Housing Options officer

Slough


Job Role


To actively support the prevention of homelessness by providing a comprehensive housing options and advice service. In addition to this, fulfilling the statutory obligations in respect of homelessness and access to housing solutions and work with, partner organisations.


Main Accountabilities

To consider and assess homelessness applications in accordance with the Housing Act 1996 Part 7 as amended by the Homeless Reduction Act 2017.

To investigate, assess, assist, advise and determine customers housing options, providing the Council's statutory obligations in relation to housing advice and homeless services including the s184 notifications and direct communication via phone, email or in person, with members of the public seeking support or advice.

To actively work with clients to prevent their homelessness. By assisting them to retain their existing accommodation or secure alternative housing when all other housing options or solutions are exhausted. To actively pursue further housing options by referring to the Private Rented Sector team and supported housing accommodation providers as appropriate.

To negotiate with landlords, family members and other agencies, both statutory and non-statutory to find the best solutions to clients housing needs and seeking to prevent homelessness wherever possible

To undertake comprehensive financial assessments to ensure accommodation is affordable and that where required to work closely with colleagues from the Welfare Service to maximise income application or changes to benefits are progressed in a timely manner

To provide consistently high quality Housing Advice regarding complex and sensitive matters including but not limited to Domestic Abuse, tenancy rights and eviction or access to the housing register.

To provide customers with robust Personal Housing Plans to ensure customers have the best chance to improve their housing options. Including wider support planning, linking with education, employment, health and other support providers and agencies.