Temporary Housing Support Worker, 18 hours per week, Sevenoaks

Temporary Housing Support Worker
18 hours per week to support 6 clients
Sevenoaks

Main duties and responsibilities

* Provide one to one key working to six residents on a weekly basis. To include:
* Agree support plan targets and motivate residents to work towards their goal to live independently.
* Support clients to apply for any benefits they may be entitled to include housing benefit, PIP or ESA/universal credit, making a claim for interim payments, appeals etc. as necessary in a timely manner.
* Assist/signpost clients to access additional support from appropriate agencies
* Provide emotional support when clients are in distress
* Prompt clients attend all necessary physical and mental health appointments

Person specification

Experience

Minimum of 1 years' experience of housing support in one or more of the following settings: housing associations, local authority, or voluntary sector housing project. Experience of managing complex and difficult situations in relation to vulnerable clients.

Knowledge and skills


1 Excellent knowledge and understanding of the broad range of mental health problems from long term and severe problems to mild to moderate problems.
2 To be able to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the principles underlying a quality housing management service.
3 Excellent people management skills, creative, innovative and able to motivate and inspire others.
4 A good working knowledge of relevant statutory bodies, the welfare benefits system and housing legislation.
5 To be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of housing law.
6 To be competent in tenancy management practice including voids and arrears management.
7 To be able to set quality standards and lead a team to meet them.
8 To be able to communicate effectively with a wide range of people both verbally and in writing.
9 IT literacy with the ability to use word processing, spreadsheets and email packages.
10 Numerate, with the ability to undertake figure work accurately.

11. Good organisational and administrative skills and the ability to maintain clear, accurate and full records.
12. Ability to monitor and prioritise workload in order to achieve deadlines and targets.
13. Car driver with access to a car.

Attitude


* Must be responsive to the hopes, needs and aspirations of people with mental health problems and able to deal sensitively and empathically with people experiencing distress, in person or on the telephone.
* Understanding of equal opportunities and the promotion of diversity in a working environment and in delivering a service.
* Ability to work flexibly and be able to adapt to change and meet challenges.
* Understanding of and commitment to team work.
* Understanding of and commitment to health & safety at work.

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