***Please send your CV and covering letter to sales@cornerstone-north.org for your application to be considered***
Job Description and Summary
We are seeking a dedicated Housing Support Officer to join our team in Hartlepool, working 30 hours per week at a salary of £20,404.80. In this vital role, the Housing Support Officer plays a key role in the smooth operation of housing support services in Hartlepool. This position involves a variety of responsibilities, including overseeing property standards, supporting staff and volunteers, assisting tenants, and ensuring adherence to health and safety regulations.
The Housing Support Officer also engages in business development initiatives and serves as a point of contact for housing support enquiries. The role may adapt to client and service needs, and the successful candidate should be willing to adjust their hours and location as required.
The ideal candidate will have experience in housing support, strong communication skills, and the ability to adapt to the evolving needs of our clients. Flexibility is essential, as hours may increase as the service expands, and responsibilities may be adjusted based on client and organizational changes.
If you are passionate about making a positive impact in your community, we want to hear from you!
Key Responsibilities:
Housing:
Evaluate potential clients for suitability within the scheme, monitor client progress, and manage associated risks and referrals.
Coordinate client move-ins and move-outs, including conducting pre-termination inspections.
Manage void properties and ensure they are prepared for letting promptly.
Ensure all properties comply with the Decent Homes Standard and the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
Support staff and volunteers within the organisation.
Assist tenants in managing their tenancies and provide support for their transition to new housing.
Help with deliveries and collections, including managing donations.
Ensure the smooth operation of housing support services, including recording and monitoring data, resolving issues, liaising with partner organisations, and attending relevant meetings, such as the Housing Panel.
Contribute to the development of housing stock and the overall enhancement of housing support services.
Maintenance:
Collaborate with the maintenance team and local contractors to ensure properties are well maintained and comply with the Decent Homes Standard and HHSRS.
Communicate with relevant personnel to ensure timely completion of property repairs.
Business Development:
Develop and implement innovative ideas to increase income, reduce costs, and expand housing support services.
Independently apply for smaller grants and donations to support housing initiatives.
Help other organisational areas and address day-to-day issues independently, including outside regular working hours when necessary.
Qualifications and Requirements:
Level 3 or higher in a relevant field (Social Care, Housing Management, etc.) and/or a minimum of two years of experience in housing work.
Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Familiarity with housing standards and regulations.
Experience working with vulnerable populations and providing effective support.
Ability to manage challenging cases and caseloads independently.
Preferred experience in business development, grant writing, or fundraising.
Flexibility to address housing support issues outside regular working hours.
Experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including volunteers and partner organisations.
Valid driving license and access to a vehicle, or the ability to obtain one within an agreed timeframe.
The Housing Support Officer is essential in delivering effective housing support services that comply with regulations and emphasise continuous improvement and innovation. This role requires a blend of housing expertise and business development skills to drive successful housing support initiatives, with a focus on adaptability to meet the evolving needs of clients and the service.