At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape homelessness services, ensuring quality and compliance.
- Company: Westminster City Council, dedicated to empowering vulnerable communities.
- Benefits: Flexible working, supportive policies, and commitment to personal development.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace welcoming diverse backgrounds and experiences.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of those facing homelessness.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in local authority or voluntary sector focused on homelessness.
The predicted salary is between 79005 - 98472 € per year.
Salary range: £79,005 - £98,472 per annum. Salary negotiable depending upon experience.
Work location: Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, Westminster, SW1E 6QP
Hours per week: 36
Contract type: Permanent
Closing date: 31 May 2026
Interview date: June 2026
About Westminster City Council
Housing Needs in Westminster City Council is dedicated to supporting and empowering vulnerable communities. Our delivery leaders shape resident‑centred services that respond to the complex needs of homelessness and housing hardship.
The Role
You will lead the statutory homelessness services, reviews and complaints functions for Westminster. Your responsibilities include:
- Providing senior leadership and strategic direction for the Homelessness and Reviews service.
- Ensuring statutory compliance, service quality and resident experience across all decision points.
- Overseeing frontline managers and teams responsible for homelessness decisions, prevention, relief activities, reviews, enquiries and complaints.
- Developing, managing, and analysing service data and performance indicators to drive continuous improvement.
- Collaborating with other Heads of Service, Delivery Leads and senior leaders to promote a joined‑up, cost‑effective approach.
- Representing the Council in multi‑stakeholder forums, including elected members, legal, and external partners.
- Providing visible, confident leadership on‑site and across the frontline.
Qualifications and Experience
Essential:
- Senior strategic level experience within a local authority, government organisation or voluntary sector body focused on homelessness.
- Accountability for lawful decision‑making, service quality and resident outcomes.
- Proven record of leading demanding, complex services, ensuring fairness, consistency and defensibility of decisions.
- Strong knowledge of local government, homelessness legislation, policy and equality practice.
- Experience managing budgets and resources while driving improvement through data and learning.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders.
Desirable:
- Formal qualifications related to social care, homelessness or public administration.
- Experience delivering high‑quality statutory homelessness decision‑making within a council setting.
What We Offer
Westminster City Council provides a flexible working environment, supportive disability confident policies and equal opportunity commitments. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, including Care Leavers and global majority candidates. Our inclusive workplace values and supports your personal and professional development.
Head of Service - Homelessness and Reviews WCC624175 in City of Westminster employer: Hampshire County Council
Westminster City Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises the empowerment of vulnerable communities. With a commitment to personal and professional development, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements and a culture that values diversity and collaboration. As a leader in homelessness services, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while working alongside dedicated professionals in the heart of Westminster.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service - Homelessness and Reviews WCC624175 in City of Westminster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Westminster City Council. Attend events or join online forums where you can chat with others about homelessness services and share insights.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in homelessness legislation and local government policies. We want you to show that you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about making a difference in vulnerable communities.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Think of examples where you've led teams through complex challenges. We need to see how you’ve made tough decisions and ensured fairness and quality in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining us at Westminster City Council and making an impact in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service - Homelessness and Reviews WCC624175 in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Service. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we’re looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your leadership style! Share examples of how you've led teams and made impactful decisions in previous roles, especially in the context of homelessness or local government.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and get straight to the point about your qualifications and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hampshire County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest homelessness legislation and local government policies. Being well-versed in these areas will show that you're not just a candidate, but a knowledgeable leader ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in complex environments. Highlight your experience in making tough decisions and ensuring service quality, as this role demands strong leadership and accountability.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to collaborate with various stakeholders. Be ready to discuss past experiences where you’ve worked with different groups to achieve common goals, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Data-Driven Mindset
Since the role involves managing and analysing service data, come prepared to talk about how you've used data to drive improvements in previous roles. This will show that you understand the importance of metrics in enhancing service delivery.
