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- Tasks: Support visitors and service users while managing front desk operations and administrative tasks.
- Company: ihAg is a local charity dedicated to helping those at risk of homelessness.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work culture, pension contributions, and an Employee Assistance Package for wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a positive and collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in customer service, Microsoft Office, and basic health and safety processes required.
- Other info: This role requires an enhanced DBS check and offers flexible part-time hours.
The predicted salary is between 14286 - 23810 £ per year.
Ipswich Housing Action Group (ihAg), Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2EF
£14,286 actual per annum (equivalent to full time salary of £23,810 pro rata)
22.5 hours per week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)
Permanent
Reference: 0236
Required as soon as possible
Pension 7% contribution, if eligible.
Your role
The Receptionist/Business Support Assistant is crucial in providing a welcoming and supportive environment for visitors and service users at the centre. This position ensures the smooth operation of the front desk and administrative functions, supporting the team in delivering essential services to individuals experiencing homelessness.
Your Responsibilities
- Greet and welcome service users, visitors, and staff
- Answer and direct incoming calls, taking messages as necessary
- Answer emails to the main email address and redirect them to the appropriate person
- Handle inquiries and provide information about services offered by the hub
- Input new registrations into the database and update existing records
- Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with care
- Perform general clerical duties including photocopying, scanning, and filing
- Maintain office, laundry, welfare supplies, and order inventory as needed
- Input and update service user information in the database
- Assist with scheduling appointments and meetings
- Provide administrative support to various departments as required
- Ensure the reception area is clean, organised, and welcoming
- Oversee the collection, washing, drying, and distribution of service user laundry
- Handle incoming and outgoing post for service users
- Prepare and organise breakfast materials for Breakfast By Invitation sessions
- Ensure all materials are available and set up appropriately for each session
- Conduct basic health and safety checks at the centre as detailed in the health and safety policy
- Report any maintenance issues to the relevant personnel.
You Will Need Experience Of
- Face to face and telephone contact with service users / the public
- Use of Microsoft-based systems, including Outlook, Excel, and Office 365
- Data recording and use of a CRM system
- Handling incoming and outgoing mail
- Basic Health and Safety processes
Please see the person specification for this role for the full requirements.
About Us
ihAg is a busy local charity supporting people who are at risk of or are experiencing homelessness. The Advocacy Team provide a daily point of human contact, and support people with the huge range of practical and emotional issues they can face if they are currently homeless, or at risk of losing their home. The Chapman Centre is a homelessness hub for social interaction, practical support and advice. ihAg is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of people with additional vulnerabilities and expects all staff to share this commitment.
Please note that this post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.
We will offer you:
This is an exciting opportunity for an individual to join our Central Team and work closely with our hardworking and dedicated Advocacy Team. At ihAg, we have a positive can-do culture, which is supportive of all staff as well as service users. We have a robust Employee Assistance Package in place to support the wellbeing of staff.
To find out more
Please read the Job Description, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy, Equality and Diversity at Work, and Recruitment of Ex Offenders.
For an informal discussion only, please contact Jools Ramsey-Palmer on 07753 316323.
How To Apply
Please complete the Application Form or visit our website for an application pack. More information can be found on our website and social media about this role and ihAg’s work in general. Complete the application form, ensuring you address the points in the person specification, and send it with your CV to Janice Hubbard, Business Support Co-ordinator, at janice@ihag.co.uk
Closing date: midday, 10 June 2025.
About The Team
IMPORTANT PLEASE READ BEFORE APPLYING. To apply, please follow the application process detailed above. This job does not have a Suffolk Jobs Direct online application form. The 'Apply Now' button below only allows you to submit a job alert, not an online application.
Business Support Assistant employer: Suffolk Jobs Direct
Contact Detail:
Suffolk Jobs Direct Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Support Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the services offered by Ipswich Housing Action Group. Understanding their mission and the specific support they provide to individuals experiencing homelessness will help you engage more effectively during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills, especially in face-to-face and telephone interactions. Since this role involves a lot of direct contact with service users, being able to convey empathy and clarity will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Get comfortable with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Outlook and Excel. Being proficient in these tools will not only help you in the role but also demonstrate your readiness to handle administrative tasks efficiently.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of confidentiality and data protection. Given the sensitive nature of the information you'll be handling, emphasising your commitment to maintaining privacy can make a strong impression.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Support Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Business Support Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that align with these duties.
Address the Person Specification: Make sure to address each point in the person specification within your application form. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you meet these criteria.
Craft a Strong CV: Your CV should be clear, concise, and tailored to the role. Highlight your experience with face-to-face and telephone contact, as well as your proficiency in Microsoft-based systems and CRM usage.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application form and CV for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk Jobs Direct
✨Show Your People Skills
As a Business Support Assistant, you'll be interacting with service users and visitors regularly. Make sure to highlight your experience in face-to-face and telephone communication during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've successfully handled inquiries or provided support in previous roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Microsoft Tools
Since the role requires the use of Microsoft-based systems like Outlook and Excel, it's essential to demonstrate your proficiency with these tools. Be prepared to discuss how you've used them in past positions, perhaps by mentioning any specific tasks you accomplished using these applications.
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
ihAg is dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. Research the organisation's values and services before the interview. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their mission during the conversation.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you handle sensitive situations. Think of scenarios where you've had to maintain confidentiality or manage a difficult interaction. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
