At a Glance
- Tasks: Support prison leavers at risk of homelessness through effective interventions and partnerships.
- Company: Join Wakefield Council, dedicated to safeguarding vulnerable individuals and promoting community welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, ongoing training, and discounts on transport and leisure activities.
- Other info: This is a temporary role until March 2026, with flexible working across various sites.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in people's lives while working in a supportive and dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualifications or significant relevant experience in homelessness and criminal justice.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic Homeless Prevention Officer to join our very busy team to deliver homeless prevention and recovery interventions for those within the criminal justice system who are at risk of rough sleeping, with a focus on prison leavers. The role is a temporary post until 31st March 2026. Therole requires effective multi agency partnership working between the Wakefield Council’s Housing Needs Service and Wakefield Probation Service. You will be required to work flexibility to work from a range of different partnership sites including the Homeless Service, Probation Service and Prisons. You must have excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to communicate effectively at all levels & personal resilience to working with challenging people.
What will be expected from me?
You will be required to provide prison in-reach and provide support, advice and assistance to those that will be homeless upon release from prison.
You will be required to work with the Rough Sleeper Support Service and accommodation providers to prevent rough sleeping for those being released from prison and former rough sleepers who have previously been in prison, from returning to the streets through a range of prevention and recovery interventions.
What I might be doing?
- To interview homeless applicants and gather relevant information regarding their homelessness
- To ensure that all homeless offenders leaving prison have had their circumstances fully assessed
- To make relevant third-party enquiries and obtain information to help establish details of the case.
- To manage a case load ensuring that appropriate work is undertaken to prevent homelessness and the need for emergency/temporary accommodation wherever possible.
- To provide homeless applicants with a full appraisal of their situation providing realistic and assertive but sensitive housing options advice.
Essential requirements:
- Level 3 qualifications (National Qualifications Framework in the UK) or able to demonstrate significant relevant experience.
- Good knowledge of Homeless legislation, guidance and good practice
- Knowledge and understanding of the work of the Criminal Justice System and Probation Service
- Good knowledge of accommodation options and services for homeless and vulnerable people including prison leavers and rough sleepers within the district.
What can I expect?
- This is a Full-Time post of 37 hours per week.
- 25 days of Holidays plus 8 Bank Holidays.
- Support and ongoing training.
- Discounted and subsidised public transport (Arriva Bus Annual Travel Ticket, Northern Trains Limited (NTL), MetroCard)
- The Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- Great range of benefits including discounted membership to our excellent leisure facilities with free 12 weeks exercise program with a dedicated personal trainer, discounts for a range of retail, entertainment, health and leisure providers, cycle to work scheme and many more.
For further information please contact Liz Rumbelow on 01924 304576 or 07881994782
This job is available on a secondment basis. Please seek approval from your manager in advance of applying
Want to Know More?
If you would like to know more about the role, the recruitment process or working for Wakefield Council feel free to contact Liz Rumbelow.
Tel:07881994782
E-mail:erumbelow@wakefield.gov.uk
E-mail Correspondence
All correspondence regarding interviews and application progress will be sent via the e-mail address you have registered on this site with.
Please add the e-mail addresses below to your contacts or safe-senders list / check your junk mail folder to ensure that you don\'t miss important information regarding your application.
Safeguarding
Wakefield Council is wholly committed to ensuring children and vulnerable adults are fully supported and safe. We are dedicated to the safeguarding of all children and vulnerable adults whilst promoting their welfare. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this responsibility.
DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service)
The successful applicant will be required to complete a Disclosure Application Form and to provide criminal conviction information.
Fluency Duty
This post is subject to the Fluency Duty under Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016. The post-holder is required to demonstrate an appropriate level of fluency under the duty as detailed within the job specification for the post.
Probation
In line with the Council’s Probation Procedure, certain positions may be subject to a six-month probationary period. This requirement does not apply to internal vacancies.
Diversity
Having a diverse workforce that is reflective of the communities we serve helps us to achieve the best outcomes for all. We encourage applications from everyone and actively seek to ensure that everyone feels included in the workplace so that we can make the most of our differences.
About Wakefield Council
Want to find out more about Wakefield Council,click here.
To apply please click the Apply Now link below.
#J-18808-LjbffrHomeless Prevention Officer (Criminal Justice) in Wakefield employer: Wakefield Council
Wakefield Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. As a Homeless Prevention Officer, you will benefit from flexible working arrangements across various partnership sites, comprehensive training, and a generous benefits package including 25 days of holiday, discounted transport, and access to leisure facilities. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable individuals within our community while enjoying a fulfilling career with ample growth opportunities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Homeless Prevention Officer (Criminal Justice) in Wakefield
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to Wakefield Council, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Homeless Prevention Officer (Criminal Justice) in Wakefield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Wakefield Council. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Wakefield Council. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wakefield Council
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Wakefield Council.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Homeless Prevention Officer (Criminal Justice) role at Wakefield Council, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Wakefield Council that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
