Temporary Accommodation and Hostels Officer

About the Council

The London Borough of Hounslow is a dynamic and diverse community committed to delivering exceptional services for its residents. The Council champions a culture of inclusion and empowerment, with a strong focus on equality, diversity, and breaking down barriers through collaborative problem-solving.

Role Summary

This role is a critical frontline position within the Homelessness, Independence and Preventative Services team. It involves providing a flexible, modern service to vulnerable individuals experiencing housing difficulties, focusing on reducing reliance on temporary accommodation and emphasizing preventative measures.

Team Environment

You'll be part of a busy and progressive team committed to tackling homelessness through assessment and decision-making in line with statutory requirements. The post involves working collaboratively with various services to resolve crises surrounding housing, health, and social care, assisting in providing affordable temporary accommodation.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough and holistic assessments of clients’ housing and support needs.
• Develop and implement personalized housing plans tailored to each individual's circumstances.
• Provide interventions, support, and appropriate referrals aimed at minimizing time spent in temporary accommodation.
• Fulfill the council’s statutory homelessness assessment and decision-making duties, emphasizing those in emergency and temporary accommodation settings.
• Engage proactively with support services and manage discretionary funds to assist clients effectively.

Candidate Profile

• Demonstrates detailed knowledge of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended) and the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.
• Experienced with vulnerable populations and working within multi-disciplinary housing teams serving clients with complex needs.
• Understands legislative frameworks around homelessness, social care, mental health, immigration, and welfare benefits.
• Possesses strong communication skills to build trust, influence, negotiate, and persuade a diverse range of stakeholders and clients.
• Acts with integrity, takes personal responsibility, manages stress well, and approaches challenges with motivation and innovative problem-solving.
• Works independently and flexibly while demonstrating excellent analytical abilities to implement tailored solutions confidently.
• Collaborates effectively with colleagues, adapts to changing priorities, meets targets, and contributes to improving team performance.
• Capable of traveling independently within the borough to conduct home visits and attend community meetings.

Desired Attributes

• A passion for delivering excellent customer service.
• Experience as a homelessness professional.
• Interest in contributing to a forward-thinking and progressive housing department.

Additional Information

• A basic DBS check is mandatory for this role.
• Interviews are scheduled for August 2026.