3 Month Contract With A local Authority

To assess and manage homelessness applications in accordance with the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and Part VII of the Housing Act 1996. The role focuses on preventing homelessness, providing housing advice, and delivering statutory duties to individuals and families who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. The officer will make legally compliant decisions, determine priority need status, and implement effective housing solutions through prevention and relief activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess homelessness applications in line with Part VII of the Housing Act 1996.
  

• Deliver statutory duties under the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, including prevention and relief stages.
  

• Conduct detailed housing needs assessments for applicants who are homeless or threatened with homelessness.
  

• Develop and manage Personalised Housing Plans (PHPs) to support applicants in securing accommodation.
  

• Determine eligibility, priority need, intentional homelessness, and local connection in accordance with housing legislation.
  

• Make legally compliant homelessness decisions (e.g., Section 184 decisions).
  

• Work proactively with applicants, landlords, and partner agencies to prevent homelessness.
  

• Provide advice and support on housing options, tenancy sustainment, and homelessness prevention.
  

• Maintain accurate case records and ensure compliance with legislation, policies, and procedures.
  

• Liaise with internal departments and external partners to identify suitable housing solutions.
  

Requirements

• Minimum 3 years’ experience working within Homelessness & Housing Solutions in a local authority or similar environment.
  

• Strong working knowledge and practical experience of the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.
  

• Proven experience applying Part VII of the Housing Act 1996 (experience in Part VII is more essential than Part VI).
  

• At least 12–24 months’ experience making statutory homelessness decisions.
  

• Experience managing cases through prevention and relief duties.
  

• Ability to assess and determine priority and non-priority need cases.
  

• Strong understanding of homelessness legislation, statutory guidance, and housing options.
  

• Excellent assessment, decision-making, and case management skills.
  

• Strong written and communication skills to produce clear and legally compliant decision letters.
  

• Bi-Weekly Payments
  
• 37 Working Hours Per Week
  
• Basic DBS is required