At a Glance
- Tasks: Help reduce rough sleeping in Edinburgh by supporting those in need.
- Company: City of Edinburgh Council, dedicated to making a difference in the community.
- Benefits: Flexible working, competitive salary, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Encouraging diverse applicants; guaranteed interviews for disabled and care-experienced candidates.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on people's lives while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Understanding of homelessness and experience in case management.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to have a key role in reducing rough sleeping in Edinburgh. The post of Housing Officer (link worker) is a unique position as the person will be employed by City of Edinburgh Council, managed as part of the housing team in The Access Place, but will have extremely close ties with all Rapid Access Accommodation providers, Bethany Christian Trust's Welcome Centre and Streetwork/Cyrenians outreach services.
This post will involve carrying out homeless assessments in various settings and meeting people who are rough sleeping. Outside work will be undertaken primarily with the Streetwork street outreach team to find routes/solutions for people out of rough sleeping.
The post requires a person who has the energy and enthusiasm to make a significant contribution to the work of our multi-disciplinary (Housing, Social Work, Health, Third Sector) service in working directly with people who are homeless in Edinburgh. You will manage cases for people who have multiple/complex needs which involves carrying out homeless assessments, personal initial support/actions plans, accommodation and service referrals and any other case management requirements for the people you are working with.
Many (but not all) of the people you will be working with have experienced trauma and also have histories of using legal and illegal substances, mental and physical health issues, behavioural issues and a history or current experience of rough sleeping. An understanding of homelessness in general, but within Scotland in particular is essential, including an understanding of the Scottish Code of Guidance on Homelessness (2019).
This post is regulated work with children and/or protected adults under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. Where an individual has spent a continuous period of 3 months or more out with the UK in the last 5 years, an Overseas Criminal Record Check will be required.
We particularly encourage applications from women for senior roles, as well as people from minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities or neurodivergent people, care experienced people, carers and LGBT+ people across all levels of the organisation, all of whom are currently underrepresented. Disabled and care-experienced applicants who meet the minimum job criteria will be guaranteed an interview.
You can find out more on Our Behaviours web page. Our salary range typically reflects the initial starting salary and annually increases until it reaches the top of the range. Happy to talk flexible working.
Housing Advice Workers employer: CITY OF EDINBURGH COUNCIL
The City of Edinburgh Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the community by addressing homelessness in Edinburgh. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, we offer a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusivity, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups. Our collaborative environment, combined with flexible working options and a commitment to professional advancement, makes this role not just a job, but a rewarding career path for those passionate about social change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Advice Workers
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the housing sector, especially those connected to the City of Edinburgh Council. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet potential colleagues and learn more about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by understanding the specific challenges faced by the homeless community in Edinburgh. Brush up on the Scottish Code of Guidance on Homelessness so you can speak confidently about how you’d tackle these issues.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers, share your enthusiasm for helping those in need. Talk about any relevant experiences you have that demonstrate your commitment to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making an impact in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Advice Workers
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start writing your application, make sure to read the job description carefully. It’s crucial to understand what the Housing Officer role entails and how your skills align with the requirements. This will help us tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience.
Show Your Passion for the Role:We want to see your enthusiasm for helping those in need! In your application, share why you’re passionate about reducing rough sleeping and how your background prepares you for this unique position. Let your personality shine through!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous experience you have in housing, social work, or working with vulnerable populations. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've made a difference in similar roles. This will help us see how you can contribute to our multi-disciplinary team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at The Access Place.
How to prepare for a job interview at CITY OF EDINBURGH COUNCIL
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of homelessness issues, especially in Scotland. Familiarise yourself with the Scottish Code of Guidance on Homelessness (2019) and be ready to discuss how it impacts your approach to the role.
✨Show Your Empathy
This role involves working with vulnerable individuals who may have complex needs. Be prepared to share examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to connect with people and provide support in challenging situations.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
Since this position requires collaboration with various services, emphasise your experience working in multi-disciplinary teams. Share specific instances where you successfully worked alongside social workers, health professionals, or third sector organisations.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the role and the team dynamics. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you. Think about asking how the team measures success in reducing rough sleeping.
