Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Housing Caseworker to join Dorset Council's Housing Service on a temporary 12-week contract. This is a remote role, offering an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact by providing comprehensive housing advice and homelessness prevention services. If you have a strong understanding of housing legislation and a passion for supporting vulnerable individuals, we encourage you to apply.

• Contract Type: Temporary (12 weeks)
• Location: Remote
• Hours: 37 hours per week (Monday to Friday)
• Salary: £25-£30 per hour

Responsibilities

As a Housing Caseworker, you will play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality housing services. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Providing tailored housing advice and homelessness prevention services in line with current housing legislation.
• Managing a caseload of customers who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, ensuring accurate and up-to-date case records.
• Conducting homelessness investigations, making statutory decisions, and arranging temporary accommodation when necessary.
• Developing and maintaining Personal Housing Plans to prevent or relieve homelessness.
• Collaborating with landlords, attending court, sourcing alternative housing options, and working with partner agencies to prevent homelessness.
• Offering advice on welfare benefits, debt management, income maximisation, and employment, while signposting to specialist agencies as needed.
• Building strong relationships with internal teams and external partners, including Adult and Children's Services, health services, probation, police, and housing providers.
• Supporting vulnerable individuals, including 16-17-year-olds, care leavers, and clients with complex needs, in line with established protocols.

Qualifications

To excel in this role, you should possess the following qualifications and experience:

• Previous experience working within a local authority housing service or registered housing provider.
• Strong knowledge of housing and homelessness legislation, including the Housing Act 1996 and Homelessness Reduction Act 2018.
• Proven ability to prevent homelessness using a variety of practical tools and techniques.
• Experience managing a complex caseload independently in a confidential and fast-paced environment.
• Up-to-date knowledge of welfare benefits and housing options.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to negotiate and collaborate effectively.
• Strong problem-solving, organisational, and IT skills, with a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.
• An Enhanced DBS check is required for this role.
• A CIH Level 4 qualification is desirable but not essential.

Day-to-Day

Your daily responsibilities will include:

• Engaging with customers to assess their housing needs and risks of homelessness.
• Developing and updating Personal Housing Plans tailored to individual circumstances.
• Conducting thorough investigations and making informed statutory decisions.
• Liaising with landlords, attending court hearings, and sourcing alternative housing solutions.
• Collaborating with internal teams and external agencies to provide holistic support.
• Maintaining detailed case records and ensuring compliance with housing legislation.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly rate of £25-£30.
• Flexible remote working arrangement.
• Opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals.
• Gain valuable experience working within a dynamic and supportive housing service team.
• Enhance your knowledge and skills in housing legislation and homelessness prevention.

If you are a proactive and compassionate professional with a strong background in housing services, we would love to hear from you. Join us in making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Apply today!