Housing Options Officer

• Housing_Options_Officer_-_April_2025

Please apply online (see below). If this is not possible, please contact a member of the HR team by either emailing recruitment@sevenoaks.gov.uk or contacting us on 01732 227383 to discuss how we can assist you in applying.

Fixed Term Contract until 31 March 2027

We’re committed to preventing homelessness and ensuring safe, sustainable housing solutions for everyone in our community.

The Housing Options and Support team plays a vital frontline role, providing practical support, expert advice, and life-changing interventions to help single rough sleepers and sofa surfers to find a new home.

As a Housing Options Officer, you’ll work with individuals across the District who are facing housing difficulties or at risk of homelessness. Your work will have a direct and lasting impact, preventing crises, supporting vulnerable residents, and helping people find stability and independence.

Everything you need to know

This is a rewarding and varied opportunity for a customer-focused housing professional. Based at our Sevenoaks offices, you’ll work as part of a dedicated and supportive team, offering proactive housing advice and practical solutions to prevent homelessness.

You’ll ensure that the Council meets its statutory duties under the Housing Act 1996, Homelessness Act 2002, and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, while also delivering compassionate, person-centred support.

What you’ll be doing

• Providing advice and support to customers at risk of homelessness or facing eviction, helping to prevent homelessness wherever possible.
• Assessing housing needs and creating Personalised Housing Plans in line with the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.
• Investigating homelessness applications and making decisions in accordance with housing legislation.
• Working with private landlords and tenants through the Sevenoaks Landlords Hub, securing and maintaining quality private rented housing.
• Placing individuals in emergency and temporary accommodation, ensuring suitable placements and follow-up support.
• Building effective relationships with internal teams (Council Tax, Private Sector Housing, Benefits) and external partners such as housing associations, voluntary organisations and statutory services.
• Supporting housing-related projects and initiatives across the District.
• Participating in the Housing Options and Support Out of Hours Service on a rota basis (with a salary supplement).

What you’ll bring to the role

• In-depth knowledge of housing legislation, particularly the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and Part VII of the Housing Act 1996.
• Experience in homelessness prevention, housing advice, or a related area.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to handle complex and sensitive situations calmly and professionally.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage a varied caseload under pressure.
• Negotiation and influencing skills to achieve positive outcomes for customers.
• Competent IT skills, with experience using Microsoft Office and housing case management systems.
• A proactive, flexible and team-focused approach to work.

Why work with us?

We’re proud to be a high-performing local authority that values innovation, collaboration and people-first service. You’ll be joining a team that cares deeply about its work and is committed to learning, development, and continuous improvement. You’ll be supported to make decisions, take initiative, and grow your career in housing.

What’s in it for you?

You’ll join a dynamic and forward-thinking team delivering services that matter. Every day is different, and the impact you’ll have on people’s quality of life is immediate and rewarding.

We are one of the few local government authorities to hold Platinum Investors in People accreditation – our commitment to supporting and developing you is genuine and ongoing.

Other benefits include:

• Enhanced annual leave of 28 days (excluding bank holidays)
• Additional leave after 5 years of service
• Extra Christmas closure day
• Hybrid working
• Generous Local Government Pension Scheme
• Opportunities to join in with social activities
• Free parking
• Employee benefits including discounts on shopping, travel, days out and more,
• Tusker car salary sacrifice scheme and discounts with your MOT
• Access to BUPA Employee Assistance Programme, a free, 24/7, confidential counselling and wellbeing support service

Want to find out more?

For an informal discussion about this role, please contact Stephen Tring, Housing Options and Solutions Manager, on +441732227184 or stephen.tring@sevenoaks.gov.uk

Closing date: Sunday 30th November

Interviews: Tuesday 16th December