At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with communities to boost affordable housing in rural Suffolk.
- Company: Community Action Suffolk, a supportive charity focused on community resilience.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 33 days holiday, matched pension, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a friendly, inclusive team dedicated to positive change.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in community consultation and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 28374 - 28374 € per year.
Community Action Suffolk (CAS) is the county’s infrastructure organisation for the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector. We exist to ensure our sector, and its volunteers are supported, safe and sustainable and that our communities are active and resilient. Our values of collaborative, enabling, person centred, responsive and trusted are the golden thread which runs through who we are and how we operate, and we aim to make them real every day.
We are seeking a Rural Housing Enabler to join our friendly team. In this role, you will play a crucial part in increasing the supply of affordable housing in Suffolk. You will engage with communities and provide a range of support, from raising awareness of the need for affordable housing, facilitating initial discussions, gathering of evidence of need and liaising with other stakeholders. You will assist them throughout the journey of developing their own local housing schemes. In this role, clear communication is essential. You’ll be presenting to a range of audiences, and working in partnership with communities / community leaders, parish councils, district and county authorities, landowners, developers, housing organisations, and other partners to bring forward affordable rural housing projects in Suffolk. Good IT skills, and the ability to build strong relationships are crucial.
You will have the following experience/skills:
- Excellent working knowledge of the issues affecting housing in Suffolk, and other issues affecting rural communities
- Experience of working in supporting rural communities’ thorough consultation for affordable and/or community led housing
- A good knowledge and understanding of the principles of quality community consultation
- Working with local authorities, parish councils, housing associations and similar organisations
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
We will offer you:
- Blended working where role allows flexible working options to support work/life balance
- 33 days (FTE) increasing to a maximum 36 (FTE) annual holiday which includes an allowance for bank holidays
- Up to 4% matched pension contribution
- 2 days pro rata volunteering days to support volunteering in Suffolk
- A staff discounts scheme for a range of retailers including shopping, holidays, insurance, eating out and health and leisure activities
- A company sick pay scheme
- Continued professional development for job related development
- Family friendly policies and practices
- A tailored induction.
To find out more, if you are interested in the role and would like to learn more, please email alice.wade@communityactionssuffolk.org.uk for an informal conversation.
We are a friendly organisation, committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive culture in all that we do, and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We aim to create a workplace which is welcoming, fair, and inclusive, where people can be themselves and contribute to our vision and values. We are happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments individuals may require in the recruitment process, or on commencement of post.
How to apply: For more information and for a copy of our application pack, please visit our website. Alternatively, please email Louise Bradshaw on louise.bradshaw@communityactionsuffolk.org.uk. Completed applications should be emailed to louise.bradshaw@communityactionsuffolk.org.uk or sent via post to Louise Bradshaw, at Community Action Suffolk, 160 Hadleigh Road, Ipswich, IP2 0HH by the closing date below.
Closing date: 1 pm, 16 June 2026. Applications for this role will be reviewed and considered on an ongoing basis until the role is filled. Interviews will be arranged according to availability. We therefore encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity to avoid disappointment, as we reserve the right to close this job listing once a successful candidate is appointed.
Rural Housing Enabler in Lowestoft employer: Suffolk County Council
Community Action Suffolk is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, we offer flexible working options, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for professional development, all while making a meaningful impact in the community by increasing the supply of affordable housing in rural Suffolk. Join our friendly team and be part of an organisation that values collaboration, responsiveness, and the empowerment of local communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Rural Housing Enabler in Lowestoft
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the community! Before applying, spend some time understanding the local housing issues in Suffolk. Engage with community groups and attend local meetings to get a feel for what’s really going on. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with people in the VCFSE sector through social media or local events. Building relationships with community leaders and stakeholders can give you insider knowledge and might even lead to job opportunities. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! Since clear communication is key for this role, consider doing mock presentations to friends or family. Get comfortable discussing affordable housing topics and how you’d engage with different audiences. The more confident you are, the better!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly via our site. It shows initiative and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need to tailor your application perfectly!
We think you need these skills to ace Rural Housing Enabler in Lowestoft
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Community:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for community work shine through. We want to see how much you care about affordable housing and supporting rural communities in Suffolk.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in your application. We’re looking for specific examples of how you've engaged with communities or worked on housing projects, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Clear communication is key in this role, so make sure your application reflects that. Keep your language straightforward and avoid jargon, ensuring we can easily understand your points.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, so don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, dive deep into the housing issues affecting Suffolk and its rural communities. Familiarise yourself with local statistics, recent developments, and community needs. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since clear communication is key for this role, prepare to demonstrate your verbal and written skills. Bring examples of past presentations or reports you've created, especially those related to community consultation or housing projects. Practising how you articulate your thoughts can make a big difference.
✨Build Relationships
Think about how you can illustrate your ability to build strong relationships with various stakeholders. Prepare anecdotes that highlight your experience working with local authorities, community leaders, or housing organisations. This will help the interviewers see you as a collaborative team player.
✨Embrace Flexibility
With blended working being a part of the role, be ready to discuss how you manage your time and adapt to different working environments. Share examples of how you've successfully balanced remote work with in-person engagements, showcasing your ability to thrive in a flexible setting.
