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- Tasks: Help those in housing need through interviews and assessments, providing essential advice.
- Company: Join a dedicated team focused on preventing homelessness and supporting the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven organization that values your input and fosters growth.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of housing laws and experience in customer service are key.
- Other info: This role offers a chance to develop skills in a supportive environment.
Housing (Homelessness) Triage/First contact Officer Office based – 36 Hours per week (flexibility for hybrid working considered once role established) To provide an effective triage and duty service and conduct a pre assessment/filtering service by telephone or face to face interviews to provide advice and assistance for those in housing need or are threatened with homelessness or are homeless in accordance with the Homelessness Act 2017. Duties Interview and assess homeless on the day approaches in person. Make preliminary investigations ensuring customer provides evidence and documentation at the earliest opportunity. Provide comprehensive advice on a full range of options to solve their housing problem including tenancy rights, housing, and welfare benefits. Makes initial enquiries into reason to believe client is eligible and homeless. Filters and contacts online housing options form and conducts preliminary enquiries, providing advice and assistance to prevent homelessness occurring. Checking Section 21 validity and Refer to Safer renting regarding illegal evictions. Undertake email duty and respond to emails or forward to the most appropriate service/team Undertake telephone duty – provide housing advice or advise of the relevant service/team details. Respond to ‘Duty to Refer’ and make initial enquiries and first contact. Capture and process data on the Council’s housing system (NPS) to accurately reflect the application process and stage of application, creating new application records as necessary. Ensure accurate and comprehensive case notes and records are kept of contact and advice given. Ensure documents are scanned and labelled correctly and added to the customers records. If homelessness cannot be prevented or client is homeless referred to the Housing Duty Manager for allocation to a case officer and requesting temporary accommodation. The list above is not exhaustive, and the officer will be required to support the Homelessness Prevention and Solutions Service to manage its front-line functions Knowledge Working knowledge of the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and Part V11 of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended) Knowledge of security of tenure Knowledge of welfare benefits and advice services including Domestic Abuse services Experience and Skills Experience of dealing with customers in person, telephone, and email Experience of working in housing advice/homelessness Ability to work independently and able to manage a workload and to prioritise urgent cases. Good communication skills both written and orally. Experience of using IT applications Any further questions please contact Mia for more information
Housing Officer employer: Social Personnel
Contact Detail:
Social Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and the Housing Act 1996. Understanding these laws will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and your ability to navigate complex housing issues.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain experience in customer service, especially in situations involving sensitive topics like homelessness. This could involve volunteering at local shelters or organizations that assist those in housing need, which will give you practical insights and enhance your communication skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interviewing skills by conducting mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on asking open-ended questions and actively listening to responses, as these skills are crucial for assessing clients' needs effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the housing sector. Attend local housing forums or workshops to meet people who work in similar roles. This can provide valuable insights into the job and may even lead to referrals or recommendations.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Housing Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, especially those related to the Homelessness Act 2017 and housing advice.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience in housing advice or homelessness. Emphasize your communication skills and any experience dealing with customers through various channels like face-to-face, telephone, and email.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your understanding of the role and your passion for helping those in housing need. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle urgent cases and provide comprehensive advice.
Highlight Relevant Knowledge: In your application, make sure to mention your knowledge of the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and welfare benefits. This will show that you are well-prepared for the responsibilities of the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Social Personnel
✨Know the Homelessness Act 2017
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and its implications. Be prepared to discuss how this knowledge can help you in your role as a Housing Officer.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves interacting with clients through various channels, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with customers in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Abilities
Be ready to discuss specific instances where you've successfully resolved housing issues or provided effective advice. Highlight your ability to assess situations quickly and offer practical solutions.
✨Familiarize Yourself with IT Applications
As the role requires data capture and processing, brush up on relevant IT applications. Be prepared to discuss your experience with similar systems and how you can adapt to new technologies.
