At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals at risk of homelessness with advice and assistance.
- Company: Cumberland Council, dedicated to making a positive impact in the community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive workplace, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Guaranteed interviews for eligible applicants and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Compassionate individuals who value collaboration and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 32061 - 32597 £ per year.
Salary: £32,061 to £32,597 per annum
Hours: 37 hours per week
Location: West Cumbria
Contract: Temporary (12 months)
About this opportunity
This post sits within the Homeless Prevention and Housing Service, which specifically supports the operational delivery of the councils' teams, working with all people experiencing and at risk of homelessness. Post holders will work with colleagues across this wider service area to provide high quality first point of contact for housing related advice and support to people who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness. This service is central to ensuring operational statutory and legal duties are delivered through the management of a range of statutory direct access accommodation and crisis support; as well as delivering homelessness advice and assistance 24 hours a day, and quality community based accommodation and support pathway services for people experiencing homelessness, in fulfilment of the Councils statutory legal and regulatory requirements in the delivery of the homelessness and housing support provision across Cumberland.
Who we're looking for
We're looking for individuals who embody our organisation's core values: ambitious, collaborative, compassionate, empowering, and innovative. We believe in the power of these values to drive positive change, deliver excellent public services and shape a better future for our communities. We're also about potential over perfection and we can help you grow in the role and thrive in your career. Be sure to take a look at the post specification for the essential criteria for this role.
Guaranteed Interview
We offer a guaranteed interview to the following applicants as long as your application can demonstrate you meet the essential criteria for the role:
- Those who consider themselves disabled as defined by the Equality Act 2010
- Those in care or who have left care and are aged 24 and under
- Those who identify as a member of the British Armed Forces community (service leavers, veterans, their partners or spouses, reservists, cadets).
If you meet one or more of the criteria above, and wish to be considered for this scheme, select 'yes' to the appropriate question during your application.
DBS Checks
This role requires a DBS check. The level of check for this role is—Enhanced DBS Check with a Children's and Adults Barred List check. Please note this role involves working in regulated activity with Children and adults. It is an offence for people who are barred from working in regulated activity to apply for roles that require them to work unsupervised with Children and Adults.
Diversity, Inclusion & Adjustments
We're dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. That's why we're a proud Disability Confident Leader and also an Age Friendly Employer – to provide opportunities for everyone to thrive. If you need any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let either the hiring manager or our Resourcing Team know by emailing Resourcing@Cumberland.gov.uk. While adjustments aren't always guaranteed, we'll always listen and we'll try our best to accommodate your needs.
Contact
For more information about the role or to arrange an informal chat prior to your application, please contact Tammie Rhodes by email at Tammie.Rhodes@cumberland.gov.uk.
Application and Interview information
Closing date: 29/06/2026
Interview date: TBC
Please note this role may close early subject to demand. If you're interested in applying, you should apply well before the advised closing date. We cannot accept applications once the role has closed.
Housing Assistant - Homelessness x 2- CMB2560e in Workington employer: CIH International Housing Group
Cumberland Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment in West Cumbria. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer opportunities for professional development while embodying our core values of ambition, collaboration, compassion, empowerment, and innovation. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of those experiencing homelessness, all while enjoying a diverse and dynamic workplace that prioritises well-being and community engagement.
Contact Details:
CIH International Housing Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Assistant - Homelessness x 2- CMB2560e in Workington
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to CIH International Housing Group, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Assistant - Homelessness x 2- CMB2560e in Workington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of CIH International Housing Group. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at CIH International Housing Group. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at CIH International Housing Group
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with CIH International Housing Group.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Housing Assistant - Homelessness x 2- CMB2560e role at CIH International Housing Group, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show CIH International Housing Group that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
