Homeless Prevention Officer

Are you committed to preventing homelessness and supporting individuals and families in crisis? Join our team as a Homeless Prevention Officer and play a vital role in providing practical solutions to prevent homelessness across South Essex.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prevention of Homelessness: Work proactively with individuals and families at risk of homelessness, offering advice, guidance, and practical support to help them maintain their tenancies and avoid eviction.
• Advice and Support: Provide tailored support to individuals facing housing difficulties, including financial advice, legal advice, and assistance with negotiating with landlords or resolving disputes.
• Crisis Intervention: Respond quickly to crisis situations, working to prevent immediate homelessness by finding temporary accommodation or alternative housing solutions where necessary.
• Referral to Support Services: Refer individuals to appropriate support services such as social services, welfare support, mental health services, and debt management support.
• Housing Options Advice: Offer advice on housing options, including private renting, social housing, and temporary accommodation, ensuring clients are aware of all available alternatives.
• Tenancy Sustainment: Work with tenants who are at risk of losing their homes due to arrears, family breakdown, or other issues, helping them find solutions to maintain their current accommodation.
• Collaboration with Other Agencies: Liaise with landlords, housing providers, support agencies, and legal advisors to ensure tenants receive the necessary support and are aware of their rights.
• Case Management: Manage a caseload of clients at risk of homelessness, ensuring cases are regularly reviewed and action is taken in line with local policies and procedures.

Essential Qualifications & Skills:

• Experience: At least 2 years of experience in housing support, social services, or a related role, with a focus on homelessness prevention or tenancy sustainment.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of homelessness legislation, housing options, welfare benefits, and the support systems available to those at risk of homelessness.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage with vulnerable individuals and explain complex housing options clearly.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to think creatively and find practical solutions to complex housing and support issues.
• Organisational Skills: Strong organisational and time-management skills to handle a caseload and meet deadlines.
• IT Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office and housing management software (e.g., Northgate, Capita).
• Empathy & Resilience: A compassionate and patient approach to working with individuals in crisis, with the ability to remain calm and professional in stressful situations.

Desirable:

• Relevant Qualifications: A qualification in Housing, Social Work, or a related field (e.g., CIH Level 3 Certificate in Housing).

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for career development and ongoing training.
• A supportive and dynamic work environment.
• Flexible working arrangements to support a healthy work-life balance.
• The chance to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families at risk of homelessness.