Overview:
The London Borough of Harrow is seeking a Homelessness Prevention & Solutions Officer to join its Housing Services department on a fixed-term contract. In this role, the successful candidate will be responsible for delivering the Council’s statutory duties to prevent and relieve homelessness for individuals and families who approach the Council in housing need. The officer will work to prevent homelessness by engaging with landlords and other relevant parties to help households retain their current accommodation. Where this is not possible, they will support a planned transition into the Private Rented Sector or explore alternative housing options to meet the household’s needs. The role involves managing a variety of cases, including complex ones that may be subject to judicial review or ombudsman investigation. Key responsibilities include conducting statutory homelessness assessments, supporting households in sustaining their tenancies, and ensuring a smooth transition into new accommodation. The postholder will play a vital role in reducing the use of temporary accommodation and promoting long-term housing stability.
About you:

The successful candidate will have:

• Comprehensive knowledge of all core legislation such as the Housing Act 1985, Housing Act 1996 as amended by Homelessness Act 2002, the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, housing needs issues, related legislation and case law.
• Experience of giving advice and information to vulnerable customers and working in a busy front line customer focused environment.
• Experience of carrying out interviews, investigations and negotiations.
• Experience of successfully working to performance targets and deadline.
• Ability to devise Personalised Housing Plans, provide advice to customers verbally and in writing and write accurate and comprehensive decisions on own initiative quoting relevant legislation, case law and statutory guidance.
• Experience of negotiation/advocacy/mediation.
• Experience of carrying out interviews, investigations and negotiations.
• Experience of effective record keeping including electronically.

Related Documents:
For more information, please refer to the Role Profile/Selection Criteri

Please refer the Job description for details