At a Glance
- Tasks: Help prevent homelessness and support customers through the housing process.
- Company: Join a dedicated council team focused on making a difference.
- Benefits: Generous leave, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with networking opportunities across councils.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and knowledge of homelessness legislation required.
The predicted salary is between 38009 - 41506 £ per year.
Are you a committed, enthusiastic and resilient housing professional who enjoys a fulfilling role in a customer-focused environment? We are looking for someone like you to join our team! If we are a good fit for you, you will have the opportunity to prevent and relieve homelessness and assist customers through all stages of the homelessness process. We have two positions to fill.
What will you be doing?
- Work within the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 to give advice and assistance to customers in housing need to prevent or relieve their homelessness
- Determine homeless applications
- Ensure that customers are kept informed at all stages and issue written notifications of all decisions made
About you
- Drive and commitment to preventing homelessness
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills, enabling you to deal with complex clients, often in emotional and stressful situations
- Knowledge of homelessness legislation
- Strong organisation and time management skills
- Previous experience of working in a collaborative way to solve problems and achieve positive outcomes for customers
What can we offer you?
- Opportunities for growth and cross-department working, learning new skills and service areas
- 26-29 days annual leave rising to 34 days with 5 years' local government service
- Usage of our e-fleet during business hours for business-related visits
- Employee well-being programme
- Employee events group
- Regular opportunities to socialise with other teams within the council
- Flexible working arrangements, including flexi-time
- Up to 50% working from home for eligible posts
- Free parking in our offices and select council owned car parks during business hours
- Access to wellbeing and occupational health schemes such as the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Local Government pension scheme
- Discounts at council-owned leisure centres
- Opportunity to network with colleagues across councils in Hertfordshire and the East of England
- Professional environment where your career path really matters and your development is supported by the organisation
How to apply
For an informal discussion about this role, please contact Lynne Mansaray, Senior Housing Options Officer. Closing date: Sunday 26 April 2026 at midnight. Interviews will be held week commencing 4 May 2026.
We, as a council, are ambitious. To find out more about our ambitions and what it's like working at East Herts, hear from our employees on our careers site. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer, valuing diversity and maintaining a firm commitment to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. We believe that creating inclusive environments leads to stronger collaboration and better outcomes in our work. Find out more about our disability confident scheme on our website.
Housing Options Officer (Prevention and Relief) in Hertford employer: East Herts Council
Join East Herts Council as a Housing Options Officer and be part of a dedicated team committed to preventing homelessness in a supportive and customer-focused environment. With opportunities for professional growth, flexible working arrangements, and a strong emphasis on employee well-being, you will find a rewarding career path that truly values your contributions. Enjoy generous annual leave, access to wellness programmes, and the chance to collaborate with colleagues across Hertfordshire, making a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Options Officer (Prevention and Relief) in Hertford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the housing sector, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to homelessness legislation and customer service scenarios. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for preventing homelessness during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've helped clients in the past, demonstrating your commitment and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities and updates about working with us at East Herts.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Options Officer (Prevention and Relief) in Hertford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Housing Options Officer role. We want to see your passion for preventing homelessness shine through!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves dealing with complex clients, it's crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication and negotiation skills in your written application. Use examples that show how you've successfully navigated challenging situations.
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've got experience working within housing or related fields, make it front and centre in your application. We love seeing candidates who have a solid understanding of homelessness legislation and practical experience in the sector.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at East Herts Council
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and other relevant housing legislation. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show your commitment and knowledge in the field, which is crucial for a Housing Options Officer.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with clients in stressful situations. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, highlighting your negotiation skills and ability to empathise with complex clients.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Think of specific instances where you've collaborated with others to solve problems. Be ready to discuss how you approached these challenges and what positive outcomes resulted from your efforts, as this role requires strong organisational and time management skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, growth opportunities, and the council's ambitions. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the organisation aligns with your career goals.
