Novax Recruitment

Benefits & Housing Needs Officer London (On-site) £200 per day (Umbrella) Are you passionate about supporting residents and preventing homelessness? Do you possess a sound understanding of the welfare benefits system and enjoy making a tangible difference to people's lives? We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Benefits & Housing Needs Officer to provide vital support to residents experiencing financial hardship. This is a crucial frontline role where you will assess applications, offer financial assistance, and empower residents to achieve long-term stability. Key Responsibilities Assess, award, and process Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) in line with policy and guidance. Conduct comprehensive benefit checks to identify underclaimed entitlements and maximise residents' income. Provide tailored advice and action plans to help residents sustain their tenancies. Review and triage applications, manage shared inboxes, and process BACS payments for support schemes. Maintain accurate and confidential records across systems such as Academy and Jigsaw . Liaise with landlords and partner agencies to prevent evictions and ensure holistic support. Draft clear, empathetic decision letters that communicate outcomes effectively. About You The ideal candidate will be a proactive and organised individual with: A strong understanding of welfare benefits and income maximisation. Experience assessing Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) . Proficiency in systems such as Academy, Comino, and Searchlight . Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with empathy and professionalism. The ability to remain calm under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively. Experience handling sensitive information with discretion and integrity.

Young Person's Worker Location: Islington Contract: Temporary (2-3 months, possible extension) Hours: 37.5 per week (rota basis, early/mid/late shifts including weekends) Pay Rate: £16.64 per hour (inclusive of holiday pay) We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Young Person's Worker to join a semi-independent housing support service for young people in the Islington area. This is a temporary assignment, initially for 2-3 months, with the potential for extension. You will be working on a rota basis, covering early (8:00am - 3:30pm), mid (11:00am/12:30pm - 8:00pm), and late (3:00pm - 10:30pm) shifts. The rota includes two weekends on, two weekends off . Key Responsibilities: Manage a caseload of four young people, conducting regular key working sessions to produce SMART support and safety plans. Complete high-quality risk assessments and risk management plans. Work with colleagues to assess referrals and ensure the suitability of placements. Provide safe, welcoming accommodation and ensure new residents feel supported and informed. Support young people in identifying and accessing appropriate move-on accommodation. Safeguard residents by identifying, reporting, and following up on concerns. Liaise with social workers to support young people moving home or into suitable accommodation options. Assist young people with benefit entitlements, rent payments, and minimising arrears. Organise activities to develop life skills and independence. Support access to education, training, or employment opportunities. Undertake Health & Safety duties. Requirements: Previous experience working with young people in supported or residential settings. Knowledge of Ofsted's key principles for supported accommodation. Understanding of working with young people with complex needs, including mental health, attachment issues, emerging personality disorders, and self-harm. Experience using trauma-informed and attachment-focused approaches. Strong skills in support planning, risk assessment, and key working. Ability to promote independence and meaningful engagement in activities. Knowledge of welfare benefits for under-21s, rents, and service charges. Excellent numeracy, written communication, and report-writing skills. Ability to work alone confidently (role involves lone working).