JOB SWITCH LTD
Maidstone, Kent
PURPOSE OF JOB Housing Resettlement Officer Housing Resettlement Officer To act as a caseworker for housing applicants owed the main housing duty, providing advice guidance and assistance on the range of options available to resolve their housing problems and enable move on from temporary accommodation into settled accommodation. Housing Resettlement Officer To assess suitability on homeless applications carrying out investigations into areas of suitability and reach decisions within the framework of the Housing Act 1996 Part VII (Homelessness). Providing accurate and appropriate advice by assessing the support needs of clients and updating personalised housing plans. Refer cases to other sources of assistance where appropriate e.g. social care and health lettings agencies community and voluntary advice organisations. Assist in the council's reduction of temporary accommodation expenditure by ensuring that all avenues for temporary accommodation arrangements are explored. To work from our Community Hub in Central Maidstone, Trinity. MAIN ACCOUNTABILITES Housing Resettlement Officer To provide a dedicated and empathetic service to clients owed the main housing duty; assessing their housing and support needs; and to explore the appropriate interventions to remove the barriers to enable access suitable alternative accommodation. To have a comprehensive knowledge of all homelessness legislation, in particular Part 7 of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended) and the Homelessness Code of Guidance; as well as welfare benefits and social care knowledge. To assess and interview clients, including conducting home visits, in line with the Councils' statutory duties and relevant case law. To carry a caseload of homelessness main housing duty cases and develop, update and review Personalised Housing Plans for customers. This Plan will ensure that homelessness is relieved through active engagement with council and private sector services. To advise clients on full range of options to solve their housing problem, including registering on the Council's Housing Register, private renting, mortgage advice, supported accommodation options and shared ownership. To liaise with landlords to remove the barriers of move on including helping to resolve rent arrears, agreeing repayment plans, and offering incentives such as rent in advance and 6 months tenancy sustainment to secure private rented accommodation. To carry out income and expenditure assessments in order to access affordable housing option and affordability for move on accommodation To advise clients of available tenancy support services including income maximisation, Discretionary Housing Payments mutual exchange, debt and rent arrears advice and HB support. To have a full clean UK driving licence in order to conduct home visits at the client's home, prison, hostels, hospital or other locations as may be necessary. To write and issue statutory S184 decision letters, letters of referral to other authorities where an applicant's local connection lies elsewhere. To ensure full and accurate records of all clients, all advice and support provided. To maintain accurate written and computer records, reports, & other monitoring information as required in connection with the various duties undertaken. To develop effective working relationships with colleagues within Maidstone Borough Council, external bodies, service users, landlords as well as voluntary and other housing organisations. To deal with enquiries and correspondence from clients and their advocates, including solicitors, councillors, MPs, and other housing providers, in line with the Council's corporate response times. To assist with identifying households for nomination into direct lets, assessing suitability and recording this on their case. To complete administrative tasks related to the post as required.
PURPOSE OF JOB Housing Resettlement Officer Housing Resettlement Officer To act as a caseworker for housing applicants owed the main housing duty, providing advice guidance and assistance on the range of options available to resolve their housing problems and enable move on from temporary accommodation into settled accommodation. Housing Resettlement Officer To assess suitability on homeless applications carrying out investigations into areas of suitability and reach decisions within the framework of the Housing Act 1996 Part VII (Homelessness). Providing accurate and appropriate advice by assessing the support needs of clients and updating personalised housing plans. Refer cases to other sources of assistance where appropriate e.g. social care and health lettings agencies community and voluntary advice organisations. Assist in the council's reduction of temporary accommodation expenditure by ensuring that all avenues for temporary accommodation arrangements are explored. To work from our Community Hub in Central Maidstone, Trinity. MAIN ACCOUNTABILITES Housing Resettlement Officer To provide a dedicated and empathetic service to clients owed the main housing duty; assessing their housing and support needs; and to explore the appropriate interventions to remove the barriers to enable access suitable alternative accommodation. To have a comprehensive knowledge of all homelessness legislation, in particular Part 7 of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended) and the Homelessness Code of Guidance; as well as welfare benefits and social care knowledge. To assess and interview clients, including conducting home visits, in line with the Councils' statutory duties and relevant case law. To carry a caseload of homelessness main housing duty cases and develop, update and review Personalised Housing Plans for customers. This Plan will ensure that homelessness is relieved through active engagement with council and private sector services. To advise clients on full range of options to solve their housing problem, including registering on the Council's Housing Register, private renting, mortgage advice, supported accommodation options and shared ownership. To liaise with landlords to remove the barriers of move on including helping to resolve rent arrears, agreeing repayment plans, and offering incentives such as rent in advance and 6 months tenancy sustainment to secure private rented accommodation. To carry out income and expenditure assessments in order to access affordable housing option and affordability for move on accommodation To advise clients of available tenancy support services including income maximisation, Discretionary Housing Payments mutual exchange, debt and rent arrears advice and HB support. To have a full clean UK driving licence in order to conduct home visits at the client's home, prison, hostels, hospital or other locations as may be necessary. To write and issue statutory S184 decision letters, letters of referral to other authorities where an applicant's local connection lies elsewhere. To ensure full and accurate records of all clients, all advice and support provided. To maintain accurate written and computer records, reports, & other monitoring information as required in connection with the various duties undertaken. To develop effective working relationships with colleagues within Maidstone Borough Council, external bodies, service users, landlords as well as voluntary and other housing organisations. To deal with enquiries and correspondence from clients and their advocates, including solicitors, councillors, MPs, and other housing providers, in line with the Council's corporate response times. To assist with identifying households for nomination into direct lets, assessing suitability and recording this on their case. To complete administrative tasks related to the post as required.
