Housing Support Worker

VNA Recruitment; Liverpool City Region; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job description

Are you passionate about supporting individuals and families to sustain their tenancies and improve their housing outcomes? Join our team as a Housing Support Worker and make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable tenants across Merseyside.

Key Responsibilities:

* Tenancy Support: Provide one-on-one support to tenants, helping them maintain their tenancies and navigate housing issues, including rent arrears, repairs, and disputes.

* Welfare Benefits Advice: Assist tenants in understanding and accessing welfare benefits, ensuring they are aware of financial support available to sustain their housing.

* Homelessness Prevention: Work with individuals at risk of eviction, offering practical advice and solutions to prevent homelessness, including liaising with landlords and housing providers.

* Housing Applications & Referrals: Assist clients with housing applications and refer them to appropriate services for additional support, such as mental health services, social services, and debt management support.

* Crisis Support: Provide support to individuals facing immediate housing difficulties, including those in emergency accommodation or at risk of becoming homeless.

* Case Management: Maintain a caseload of tenants and ensure regular follow-up and review of support plans. Monitor progress and update case records accordingly.

* Access to Services: Link tenants to community services, including food banks, social services, healthcare, and employment support, ensuring holistic support is provided.

* Advice & Advocacy: Advocate for tenants' rights and help them understand their responsibilities under their tenancy agreements, as well as their options for resolving disputes with landlords or housing authorities.

Essential Qualifications & Skills:

* Experience: At least 1-2 years of experience in housing support, social services, or a related role, with a focus on tenancy sustainment or homelessness prevention.

* Knowledge: A strong understanding of housing law, welfare benefits, and available housing options for individuals in need.

* Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work with vulnerable individuals and explain complex housing issues in a clear, supportive manner.

* Problem-Solving: Ability to think critically and find practical solutions for individuals facing housing difficulties or tenancy challenges.

* Organisational Skills: Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple cases and prioritise tasks effectively.

* IT Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office and housing management software (e.g., Northgate, Capita).

* Empathy & Resilience: A compassionate approach to working with tenants from diverse backgrounds, demonstrating empathy and resilience in challenging situations.

Desirable:

* Relevant Qualifications: A qualification in Housing, Social Work, or a related field (e.g., CIH Level 3 Certificate in Housing).

What We Offer:

* Competitive salary and benefits package.

* Opportunities for career development and training.

* A supportive and dynamic work environment.

* Flexible working arrangements and a healthy work-life balance.

* The chance to make a significant impact on the lives of vulnerable tenants