At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic Housing Options team to tackle homelessness and support residents.
- Company: Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, dedicated to high-quality local services.
- Benefits: Join a friendly team with career development opportunities and job security during local government changes.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to shape services during a period of change in local government.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in housing roles and knowledge of housing legislation is essential.
The predicted salary is between 34650 - 42350 £ per year.
At Epsom & Ewell, we aspire to deliver high-quality services to our residents. We might be small, but we have significant levels of homelessness with equally big plans to support those at risk of homelessness. We have been investing in our future, increasing strategic capacity and exploring new ways of working.
This role is a crucial part of our Housing and Homelessness service, leading our busy Housing Options team in delivering objectives set out in our Homelessness and Rough Sleeper Strategy and Action Plan. You will manage our responsive and comprehensive statutory homelessness and housing options service, with a strong focus on homelessness prevention and relief, ensuring the Council meets its statutory duties.
We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic person with experience of working in a similar role in a Local Housing Authority and a good understanding of housing legislation and case law to lead our busy Housing Options team. Previous similar experience within a demanding housing environment is essential to ensure the Council delivers a legally robust and compliant service.
You will lead the Housing Option team, consisting of 8 officers and report to the Strategic Housing Manager. You will ensure applications are taken, investigated, determined appropriately under the terms of the Housing Act 1996 as amended, Homelessness Act 2002, Localism Act 2011, Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, Code of Guidance, case law and the Council’s own policies.
In addition, you will assess and reach decisions on complex cases, prepare cases and liaise with the Independent Review Service, Legal Services and Housing Options Officers, ensuring correct procedures and correspondence has been sent and that cases are recorded and that deadlines are monitored.
The service is fast paced and deals with very challenging, complex and difficult clients at times. The successful candidate will demonstrate an ability to lead the team and have excellent mediation and coaching skills to build up a positive rapport with clients that motivates them to take responsibility for their own situation and work with the Council.
This vacancy is an exciting opportunity to be part of a professional, friendly and committed team and we look forward to receiving your application. For further details please contact Arjan de Jong, Strategic Housing Manager, at adejong@epsom-ewell.gov.uk
Interviews/assessments: Wednesday 28th October 2026
Local government in Surrey is expected to change in April 2027, with new unitary councils being created to deliver all local services. While these changes are taking place, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council remains committed to providing excellent services and investing in its people. Most roles and services will continue under the new arrangements, and the majority of employees are expected to transfer to the new authority on their existing terms and conditions. Joining us now offers the opportunity to contribute during an exciting period of change while developing your career in local government.
Housing Options Team Leader in Epsom employer: Epsom & Ewell Borough Council
Epsom & Ewell Borough Council is an excellent employer, dedicated to delivering high-quality services while fostering a supportive and professional work environment. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, we offer opportunities to lead impactful initiatives in housing and homelessness during a transformative period for local government. Join our friendly team and make a meaningful difference in the lives of residents at risk of homelessness, all while enjoying the benefits of working in a dynamic and committed local authority.
Contact Details:
Epsom & Ewell Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Options Team Leader in Epsom
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We think you need these skills to ace Housing Options Team Leader in Epsom
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
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Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Epsom & Ewell Borough Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
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✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
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The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
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