Accomodation Officer

Accommodation Officer

Location: John Frost Sq, Newport, NP20 1PA
Start Date: ASAP
Contract Duration: 4+ Months
Working Hours: Mon – Fri, 09:00 – 17:00, 37 Hours per week
Pay Rate: £ 15.83 per hour
Job Ref: OR13132
 
Job Responsibilities

• Provide an intensive housing management service for Temporary, Transitional, and Settled accommodation to alleviate or prevent homelessness.

• Secure and place individuals into appropriate accommodation as per the Authority's duty.

• Monitor residence duration and assist in securing alternative accommodation when necessary.

• Ensure all accommodation-related charges are paid, minimizing rent arrears and debts, and communicate effectively with Housing Benefits and partners to maximize funding.

• Assist in evaluating and reviewing homelessness policies, procedures, and practices.

• Initiate ideas, promote solutions, and manage the Authority’s response to homelessness.

• Ensure households receive appropriate support services through direct liaison or by providing help as directed.

• Provide advice on housing options through direct contact or signposting to relevant colleagues or partner agencies.

• Maintain standards in line with working practices and adhere to health and safety guidelines in all accommodation forms.

• Minimize void levels and ensure accommodation is maintained to a high standard, reporting and completing repairs as needed.

• Manage client placements and movements to minimize the use of expensive accommodation forms.

• Develop multi-agency approaches to homelessness, implementing and promoting protocols with relevant agencies.

• Establish and maintain close liaisons with social housing providers, statutory agencies, and voluntary organizations for effective service provision.

• Contribute to the Council’s homelessness strategy.

• Ensure efficiency and effectiveness in work.

• Maintain accurate records, statistics, and administrative systems; assist in gathering and recording information as required.

• Achieve agreed performance targets and contribute to target setting.

• Respond to correspondence promptly and ensure others do the same.

• Be aware of cost controls and ensure value for money in services procured for the Council and customers.

• Attend training courses as required and implement good practices learned.

• Respond to complaints and enquiries, ensuring satisfactory resolutions.

• Attend and contribute to office team meetings, residents’ meetings, or ward meetings as required, and follow up on decisions made.

• Deputize for managers where appropriate.

• Be a key member of the Council’s out-of-hours homelessness team.

• Undertake duties and responsibilities within the Service Area to ensure consistent service to all customers.

• Adhere to the Council’s financial regulations, standing orders, policies, and procedures, with a focus on Health and Safety, Confidentiality, Equalities, Data Protection, and Customer Care.

• Work at any of the Council’s offices as required.

Person Specifications
The ideal candidate will have a comprehensive understanding of housing management services and homelessness prevention strategies. They should possess excellent communication skills, the ability to work collaboratively with various agencies, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Strong organizational skills and the ability to maintain accurate records are essential, along with a commitment to customer care and adherence to relevant policies and regulations.
 
 
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