Housing Solution Officers

Kirklees Council; Dewsbury; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government body is seeking Housing Solutions Officers in Dewsbury to conduct housing needs assessments and help prevent homelessness. The role requires strong communication skills and an understanding of housing legislation. You'll collaborate with various agencies to achieve positive outcomes for customers. This two-month contract offers hands-on experience in a vital community service.

Qualifications

• Ability to carry out detailed homeless assessments.
• Experience with complex needs or challenging behaviours advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct face-to-face housing needs assessments.
• Work with partner agencies to prevent homelessness.
• Complete assessments of housing needs.

Skills

Understanding of housing and homeless legislation

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Tenacity and perseverance

Tools

Civica

Abritas

Housing system

Job description

Overview

Kirklees Council are looking for two Housing Solutions Officers to join their team for a two-month period. This role is crucial in carrying out face-to-face housing needs assessments in line with the Housing Act 1996 and council procedures. The positions are based in Huddersfield and Dewsbury Library Hubs, offering a hands-on opportunity to make a significant impact in preventing homelessness and providing housing solutions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct face-to-face housing needs assessments at Huddersfield and Dewsbury Library Hubs.
• Work closely with other parts of the service and partner agencies to prevent homelessness and achieve the best outcomes for customers.
• Carry out homeless assessments and determine the council\'s statutory duties towards customers.
• Be part of a team duty rota providing advice and assistance to customers facing the threat of homelessness or who are homeless on the day.
• Provide written communications to customers and other stakeholders.
• Complete assessments of housing needs in accordance with the Kirklees Council Allocations Policy.
• Ensure accurate and effective maintenance of case notes.
• Refer cases to colleagues within the service for the provision of temporary accommodation.
• Provide advice and guidance to other services, both internal and external.
• Undertake home visits as necessary.
• Adhere to all Kirklees Council policies, including risk assessments, safeguarding, and professional boundaries.

Qualifications

• Understanding of housing and homeless legislation.
• Ability to carry out detailed homeless assessments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Tenacity and perseverance, especially when working with individuals who have complex needs or present challenging behaviours.
• Experience with the Civica, Abritas, Housing system is advantageous but not essential as training will be provided.