Housing Solutions Reviews Officer

Description

Our local government clients in Lambeth, London, are seeking a Housing Solutions Reviews Officer. To conduct robust and timely reviews of decisions made under the Allocations Policy and in pursuit of the statutory duties to people experiencing homelessness. 2 days in office, 3 days remote.

Responsibilities

• To be senior in rank to Housing Officers and provide an independent legal review of cases where a customer is dissatisfied with a decision on the allocation of housing.
• To liaise with external partners and carry out statutory review enquiries and proceedings prior to review decisions.
• To ensure that statutory decisions can withstand political, media and legal scrutiny.
• To provide effective, professional Review and Appeal service on behalf of the Housing Service.
• To work professionally with service users, their representatives and other agencies involved with Reviews and Appeals.
• To work collaboratively with other teams within Homeless Services to deal with Reviews and Appeals within the prescribed time limits.
• To instruct legal services on Housing Act appeals and represent in Court as and when required.

Qualifications Essential

• GCSE Grade (or equivalent) in English Language and Mathematics.
• Degree of relevant professional qualification
• Advanced Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), social media and CRM.

Criteria for Shortlisting - About You - What We're Looking for in the Ideal Candidate: Interview - 1 hour - Test - 30 minutes.

• Knowledge of Housing law.
• Understanding of housing law and national policy relating to homelessness, with the ability to put into practice.
• Experience of dealing with homelessness appeals/judicial reviews.
• Detailed knowledge of the homelessness legislation, case law and Codes of Guidance.
• Knowledge of the Local Authority's duties towards asylum seekers.
• Good communication skills, both oral and written, and the ability to explain issues clearly, objectively and in a personable manner.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including active listening, advocacy and negotiation.
• Knowledge of recent relevant legislation/government proposals, i.e. the Modernisation agenda, Best Value, Human Rights, etc.
• Knowledge of the concept of equal opportunities, policies and their application.
• Knowledge and Understanding of current housing issues.
• Experience in dealing with vulnerable customers.
• Experience in undertaking Homeless Assessments.
• Knowledge of Risk assessments and lone working policy.

Compliance Requirements

• 3 Years References
• Willing to engage in the Pre-Engagement Questionnaire and mandatory pre-screening application process.

Diamond Blaque Group, a leading public-sector provider, is acting as the employment Business for this vacancy. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity and equal opportunity in the workplace.