Housing Options Officer

• Location: Victoria Square, Bolton, BL1
• Pay: £16.43 per hour
• Job Type: Temporary, Part-time (2 days per week, hybrid working)

We are currently assisting Bolton Council in their search for a dedicated Housing Options Officer to join their dynamic Homelessness & Housing Options team. This role is crucial in supporting vulnerable households, preventing homelessness, and providing high-quality housing advice in accordance with statutory duties.

Day-to-day of the role:

• Manage all aspects of homelessness casework from initial presentation through to decisions, temporary accommodation, and securing long-term housing solutions.
• Provide detailed housing options advice, advocacy, and support to households with a wide range of needs.
• Work in accordance with the Housing Act 1996 (as amended), the Homelessness Act 2002, and relevant Codes of Guidance.
• Collaborate with internal departments, external partners, landlords, and support agencies to prevent homelessness and enable sustainable re-housing.
• Organise and participate in multi-agency meetings for complex cases.
• Maintain accurate case records, prepare reports, and provide monitoring information as required.
• Produce clear written correspondence to customers, councillors, MPs, and partner organisations.
• Support the development of homelessness services and contribute to policy and practice improvements.
• Promote equality, diversity, safeguarding, and high standards of customer care.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Knowledge of housing need, homelessness issues, and relevant legislation.
• Strong interviewing and customer-facing skills, with the ability to handle sensitive and complex cases.
• Ability to assess situations, make informed decisions, and recommend appropriate actions.
• Excellent communication skills — written and verbal.
• Effective organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Experience working with vulnerable customers or in a related front-line service area.
• Awareness of safeguarding in relation to children and vulnerable adults.
• Ability to work with multiple agencies and negotiate on behalf of customers.
• A clean driving licence and access to a vehicle (essential user allowance applicable).

Desirable:

• Thorough working knowledge of homelessness legislation and best practice.
• Experience of managing a varied and complex caseload within a homelessness or housing options environment.
• Demonstrated track record of achieving positive outcomes for households with complex needs.