Homelessness Intervention & Prevention Officer - Duty to Refer

Adur & Worthing Councils; Worthing; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Worthing is seeking a dedicated Homelessness Intervention & Prevention Officer to address homelessness through effective referrals and support. The role involves liaising with public bodies, conducting assessments, and developing community partnerships. Candidates should demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and a passion for high-quality services. Generous leave, pension, and training opportunities are included.

Benefits

Generous leave entitlement

Local Government Pension

Training & development opportunities

Occupational Health services

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar role is preferred but not essential.
• Commitment to inclusivity and support for vulnerable members of the community.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary contact for public bodies regarding homelessness referrals.
• Conduct initial assessments of individuals at risk of homelessness.
• Ensure accurate referral to the appropriate local housing authority.
• Maintain and develop partnerships for improved outcomes.

Skills

Active listening

Clear communication

Resilience

Adaptability

Team collaboration

Positive attitude

Job description

Homelessness Intervention & Prevention Officer - Duty to Refer

Post No: TBC

Salary: Starting from £37,280 to £41,771 p.a.

Grade: Grade 6

Hours: 37 hours per week

Place of work: Worthing Town Hall

Closing date: 25th August 2025

Interviews: TBC

We are seeking a dedicated and proactive Duty to Refer Homeless Intervention and Prevention Officer to join our team. This role focuses on preventing homelessness by ensuring that public bodies effectively refer individuals at risk of homelessness to the appropriate local housing authority. You will be instrumental in providing timely support to vulnerable community members, maintaining existing partnerships, and developing new ones.

About the role:

You will be the primary contact for public bodies in fulfilling their duty to refer individuals at risk of homelessness. Your responsibilities include receiving and processing referrals from social services, healthcare providers, and the justice system. You will conduct initial assessments to evaluate urgency and housing needs, ensure referrals are directed to the correct local authority, and lead liaison efforts to establish pathways for at-risk individuals. We offer tailored training to support your professional development, whether you're new or experienced.

What we're looking for - your behaviours will be key:

We seek an individual embodying resilience, adaptability, and participation, who:

• Listens actively and understands customer and partner needs.
• Communicates clearly and confidently, both in writing and verbally.
• Acts with honesty and openness in all interactions.
• Values inclusivity and fosters a supportive environment.
• Is passionate about delivering high-quality services and improving outcomes.
• Embraces collaboration and partnership.
• Maintains a positive attitude, prioritizes workload, and supports wellbeing.
• Is eager to learn, adapt, and embrace change.
• Builds strong relationships and influences positive outcomes.
• Uses careful evaluation to reach sound judgments.

If you're ready to make a difference with your skills and positive behaviours, we encourage you to apply. We support care leavers under 25, operating a guaranteed interview scheme for those meeting essential criteria; please confirm your status in your cover letter.

As a Disability Confident employer, we ensure fair opportunities for applicants declaring a disability who meet essential criteria.

Our benefits include:

• Generous leave entitlement: minimum of 26 days + Bank Holidays
• Local Government Pension
• Training & development opportunities
• Occupational Health services
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Employee resource groups/networks
• Buddy Support Programme
• Flexible working options