At a Glance
- Tasks: Support families in short stay accommodation, ensuring smooth transitions and property upkeep.
- Company: Join Ashford Borough Council, dedicated to helping families find long-term housing solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, generous leave, and training opportunities.
- Other info: This role offers a chance to work with vulnerable groups and contribute to community welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in people's lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Confidence in housing management, good communication, and a valid driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 19149 - 20559 £ per year.
Short Stay Accommodation Officer
Part time – 18.5 hours to be worked at Christchurch House and Christchurch Lodge, Ashford, Kent
Salary from £19,149 to £20,559 pa pro rata
Permanent – Full time – 37 hours per week
Location: Ashford, Kent
Ashford Borough Council manages two short stay accommodation facilities for families in housing need. These families are supported by the Council’s Housing Options Team to transition into long-term housing.
Each property accommodates up to eight families at a time, providing short-term housing during a difficult period in their lives.
The post holders will be key to the efficient operation of these facilities and will provide low-level management support to residents.
The successful candidate will be responsible for all aspects of the operation of the Short Stay Accommodation facility. The role involves housing management and repairs coordination, including:
- Welcoming new residents, explaining house rules, and ensuring a smooth move-in process.
- Carrying out room inspections and managing check-outs to maintain property standards.
- Monitoring building security, managing communal cleanliness, and waste/recycling duties.
- Conducting minor DIY repairs and reporting specialist work needs.
- Liaising with internal and external teams, including laundry, housing options, and social services.
- Maintaining records and supporting rent monitoring activities.
Essential skills and requirements include:
- Confidence in managing housing services and basic repairs.
- Good communication skills and ability to work with vulnerable groups.
- Strong organisational skills.
- Valid driving licence for site travel.
- Ability to maintain a satisfactory Basic Disclosure and Barring Service report.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Lee Brown at 01233 330503.
To apply, current employees of Ashford Borough Council should log into iTrent self-service via the link in the Self-Service section of the SmartHub and click on \”Current Vacancies\”.
When applying, ensure you receive a confirmation of submission. For assistance, email recruitment@ashford.gov.uk.
Hybrid Working – We promote flexible working arrangements to support employee wellbeing, balancing home and office work to foster personal development and collaboration.
Competitive Remuneration Package – Includes an excellent salary, pension scheme, generous annual leave with flexi-time, free life insurance, a supportive relocation package, and training opportunities.
Although Kent and Medway are not currently included in the Devolution Priority Programme, discussions continue, and all local councils in the South East remain committed to delivering vital services. This is a stable and exciting time to join our organisation.
Ashford Borough Council is committed to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
We welcome applications from the Armed Forces Community.
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Short Stay Accomodation Officer employer: Ashford Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Ashford Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Short Stay Accomodation Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of families in short stay accommodation. Understanding the challenges they face will help you demonstrate empathy and effective communication during your interactions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience you have in housing management or working with vulnerable groups. Be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to maintaining a supportive environment for residents.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your organisational skills by discussing examples of how you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects in the past. This will be crucial for the role's responsibilities.
✨Tip Number 4
If possible, visit the facilities at Christchurch House and Christchurch Lodge before your interview. This will give you a better understanding of the environment and allow you to ask informed questions.
We think you need these skills to ace Short Stay Accomodation Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Short Stay Accommodation Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that align with these duties.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your skills in housing management, communication, and organisation. Provide specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to work with vulnerable groups and manage housing services effectively.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in the role and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Mention your understanding of the challenges faced by families in short stay accommodation and your commitment to supporting them.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ashford Borough Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Short Stay Accommodation Officer. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the tasks mentioned, such as managing housing services and conducting minor repairs.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves working with vulnerable groups, it's crucial to demonstrate your strong communication skills during the interview. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in past roles, especially in challenging situations.
✨Highlight Organisational Abilities
The position requires strong organisational skills. Be ready to share specific instances where you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects simultaneously, particularly in a housing or support context.
✨Prepare Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, the challenges faced by the accommodation facilities, or the support provided to residents. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.