Housing Options Caseworker – Settled Homes

London Borough Of Merton; London Borough of Merton; Hybrid; GBP 32,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The London Borough of Merton is seeking Settled Housing Caseworkers to join our Housing Needs service, taking ownership of cases and helping households move toward settled, sustainable accommodation. You will assess, plan and progress cases, using PHPs, affordability assessments and discharge of duty decisions in line with homelessness legislation.

We value proactive, solution-focused professionals with strong communication and safeguarding principles who can manage complex caseloads and deliver

Qualifications

• Knowledge of homelessness legislation and statutory responsibilities.
• Experience independently managing a caseload within housing or homelessness.
• Ability to undertake detailed assessments and develop effective housing plans.
• Knowledge of welfare benefits and private rented sector dynamics.
• Strong communication, negotiation and problem-solving skills.
• Resilience and organisation to manage competing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of a caseload of households in temporary accommodation, progressing cases toward settled housing.
• Complete and regularly review Personalised Housing Plans (PHPs) and affordability assessments.
• Develop and deliver housing exit plans, including private rented accommodation and Direct Offers.
• Prepare discharge of duty decisions in accordance with homelessness legislation.
• Work with residents to manage expectations and support sustainable housing outcomes.
• Identify safeguarding concerns, vulnerabilities and referrals as needed.
• Undertake property visits and occupancy checks, monitoring suitability and standards.
• Maintain accurate case records and contribute toward performance targets and reducing temporary accommodation costs.

Skills

Homelessness legislation

Caseload management

Welfare benefits knowledge

Private rented sector knowledge

Communication & negotiation

Problem solving

Safeguarding awareness

Customer service

Job description

The London Borough of Merton is seeking Settled Housing Caseworkers to join our Housing Needs service, taking ownership of cases and helping households move toward settled, sustainable accommodation. You will assess, plan and progress cases, using PHPs, affordability assessments and discharge of duty decisions in line with homelessness legislation.

We value proactive, solution-focused professionals with strong communication and safeguarding principles who can manage complex caseloads and deliver