Housing Options Officer
Location: South East (Hybrid – 3 days per week in office)
Contract: 6 Months (Temporary/Interim)
Sector: Local Authority / Housing
The Role
We are working with a local authority in the South East to recruit an experienced Housing Options Officer on an initial 6-month contract. This is a hybrid role, requiring 3 days per week on-site, with the remaining time worked remotely.
The successful candidate will play a key role in preventing and relieving homelessness, providing statutory housing advice and support to residents in line with the Housing Act 1996 (as amended by the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017).
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct homelessness assessments and interviews in line with statutory duties
- Provide advice on housing options, including prevention and relief duties
- Carry out risk assessments and safeguarding checks where required
- Negotiate with landlords and source accommodation to prevent homelessness
- Maintain accurate case records and ensure compliance with relevant legislation
- Liaise with internal teams and external partners (social services, DWP, support agencies)
- Manage a caseload in line with statutory timescales and local authority targets
Requirements
- Demonstrable experience in a Housing Options / Homelessness Prevention role within a local authority setting
- Strong working knowledge of the Housing Act 1996 and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017
- Experience conducting Personalised Housing Plans (PHPs)
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills