Housing Options Officer - Housing (Temporary Cover)

Location: Kirkby in Ashfield

Temporary (12 Weeks)
Hours: 30 hours per week (Hybrid, 2 days per week in office)

About the Role:

Ashfield District Council is seeking a Housing Options Officer on a temporary basis to cover a secondment within our Strategic Housing team. This role provides a vital service in managing homelessness cases, securing temporary accommodation, and preventing homelessness wherever possible.

Key Responsibilities:

* Manage all homelessness cases, providing advice, investigating applications, and ensuring statutory duties are discharged.

* Work in partnership with other agencies, landlords, and internal teams to maximize accommodation availability and welfare support.

* Promote private sector accommodation and assist service users in accessing support services such as furniture projects and rent deposit schemes.

* Undertake home visits to prevent homelessness and support sustainable housing solutions.

* Issue statutory decisions and ensure legal notices are served in line with legislation.

* Support temporary accommodation schemes, including during periods of high demand or staff absence.

* Assess safeguarding referrals and refer appropriately, ensuring accurate records are maintained.

* Deliver referrals to support vulnerable individuals, including financial support, food parcels, and furniture.

* Represent the Housing Options service at meetings, forums, case conferences, and courts as required.

* Assist with income collection and arrears management for temporary accommodation units.

* Contribute to the delivery of the Council's Homelessness Strategy and efficient service operations, including on-call out-of-hours support.

Requirements:

* Experience in housing, homelessness, or related social care settings.

* Knowledge of statutory homelessness duties and housing legislation.

* Strong communication, partnership, and negotiation skills.

* Ability to manage a high-volume caseload and work under pressure.

* Commitment to safeguarding and supporting vulnerable individuals.

* Flexibility to work across Council sites and participate in on-call arrangements.

What We Offer:

* Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your community

* Professional development and training opportunities

* Hybrid working pattern with office-based work 2 days per week

If you are experienced in housing and homelessness services and thrive in a fast-paced, supportive environment, we would love to hear from you.

Apply now to join our team and support our mission to prevent homelessness in Ashfield