At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage temporary accommodation services and support individuals facing homelessness.
- Company: Somerset Council, dedicated to improving lives in beautiful Somerset.
- Benefits: 28 days annual leave, flexible working, health support, and a secure pension scheme.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while building your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in housing services and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 33119 - 33119 £ per year.
About the Role
As a Temporary Accommodation Officer, you'll play a key role in managing Somerset Council's temporary accommodation services, supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
You'll ensure temporary accommodation is allocated effectively, maintained to a high standard and provides a safe environment for residents while they work towards longer-term housing solutions.
This is a varied and rewarding role where you'll work closely with residents, housing colleagues, contractors and partner organisations to deliver high-quality services that help improve housing stability and support positive outcomes for Somerset residents.
- How You'll Make a Difference
- Manage the day-to-day operation of temporary accommodation services across Somerset.
- Coordinate placements to ensure households are accommodated appropriately and efficiently.
- Support residents living in temporary accommodation, providing advice, guidance and access to relevant services.
- Manage tenancy agreements, including sign-ups, terminations and tenancy-related issues.
- Work with contractors and colleagues to ensure temporary accommodation properties are well maintained and fit for purpose.
- Monitor rent accounts, support rent collection activities and help manage arrears.
- Carry out property inspections and ensure compliance with health and safety requirements.
- Respond appropriately to incidents of anti-social behaviour and tenancy breaches.
- Participate in an out-of-hours emergency rota to support homelessness responses and accommodation-related incidents.
- Maintain accurate records and contribute to the continuous improvement of temporary accommodation services.
- What You'll Bring
- Knowledge of housing legislation, homelessness services, tenancy management and housing-related support.
- Experience working within housing or a related service, supporting vulnerable individuals and families to achieve positive outcomes.
- Understanding of welfare benefits, support services and the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with customers, colleagues and partner agencies.
- Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and maintain accurate records.
- A proactive and solution-focused approach, with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm in challenging situations.
- Relevant qualifications or significant experience within housing management, social work or a related field
Why Join Us?
At Somerset Council, we're a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities.
Based in one of England's most beautiful counties, it's a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life.
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave.
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK's most enhanced and secure pension schemes.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance, where service needs allow.
- Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services.
- Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work.
Find out more about working at Somerset Council
- https://www. somerset. gov. uk/jobs-and-careers/working-at-somerset-council/
- Further Information
- This role can be based at any Somerset Council office location, with hybrid working arrangements available in line with service requirements.
Somerset Council's Dynamic Working Strategy applies to this position.
- The role includes participation in an out-of-hours emergency standby rota and may require travel across Somerset as part of service delivery.
- Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for visa sponsorship.
For an informal chat about the role, you can contact, Sam Wenden-de-Lira, Head of Service by emailing sam. wenden@somerset. gov. uk
We believe diversity makes us stronger and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, whose unique perspectives help us better serve the people of Somerset.
- You can find a copy of the job description here: TR0151 Temporary Accommodation Officer
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Temporary Accommodation Officer in Taunton employer: Somerset County Council
Somerset County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the welfare of children and families in Yeovil. With a strong commitment to continuous professional development and flexible hybrid working arrangements, employees are empowered to manage complex caseloads while contributing to meaningful service improvements. Join us to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people, all within a collaborative and nurturing environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Temporary Accommodation Officer in Taunton
✨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.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
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.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
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 Temporary Accommodation Officer in Taunton
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 Somerset County Council
✨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 Somerset County Council.
✨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 Somerset County Council 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.