The Salvation Army International
Who We Are For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here. Mission Statement The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world. Job Description: POSITION PURPOSE SUMMARY Outreach Caseworker is responsible for providing trauma-informed outreach, case management, advocacy, and employment support services to individuals facing significant barriers to employment, including homelessness, substance use, mental health challenges, poverty, and social isolation. This role combines community outreach and direct casework support, working alongside participants to reduce barriers, build stability, and move toward meaningful employment, volunteer, and life-skill opportunities. The incumbent will work both in the office and within the community, building trusting relationships with vulnerable individuals while coordinating services, referrals, and individualized case plans. All duties are performed in keeping with The Salvation Army's mission, vision, and values. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Outreach & Engagement Conduct community-based outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness, housing instability, unemployment, mental health challenges, and substance use concerns Build trusting relationships with participants through consistent, compassionate, non-judgmental presence Meet participants in community settings, shelters, public spaces, partner agencies, and other safe locations Assess immediate needs and connect participants to appropriate supports, including housing, healthcare, addictions services, mental health resources, food security, and income assistance Provide crisis intervention, de-escalation, emotional support, and advocacy as needed Conduct home visits and community visits where appropriate Support outreach events, meal programs, drop-in services, and community-based programming Maintain safety standards for staff and participants during outreach activities. 2. Case Management & Participant Support Conduct intake assessments and determine participant eligibility for programing Develop individualized service plans and employment readiness goals in collaboration with participants Maintain an active caseload and provide ongoing case coordination Document case notes, progress updates, referrals, and participant outcomes in a timely and professional manner Assist participants with applications and documentation, including: housing identification income supports employment programs training opportunities Coordinate referrals to internal and external services Support participants in goal setting, problem solving, and life stabilization Monitor participant progress and adapt service plans as needed Maintain strict confidentiality and professional boundaries. 3. Employment Readiness & Life Skills Support Support participants in developing skills needed for employment and community reintegration Assist with: Resumes Cover letters Job search Interview preparation Workplace readiness Facilitate individual and group sessions related to life skills, confidence building, and employability Support participants in identifying volunteer placements, work experience, and training opportunities Collaborate with community employers and agencies to identify opportunities for participants. 4. Program Administration & Reporting Maintain accurate participant files, case notes, statistics, and program documentation Collect and report data required by funders and The Salvation Army Contribute to monthly, quarterly, and year-end reports Track outcomes related to participant engagement, stabilization, and employment readiness Assist with program development and evaluation Participate in community meetings, case conferences, and stakeholder partnerships 5. Team & Community Collaboration Work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, community partners, and external agencies Participate in team meetings, debriefs, and supervision Help strengthen relationships with community partners, including housing, mental health, addictions, employment, and Indigenous organizations Represent The Salvation Army professionally in the community. QUALIFICATIONS Education Diploma or post-secondary education in Social Services, Human Services, Community Support, or a related field preferred Equivalent education and lived/professional experience may be considered Experience Minimum 2 years related experience in social services, outreach, case management, or community support work Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, addictions, mental health challenges, and complex barriers Experience in crisis intervention and de-escalation. Required Skills & Abilities Strong understanding of trauma-informed and participant-centered practice Excellent interpersonal and communication skills Strong organizational and documentation skills Ability to work independently and as part of a team Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment Strong professional boundaries and confidentiality practices Compassionate, non-judgmental approach to vulnerable populations Cultural humility and ability to work with diverse populations. Certifications / Requirements Valid First Aid / CPR certification Valid BC Driver's License and access to reliable transportation Satisfactory Criminal Record Check including Vulnerable Sector Check Crisis intervention / Non-violent crisis intervention training is an asset. WORKING CONDITIONS The incumbent's work environment includes both office-based case management duties and community-based outreach responsibilities. This position requires a moderate amount of keyboarding, electronic documentation, and manual record keeping, including the preparation and maintenance of confidential participant files, case notes, reports, and statistics. The incumbent will regularly work in community settings, participant homes, shelters, public spaces, and outdoor environments, and must be prepared to be on the move and working outside in inclement weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme seasonal temperatures. The position requires the ability to work independently while remaining part of a collaborative team, establish priorities, manage multiple tasks, respond to urgent situations, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced and often unpredictable environment. Those served by the program may share information and experiences that are highly disturbing in nature, requiring intentional debriefing, consultation, and professional self-regulation. The incumbent may be required to work under the following disagreeable or high-stress conditions: Isolation Monotony Odours Dealing with behavioural challenges Verbal abuse Exposure to emotionally distressing situations Exposure to drugs and alcohol Exposure to bodily fluids and bodily waste Working with individuals experiencing crisis, mental health challenges, or substance use Work schedules that may occasionally affect lifestyle or require flexibility The incumbent may come into contact with individuals who are angry, agitated, vulnerable, or potentially violent, and must be able
