Housing Advice Caseworker in Cardiff

We are expanding our housing team and are looking for two new Advice Caseworkers to join our advice team in West London – based in Hillingdon, Ealing and Kensington and Chelsea. We are looking for people with at least 2 years’ experience as a caseworker, with direct involvement in advising clients on housing issues including possession proceedings, homelessness eligibility and access to suitable accommodation. We have a track record of trying new innovative ways of helping people in the current housing crisis. The right person will be looking to continually develop their skills; we will provide additional training to help personal development. You will be joining an exciting and dynamic housing team.

To be successful you will need knowledge and experience of providing housing advice, holding a caseload of around 60-80 clients, a drive to build your expertise, have the ability to cope with high demand in a stressful environment and work well as a team. Nucleus Legal Advice Centre is an accredited Specialist Debt, Housing and Benefits advice provider. We offer generous terms and conditions including:

• 35 hour week (excluding lunch)
• A supportive learning environment
• 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
• Commitment to a work-life balance
• Some WFH

Person Specification:

Knowledge:

• At least two years of experience providing specialist housing advice to tenants facing eviction or homelessness.
• Casework experience in possession proceedings and/or statutory homelessness cases.
• Strong understanding of housing law, tenancy rights, and homelessness legislation, including the ability to apply new legal developments to achieve positive outcomes for clients.
• Proficiency in using case management systems to record, track, and manage client cases efficiently.

Experience:

• Experience working in the not-for-profit and advice sector.
• Experience delivering advice services in a setting that includes both paid staff and volunteers.
• Experience using technology and digital tools to enhance service delivery, including case management systems and digital advice platforms.

Skills & Attributes:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret legislation and provide practical, client-focused advice.
• Ability to use new legal developments to influence case outcomes and drive systemic change.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to produce clear, concise, and persuasive casework documentation.
• Strong IT skills, including proficiency in case management systems, Microsoft Office, and social media.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team, consulting and contributing to decision-making in line with organizational values.
• Ability to work well under pressure, managing a demanding caseload with resilience and efficiency.
• A commitment to social justice and equal opportunities, aligning with the mission and values of the organization.
• Willingness to work flexibly, including outside regular office hours when required.
• Self-sufficient in administrative tasks and case management.

Job Purpose:

The Housing Advice Caseworker plays a vital role in preventing homelessness and ensuring individuals can secure and sustain suitable accommodation. By leveraging housing law, debt, and benefits expertise, this role supports individuals facing eviction, homelessness, or inadequate housing. The caseworker will ensure that clients receive timely and appropriate legal advice, empowering them to navigate housing systems effectively. A key focus of this role is to maximize the impact of new legislation in improving housing security and reducing homelessness. The caseworker will guide clients and colleagues in understanding and utilizing legal protections and entitlements to drive systemic change and positive outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide specialist legal advice and casework on housing issues, including possession proceedings, eviction, and homelessness prevention.
• Support clients in understanding their rights and responsibilities within the housing and welfare benefits system.
• Represent clients in court and appeal tribunals where appropriate.
• Ensure clients receive holistic support by working closely with debt and benefits teams to address related financial and legal challenges.
• Triage housing-related enquiries to ensure cases are allocated to the appropriate specialist for effective resolution.
• Assist clients in accessing housing solutions, including negotiating with landlords, local authorities, and support services.

Policy, Advocacy, and Systemic Change:

• Monitor and analyze changes in housing legislation and policies, ensuring best practice in legal advice and representation.
• Use casework insights to contribute to policy research, reports, and advocacy efforts aimed at improving housing law and services.
• Develop and maintain relationships with local and national policy bodies, advocating for legislative and procedural improvements in housing and homelessness prevention.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Work collaboratively with statutory agencies, local authorities, and non-profit organizations to develop effective housing solutions.
• Contribute to cross-team initiatives to tackle systemic housing issues and improve service delivery.
• Participate in roundtable discussions, stakeholder meetings, and forums to influence housing policies and service improvements.

Training and Knowledge Sharing:

• Design and deliver training or briefing sessions to equip staff, volunteers, and external partners with up-to-date housing law knowledge.
• Provide guidance and supervision to junior caseworkers and volunteers, ensuring high-quality service provision.

Data, Reporting, and Communications:

• Maintain accurate case records using Nucleus' case management systems, ensuring compliance with monitoring and evaluation frameworks.
• Compile case studies, impact assessments, and reports for funders and stakeholders to demonstrate service effectiveness.
• Contribute to the development of Nucleus’ website and communication materials, ensuring accessibility of housing advice and information.

Organizational Responsibilities:

• Work within Nucleus' mission, values, and strategic priorities, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Uphold the highest standards of confidentiality, equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of work.
• Attend staff meetings, training sessions, and supervision as required.
• Be proactive and adaptable, working independently while contributing to a strong team environment.