Main Purpose of the Job:
To provide a high-quality, customer-focused housing allocation service to the tenants and residents. The officer will handle housing applications for transfers and social housing, ensuring efficient and timely allocation of housing and nominations to Housing Associations and Co-operatives.


Key Responsibilities:
*Housing Allocation Service:Provide a responsive service for tenants and residents applying for transfers and social housing, managing allocations to Council housing, Housing Associations, and Co-operatives. Ensure effective use of various mobility schemes where appropriate.
*Property Advertisement and Tenant Shortlisting: Advertise properties and shortlist prospective tenants by matching need and qualification criteria through the choice-based lettings scheme. Make direct offers according to the Council’s Housing Allocation Scheme.
*Verification of Applications: Conduct thorough investigations and home visits when necessary to verify housing applications. Ensure detailed knowledge of Lambeth’s Allocations Scheme and related policies.
*Collaboration with Housing Providers: Work closely with housing providers, including ALMOs and Registered Social Landlords. Develop and maintain effective relationships to monitor the performance of the housing stock.
*Management Information and Reporting: Provide accurate data and detailed reports on social housing stock to assist with monitoring and supply management.
*Collaboration Across Teams: Work closely with other teams in housing and across directorates to ensure a joined-up approach to service delivery.


Skills and Experience:
Knowledge:
*Good understanding of the processes and criteria for the allocation of social rented housing under the Housing Act 1996 (Part VI).
*Awareness of housing issues faced by local residents.
*Knowledge of the Council’s policies on valuing diversity.
Relevant Experience:
*Experience working in a customer-focused environment, handling diverse clientele.
*Experience in property allocation or verification of complex documentation.
*Ability to work independently and manage a caseload of housing applications.
*Familiarity with IT systems, MS Office, and systems used for data input and extraction.


Competencies:
*Negotiation: Ability to present key issues persuasively and resolve deadlock situations.
*Advice: Provide accurate and up-to-date advice to tenants and residents, clarifying their housing options.
*Teamwork: Collaborative approach, offering support and ideas to colleagues.
*Customer Relations: Build rapport with customers, addressing emotional situations constructively.
*Communication: Clear and accurate written and oral communication with a range of stakeholders.
*Detail Orientation: Ability to manage routine tasks with precision.
*Time Management: Effective at prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines.
*Adaptability: Open to change, demonstrating flexibility and creativity in problem-solving.
*Continuous Development: Commitment to personal and professional growth.


Generic Responsibilities:
*Champion customer service delivery.
*Maintain accurate administration and case records using IT systems.
*Participate in performance appraisals, personal development plans, and service reviews.
*Adhere to relevant policies, including Equal Opportunities and Data Protection.
*Promote diversity and safeguard vulnerable children and adults.