At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead services that empower residents to live safe and fulfilling lives.
- Company: Join Blackburn with Darwen's Adults & Health Directorate, a forward-thinking local authority.
- Benefits: Be part of an ambitious leadership team focused on innovation and community impact.
- Other info: We value diversity and welcome candidates from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Shape vital services that make a real difference in people's lives.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in housing, health, or community services required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Blackburn with Darwen is seeking an outstanding leader to join the Adults & Health Directorate as Head of Housing and Inclusion. This is a key senior leadership role, leading services that help residents live safe, independent and fulfilling lives.
You will lead a broad portfolio across housing needs, homelessness, inclusion, prevention and community support, ensuring the Council meets its statutory duties while improving outcomes for residents and communities.
Working as part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will provide strategic leadership across the Council and with partners in health, housing, the voluntary sector, community safety, criminal justice and wider public services to deliver prevention, reduce inequalities and support people before crisis.
The role includes leading homelessness and housing needs services, preventing homelessness, reducing rough sleeping, improving access to safe and sustainable accommodation, and developing effective responses to growing demand.
You will also oversee support for asylum seekers, refugees and newly arrived communities; the First Point of Contact for Adult Services; social prescribing and community connector services; the Complex Lives Partnership; and the Crisis Resilience Fund.
Across these areas, you will promote timely advice, strengths-based practice, trauma-informed support, co-production, effective partnership working and targeted help for residents facing hardship, housing instability or multiple disadvantage.
We are looking for an inspirational, credible and strategic leader with strong political awareness, a clear focus on outcomes and performance, and the ability to lead complex services through change.
You will bring
- Senior leadership experience in housing, health, social care, community services or a related field.
- Strong knowledge of homelessness, housing needs, inclusion, prevention and community wellbeing.
- Experience of leading transformation, managing budgets and performance, and improving services.
- A strong track record of partnership working across councils, health, housing and the voluntary sector.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with a commitment to co-production, equality, diversity and inclusion.
This is an opportunity to shape services that make a real difference to residents, working within an ambitious leadership team focused on innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement.
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome candidates from all backgrounds who can support inclusive, respectful and anti-discriminatory practice.
If you are a strategic leader with a passion for housing, prevention, inclusion and community wellbeing, we would love to hear from you.
Visit our Senior Leadership page on our website to hear more from our Assistant Director and to learn more about our authority.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Brendan Gray, Assistant Director Social Work & Housing Needs, via email at brendan.gray@blackburn.gov.uk and a convenient time will be arranged.
Supporting Documents
JD
PS
Head of Service - Housing and Inclusion in Blackburn employer: Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the well-being of both employees and the children they serve. With flexible working hours and opportunities for professional development, staff are empowered to grow in their roles while making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people with disabilities and complex needs in the vibrant community of Blackburn. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values compassion, resilience, and teamwork.
Contact Details:
Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service - Housing and Inclusion in Blackburn
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service - Housing and Inclusion in Blackburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.
