Homelessness Prevention Officer - East Somerset

Somerset County Council; Shepton Mallet; Hybrid; GBP 26,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous annual leave

LGPS pension

Hybrid working

Health & wellbeing support

Volunteer opportunities

Job summary

Somerset Council is recruiting a Rough Sleeping Prevention Officer in Shepton Mallet to help prevent homelessness and support tenants to sustain tenancies. You will work with the Rough Sleeping Team and Housing Options Officers to deliver practical assistance and tailored plans.

You’ll conduct home visits, address rent arrears and barriers, coordinate with providers and services, and maintain records to improve housing stability across Somerset.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a housing support or similar role.
• Proven track record in developing and implementing support plans.
• Experience working with vulnerable individuals, particularly those experiencing homelessness.
• Comprehensive understanding of housing legislation and tenancy rights.
• Knowledge of welfare benefits and financial support systems.

Responsibilities

• Provide practical support to tenants to help them establish and sustain their tenancies.
• Identify and address barriers to housing stability, such as rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, and financial difficulties.
• Develop and implement personalised support plans for tenants at risk of losing their accommodation.
• Liaise with housing providers, social services, and other relevant organisations to coordinate support services.
• Conduct regular home visits to monitor tenants’ wellbeing and housing conditions.
• Offer advice and assistance with budgeting, accessing benefits, and managing household responsibilities and rent accounts.
• Maintain accurate records of all interactions and interventions with tenants.

Skills

Housing support experience

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Budgeting knowledge

Benefits and welfare awareness

Education

A Level or equivalent

Job description

Somerset Council is recruiting a Rough Sleeping Prevention Officer in Shepton Mallet to help prevent homelessness and support tenants to sustain tenancies. You will work with the Rough Sleeping Team and Housing Options Officers to deliver practical assistance and tailored plans.

You’ll conduct home visits, address rent arrears and barriers, coordinate with providers and services, and maintain records to improve housing stability across Somerset.