Housing Advisor in Maidstone

Maidstone, United Kingdom

At Civic Recruitment and Limited, we know that individuals are more than just fixed expenses; they are the cornerstone of every thriving organisation. That’s why we are passionate about transforming recruitment in the public and private sectors.

In the modern job market, organisations in both public and private sectors face significant workforce challenges. Public sector entities, such as local councils and central government departments, often struggle with lengthy recruitment processes, limited access to qualified candidates, and stringent budgetary and regulatory constraints. Private sector businesses, on the other hand, encounter high turnover rates, difficulties managing a mix of permanent and temporary staff, and challenges in sourcing specialised talent for niche industries. These sector-specific obstacles, coupled with the universal complexities of payroll management, create a pressing need for efficient workforce solutions.

Civic Recruitment Limited addresses these challenges with innovative recruitment and payroll solutions tailored for diverse organisational needs. Recognising the critical hurdles organisations face, the company leverages its expertise to streamline processes, reduce recruitment times, and alleviate administrative burdens. With an extensive database of over 1 million pre-screened candidates, Civic Recruitment Limited is well-positioned to cater to the specific needs of both public and private sectors.

Job Description

Location: Trinity House, 20 Church Street, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 1LY

Contract: 3 Month Contract

Hours: Full Time

Working Pattern: Hybrid Working – 3 Days Office Based, 2 Days Remote

Summary

We are looking for a seasoned Housing Advisor to become part of our dynamic Housing Options and Homelessness team in Maidstone. This role is ideal for a housing expert with substantial experience in homelessness, offering a chance to provide crucial advice and support to residents facing housing challenges. You will be responsible for evaluating homelessness applications, managing a portfolio of households in temporary housing, and actively working towards favourable housing outcomes. Given that many of the households we assist are affected by domestic abuse, a deep understanding of its effects on homelessness is essential.

Responsibilities

• Deliver comprehensive housing advice and guidance to residents with housing issues.
• Evaluate housing situations and discuss appropriate housing options.
• Investigate and make determinations on homelessness applications under Part VII of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended).
• Oversee a caseload of applicants in temporary housing under the Relief Duty.
• Advance homelessness cases to suitable resolutions, including:
  • Main Housing Duty decisions
  • Intentional Homelessness decisions
  • Non-Priority Need decisions
• Develop and execute Personalised Housing Plans.
• Conduct inquiries and collect evidence to support statutory decisions.
• Coordinate with landlords, support agencies, accommodation providers, and other stakeholders.
• Offer advice and support to vulnerable households.
• Maintain precise case records and ensure adherence to legislation and local procedures.
• Collaborate with colleagues to deliver an effective Housing Options service.

Requirements

• Experience in a Housing Options, Homelessness, or Housing Advice setting.
• In-depth knowledge of:
  • Housing Act 1996 Part VII
  • Homelessness Reduction Act 2017
  • Homelessness legislation and statutory guidance
• Experience in assessing homelessness applications and making related decisions.
• Experience in managing homelessness caseloads.
• Strong understanding of temporary accommodation processes.
• Knowledge of domestic abuse and its impact on homelessness.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Experience working with vulnerable individuals and families.
• Experience with Local Authority Housing Options.
• Experience managing Relief Duty cases.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and support pathways.
• Experience using homelessness case management systems.

What's on Offer?

• 3 Month Contract
• Hybrid Working – 3 Days Office / 2 Days Remote
• Location: Maidstone, Kent
• Bi-weekly Pay
• Opportunity to make a significant impact on vulnerable households.
• Join a supportive and experienced Housing Options team.
• Engage with a diverse caseload focused on homelessness prevention and housing solutions.

This position is suitable for individuals with experience as a Housing Advisor, Housing Options Officer, Homelessness Officer, Housing Needs Officer, Housing Solutions Officer, Temporary Accommodation Officer, or Prevention Officer.