Housing Options Officer (Housing Advice)
An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Housing Options Team, the post is part of the Frontline Team, providing advice and assistance to clients who present to the Service as either homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Housing Advice Officers undertake homeless assessments and make legal decisions of the duties owed to clients presenting to the service. The key objective will be to prevent homelessness, and the post holder will be required to produce innovative solutions to help clients either to remain in their homes, or to help them find alternative accommodation.
You will have experience of carrying out robust enquiries and competently deciding homelessness applications in accordance with Part VII Housing Act 1996 as amended 2002,2011), the code of guidance and case law or substantial experience of competently preventing homelessness with a particular focus on the private rented sector, including knowledge of relevant housing laws and good practice. You will provide a comprehensive statutory service of advice and assistance to all non-priority homeless cases including rough sleepers in accordance with s.192 Housing Act 1996.
The post holder will need to have the skills to interpret and apply homeless legislation, team-working skills, the ability to produce innovative solutions and be forward thinking to help develop the service. The post holder will be required to provide excellent outcomes for vulnerable clients, and high-quality customer service.
The post holder will have the ability to work under pressure in what can be a busy environment. The post holder will have the ability to prioritise workloads and be able to work in a person-centred, holistic way.
Earlier this year Lancaster City Council unanimously declared a climate emergency and will therefore work towards reducing carbon emissions to net-zero by 2030. As part of this role, you will be expected to participate and work towards reducing carbon emissions.
A full current UK driving licence is essential, as the post holder will be required to carry out home visits. Reasonable adjustments can be made for those who are unable to drive due to a disability.
The hours of work for this position are 37 hours per week, working Monday to Friday 9.00 until 5.00 pm. The Council currently operates a Flexible Working Hours Scheme which applies to this post dependant on the operational needs of the service. This post is based at Morecambe Town Hall, however the post holder will be required to operate from other Council sites within the District.
Please note this role is temporary for 12 months.
You will be required to undertake Standby duties to cover out of hours work on a rota basis.
The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced clearance with the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Excellent benefits include: A Local Government Pension Scheme (the Council makes a 15.5% contribution). Discounted gym membership and discount on days out, activities and retail.
Interview date: Tuesday, 14 April 2020
