Housing Needs Officer - Rough Sleepers

About the role

The Housing Needs Officer will join a busy Housing Needs service within a South London local authority, focusing on rough sleepers and those at risk of rough sleeping. You will deliver person‑centred casework, assess housing needs, and help vulnerable individuals secure sustainable accommodation.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of rough sleepers and single homeless applicants, conducting detailed housing needs assessments.
• Develop and maintain Personalised Housing Plans (PHPs) and coordinate intensive outreach with outreach teams.
• Prevent homelessness through mediation, tenancy sustainment, and sourcing temporary, private rented, or supported accommodation.
• Collaborate with health, probation, drug and alcohol, and voluntary sector partners to deliver multi‑agency support.
• Provide tenancy sustainment assistance, including benefits advice, budgeting, and landlord liaison.
• Maintain accurate case records on the NEC housing system and ensure compliance with the Housing Act 1996 and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.

Required profile

• Proven experience in housing options, homelessness, or rough‑sleeping services.
• Strong knowledge of housing legislation and statutory duties.
• Experience supporting vulnerable individuals with complex needs such as mental health, substance misuse, or offending history.

Required skills

• Proficiency with the NEC housing system.

What we offer

• Hybrid working – 2‑3 days in the office, remainder remote.
• Competitive hourly rate (£22.41‑£29.72) on a PAYE or umbrella contract.
• Temporary 3‑month contract with strong possibility of extension.