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- Tasks: Help people facing homelessness by providing advice and managing cases.
- Company: Join a supportive local authority team in Maidenhead, dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy a temporary role with potential for extension and flexible working arrangements.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing valuable skills in housing law.
- Qualifications: Experience in housing advice and knowledge of homelessness law is essential.
- Other info: Office attendance required one day a week; start within two weeks.
An exciting opportunity has emerged for a Housing Options and Advice Officer to join one of Adecco Public Sector's Local Authority clients in a temporary contract, initially for 3-4 months (but highly likely to be extended). Our client is based in Maidenhead in Berkshire and this is a full time role for 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Office attendance is required one day each week as you will be involved on the phone duty for the week.
You will be dealing with any homeless approaches on the day when attending the office, and will hold a caseload which will involve working from the initial stage of an approach through to making main duty decisions. The successful candidate will also be expected to complete s184 decisions.
Due to the busy nature of the role, the client is keen for applicants to possess previous experience of:
- Interviewing clients and resolving all housing problems.
- Processing claims for homeless applications as required under Part VII of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended).
- Advising and preventing homelessness by offering the correct advice to clients approaching the Council as homeless.
- Assessing whether those who are threatened with homelessness qualify for private sector options under the Housing Act, Part VII, as amended.
- Having regard to the Homelessness Code of Guidance and the Council's Homelessness Prevention and resilience agenda.
- Sound knowledge of Housing and Homelessness Law and experience in resolving complex housing problems.
- Administrative skills to manage caseload and work effectively in a team of 6-8 officers.
- Ability to deal with very demanding service users and partners, and have strong IT and admin skills.
- Updating PHP's (Personal Housing Plans).
As the client is keen for the candidate to hit the ground running, previous experience of carrying out a similar role with a local authority client in the last two years would be hugely beneficial. Strong knowledge of the Homelessness Reduction Act is also important. A car driver is not required.
Only applicants who feel they meet the above criteria, are happy to work in our client's office 1 day a week and can start on short notice (2 weeks maximum) need apply.
Housing Options Officer (temp: Maidenhead, Berkshire) employer: Adecco
Contact Detail:
Adecco Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Options Officer (temp: Maidenhead, Berkshire)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Homelessness Reduction Act and the relevant Housing Laws. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the role's requirements.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the housing sector, especially those who have worked with local authorities. They can provide insights into the role and may even refer you to opportunities within their networks.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview scenarios by practising how you would handle complex housing problems. Think of examples from your past experience that showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to manage demanding service users.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and challenges in housing and homelessness. Being knowledgeable about recent developments will show your passion for the field and your readiness to contribute effectively from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Options Officer (temp: Maidenhead, Berkshire)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in housing options and homelessness law. Include specific examples of your previous roles, particularly any work with local authorities, to demonstrate your suitability for the position.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description. Emphasise your experience in interviewing clients, processing homeless applications, and your knowledge of the Homelessness Reduction Act.
Showcase Your Skills: In your application, clearly outline your administrative skills and ability to manage a caseload. Mention any experience you have working in a team and dealing with demanding service users, as these are crucial for this role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is essential for a role in public service.
How to prepare for a job interview at Adecco
✨Know Your Housing Law
Brush up on the Housing Act 1996 and the Homelessness Reduction Act. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show your understanding of the role and its responsibilities.
✨Demonstrate Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully handled homeless applications or resolved housing issues. This will help illustrate your capability to manage a caseload effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As you'll be dealing with demanding service users, practice how you can convey complex information clearly and empathetically. Role-playing common scenarios can help you feel more prepared.
✨Familiarise Yourself with PHPs
Understand the process of updating Personal Housing Plans (PHPs) and be ready to discuss how you would approach this task. Highlighting your administrative skills will be key in this role.
