Housing Advice Officer
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Job Summary
- Assess housing needs and provide advice to individuals at risk of homelessness.
- Investigate homelessness applications in line with statutory requirements and Council procedures.
- Ensure prevention and relief duties are effectively carried out.
- Manage case files and record all actions accurately within required timescales.
- Make complex decisions regarding homelessness applications in accordance with legislation and guidance.
- Operate within Part 2 of the Housing (Wales) Act 2014 and associated Codes of Guidance.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of housing benefits and homelessness legislation.
- Provide comprehensive advice on housing options homelessness tenancy issues and housing rights.
- Support customers in resolving housing issues including tenancy disputes and housing instability.
- Act as an advocate between tenants and landlords when required.
- Refer and authorise placements to the Emergency Housing Team as necessary.
- Complete risk assessments for households requiring emergency accommodation.
- Support access to financial assistance and funding opportunities for eligible households.
- Liaise with internal teams and external agencies including Social Services Police Probation DWP Housing Benefits and voluntary organizations.
- Collaborate closely with Housing Register and Emergency Housing teams to support rehousing solutions.
- Contribute to the delivery of the Councils homelessness strategy.
- Assist in reviewing and updating policies and procedures.
- Support service improvements training initiatives and customer service delivery enhancements.
- Maintain accurate records statistics and case documentation.
- Prepare reports and case summaries as required.
- Ensure all data systems are updated accurately.
- Proven experience working within social housing or homelessness services.
- Experience managing a caseload in a fast-paced customer-facing environment.
- Experience conducting housing assessments and providing housing advice.
- Experience working with vulnerable individuals and complex cases.
- Experience in multi-agency working and partnership collaboration.
- Relevant qualification in housing or a related field (e.g. HNC/HND or equivalent).
- Professional housing qualification (e.g. CIH Level 4/5) desirable.
- Strong knowledge of housing and homelessness legislation including the Housing (Wales) Act 2014.
- Working knowledge of landlord/tenant law and housing rights.
- Excellent written communication skills including report writing and case notes.
- Ability to make complex decisions in line with legislation.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Competent IT skills including data entry and case management systems.
- Ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with a wide range of customers.
- Ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations.
- Customer-focused and empathetic approach.
- Strong analytical and decision-making skills.
- Resilience and ability to work under pressure.
- Attention to detail and accuracy.
- Team player with a collaborative approach.
- Commitment to equality fairness and high-quality service delivery.
- Working hours: 37 hours per week
- Pay frequency: Bi-weekly
Required Skills:
Requirements: Experience & Skills Required Essential Experience Experience working within Housing Benefits or a similar welfare benefits environment. Experience interpreting and applying benefit legislation and guidance. Experience in quality assurance checking or auditing of claims. Experience working with financial data and returns. Desirable Experience Experience completing Housing Benefit subsidy claims/returns. Experience working with auditors or supporting audit processes. Local authority or public sector experience. Essential Skills Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. High level of accuracy and attention to detail. Good understanding of Housing Benefit subsidy rules and compliance requirements. Ability to interpret complex legislation and apply it in practice. Strong communication skills to provide constructive feedback and guidance to colleagues. Ability to work independently and manage deadlines. Proficient IT skills including Microsoft Office (particularly Excel). Qualifications Essential Educated to GCSE level (or equivalent) including English and Maths. Relevant experience in Housing Benefits administration or subsidy work. Desirable Professional qualification in Revenues and Benefits or related field. Training or certification in Housing Benefit subsidy and compliance. --- Performance Measures Accuracy of Housing Benefit assessments and compliance with legislation. Timely and accurate completion of subsidy returns. Improvement in subsidy income and reduction in errors. Positive audit outcomes and reduced risk exposure. Identification and development of staff through quality assurance processes. Additional Information A valid DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is required for this role. We pay on a bi-weekly basis. Working hours per week: 37. Location: Northampton.
