Caseworker

Connect2Hackney is the dedicated internal talent team supplying high-quality interim workers to the London Borough of Hackney. We connect skilled professionals with meaningful opportunities across the council, delivering essential services to our vibrant local community.

We are currently recruiting an experienced Case Worker (Disrepair / ADR) to join the Responsive Repairs service within the Housing and Building Maintenance Directorate.

About the Role

In this vital role, you will manage housing disrepair claims from initial notification through to resolution. You will focus on implementing robust Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) strategies, such as mediation and negotiation, to resolve disputes efficiently outside of court.

Working closely with residents, legal representatives, and technical teams, you will ensure statutory repairs are completed promptly while safeguarding the interests of both vulnerable tenants and the Council.

Key Responsibilities

Case Management & Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

• Oversee housing disrepair claims from end-to-end, maintaining high standards of case administration.
• Lead proactive ADR initiatives (mediation, direct negotiation) to achieve fair settlements without formal litigation.
• Conduct thorough investigations, assess Council liability, and coordinate prompt execution of statutory repairs.

Legal Representation & Case Preparation

• Represent the Council at court hearings, arbitration panels, and mediation sessions as required.
• Prepare comprehensive evidence packages, legal documents, and detailed witness statements.
• Liaise and negotiate directly with tenant's solicitors to reach sensible, cost-effective settlements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with internal building surveyors, repairs contractors, legal service providers, and teams across Housing Benefits and Property Services.
• Monitor contractor performance and track legal service providers to ensure statutory compliance and service delivery.

Resident Engagement & Tenancy Support

• Provide compassionate, practical housing management support to residents, with particular focus on vulnerable individuals.
• Address and resolve complex access issues and arrange temporary rehousing when necessary.

Legislative & Policy Compliance

• Ensure all actions strictly comply with landlord-tenant legislation, Civil Procedure Rules (CPR), Pre-Action Protocols, and Council policies.

Candidate Requirements

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Proven track record in managing housing disrepair cases, legal casework, or housing disputes within a local authority or social housing setting.
• In-depth understanding of landlord-tenant legislation, Civil Procedure Rules, and housing disrepair pre-action protocols.
• Practical experience applying Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods and drafting professional witness statements.
• Strong negotiation, conflict resolution, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to conduct home and site visits across the borough.

Safeguarding Requirement

• This role is subject to a Standard DBS Check.

Working with Connect2Hackney

As an interim worker placed through Connect2Hackney, you will benefit from:

• Direct access to Council hiring managers and interim opportunities across Hackney.
• Dedicated candidate support from our internal recruitment team.
• Fair competitive pay rates reflective of your expertise.