At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide essential support to homeless families and help them thrive.
- Company: Join Ark Housing Association, a leader in community support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, hybrid working, and generous leave.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a supportive work environment await you.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Relevant qualification and experience in support services required.
The predicted salary is between 29173 - 32244 € per year.
Ark Housing Association is seeking to recruit an experienced and dedicated individual to join the organisation as Floating Support Officer. This position is on a permanent full-time employment basis. Reporting to Team Leaders and Homeless Services Manager, the postholder will ensure the delivery of a comprehensive floating support service for homeless families and provide high-quality services to our Homeless Services clients in accordance with the strategic objectives of Ark Housing.
Our Homeless Family Service has been developed in partnership with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) and is funded by the Department for Communities (DfC) through the Supporting People Programme.
Applicants must satisfy the following essential criteria:
- Have a relevant qualification (QCF/NVQ Level 2 or equivalent e.g. 5 GCSEs)
- Have 1 years experience in providing support services to individuals or families or Have 3 years experience in providing support services to individuals or families
- Have 1 years experience in:
- Developing person centred needs/risk assessments and support plans
- Managing case loads
- Advocating on a persons behalf
- Working in partnership with external agencies
- Working with Microsoft Office
Benefits include:
- Salary points 22-26 £29,173.94 - £32,244.10 with a Contributory Pension Scheme (NILGOSC), (Currently 15.5% Employer Contribution).
- Salaries are reviewed annually and uplifted in accordance with the Associations Remuneration Policy.
- This post attracts an annual essential car user allowance of £1,239 (payable in monthly instalments) and mileage is reimbursed at a rate of £0.45p per mile travelled for work purposes. (£0.50p per mile if carrying a passenger).
- 22 days annual leave moving to 27 after 5 years service and 32 days after 10 years service; 13 customary holidays per annum;
- A range of excellent work and family friendly policies;
- Hybrid working policy;
- Private Health Insurance
- Access to an EV (Electric Car) Salary Sacrifice Scheme.
Qualifications / Experience
- Essential
- A relevant qualification (QCF/NVQ Level 2 or equivalent e.g. 5 GCSEs)
- 1 years experience in providing support services to individuals or families Or 3 years experience in providing support services to individuals or families
- Desirable
- A recognised qualification in one or more of the following areas: Housing or Homelessness Benefit Advice Health & Social Care
Knowledge
- Essential
- Working knowledge of Data Protection legislation, policy & best practice as it applies to Northern Ireland and corporate bodies.
- Working knowledge of Equality legislation, policy & best practice as it applies to Northern Ireland and corporate bodies.
- Sound knowledge and understanding of the following areas: Housing related support The benefit system
Skills & Abilities
- Essential
- Excellent level of IT literacy with experience in the use of a wide range of Microsoft Office products.
- Strong communication & organisational skills.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and negotiate with others.
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
Other
- Essential
- Full driving license and access to own car for travel.
- Be able to work flexible hours if required, including evenings and weekends.
Ark Housing reserves the right to enhance the criteria for the short listing of suitable candidates without further notification. Closing Date for Receipt of Completed Applications is: Friday 5th June 2026 by 4pm. Ark Housing is an equal opportunities employer. Applications are welcome from individuals irrespective of gender, marital status, disability, religion, race, ethnic origin, age or sexual orientation.
Floating Support Officer JBLE1_NI in Belfast employer: ARK Housing Association
Ark Housing Association is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional development of its staff. With a strong commitment to providing high-quality support services for homeless families, employees benefit from a supportive work culture, competitive salary packages, and generous leave entitlements, alongside opportunities for hybrid working and access to private health insurance. The organisation fosters a collaborative environment where team members can grow and make a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Floating Support Officer JBLE1_NI in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the housing and support services sector. Let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities, and they might just have a lead or two for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Ark Housing Association. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they're about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions related to floating support services. Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your skills in managing caseloads and advocating for clients.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Floating Support Officer JBLE1_NI in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Floating Support Officer. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what Ark Housing is looking for.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on your work with individuals or families and any relevant qualifications. Be specific about your achievements in developing support plans and managing caseloads to demonstrate your capability.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and ensure your writing is easy to read. This will help us quickly see your strengths and suitability for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at ARK Housing Association
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of housing-related support and the benefit system. Familiarise yourself with Ark Housing Association's mission and values, as well as the specifics of the Floating Support Officer role. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your relevant experience in providing support services. Prepare specific examples of how you've developed person-centred needs assessments or managed caseloads. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Skills
Highlight your strong communication and organisational skills during the interview. Think of instances where you've successfully built relationships or advocated for someone. This is your chance to shine a light on your exceptional interpersonal skills!
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the team dynamics, the challenges faced by the Floating Support Officer, or how success is measured in this role. It shows you're engaged and thinking ahead about how you can contribute.
