Housing Options Officer

Job Title: Housing Options OfficerLocation: Sussex (Hybrid - 2/3 days in office, remaining from home)Pay Rate: £23 - £26 per hour (Umbrella)Contract Length: Initial 3-Month Contract (with possibility of extension)Working Hours: 37 hours per week

Marks Consulting Partners are recruiting on behalf of a local authority in Sussex for a Housing Options Officer. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced individual with a strong background in homelessness services, specifically in relation to writing S184 decision letters.

As a Housing Options Officer, you will be responsible for providing advice, assistance, and support to individuals and families who are at risk of homelessness. You will be required to assess housing needs, offer suitable options, and manage cases in line with current legislation.

• Assess housing applications and provide detailed advice and guidance in relation to homelessness.

• Write and issue S184 decision letters, ensuring they are clear, accurate, and comply with relevant legislation.

• Manage a caseload of clients, working to prevent homelessness and facilitate suitable housing options.

• Liaise with various internal teams and external agencies to support clients and ensure the best outcomes.

• Work directly with vulnerable individuals, helping them navigate housing options and access necessary support services.

• Ensure accurate case records are maintained in line with confidentiality and data protection regulations.

• Attend meetings and case conferences as required, providing updates on clients and case progression.

• Work collaboratively with colleagues and external agencies to identify long-term solutions for homelessness prevention.

• Experience in Homelessness Services: Proven experience working within a housing options or homelessness team, with a strong understanding of relevant legislation, particularly regarding homelessness and housing law.

• S184 Decision Letters: Experience in drafting clear and concise S184 decision letters that meet legal requirements.

• Case Management: Experience managing a caseload of clients and working with vulnerable populations to prevent homelessness and secure appropriate accommodation.

• Knowledge of Local Housing Systems: Familiarity with the housing market and support services available in the Sussex region.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex housing-related issues clearly.

• Organisational Skills: Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple cases effectively and meet deadlines.

• Knowledge of housing-related software and systems.

• Familiarity with relevant local authority policies and procedures.

• Previous experience working in a hybrid environment.

• Hybrid working: 2 to 3 days in the office each week and the remainder working from home.

• Full-time, 37 hours per week.

• Flexibility in working hours where possible to support work-life balance.

• The initial contract is for 3 months, with the potential for extension depending on performance and the needs of the team.

If you are an experienced Housing Options Officer with a background in homelessness and are ready to make a positive impact within a local authority setting, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience to Freddie at Marks Consulting Partners.

Marks Consulting Partners is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

This is a great opportunity to contribute to an important cause while benefiting from a flexible working environment. We look forward to receiving your application!