Marks Consulting Partners are currently looking for a Relief Duty Officer to work with one of our Local Authority clients in London.
What the Job Will be doing
* Managing a caseload of clients who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, delivering timely advice and housing solutions to prevent homelessness
* Assessing applications in line with Part VII of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended), making robust and legally sound decisions
* Fully investigating homelessness applications and determining the Council's duties under current legislation and Codes of Guidance
* Responding to Duty to Refer cases and working proactively with partner agencies to prevent homelessness
* Assessing housing needs and providing tailored advice to help clients sustain existing accommodation or secure alternative housing
* Securing suitable temporary accommodation where a statutory duty is owed, ensuring placements are appropriate and compliant
* Conducting home visits and mediating between households and landlords where required
* Working closely with housing associations, private landlords and letting agents to maximise housing options for clients
* Investigating cases of harassment or illegal eviction and liaising with legal teams and external partners where necessary
* Monitoring the welfare of clients in temporary accommodation and providing ongoing support and advice
* Maintaining accurate case records and contributing to performance data and service reporting
* Representing the service at multi-agency meetings and working collaboratively with internal departments and external partners
What You Will Need
* Previous experience working within a Housing Options, Homelessness or Relief Duty role in a Local Authority or similar setting
* Strong knowledge of homelessness legislation, particularly Housing Act 1996 Part VII and the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017
* Experience assessing homelessness applications and making statutory decisions
* Ability to manage a complex caseload and work in a fast-paced environment
* Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with vulnerable clients and stakeholders
* Experience working with temporary accommodation placements and private rented sector options
* Good understanding of safeguarding, welfare benefits and housing support services
* Excellent organisational skills and ability to maintain accurate case records