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- Tasks: Help prevent homelessness by assessing and advising individuals in need.
- Company: Join a dedicated Local Authority team in Merton focused on community support.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive pay, and a referral bonus scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in people's lives while gaining valuable experience in the public sector.
- Qualifications: Experience in homelessness prevention or local authority work is essential.
- Other info: Contract duration is 3-6 months with potential for extension.
We are working in partnership with a Local Authority in the Merton area who are looking to appoint a Housing Options Advisor to work within their Homelessness Prevention Service.
Contract: Agency contract 3 - 6 months with a view to be extended.
Working Hours: 35 hours per week (Monday to Friday)
Location: SM4. (Hybrid working - 3 days in the office)
Rate of Pay: £21 - £26 per hour (Negotiable based on experience)
About the Role:
- Interview and assess homeless people.
- Prevent homelessness by promoting housing options.
- Determine whether applicants are owed a statutory duty under the 1996 Housing Act, Part 7 as amended.
- Advise those threatened with homelessness to prevent homelessness.
- Assess entitlements of single non-priority homeless people and provide statutory advice and assistance.
- Participate in and help develop outreach work, such as advice surgeries.
- Provide advice to private sector tenants, ensuring that customers with support needs are referred for support.
Experience Needed:
- Homelessness Prevention
- Local Authority / Public Sector
Contact Detail:
Spencer Clarke Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Options Advisor - Merton
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the 1996 Housing Act and its amendments, as this knowledge will be crucial in your role. Understanding the legal framework will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in homelessness prevention or local authority roles. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to make connections and gain insights into the challenges and best practices in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview questions by practising scenarios related to assessing homelessness cases. Think about how you would approach different situations and what solutions you could offer to prevent homelessness.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the London Borough of Merton and their specific homelessness prevention initiatives. Being knowledgeable about their current projects and challenges will show your genuine interest in the role and the community you'll be serving.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Options Advisor - Merton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Housing Options Advisor. Highlight your understanding of homelessness prevention and the relevant legislation, such as the 1996 Housing Act, in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your experience in the public sector or local authority roles. Emphasise any previous work related to homelessness prevention or advisory services, showcasing your skills and achievements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the job description. Explain why you are passionate about helping those facing homelessness and how your background makes you a suitable candidate for this role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Spencer Clarke Group
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Housing Options Advisor. Familiarise yourself with the 1996 Housing Act and be prepared to discuss how you would assess and advise clients facing homelessness.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Highlight any previous experience in homelessness prevention or working within local authorities. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully helped individuals or families in similar situations.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Communication Skills
As a Housing Options Advisor, you'll need to communicate effectively with vulnerable individuals. Prepare to discuss how you approach sensitive conversations and demonstrate your ability to empathise with clients' situations.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewers about their outreach work and the challenges they face. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the position is the right fit for you.
