One of my local government clients is seeking an experienced and proactive Accommodation Assessment & Lettings Officer to join their Housing Needs & Refugee Services division. This role plays a critical function in arranging emergency and temporary accommodation placements and supporting the allocation of suitable long-term housing solutions in line with statutory duties.
Key Responsibilities:
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Arrange emergency and temporary accommodation placements, including referrals into supported housing.
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Make offers of properties in line with Housing legislation and manage discharges of duty.
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Liaise with internal teams (e.g. Children's Social Services, Adult Social Care) to arrange emergency housing placements.
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Coordinate and allocate available properties in the private rented sector (PRS) and identify households for Direct Lets.
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Maintain accurate property and tenant records, monitor void turnaround times, and ensure re-let times are minimised.
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Manage move-ons from temporary accommodation and ensure suitable housing pathways are in place.
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Draft robust decision letters for suitability reviews and discharge of duty.
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Monitor rent accounts, initiate Housing Benefit claims, and ensure income recovery.
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Respond to complaints and enquiries within corporate timeframes.
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Liaise with landlords, partner agencies, and internal departments to maximise housing options and service outcomes.
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Use multiple ICT systems to maintain accurate, evidence-based records and support performance reporting.
Essential Skills & Experience:
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Strong knowledge of the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, Housing Act 1996 Parts VI & VII, and relevant housing legislation.
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Understanding of landlord & tenant law, welfare benefits, and housing allocations policies.
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Experience coordinating emergency accommodation and supported housing placements.
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Ability to assess affordability and suitability of accommodation.
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Experience working with vulnerable client groups and handling sensitive situations.
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Ability to draft clear, legally sound decision letters.
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Familiarity with housing databases and administrative systems.
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Strong interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and case management skills.
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Excellent organisational skills and ability to work under pressure, managing a demanding caseload.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
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Experience working in local authority housing or homelessness services.
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Comfortable dealing with high-need or distressed service users.
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Proactive, solution-focused, and able to work both independently and within a team.
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Flexible and willing to attend home visits or occasional evening work.
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Strong understanding of safeguarding procedures and partnership working.
If interested in this role please send your CV to Lee-Jaun at Coyle Personnel Ltd