Marks Consulting Partners are currently looking for a Relief Duty Officer to work with one of our Local Authority clients in London.
What the Job Will Be Doing
*Managing a caseload of clients who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, delivering timely advice and housing solutions to prevent homelessness
*Assessing applications in line with Part VII of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended), making robust and legally sound decisions
*Fully investigating homelessness applications and determining the Council’s duties under current legislation and Codes of Guidance
*Responding to Duty to Refer cases and working proactively with partner agencies to prevent homelessness
*Assessing housing needs and providing tailored advice to help clients sustain existing accommodation or secure alternative housing
*Securing suitable temporary accommodation where a statutory duty is owed, ensuring placements are appropriate and compliant
*Conducting home visits and mediating between households and landlords where required
*Working closely with housing associations, private landlords and letting agents to maximise housing options for clients
*Investigating cases of harassment or illegal eviction and liaising with legal teams and external partners where necessary
*Monitoring the welfare of clients in temporary accommodation and providing ongoing support and advice
*Maintaining accurate case records and contributing to performance data and service reporting
*Representing the service at multi-agency meetings and working collaboratively with internal departments and external partners
What You Will Need
*Previous experience working within a Housing Options, Homelessness or Relief Duty role in a Local Authority or similar setting
*Strong knowledge of homelessness legislation, particularly Housing Act 1996 Part VII and the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017
*Experience assessing homelessness applications and making statutory decisions
*Ability to manage a complex caseload and work in a fast-paced environment
*Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with vulnerable clients and stakeholders
*Experience working with temporary accommodation placements and private rented sector options
*Good understanding of safeguarding, welfare benefits and housing support services
*Excellent organisational skills and ability to maintain accurate case records