At a Glance
- Tasks: Help people find housing solutions and prevent homelessness in a supportive team.
- Company: Join a key public sector client making a real difference in the community.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive pay, and the chance to extend your contract.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and learning in a busy environment.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on people's lives while developing your skills in housing legislation.
- Qualifications: Experience in housing options and strong communication skills are essential.
An exciting opportunity has emerged for a Senior Housing Options Officer to join the homeless team at one of Adecco's key public sector clients in a temporary contract, initially for 3 months (but highly likely to be extended). Our client is based in Crawley in West Sussex (near to Gatwick Airport) and this is a full time role for 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday, and working hybridly, so office attendance is required up to three days each week.
This role involves strong homeless decision making skills so excellent written communication skills and housing legislation knowledge is essential. Due to the busy nature of the role, the client is keen for applicants to possess previous experience of:
- Interviewing clients and resolving all housing problems.
- Processing claims for homeless applications as required under Part VII of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended).
- Advising and preventing homelessness by offering the correct advice to clients approaching the Council as homeless.
- Assessing whether those who are threatened with homelessness qualify for private sector options under the Housing Act, Part VII, as amended.
- Having regard to the Homelessness Code of Guidance and the Council's Homelessness Prevention and resilience agenda.
- Writing accurate section 184 decision letters, and responding to complaints and MP enquiries.
- Sound knowledge of Housing and Homelessness Law and experience in resolving complex housing problems.
- Administrative skills to manage caseload and work effectively in a team of 6-8 officers.
- Ability to deal with very demanding service users and partners, and have strong IT and admin skills.
- Updating PHP's (Personal Housing Plans).
As the client is keen for the candidate to hit the ground running, previous experience of carrying out a similar role with a local authority client in the last two years would be hugely beneficial. Strong knowledge of the Homelessness Reduction Act is also important. A car driver is not required.
If you feel you meet the above criteria, are happy to work hybridly near Gatwick Airport and can start on short notice (2 weeks' maximum), please apply online now, or email for a confidential conversation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Housing Options Officer (temp: Crawley, West Sussex)
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Housing Options Officer (temp: Crawley, West Sussex)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Adecco
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Adecco.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Adecco that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
