Homelessness Advice & Prevention Officer

neway international; Skelmersdale; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A dedicated service provider is looking for a Homelessness Advice & Prevention Officer in Skelmersdale to provide essential homelessness prevention services. You will conduct assessments, offer housing advice, and liaise with various agencies to ensure clients receive necessary support. Strong knowledge of housing legislation and interpersonal skills are required. This temporary role demands in-office attendance at least twice a week.

Qualifications

• Proven experience assessing homelessness cases under HA1996 and HRA2017.
• Strong knowledge of housing legislation and homelessness prevention strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with clients, colleagues, and partner agencies.

Responsibilities

• Conduct one-to-one interviews with individuals presenting as homeless.
• Provide practical advice on housing options.
• Maintain accurate records on the homelessness database.

Skills

assessing homelessness cases under HA1996 and HRA2017

housing legislation knowledge

communication skills

interpersonal skills

organisational skills

Job description

Overview

Neway International are seeking a Homelessness Advice & Prevention Officer to join our client based with West Lancashire Borough Council., West Lancashire Borough Council is seeking a Homelessness Advice & Prevention Officer to join the Housing Operations team within Transformation & Resources. This temporary role will provide cover for long-term sickness, ensuring the Council continues to deliver essential homelessness prevention services.

Responsibilities

• Conduct one-to-one interviews with members of the public presenting as homeless or threatened with homelessness, assessing housing needs in line with Housing Act 1996 and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.
• Carry out enquiries and investigations with local agencies to determine duties owed and issue decisions accordingly.
• Provide practical advice and assistance on housing options, securing temporary, supported, or permanent accommodation.
• Prevent homelessness wherever possible by offering timely advice and liaising with third-party agencies on behalf of clients.
• Maintain accurate records on the homelessness database and ensure cases are entered onto the housing register promptly.
• Fulfil the Council's duties to clients, including use of the Homelessness Prevention Fund where appropriate.
• Produce reports for statutory reviews and appeals as required.
• Provide tenancy relations advice for those in the private rented sector, investigating and prosecuting cases of illegal eviction or harassment if necessary.
• Support the implementation of new initiatives and working practices as outlined in the Homelessness Strategy.
• Liaise with elected members, partner agencies, and the public to ensure effective service delivery.

Qualifications

• Proven experience assessing homelessness cases under HA1996 and HRA2017.
• Strong knowledge of housing legislation and homelessness prevention strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with clients, colleagues, and partner agencies.
• High organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workloads.
• Commitment to equality of opportunity and customer-focused service delivery.

Conditions

Ability to attend the office in Skelmersdale (WN8 8LP) at least twice per week.