Housing Options Advisor — Prevent Homelessness

Lichfield District Council; Lichfield; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Lichfield District Council seeks a permanent Housing Options Officer to join the Housing Options team and provide a professional, customer‑focused housing advice service. You will work to prevent homelessness under the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, helping people access suitable public or private housing and liaising with applicants, statutory bodies and third sector partners.

A detailed knowledge of homelessness legislation and strong interpersonal skills are essential to secure sustainable

Qualifications

• Detailed knowledge of homelessness and housing legislation including security of tenure and private tenants' rights as covered by the 1996 Housing Act, the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, Children Act 1989 and the Care Act 2014.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including active listening, advocacy and a win-win approach with all stakeholders.
• Good working knowledge of relevant case law, codes of guidance, benefits and available support to applicants experiencing housing problems.

Responsibilities

• Provide a professional, effective and efficient customer-focused housing options service to those approaching the council for housing advice.
• Help prevent homelessness wherever possible by supporting people to keep their current home or access a new home in the public or private housing sector.
• Liaise with applicants, statutory organisations, advocates and third sector providers to arrive at sustainable housing solutions for applicants with complex and multiple needs.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Active listening

Advocacy

Win-win approach

Knowledge of homelessness legislation

Case law awareness

Job description

Lichfield District Council seeks a permanent Housing Options Officer to join the Housing Options team and provide a professional, customer‑focused housing advice service. You will work to prevent homelessness under the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, helping people access suitable public or private housing and liaising with applicants, statutory bodies and third sector partners.

A detailed knowledge of homelessness legislation and strong interpersonal skills are essential to secure sustainable