Supported Lettings Officer LBS-09

Requires someone who has experience of working with ex offenders in housing need and with an understanding of the support available to them on release from prison. You will lead on assessing and supporting this cohort to secure accommodation in the private rented sector procured by colleagues within the councils supported lettings team following the completion of an affordability assessment. There will be an element of work around expectation management with customers in relation to affordability risks and areas where they can live. Once moved in They will lead on providing resettlement support for up to 12 weeks to support customers to settle in accommodation.

The law governing homelessness and an understanding of current issues in housing. Awareness of issues and challenges facing ex-offenders and solutions to resolve homelessness. Knowledge of housing benefit rules and regulations, welfare benefits and issues relating to private rented tenancies. Experience of working with ex- offenders in housing need including those with varying support needs providing advice, assistance and support. Experience of and be able to demonstrate the ability to motivate individuals. Experience of co-ordinating solution focused action plans that involves other agencies as needed and encourages customers to take responsibility for all areas of their lives and promote healthy, successful outcomes that are holistic, yet realistic. Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, managers, external agencies and the public both verbally and in writing. Ability to think broadly and use knowledge creatively to find housing solutions for clients with complex needs. Ability to work independently including the planning and organisation of own workload. Literacy and numeracy to a level that will enable the postholder to analyse and interpret information, produce reports and correspondence and to maintain administrative records.