Housing Options Officer

Marks Consulting Partners are currently looking for a Housing Options Officer to work with one of our Local Authority clients in London. What the Job Will Be Doing * Managing a caseload of residents at risk of homelessness, providing proactive housing advice and prevention solutions * Assessing homelessness applications in line with Housing Act 1996 Part VII and relevant legislation * Delivering homelessness prevention and relief duties, ensuring statutory timescales and targets are achieved * Providing advice on security of tenure, housing rights and wider housing options available to residents * Supporting residents to access alternative accommodation, including private rented sector and move-on options * Working closely with landlords, letting agents and support services to prevent homelessness and secure sustainable housing outcomes * Managing complex and high-risk cases, including safeguarding concerns and vulnerable households * Conducting detailed assessments, maintaining accurate case records and preparing decision letters * Working collaboratively with Allocations, Social Care and external agencies to deliver a joined-up service * Investigating complaints, member enquiries and potential fraudulent applications for housing assistance * Supporting service improvement initiatives and contributing to homelessness prevention strategies What You Will Need * Experience working within Housing Options, Homelessness Prevention or a similar Local Authority housing service * Strong knowledge of Housing Act 1996 Part VII and homelessness legislation * Experience managing complex homelessness and prevention cases * Strong understanding of safeguarding and supporting vulnerable residents * Excellent communication and negotiation skills * Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, target-driven environment * Experience working with landlords, support agencies and multi-disciplinary teams * Strong IT and case management skills with the ability to maintain accurate records * Ability to provide clear housing advice and make informed statutory decisions