At a Glance
- Tasks: Help prevent homelessness and improve clients' lives through personal housing plans.
- Company: Join Durham County Council, a proud equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salaries, 27 days holiday, and wellness support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the community while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 or equivalent with experience in housing or support services required.
- Other info: Interviews start on 15 September 2025; apply online only.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Rewards and benefits are subject to individual terms and conditions. Take a closer look:
SOCIAL MEDIA
Don\’t see the perfect role for you right now? Keep an eye on our social media channels for updates on new opportunities at Durham County Council!
- Follow us on Instagram
- Like us on Facebook
HYBRID WORKING
Durham County Council currently operates a hybrid working policy where a model of 2 days in the workplace and 3 days at home/remote will apply. This model is pro-rated for part-time roles and arrangements are at managers\’ discretion, alternatively you can work all of your contracted hours within the workplace if you prefer.
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION
We are a proud equal opportunities employer and recognise that a diverse, talented workforce brings new ideas and perspectives, facilitating growth and service improvements. We are committed to fair and equitable employment policies. We welcome applications from everyone, and candidates are considered solely on skills and ability. As a Disability Confident Leader, we encourage applications from disabled people and provide support throughout recruitment.
INTERVIEWS
Interviews will be held the week commencing 15 September 2025. We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants meeting all essential criteria who indicate they have a disability, are a looked-after young person, care leaver, or veteran.
HOW TO APPLY
In line with the County Council\’s Recruitment and Selection Policy, we cannot accept CVs. Applications must be submitted online via the Northeast Jobs portal. Use the \’Person Specification\’ section to demonstrate your experience, skills, and knowledge. Applicants must evidence they meet essential qualifications; otherwise, they will not be shortlisted. If you need support, contact the Recruitment Team at 03000 262727 – Option 5. All communications regarding your application will be sent to your registered email. Please check your email and junk mail for notifications.
ROLE OVERVIEW
We are seeking several Housing Officers with a caring approach and a desire to improve clients\’ quality of life, until 31 March 2027.
WHAT IS INVOLVED?
You will carry out statutory duties to prevent and relieve homelessness, including assessing households\’ housing and support needs and developing personal housing plans. The role involves working with households and partner agencies to prevent homelessness. For an informal discussion, contact Verity Deschacht, Senior Housing Officer, via email.
REQUIREMENTS
You will hold a NVQ Level 2 or equivalent and have experience in housing, homelessness, or support services. Knowledge of relevant legislation and the ability to handle sensitive situations effectively are essential. Refer to the attached person specification for full criteria. Successful candidates will need to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service Enhanced Disclosure.
BENEFITS AND REWARDS
- Competitive salaries and 27 days holiday, rising to 32 after five years.
- Option to purchase up to 10 additional days of annual leave.
- Work/life balance schemes including job sharing, compressed hours, and flexi-time.
- Hybrid working model.
- Local Government Pension Scheme with additional top-up options.
- Wellbeing Portal and Employee Assistance Scheme.
- Opportunities for professional development and qualifications.
- Employee Benefits Portal and Lifestyle Savings Scheme.
- Discounted gym membership.
- Staff networks for diversity and inclusion initiatives.
- Trade Union membership.
- Other salary sacrifice schemes such as car leasing.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Housing Officer employer: Durham County Council
Contact Detail:
Durham County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of a Housing Officer. Understanding the statutory duties related to homelessness prevention and support needs will help you articulate your relevant experience during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with our social media channels to stay updated on new opportunities and insights about the role. This can also give you a sense of the company culture, which is important for tailoring your approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Reach out to current or former Housing Officers if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of the role, helping you prepare better for your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure to highlight any experience you have with vulnerable populations or in sensitive situations. This is crucial for a Housing Officer role, as it demonstrates your ability to handle challenging circumstances with empathy.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Housing Officer position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experience.
Use the Person Specification: Make sure to refer to the 'Person Specification' section in your application. Clearly demonstrate how your skills, experience, and qualifications meet the essential criteria outlined by Durham County Council.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When writing your application, focus on your experience in housing, homelessness, or support services. Provide specific examples that showcase your ability to handle sensitive situations and your knowledge of relevant legislation.
Check Your Application: Before submitting, double-check your application for any errors or omissions. Ensure that all required information is included and that your contact details are up to date, as all communications will be sent via email.
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham County Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Housing Officer. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with the role, especially in areas like preventing homelessness and working with partner agencies.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your relevant qualifications, such as your NVQ Level 2 or equivalent, and any experience in housing or support services. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've handled sensitive situations effectively in the past.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Legislation
Since knowledge of relevant legislation is essential for this role, brush up on key laws related to housing and homelessness. Being able to discuss these during your interview will demonstrate your preparedness and commitment to the position.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of your interview. This shows your interest in the role and helps you determine if the organisation's values align with yours, especially regarding equality, diversity, and inclusion.