At a Glance
- Tasks: Help residents find housing solutions and assess homelessness cases.
- Company: Join a dynamic team dedicated to improving housing services in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy weekly payments, a personal account manager, and a welcome pack.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth and learning in a collaborative team setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with homelessness assessments and effective communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Overview
Role within a London local authority to deliver housing options support for households homeless or at risk. You will conduct homelessness assessments, determine eligibility, and develop personalised housing plans. You will liaise with landlords and services, signpost to support, and ensure timely case progression. You will handle complex cases with a focus on preventing homelessness and delivering a high-quality, customer-focused service.
Responsibilities
- Conduct homelessness assessments and determine eligibility under the Housing Act 1996
- Provide comprehensive housing advice and guidance to applicants who are homeless or threatened with homelessness
- Develop and review Personalised Housing Plans in line with statutory duties
- Assess applications under the prevention and relief duties and make appropriate decisions
- Investigate homelessness cases and gather relevant evidence to support decisions
- Work with applicants to identify suitable accommodation and prevent homelessness wherever possible
- Liaise with landlords, housing associations, private sector providers and internal council teams
- Make referrals and signpost applicants to appropriate support services
- Maintain accurate case records and ensure cases are progressed within statutory timescales
- Handle complex and challenging cases while delivering a high-quality customer-focused service
Key requirements
- Previous experience working as a Housing Options Officer or within a homelessness service
- Strong knowledge of the Housing Act 1996 and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017
- Experience conducting homelessness assessments and making statutory decisions
- Knowledge of prevention and relief duties, PHPs and temporary accommodation
- Excellent communication, organisational and case management skills
- Excellent communication
- Organisational skills
- Customer-focused service
- Case management skills
- Knowledge of Housing Act 1996
- Knowledge of Homelessness Reduction Act 2017
Housing Options Officer in London employer: Ackerman Pierce
Ackerman Pierce is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being of both employees and the vulnerable adults they serve. With a focus on professional growth, employees benefit from tailored development opportunities and the guidance of a personal consultant, ensuring a rewarding career in the heart of Brentford's vibrant community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Options Officer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the key legislation mentioned in the job description, such as the Housing Act 1996 and the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017. Being able to discuss these laws confidently during your interview will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed complex cases or resolved issues for clients. This will showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure, which are crucial for a Housing Options Officer.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the local housing market and current challenges faced by residents in the area. Showing that you understand the specific needs of the community will set you apart and highlight your dedication to providing effective housing solutions.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice your communication skills, especially in scenarios where you might need to interact with vulnerable individuals or partner organisations. Being able to convey empathy and clarity will be essential in this role, so consider role-playing common situations you might encounter.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Options Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and requirements. Highlight your relevant experience in homelessness assessments and knowledge of the Housing Act and related legislation.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to reflect your experience with the specific laws and acts mentioned, such as the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and the Equality Act 2010. Use keywords from the job description to make your application stand out.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and your ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed caseloads or resolved complex issues in previous positions.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ackerman Pierce
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Housing Act 1996, Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, and other relevant legislation. Be prepared to discuss how these laws impact your approach to homelessness assessments and how you would apply them in real scenarios.
✨Demonstrate Effective Communication Skills
Since the role involves working with various stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated with customers or partner organisations in the past.
✨Showcase Problem-Solving Abilities
Think of specific instances where you've tackled complex problems in previous roles. Be ready to explain your thought process and the steps you took to reach a resolution, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
This position requires collaboration within a dynamic team. Share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team setting, particularly in achieving common goals or supporting colleagues in challenging situations.
