Location
City of Westminster

Hours
Full Time - 12 months Fixed Term

Salary
£35,520 - £42,060 per annum

About the Role
This role specializing in discretionary financial support is a critical front-line position dedicated to preventing homelessness and managing public funds. Based within the Homelessness Prevention and Advice Service, the Housing Advisor evaluates complex financial applications from residents facing severe housing crises. You will review household budgets, bank statements, and income evidence to determine eligibility for short-term financial assistance through the Crisis and Resilience Fund Housing Payment, while also assessing threats of homelessness.

By objectively assessing claims against strict local policy frameworks, you will award targeted funds to clear rent arrears, cover housing shortfalls, or secure deposits for more affordable tenancies. Beyond financial assessment, the role requires a high level of empathy, resilience, and exceptional communication skills.

You will conduct interviews with vulnerable residents, including those facing imminent eviction, and work collaboratively across various public services. This includes liaising closely with private landlords, social housing providers, social workers, and the Department for Work and Pensions to build holistic support plans for applicants. Ultimately, you will ensure every financial award is linked to a long-term plan for housing sustainability while maintaining impeccable electronic case files and audit trails that comply with local government financial regulations.

IMPORTANT: If you are a London Borough of Newham member of staff applying for this role as a secondment, please note that secondments are subject to the agreement of your current employing service. Ensure you inform your line manager of your intention to apply before submitting your application.

We are committed to creating an inclusive, anti-racist environment for all. When you apply for a job at Newham, your application is considered on its merits regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender identity, or sexual orientation. If you share our vision and values and bring the experience and skills we need, that is what matters most.

The London Borough of Newham has important responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Appointment to this role may be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Please attach a supporting statement explaining in no more than two A4 sides why and how you meet the criteria for this role.

We practice anonymised recruitment. Please ensure you remove all personal information from any documents you upload.

The personal information collected will be shared with Cifas to prevent fraud and other unlawful or dishonest conduct. Your information will also be used to verify your identity. Further details about data protection rights are available upon request.

About Us
The London Borough of Newham is located just 5 miles east of central London, with excellent access to major transport networks including bus, tube, and DLR. The upcoming Crossrail service will call at Custom House and Stratford stations, improving connectivity further. London City Airport is nearby at Royal Albert Dock.

Newham has the youngest overall population in the country and was one of the six host boroughs for the 2012 Summer Olympics, containing most of the Olympic Park including the London Stadium. The borough boasts a thriving arts quarter with the Theatre Royal Stratford East and is home to the University of East London with two campuses.

Stratford also features a large Westfield shopping centre with all major retailers.

Experience
Experience in assessing complex financial applications and working with vulnerable residents is essential. Previous involvement in homelessness prevention or housing advice services is highly desirable.

About You
You will demonstrate empathy, resilience, and excellent communication skills. The ability to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders including landlords, social housing providers, social workers, and government departments is required. You must be able to manage sensitive information with discretion and maintain accurate electronic case files in compliance with financial regulations.

Qualifications
Relevant qualifications in housing, social work, or related fields are advantageous but not mandatory. A commitment to ongoing professional development and adherence to safeguarding policies is essential.