Housing Choices Officer

Housing Choices Officer
Newham
Job Role
I am recruiting for a local authority who is looking for a Duty officer who will join the main team on a duty rota basis taking new homeless applications, seeking to prevent and relieve homelessness whilst also accessing as per the relevant legislation PVII Housing Act 1996 as amended by Homelessness Reduction Act 2017. Assessments are generally by telephone (though in person where a need).
Key Accountabilities
To provide an effective, customer-friendly and efficient service to clients who are often vulnerable and with complex needs who are presenting with housing problems; to support them in keeping their current home, or in accessing a new home in the public or private housing sector.
To advise clients, either face-to-face, via videolink or over the phone, on full range of housing options, in the context of a high demand London local authority. This includes appropriate intervention if threatened with homelessness, assistance to secure private rented accommodation, hostels, supported housing, refuges, etc, and any actions to make accommodation more affordable and accessible. To assist people to move out of London, if desired.
To provide a professional and effective housing options interview and homelessness investigation service; taking a full application from the service user and issuing Personalised Housing Plans in preventing or relieving homelessness irrespective of the person's priority need or intentionality status.
To assess clients' housing requirements in accordance with the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017. A high percentage of people presenting will be vulnerable and it is essential to assess needs accurately and in accordance with all relevant legislation, including Housing Act 1996 (as amended), the Care Act 2014 and the Children's Act 1989 and all relevant housing legislation.