At a Glance
- Tasks: Support tenants and communities in thriving through effective housing management services.
- Company: Join the Scottish Borders Housing Association, a supportive and community-focused organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and a solid pension scheme.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in social housing and make a real difference in people's lives.
- Qualifications: Customer service experience and knowledge of housing legislation are essential.
- Other info: Be part of a team that values your wellbeing and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 29717 - 32775 £ per year.
This application requires candidates to submit a CV and a supporting statement, please ensure you have these prepared before continuing with your application. Your full employment history, qualifications and detail of how you meet the essential criteria for this post are required. Please see the Guidance for Applicants page on our career site for more details.
SBHA is seeking a proactive and customer-focused individual to join our team in the Scottish Borders as a Neighbourhood Assistant on a fixed-term basis for 12 months. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to start a career in social housing, supporting our Tenants and communities to thrive and enjoy their homes.
Salary: £29,717 – £32,775 per annum (pay award pending)
Location: Selkirk, Scottish Borders
Hours and terms: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, fixed‑term for 12 months
Closing Date: 19 April 2026
The Role: The Neighbourhood Assistant will support the Neighbourhood Housing Officer in delivering effective, Tenant‑focused housing and estate management services. The role has a strong focus on rent collection, income maximisation, tenancy sustainment and customer service. You will work closely with Tenants, colleagues and partner agencies to ensure services are accessible, responsive and aligned with legislation, policy and best practice. This post is subject to Disclosure Scotland clearance.
Summary of Tasks and Responsibilities:
- Support the delivery of front‑line neighbourhood, tenancy and estate management services
- Assist with rent collection and arrears management, taking early action to support tenants and prevent escalation
- Promote income maximisation and support Tenants to access welfare benefits and financial support
- Contribute to tenancy sustainment through Tenant contact, home visits and referrals to support services
- Provide high‑quality customer service, responding to Tenant enquiries and complaints professionally and empathetically
- Maintain accurate records on housing management and CRM systems in line with data protection requirements
- Support estate inspections, Tenant participation and engagement within local communities
- Work collaboratively with colleagues and partner agencies to deliver effective services
A full list of duties and responsibilities is available in the full Job Description - link below.
What we’re looking for:
Essential
- Good working knowledge of housing and welfare benefits legislation
- Experience in a customer‑facing role within housing, income maximisation or a similar environment
- Strong customer service, communication and IT skills
- Ability to manage competing priorities and work accurately with minimal supervision
- A flexible, proactive and solution‑focused approach
- Full driving licence and access to own transport
Desirable
- Experience working within a housing association or social housing environment
- Relevant qualification in Housing, Administration or a related discipline
- Experience using housing management and/or CRM systems
Being part of the SBHA team, you will enjoy a fantastic range of benefits including a competitive salary, flexible working, generous annual leave, stability of employment and a good pension scheme. You will be part of a team that is interested in your wellbeing and development, and work in an environment where you can flourish.
If you are interested in working for SBHA and being part of a team providing a first‑class service to the Association’s owned homes and properties in the area, please view job description and person specification before completing your application, and ensure your application demonstrates how you meet the essential criteria for the role.
Scottish Borders Housing Association is not a licensed sponsor under the appropriate UK Government regulations and as such, does not invite applications from, nor engage in sponsoring, overseas applicants who do not already have the right to live and/or work in the UK. The Association will not engage in any enquiries or enter into negotiations from individuals or Agents in this regard.
Neighbourhood Assistant (Fixed term for 12 months) in Selkirk employer: SBHA
Contact Detail:
SBHA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Neighbourhood Assistant (Fixed term for 12 months) in Selkirk
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on SBHA and their values. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your experience aligns with the role of Neighbourhood Assistant, especially around customer service and housing knowledge.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share examples! Think of specific situations where you've demonstrated your skills in customer service or problem-solving. This will help you stand out and show that you can handle the responsibilities of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that can keep you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Neighbourhood Assistant (Fixed term for 12 months) in Selkirk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get Your CV Spot On: Make sure your CV is up-to-date and tailored to the Neighbourhood Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in customer service and housing, as this will catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Clearly explain how you meet the essential criteria listed in the job description. Use specific examples from your past experiences to back up your claims.
Follow the Guidelines: Before hitting that submit button, double-check the Guidance for Applicants page on our career site. It’s packed with useful info that can help you nail your application!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at SBHA
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you’ve got a solid understanding of housing and welfare benefits legislation. Brush up on any relevant policies and best practices that relate to the role of a Neighbourhood Assistant. This will show your potential employer that you're proactive and genuinely interested in the position.
✨Tailor Your CV and Supporting Statement
When preparing your CV and supporting statement, highlight your customer-facing experience and any relevant qualifications. Make sure to clearly demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the job description. This is your chance to shine, so don’t hold back!
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Consider doing mock interviews with a friend or family member. Focus on common questions related to customer service and housing management. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident and articulate during the actual interview.
✨Show Your Passion for Community
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for supporting tenants and communities. Share any personal experiences or insights that reflect your commitment to making a positive impact in social housing. Employers love candidates who are genuinely passionate about their work!