At a Glance
- Tasks: Help residents find safe accommodation and support vulnerable households in need.
- Company: Join a dedicated team within the Sevenoaks District Council.
- Benefits: Hybrid working model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to work closely with various agencies.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives by providing essential housing support.
- Qualifications: Experience in local authority housing and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 25104 - 30682 £ per year.
Are you passionate about helping residents access safe and suitable accommodation? We are looking for a Housing Resettlement and Accommodation Officer to join our Housing Options and Solutions Team and support the delivery of high quality temporary accommodation, resettlement and housing support services across the Sevenoaks District. This is an important new role within the Housing Resettlement and Accommodation Team, created as part of the Council’s recent Housing Service restructure. You will support the Housing Resettlement and Accommodation Team Leader with the day to day operation of the team, helping the Council meet its statutory homelessness and accommodation duties while providing practical support to vulnerable households.
About the role
Working closely with colleagues, housing providers, Kent County Council and partner agencies, you will help secure and manage temporary or alternative accommodation, support resettlement activity, assist with the Mother and Baby unit including carrying out welfare and residence checks, and contribute to housing service improvements and new legislation. The role will involve handling enquiries, coordinating property matching and move ins, monitoring households in temporary accommodation including carrying out visits, supporting income recovery and maintaining accurate records.
About you
We are looking for someone with local authority housing experience, including advising customers and ideally procuring suitable temporary accommodation. You will understand key housing legislation, including the Housing Act 1996 Part VII and the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, and be organised enough to manage competing priorities and deadlines. You will be customer focused, empathetic and non‑judgemental, with strong communication, negotiation and mediation skills. You should be confident working with vulnerable customers, landlords, accommodation providers and partner agencies, able to use Microsoft Office and housing systems effectively, and able to keep accurate records. You will need GCSEs at grades A to C, or equivalent, including Maths and English. An NVQ Level 2 in Housing or Customer Care would be desirable. A basic DBS check, full driving licence and access to a car for business use are required. This role will be based at our Council Offices, Argyle Road, Sevenoaks Kent TN13 1HG. We currently operate a hybrid working model for the majority of our roles where your working time will be divided between the office (2-3 days) and home working (2-3 days).
Housing Resettlement and Accommodation Officer in Sevenoaks employer: Sevenoaks District Council
Sevenoaks District Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. With opportunities for growth within the Housing Options and Solutions Team, you will play a vital role in making a meaningful impact on the community while enjoying the benefits of a hybrid working model in the picturesque Sevenoaks District.
Contact Details:
Sevenoaks District Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Resettlement and Accommodation Officer in Sevenoaks
✨Dive into Local Community Groups
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We think you need these skills to ace Housing Resettlement and Accommodation Officer in Sevenoaks
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let us see your passion for social work shine through! Talk about the experiences that made you want to pursue this career—whether it’s volunteering, personal experiences, or academic projects. We want to know why this field matters to you.
Emphasise Relevant Qualifications:Make sure your CV highlights any relevant qualifications, like degrees in social work or certifications like a DBS check. If you've done any workshops or training, don’t forget to include those as well. We're keen to see your commitment to your professional development!
Detail Your Experience with Clients:Since this is a hands-on field, detailing any direct experience you have with clients is crucial. Whether it's internships, volunteer roles, or previous jobs, highlight those experiences in your CV to show us you've got the practical skills necessary for the job!
Tailor Your Application to Sevenoaks District Council:Before hitting send, make sure to tailor your application specifically to Sevenoaks District Council! Research our mission and values, and refer to them in your cover letter. This shows us that you understand our work and are genuinely interested in being a part of our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sevenoaks District Council
✨Understanding the Role of Empathy
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In a full-time social work role, you'll often collaborate with healthcare professionals, educators, and law enforcement. Be prepared to describe your teamwork experiences and how you've effectively communicated with other disciplines to achieve the best outcomes for clients.
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