving, and decision-making skills• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to work sensitively with vulnerable clients• Ability to prioritise workloads, work under pressure, and meet deadlines• Collaborative approach and ability to build positive working relationships with internal and external partnersIf you have the relevent skills then please apply today!
Contact Detail:
Ackerman Pierce Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Needs Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the relevant housing legislation and policies, such as the Landlords & Tenants Act and the Housing and Homelessness Acts. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the housing sector, especially those who work in local councils or homelessness services. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to build connections and gain insights that could be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential scenario-based questions in interviews by thinking through common challenges faced by Housing Needs Officers. Consider how you would approach these situations and be ready to discuss your problem-solving strategies.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your customer service skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully assisted clients in the past. Highlight your ability to provide holistic advice and support, which is crucial for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Needs Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Housing Needs Officer. Familiarise yourself with relevant legislation and the specific duties outlined in the job description.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your experience in providing housing advice and working with homelessness services. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to tackle housing needs and prevent homelessness.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and your understanding of the challenges faced by home seekers. Mention how your skills align with the council's objectives and your proactive approach to tackling housing issues.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ackerman Pierce
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the key housing and homelessness legislation, such as the Landlords & Tenants Act and the Housing and Homelessness Acts. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will demonstrate your expertise and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples of how you've provided high-quality customer service in previous roles. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups, including tenants, landlords, and vulnerable individuals.
✨Demonstrate Proactive Problem-Solving
Think of specific instances where you identified a housing need or homelessness risk and took initiative to resolve it. This will show your proactive approach and commitment to tackling housing issues.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the council's approach to housing needs. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the position aligns with your career goals.