At a Glance
- Tasks: Help prevent homelessness and support families in finding stable housing solutions.
- Company: Join North Yorkshire Council's dedicated Housing Needs Service.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28-34 days holiday, a generous pension, and fitness discounts.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in housing advice and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 34434 - 38220 £ per year.
Salary: £34,434 to £38,220 pro rata, per annum
Grade: I
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Part Time, 22 Hours per week
Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire
About the Council and the Service
North Yorkshire Council is offering an exciting opportunity to join our Housing Needs Service as a Housing Options Officer. In this pivotal role you will be at the forefront of preventing homelessness, providing expert advice, and guiding individuals and families through challenging housing situations to secure stable, long-term solutions. You'll play a crucial part in transforming lives, supporting vulnerable households during difficult times, and collaborating with partners to ensure the best outcomes.
The role
You will provide a full housing options and homeless service to clients in housing need, fulfilling the Council’s statutory duties under relevant homeless legislation. You will support the objectives of the new Homelessness Strategy, prevent homelessness wherever possible, and assist households to achieve sustainable housing solutions. When required you will participate in an out of hours standby rota to respond to emergencies within the local area, including incidents in temporary accommodation. Required knowledge includes an understanding of current housing issues, homeless legislation, and safeguarding responsibilities. You must have experience assessing need and offering housing advice, and be committed to equality, diversity, and health and safety legislation. Strong customer service and advisory skills are essential, as is the ability to plan, allocate, evaluate workloads, and conduct difficult conversations with professionalism.
Who We're Looking For
- Essential
- Passion for delivering high‑quality service to vulnerable customers.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and independent working skills.
- Proficiency in IT systems to manage case files.
- Experience providing housing advice and assessing needs in a client‑focused manner.
- Resilience, empathy, and patience are required.
- Desirable
- Knowledge of housing issues, homelessness legislation, landlord‑tenant law, and safeguarding.
Benefits
- Holiday entitlement: 28 days rising to 34 days (pro‑rata) per year plus public holidays.
- Pension: generous local government scheme with 22.6% contribution.
- Fitness discounts at selected gyms across the county.
- Access to lifestyle savings and discounts with many retailers.
Contact
If you would like to learn more about this role and for an informal conversation, please contact Heidi Richardson via email at Heidi.Richardson@northyorks.gov.uk.
Employment
We are committed to meeting the needs of a diverse community and aim to have a workforce reflecting this diversity. We also safeguard and promote the welfare of all individuals. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Housing Options Officer in Harrogate employer: CIH International Housing Group
North Yorkshire Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being of both employees and the community. With generous benefits including up to 34 days of holiday, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth, you will be empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable individuals and families in Harrogate. Join us in our mission to prevent homelessness and create sustainable housing solutions while enjoying a fulfilling career in a diverse and inclusive environment.
Contact Details:
CIH International Housing Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Options Officer in Harrogate
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We think you need these skills to ace Housing Options Officer in Harrogate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Public Service Passion:When applying for a part-time role in the government or public sector, it's vital to express your enthusiasm for public service. Share why you’re interested in contributing to CIH International Housing Group and how your values align with their mission. We love to see candidates who really care about making a difference!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail any previous volunteer work, internships, or jobs that demonstrate your commitment to public service. This is important in the government sector! If you've been involved in community projects or have relevant academic courses, bring those into your CV to stand out.
Tailor Your CV for Public Sector Standards:In the public sector, it’s common to focus on your skills and experiences that align specifically with the role. Ensure your CV includes clear examples of how your background fits the responsibilities outlined in the job posting for Housing Options Officer at CIH International Housing Group. Use bullet points for clarity—it's all about making it easy for the hiring team!
Keep It Professional, But Personal:While we want you to be personable, don’t shy away from a formal tone in your cover letter. Share your motivations and what you hope to learn in this part-time role at CIH International Housing Group. It’s a balance of showing who you are while respecting the formal nature of the public sector!
How to prepare for a job interview at CIH International Housing Group
✨Show Your Commitment to Public Service
Part-time roles in the government or public sector often attract candidates who are passionate about making a difference. Let's highlight your dedication to public service during the interview. Be prepared to discuss any volunteer work or projects that showcase your commitment to the community and alignment with the mission of CIH International Housing Group.
✨Familiarity with Policy and Regulation
Understanding government policies and regulations is crucial in this field. Brush up on relevant laws or initiatives that impact the role you're applying for. We can also prep you for scenario-based questions where you might have to demonstrate how you'd navigate specific public issues relevant to Housing Options Officer.
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Whether it’s communication, research, or analytical skills, make sure to relate your experience to the competencies sought by CIH International Housing Group. Discuss how your part-time availability complements your studies or other commitments, showing that you are ready to juggle responsibilities while bringing valuable skills to the table.
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