Who We Are For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here. Mission Statement The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world. Job Description: POSITION PURPOSE SUMMARY Outreach Caseworker is responsible for providing trauma-informed outreach, case management, advocacy, and employment support services to individuals facing significant barriers to employment, including homelessness, substance use, mental health challenges, poverty, and social isolation. This role combines community outreach and direct casework support, working alongside participants to reduce barriers, build stability, and move toward meaningful employment, volunteer, and life-skill opportunities. The incumbent will work both in the office and within the community, building trusting relationships with vulnerable individuals while coordinating services, referrals, and individualized case plans. All duties are performed in keeping with The Salvation Army's mission, vision, and values. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Outreach & Engagement Conduct community-based outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness, housing instability, unemployment, mental health challenges, and substance use concerns Build trusting relationships with participants through consistent, compassionate, non-judgmental presence Meet participants in community settings, shelters, public spaces, partner agencies, and other safe locations Assess immediate needs and connect participants to appropriate supports, including housing, healthcare, addictions services, mental health resources, food security, and income assistance Provide crisis intervention, de-escalation, emotional support, and advocacy as needed Conduct home visits and community visits where appropriate Support outreach events, meal programs, drop-in services, and community-based programming Maintain safety standards for staff and participants during outreach activities. 2. Case Management & Participant Support Conduct intake assessments and determine participant eligibility for programing Develop individualized service plans and employment readiness goals in collaboration with participants Maintain an active caseload and provide ongoing case coordination Document case notes, progress updates, referrals, and participant outcomes in a timely and professional manner Assist participants with applications and documentation, including: housing identification income supports employment programs training opportunities Coordinate referrals to internal and external services Support participants in goal setting, problem solving, and life stabilization Monitor participant progress and adapt service plans as needed Maintain strict confidentiality and professional boundaries. 3. Employment Readiness & Life Skills Support Support participants in developing skills needed for employment and community reintegration Assist with: Resumes Cover letters Job search Interview preparation Workplace readiness Facilitate individual and group sessions related to life skills, confidence building, and employability Support participants in identifying volunteer placements, work experience, and training opportunities Collaborate with community employers and agencies to identify opportunities for participants. 4. Program Administration & Reporting Maintain accurate participant files, case notes, statistics, and program documentation Collect and report data required by funders and The Salvation Army Contribute to monthly, quarterly, and year-end reports Track outcomes related to participant engagement, stabilization, and employment readiness Assist with program development and evaluation Participate in community meetings, case conferences, and stakeholder partnerships 5. Team & Community Collaboration Work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, community partners, and external agencies Participate in team meetings, debriefs, and supervision Help strengthen relationships with community partners, including housing, mental health, addictions, employment, and Indigenous organizations Represent The Salvation Army professionally in the community. QUALIFICATIONS Education Diploma or post-secondary education in Social Services, Human Services, Community Support, or a related field preferred Equivalent education and lived/professional experience may be considered Experience Minimum 2 years related experience in social services, outreach, case management, or community support work Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, addictions, mental health challenges, and complex barriers Experience in crisis intervention and de-escalation. Required Skills & Abilities Strong understanding of trauma-informed and participant-centered practice Excellent interpersonal and communication skills Strong organizational and documentation skills Ability to work independently and as part of a team Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment Strong professional boundaries and confidentiality practices Compassionate, non-judgmental approach to vulnerable populations Cultural humility and ability to work with diverse populations. Certifications / Requirements Valid First Aid / CPR certification Valid BC Driver's License and access to reliable transportation Satisfactory Criminal Record Check including Vulnerable Sector Check Crisis intervention / Non-violent crisis intervention training is an asset. WORKING CONDITIONS The incumbent's work environment includes both office-based case management duties and community-based outreach responsibilities. This position requires a moderate amount of keyboarding, electronic documentation, and manual record keeping, including the preparation and maintenance of confidential participant files, case notes, reports, and statistics. The incumbent will regularly work in community settings, participant homes, shelters, public spaces, and outdoor environments, and must be prepared to be on the move and working outside in inclement weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme seasonal temperatures. The position requires the ability to work independently while remaining part of a collaborative team, establish priorities, manage multiple tasks, respond to urgent situations, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced and often unpredictable environment. Those served by the program may share information and experiences that are highly disturbing in nature, requiring intentional debriefing, consultation, and professional self-regulation. The incumbent may be required to work under the following disagreeable or high-stress conditions: Isolation Monotony Odours Dealing with behavioural challenges Verbal abuse Exposure to emotionally distressing situations Exposure to drugs and alcohol Exposure to bodily fluids and bodily waste Working with individuals experiencing crisis, mental health challenges, or substance use Work schedules that may occasionally affect lifestyle or require flexibility The incumbent may come into contact with individuals who are angry, agitated, vulnerable, or potentially violent, and must be able
