At a Glance
- Tasks: Help individuals and families navigate housing challenges and access essential services.
- Company: Join Birmingham City Council, the UK's largest local authority dedicated to supporting residents.
- Benefits: Earn competitive pay with holiday allowance and enjoy a meaningful role in the community.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing valuable skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Strong understanding of housing legislation and excellent communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Full-time, shift-based role with advance scheduling and potential for contract extension.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 30000 £ per year.
Job Description
Your new companyBirmingham City Council is the UK's largest local authority, delivering essential services to residents across the city. As part of our commitment to supporting those in housing need, we are recruiting Housing Needs Officers to join their team based at Lydia Rogers House.
Your new roleAs a Housing Needs Officer, you will be at the front line of housing support, helping individuals and families navigate housing challenges and access appropriate services.Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting housing needs assessments
- Supporting applicants through the housing application process, and assisting with housing benefits
- Liaising with internal teams and external agencies to secure suitable housing solutions
- Maintaining accurate case records using council systems
This is a full-time role (35 hours per week), delivered through shift work. Shifts are provided six weeks in advance, with occasional weekend availability required.
- Earliest shift: 8am-4pm
- Latest shift: 1pm-9pm
The role is offered on a 3-month ongoing contract, with likely extensions based on performance and service needs.
What you'll need to succeedTo succeed in this role, you'll need a solid understanding of housing legislation and homelessness prevention, along with excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively support service users. The ability to manage a caseload and work under pressure is essential, as is a proactive and empathetic approach to problem-solving. An Enhanced DBS check is required for this position, in which Hays will help with the application.
What you'll get in return?? Pay Rate:
- First 13 weeks: £12.60/hour basic + holiday allowance (total: £14.12/hour)
- After 13 weeks: £14.32/hour basic + holiday allowance (total: £16.77/hour)
?? Location: Lydia Rogers House??Contract: 3-month ongoing, with likely extensions??Hours: 35 hours/week, shift-based with advance scheduling�? A meaningful role supporting vulnerable residents across Birmingham
What you need to do nowIf you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
Housing Needs Officer employer: Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited
Contact Detail:
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Needs Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest housing legislation and homelessness prevention strategies. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and understanding of the challenges faced by service users.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills, especially in scenarios where you might need to explain complex information to individuals who may be stressed or confused. Role-playing these situations can help you feel more confident during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former Housing Needs Officers if possible. They can provide insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of the role, which can be invaluable when discussing your suitability during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your experience managing a caseload and working under pressure. Think of specific examples that highlight your problem-solving skills and empathy, as these are crucial for the role and will resonate well with interviewers.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Needs Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements of a Housing Needs Officer. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience in housing support, case management, or roles that required strong communication and interpersonal skills. Use specific examples to demonstrate your capabilities.
Showcase Your Knowledge: Mention your understanding of housing legislation and homelessness prevention in your application. This shows that you are well-informed and prepared for the challenges of the role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are passionate about supporting vulnerable residents. Make sure to connect your personal values with the mission of Birmingham City Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited
✨Understand Housing Legislation
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of housing legislation and homelessness prevention. Being able to discuss relevant laws and policies will show that you're serious about the role and understand the challenges faced by service users.
✨Demonstrate Empathy
As a Housing Needs Officer, you'll be dealing with vulnerable individuals and families. Prepare to share examples from your past experiences where you've shown empathy and support in challenging situations. This will highlight your interpersonal skills and proactive approach.
✨Showcase Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully liaised with different teams or agencies in the past. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, as this will be crucial during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities under pressure. Think of specific instances where you've managed a caseload or resolved conflicts, and be prepared to explain your thought process and the outcomes.