Accommodation Officer

We have an exciting opportunity for a 12 month fixed term contract to cover maternity leave within our busy and fast paced Accommodation Team.

You will work closely with the Senior Accommodation Officer and the rest of the team to deliver effective housing support to residents in temporary accommodation. This will include signposting and referrals to support services, providing advice, assisting with benefit claims, and supporting individuals to secure long term, sustainable housing options.

You will oversee the day to day management of temporary accommodation, carrying out regular property visits across the district, monitoring standards, and completing health and safety checks to ensure accommodation remains safe and suitable. Deal with any issues that arise by intervening to prevent a breakdown in the accommodation arrangement for example arrears and property condition.

You will manage the day to day operation of council owned temporary accommodation, carrying out regular property visits to identify and report repairs. This will include undertaking routine fire alarm checks in HMOs, monitoring the cleanliness and condition of communal areas, and promptly reporting any disrepair to the building, fixtures, fittings, or appliances to ensure standards and safety are maintained.

You will be supporting rough sleepers across the district by proactively engaging through outreach and intervention work to help them access accommodation and support services.

You will take responsibility for responding to safeguarding concerns making timely and appropriate referrals to relevant internal and external support agencies.

You will also need the confidence to deal with challenging or difficult situations and to work effectively with other authorities and agencies. Computer literacy is essential and a working knowledge of Jigsaw and Devon Home Choice would be desirable (though training can be provided).

You should be committed to delivering excellent services and maintaining effective relationships with other officers, members and other key stakeholders/partners drawing upon good communication, negotiation and mediation skills.

A full clean driving licence and access to a vehicle is essential as travel is required throughout our area.

Some activities can take place on an evening and weekend and therefore there will be occasional work outside of normal office hours.