Homelessness Reduction Officer in Sunderland

Are you passionate about making a lasting difference to the lives of people experiencing homelessness?

We are looking for a motivated and resilient Homeless Reduction Officer to join our Housing Options Team. This is a rewarding opportunity to work with some of the city’s most vulnerable residents, helping them access sustainable accommodation and move away from homelessness for good.

Whilst the role includes the full range of homelessness assessment and case management responsibilities, the successful candidate will have a particular focus on supporting individuals with a history of long‑term and repeat rough sleeping, many of whom present with multiple and complex needs.

Working within the framework of the Housing Act 1996, Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, and current rough‑sleeping strategies, you will assess homelessness applications, develop and review Personalised Housing Plans, and work creatively to identify accommodation solutions that achieve positive outcomes.

A key aspect of the role will be collaborative working. You will work closely with colleagues across the Housing Options Team, as well as accommodation providers and wider partner agencies, to coordinate support and address the barriers preventing individuals from securing and sustaining accommodation.

About the Role

You will:

• Assess homelessness applications and undertake statutory housing duties & making decisions
• Complete Housing Needs Assessments and develop effective Personalised Housing Plans.
• Manage a caseload of customers experiencing homelessness
• Lead on complex cases involving long‑term rough sleeping and multiple support needs.
• Work in partnership with services
• Identify accommodation options that are suitable, sustainable and affordable.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience working within housing, homelessness, supported accommodation or a related field.
• Understands homelessness legislation, including the Housing Act 1996, Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and relevant statutory guidance.
• Has experience supporting vulnerable adults with complex needs.
• Has excellent communication, negotiation and partnership‑working skills.
• Can manage a demanding caseload and make sound decisions in challenging circumstances.
• Is committed to achieving sustainable outcomes for people experiencing homelessness.

This post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore will be subject to a DBS check from the Disclosure and Barring Service.