***Only applications emailed to sales@cornerstone-north.org with a covering letter clearly stating the role you are applying for will be considered***
Closing Date: 5pm Monday 7th April 2025
Interviews week commencing: Monday 21st April 2025
Position Title: Housing Support Officer
Location: Hartlepool
Hours: 30 hours per week
Salary: £22,230 (£14.25ph)
Job Summary:
The Housing Support Officer plays a pivotal role within the Cornerstone Supported Housing and Counselling team, providing housing support services to individuals experiencing homelessness. Reporting directly to the Housing Manager, the Housing Support Officer will coordinate with the Homeless Response Team to ensure a seamless transition for clients moving from emergency housing to supported housing. This role requires a range of responsibilities, including overseeing housing standards, supporting staff and volunteers, assisting tenants, and ensuring adherence to health and safety regulations. The Housing Support Officer also works on business development initiatives and serves as a key point of contact for housing support inquiries. Flexibility to adjust work hours and locations based on client and service needs will be required.
Key Responsibilities:
Housing Support & Client Transition:
· Assess potential clients for suitability within the housing scheme, monitor their progress, and manage associated risks and referrals.
· Facilitate client move-ins and move-outs, including conducting pre-termination inspections and ensuring all paperwork is completed.
· Support clients in the transition from emergency housing to supported accommodation, working closely with the Homeless Response Team to ensure a smooth process.
· Manage void properties and ensure they are promptly prepared for letting.
· Ensure that all properties meet the Decent Homes Standard and Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
· Provide support to tenants in managing their tenancies and offer assistance with the transition to new housing.
· Coordinate donations, deliveries, and collections for housing-related needs.
· Monitor and track housing support services, resolving issues, and maintaining strong relationships with partner organisations.
· Attend relevant meetings, including the Housing Panel, to share insights and contribute to service improvements.
Property & Maintenance:
· Collaborate with the maintenance team and external contractors to ensure properties are maintained to the required standards and compliant with Decent Homes Standard and HHSRS.
· Communicate effectively with contractors and relevant personnel to ensure the timely completion of property repairs and maintenance tasks.
· Perform minor maintenance tasks where applicable.
Business Development & Operational Efficiency:
· Develop and implement strategies to increase income, reduce costs, and expand housing support services.
· Contribute to the overall development of the housing stock and continuous improvement of housing support services.
· Address operational issues independently, including outside of regular working hours when necessary.
Additional Responsibilities:
· Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by the Housing Manager or Homeless Response Team Leader to support the overall mission of the charity.
· Maintain confidentiality, respect, and dignity for all service users at all times.
· Foster a supportive environment for tenants, volunteers, and staff.
Qualifications and Requirements:
· Level 3 or higher qualification in a relevant field (e.g., Social Care, Housing Management) and/or at least two years of experience in housing or homelessness services.
· Demonstrated experience supporting vulnerable populations and providing practical housing solutions.
· Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
· In-depth understanding of housing regulations, including Decent Homes Standards and HHSRS.
· Ability to manage and support clients through challenging cases and complex situations.
· Flexibility to address housing-related issues outside regular working hours, when necessary.
· Experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including partner organisations and volunteers.
· Valid driving license and access to a vehicle, or the ability to obtain one within an agreed timeframe.
· A commitment to supporting people through the process of securing long-term, stable housing.
Note: The Housing Support Officer is crucial to delivering effective housing services in Hartlepool, ensuring all clients receive the support they need during their transition to supported housing. This role combines housing expertise, client management, and business development, with a focus on adapting to the evolving needs of both clients and the service. A compassionate approach, along with the ability to work independently and creatively, will ensure the success of this position.
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme
Disability Confident
About Disability Confident
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to Disability Confident .