Role
Dimensions:
To provide a Substance Misuse bespoke homeless prevention and intervention caseworker service to those approaching the service with a housing need.
To carry out early homeless prevention activities. Advise on a range of housing issues, welfare benefits and substance misuse, assessing support needs and working with multiple internal and external services to alleviate homelessness and provide households with positive options and sustainable housing solutions.
As well as preventing homelessness will be expected to carry out in-depth homelessness enquiries and make legally sound decision under the relevant legislation.
To work with all substance misuse clients that present to housing and to support colleagues with this work either through briefings, workshops or practical support
Key Duties:
1.
Through a duty system, be the first point of contact for those with a housing need, either presenting in Access Croydon, the Library or via the telephone duty line.
To provide initial housing advice to households and details of suitable housing options in the private and public sector, including information on homelessness prevention.
To respond to all the referrals that the Council receives under the Duty to Refer,
To work with households and in partnership with other agencies, landlords, private and public sector services to identify those at risk of homelessness and find innovative, lasting solutions to prevent homelessness and meet housing needs.
Take proactive steps early to prevent or relieve homelessness wherever possible by negotiating or mediating with customer's families, landlords (both public and private), solicitors and other agencies focusing on sustaining tenancies.
To prevent and resolve homelessness within the borough by providing confidential and impartial advice and information to customers approaching the Housing Needs Service about their housing rights and obligations under legislation and Council policy, either in Council offices or other locations as required.
To promote and deliver the Council's homeless prevention agenda actively and positively identifying appropriate housing options and utilising the prevention tools available, such as the DHP/Homeless Prevention Fund for customers that will resolve their accommodation problems and reduce the need for the provision of temporary accommodation within agreed timeframes.
Essential Knowledge:
� Homelessness Reduction Act
� Knowledge of the duties under the Children's Act
� Knowledge of Landlord & Tenant Legislation, the Housing Act, and the Protection from Eviction Act .
� Detailed working knowledge of homeless prevention initiatives and their application and effectiveness.
Essential Experience:
� Experience and knowledge of housing case law, homelessness, tenancy relations and good practice.
� Experience of working in a pressured work environment that is target and deadline driven.
� Experience working in a multi-disciplinary environment.
� Experience in managing complex situations with customers and to be able to manage challenging behaviour effectively.
�. Knowledge and experience in utilising a range of housing options to prevent homelessness.
Adecco acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and an employment business for the supply of temporary workers. The Adecco Group UK & Ireland is an Equal Opportunities Employer.