Temporary Accommodation Income Officer

Temporary Accommodation Officer Location: South East London
Contract: Temporary / Ongoing
Rate: £26.80 per hour (Umbrella / Limited)
Working Pattern: Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm Hybrid – 2 days in the office, 3 days remote

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Temporary Accommodation Officer to join Lewisham Council, delivering a people-focused income collection and arrears recovery service to support residents and sustain tenancies.

Main Purpose of the Role To provide an effective, resident-focused income collection service that maximises rental income and minimises rent arrears, while supporting residents living in temporary accommodation.

Key Responsibilities

• Proactively manage a caseload of rent accounts, ensuring income is maximised and tenancies are sustained
• Engage with residents via telephone, home visits, and office interviews
• Support residents to maximise income and prevent financial exclusion
• Represent Lewisham Council in County Court possession proceedings
• Maintain accurate records, prepare legal documentation, and progress arrears cases in line with council policies
• Ensure all arrears recovery actions are completed within agreed timescales
• Attend evictions when required, completing inventories and arranging removals and storage of goods
• Work closely with external partners including Housing Benefit, DWP, Social Services, and Housing Options
• Liaise with internal teams to resolve issues such as disrepair, succession, or abandonment
• Meet individual and team performance targets relating to income collection and customer service
• Provide training and induction support to new staff and work placements
• Deliver excellent customer service at all times and take responsibility for personal development
• Comply with all Lewisham Council policies, including Health & Safety and Equality & Diversity

Key Requirements

• Experience in temporary accommodation, income recovery, or housing management
• Strong knowledge of arrears recovery processes and tenancy sustainment
• Experience representing or supporting cases at County Court (desirable)
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Ability to manage a busy caseload in a performance-driven environment
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
• Experience working within a local authority or public sector housing service

PLEASE NOTE: All applications are monitored and shortlisted candidates will be contacted via phone call or email.