Our new Housing Advice Team are a team of experienced Housing Advice Officers, who act as the first point of contact for those who are reporting any issues to do with antisocial behaviour and safeguarding.
We spoke to one of our colleagues, Natasha, to find more about the important work this team does.
What’s a typical day as a Housing Advice Officer?
Before starting the day, it’s important to feel ready and on time as the calls are our priority and we need to be prepared for whatever comes at the end of the call. For some of our tenants, making that phone call to ask for help and support can be a challenge because of feeling too proud, being in disbelief or not wanting to be judged.
We can understand that for our tenants, they’re essentially talking with a stranger, so it’s our duty to do what we can to make sure they feel as comfortable and as listened to as possible.
Along with listening and gathering all the information from our tenants, we can spend time providing them with advice and support to deal with the concern at hand.
If we’ve assessed that a further case is required, our tenant is kept aware through every step of the process. It’s up to us to ensure risk assessments, agreed actions plans, and touchpoints, are communicated with not only them but with our Tenancy Services Team.
What do you enjoy about being a Housing Advice Officer?
I enjoy that every day is different, you just never know what call is going to come in.
I would say that a massive positive of this role is the team dynamic, led by our Team Leader, we’re supportive of each other and when there are some days when you need five minutes, the team are accommodating and understanding.
A big plus is being able to receive positive feedback from tenants who I’ve helped. This keeps me motivated and the role enjoyable
If you need to get in touch with our Housing Advice Team, you can reach them on 0345 60 20 540. The team are available from 8am – 6pm, Monday to Friday and are always happy to help.
