At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals and families at risk of homelessness by providing housing advice and managing applications.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking Local Authority dedicated to preventing homelessness.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, potential for contract extension, and supportive team environment.
- Other info: Office-based role with flexible working and excellent transport links.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while gaining valuable experience in housing services.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Housing Options Officer or strong background in statutory homelessness services required.
Join a forward-thinking Local Authority in a rewarding frontline role supporting individuals and families who are at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness. This Housing Options Officer position offers the opportunity to make a real difference by delivering high-quality housing advice, assessing statutory homelessness applications, and helping people secure suitable accommodation. This is an initial 12-week contract with the potential for extension.
You will be joining a busy and supportive Homelessness Service, working within a customer-focused team committed to preventing homelessness and achieving positive outcomes for residents.
As a Housing Options Officer, you will be:
- Managing a caseload of homelessness applications from initial approach through to case closure
- Conducting homelessness interviews and assessing applicants' housing needs
- Making statutory decisions in line with the Housing Act 1996, Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 and associated homelessness legislation
- Producing Personalised Housing Plans and working proactively to prevent homelessness
- Providing face-to-face housing advice and support to customers
- Liaising with landlords, support agencies and internal departments to secure positive housing outcomes
- Maintaining accurate case records and ensuring compliance with legislation and service standards
We'd love to hear from anyone with experience as a Housing Options Officer, Homelessness Prevention Officer, Housing Advice Officer, Homelessness Officer, or someone with a strong background in statutory homelessness services.
I’d love to speak to anyone who has:
- Previous experience working as a Housing Options Officer within a Local Authority
- Experience making statutory homelessness decisions
- Excellent knowledge of homelessness legislation and housing law
- Strong communication, interviewing and case management skills
- The ability to manage a busy caseload and work effectively under pressure
- Experience using Housing Jigsaw and Open Housing systems (desirable)
Key requirements for this Housing Options Officer role:
- Available to start immediately
- Able to work from the office 2 days per week
- Willing to travel across the district when required (access to a vehicle is preferred)
- Previous Housing Options experience within a Local Authority is essential
The role is offering the following:
- 12-week contract with the possibility of extension
- 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday
- Office-based 2 days per week
- £25.00 - £28.00 per hour (Umbrella)
This role is based in Solihull, with a requirement to work from the office two days per week as part of the Homelessness Service duty rota. The borough benefits from excellent transport links via the M42, M40 and A34, along with regular rail and bus services, making it easily accessible from Birmingham, Coventry and the wider West Midlands. Candidates should also be able to travel across the district when required as part of the role.
If this Housing Options Officer role sounds like your next opportunity, please apply now or contact Tiyana Davies.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Options Officer in Chelmsley Wood
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
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Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
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If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Options Officer in Chelmsley Wood
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Niyaa People Ltd
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Niyaa People Ltd.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Niyaa People Ltd that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
