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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 vulnerable individuals.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working options after establishing your role and gain valuable experience.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in people's lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of housing laws and experience in customer service are key for this role.
- Other info: Contact Mia for more details and to learn about the application process.
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 will prepare you for the types of interactions you'll have as a Housing Officer and show that you can handle challenging conversations with empathy.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills, both written and verbal. As a Housing Officer, you'll need to convey complex information clearly and compassionately, so consider role-playing scenarios or seeking feedback on your communication style.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the housing sector. Attend local events or join online forums related to homelessness and housing advice. Building connections can provide valuable insights and may even lead to job opportunities.
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 regarding 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 in various formats (in-person, telephone, email).
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses how your skills and experiences align with the duties of the Housing Officer role. Mention your understanding of the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and your ability to manage urgent cases.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors. Ensure that your documents are clear, concise, and free of typos to make a professional impression.
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 data processing is a key part of the job, ensure you're comfortable discussing your experience with IT applications. Mention any relevant software you've used and how it helped you manage case records efficiently.
