Are you passionate about making a difference in your community?
Do you have the skills to build strong local partnerships and deliver a high-quality advice service to those at risk of homelessness? If so, Citizens Advice New Forest has an exciting opportunity for you to join us as a Housing Adviser.
As the Housing Adviser, you will work oversee the delivery of our housing advice service across the New Forest, especially with those that are under threat of homelessness. You will ensure that our service is accessible, high-quality and meets the needs of the local community. This support will be through a mix of face to face, telephone and online client appointments.
Key responsibilities include:
Take referrals from clients that approach Citizens Advice under threat of homelessness, as well as from New Forest District Council (NFDC) and third parties.
Build and sustain strong relationships with key contacts within the NFDC housing team and be the primary contact for all NFDC enquiries regarding clients at risk of homelessness.
Give proactive, timely housing options advice to those that may be at risk, with a view to avoiding future homelessness.
Support clients to maximise their income to ensure they are in best position to avoid homelessness, including undertaking budgeting work with clients to ensure that future housing options are affordable and sustainable.
Provide support to clients with challenges to housing bandings and negotiate with landlords and other housing stakeholders to resolve housing disputes and prevent loss of accommodation.
Ensure clients are promptly signposted to other specialist advisers (within Citizens Advice and third parties) to deal with any issues that may increase their threat of homelessness.
About You
We are looking for someone with:
Experience of providing one-on-one support to people, demonstrating empathy, understanding and a non-judgemental approach when responding to a range of needs and circumstances.
Strong communication and listening skills, with the ability to build trust and explain information clearly to a range of clients.
Able to work as part of a team and build relationships.
Good understanding of financial information.
Knowledge of the Citizens Advice network is desirable but it's not essential - we value relevant experience and a commitment to making a difference.
