Job Title: Housing Advice Officer

Contract Duration: 3-Month Fixed-Term Contract

DBS Requirement: Enhanced DBS required

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Summary

The Housing Advice Officer plays a crucial role in delivering a high-quality, accessible housing advice and homelessness prevention service to the public. This position involves assessing housing needs, investigating homelessness applications, and ensuring compliance with statutory duties under relevant housing legislation. The officer will work collaboratively within the Housing Advice team to prevent homelessness and provide effective housing solutions. The role contributes to the continuous improvement of homelessness services, ensuring adherence to the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, statutory guidance, and Council policies.

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Key Responsibilities

Homelessness Prevention & Case Management

• 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.
  

Decision Making & Legislation

• 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.
  

Customer Advice & Support

• 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.
  

Temporary Accommodation & Referrals

• 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.
  

Partnership & Multi-Agency Working

• 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.
  

Performance & Service Development

• Contribute to the delivery of the Council’s homelessness strategy.
  
• Assist in reviewing and updating policies and procedures.
  
• Support service improvements, training initiatives, and customer service delivery enhancements.
  

Administration & Reporting

• Maintain accurate records, statistics, and case documentation.
  
• Prepare reports and case summaries as required.
  
• Ensure all data systems are updated accurately.
  

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Experience Required

• 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.
  

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Qualifications & Skills

Qualifications

• Relevant qualification in housing or a related field (e.g., HNC/HND or equivalent).
  
• Professional housing qualification (e.g., CIH Level 4/5) – desirable.
  

Skills & Knowledge

• 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.
  

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Key Competencies

• 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.
  

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Additional Information

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  Working hours: 37 hours per week
  
• Pay frequency: Bi-weekly