At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable residents in managing their rent and preventing arrears.
- Company: Lewisham Council, a champion for diverse communities and public service.
- Benefits: Flexible working, local government pension, staff discounts, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while ensuring financial stability for the community.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English; passion for customer service and problem-solving.
The predicted salary is between 29596 - 36172 £ per year.
Discover yourself in Lewisham where what you do makes a difference to our vibrant and culturally diverse communities! We have a rich history of welcoming people from all over the world and are proud to be recognised as the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary, for our work in championing the rights of refugees and migrants.
As a Temporary Accommodation Income Officer, you’ll be a key player in supporting some of Lewisham’s most vulnerable residents to sustain their homes. You’ll lead on rent collection for temporary accommodation, taking proactive steps to prevent arrears, maximise income, and provide early, effective support. This is not “just” an income role — it’s customer service, problem‑solving, safeguarding, and community impact all in one.
You will:
- Manage a caseload of rent accounts, ensuring income is maximised and arrears are tackled early.
- Work directly with residents to offer supportive, people‑centred income management.
- Represent the council in county court for possession proceedings when needed.
- Work closely with Housing Benefit, DWP, Social Services, Housing Options, and internal teams to resolve complex cases and prevent arrears.
In this role, you’ll manage a caseload of around 850 clients, working closely with colleagues across the organisation and external partners to help residents sustain their licences and non-secure tenancies. You’ll play a key role in supporting clients to pay their rent, reduce arrears, and move towards long‑term financial stability.
What’s in it for you?
- Excellent training and development opportunities, plus a range of benefits including:
- Local Government Pension scheme
- Flexible working and family friendly policies
- Season ticket and bicycle loans
- A range of staff discounts including local subsidised gym memberships
- Supportive staff networks
What we’re looking for:
- Someone with a passion about making a real difference to residents’ lives while helping to protect vital public funds.
- Able to thrive in a fast‑paced, people‑focused environment where every day brings a new challenge.
- Maintain clear, accurate records and prepare legal documentation in line with policy.
- Contribute to continuous service improvement by adopting best practice, excellent customer service, and supporting training where needed.
The job is primarily based in Laurence House, but we operate a hybrid approach where you will be required to work both in the office and from home on a regular basis.
Special conditions:
- GCSE passes in Maths and English
- Able to travel to different sites as and when required
- The job is subject to an enhanced DBS check
Diversity: Lewisham Council is a Disability Confident employer. We welcome and encourage job applications of all abilities. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the application or interview, please contact the lead contact on this advert. We will make reasonable adjustments to make sure our disabled applicants and those with health conditions are supported throughout our recruitment process.
The Council has a dedicated employment support service, Lewisham Works, which offers Lewisham residents guidance in relation to applying for jobs.
Temporary Accommodation Income Officer employer: Lewisham Youth Service
Lewisham Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and community impact. As a Hybrid Housing Disrepair Case Manager, you will benefit from flexible working arrangements, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in residents' lives while working in a vibrant and diverse area.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Temporary Accommodation Income Officer
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Lewisham Youth Service, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Lewisham Youth Service and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Temporary Accommodation Income Officer
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.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
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.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Lewisham Youth Service and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lewisham Youth Service
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Lewisham Youth Service, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨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.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
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!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Lewisham Youth Service.
