Option Officer

Neway International are seeking Housing Options Officers to join our client based with Somerset Council.

Location:

Remote

Hours:

37 hours per week

Start Date:

26 January 2026

Number

Required:

2

Pay Rates:

• PAYE: £22.00 per hour
• Umbrella/Ltd: £29.35 per hour

Somerset Council’s Adults Services & Housing directorate provides essential support to residents experiencing housing difficulties, homelessness risk and complex social challenges. The Housing Options & Homelessness service plays a vital role in prevention, early intervention and statutory homelessness duties across the county.

The Housing Options Officer will provide advice, information and practical assistance to applicants who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The role involves detailed assessments, personalised housing plans, decision‑making under homelessness legislation and partnership working with a wide range of agencies. This is a remote role, with some travel required for home visits.

• Provide clear advice on homelessness prevention, housing options, tenure rights and security of tenure.
• Communicate with applicants and authorised representatives via phone, email or letter.
• Progress all homelessness applications (Part
  7) in line with legislation and the Homelessness Code of Guidance.
• Progress housing applications (Part
  6) under the Homefinder Somerset Choice Based Lettings scheme.
• Conduct detailed assessments of circumstances, needs and risks to create personalised housing plans.
• Determine statutory duties owed to applicants, including interim, prevention and relief duties.
• Make referrals to partner agencies for issues such as benefits, debt, domestic abuse, substance misuse, mental health and complex needs.
• Maintain accurate, timely case notes and evidence‑based records in line with data protection requirements.
• Assist applicants to access the private rented sector, including financial assessments and support via bond guarantee or rent deposit schemes.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners including Housing Benefits, Private Sector Housing, Police, Registered Providers, DWP, voluntary organisations, MARAC and MAPPA.
• Conduct home visits where required and respond to occasional out‑of‑hours emergencies.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work sensitively with people in varied and challenging circumstances.
• Ability to manage a diverse caseload requiring detailed investigation.
• Excellent organisational and administrative skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate, detailed records.
• Fluent English (Part 7 Immigration Act requirement).
• Education to A‑Level or NVQ Level 4 equivalent, with commitment to ongoing development.
• Ability to build effective working relationships.
• Resourceful, solution‑focused and able to overcome barriers.
• Strong time‑management and ability to work independently.
• Full driving licence and access to a vehicle.

• Knowledge of homelessness legislation (Housing Act 1996, Homelessness Act 2002, Homelessness Reduction Act 2017).
• Knowledge of landlord and tenant law.
• Experience with in a Housing Options team or similar housing environment.
• Experience supporting vulnerable applicants.
• Understanding of equality, diversity and its relevance to housing services.
• Experience of effective partnership working.

• Basic DBS check.
• Five years’ referencing.