Suitability Assessment Officer

Newham

17 per Hour

I am recruiting for a local authority who is looking for someone to to carry out suitability and affordability assessments in the Housing Needs Service to determine the suitability of accommodation provided to homeless households, and make specific recommendations in accordance with the council's placement policy, so that any future accommodation that may be offered to homeless households meets their needs.

Person Requirements

A basic understanding of homelessness legislation, discharging homelessness duty through a private rented sector offer, the Homelessness (Suitability of Accommodation)(England) Order 2012 , the relevant sections of the Homelessness Code of Guidance, and other relevant legislation.

Knowledge of or experience in housing benefits calculations, affordability assessments and preferably homelessness suitability reviews.

The ability to holistically assess customer's circumstances by conducting interviews, undertaking visits to customers in their homes when appropriate, conducting enquiries and collecting information, to be able to verify their circumstances, so that a full suitability assessment can be conducted, taking into account all circumstances and needs of homeless households.

Casework management experience, keeping and maintaining detailed written reports of developments in each case according to the established procedure, effectively manage a caseload ensuring that cases are prioritised and suitability assessments are completed in a timely manner. Ability to maintain accurate case notes is essential.