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- Tasks: Assist in managing temporary accommodation and support homeless applicants.
- Company: Join West Lothian Council, dedicated to serving the community and preventing homelessness.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, with opportunities for career advancement and skill development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in people's lives while building a rewarding career in housing.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for helping others and a willingness to learn.
- Other info: Diverse workforce encouraged; applications from all backgrounds are welcome.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
We are keen to employ a diverse workforce that reflects the people of Scotland. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently under-represented, including people with disabilities, those from minority ethnic communities or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Housing Need Service in West Lothian Council as part of the new Temporary Accommodation Team. This is an entry level role and is the ideal post to gain a footing on the housing career ladder, learning within a service employing a range of skilled staff dealing with homeless prevention, provision of housing, and support. Many of our staff who begin their career at this level go on to advance into promoted posts as they gain skills and experience of the wider Housing Need service.
The assistant post is critical to the provision and management of temporary accommodation to those in housing need. Working to meet the goals of preventing homelessness, supporting those in greatest need, achieving good outcomes for our customers, and ultimately a permanent home.
The post holder will work as part of the Temporary Accommodation team who are responsible for delivering our accommodation services to homeless applicants seeking temporary accommodation and provide housing management services to those in temporary accommodation and emergency accommodation. You will handle bookings for b&b placements, property storage, and will work closely with our housing options team, suppliers and officers from all over the council and our partners.
Working as the Accommodation Assistant you will assist our accommodation officers in providing housing management services to those in temporary accommodation. You will be asked to deliver a high-quality customer focused service in line with housing/homeless legislation and will be expected to meet operational performance targets.
The post holder will often be the first point of contact within a busy team within the fast-moving Housing Need Service, and will assist in maintaining our positive relationships with them and our accommodation providers.
Contact Detail:
West Lothian Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accommodation Assistant x 2, West Lothian Civic Centre, 493.34 - WEL09244
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local housing policies and homelessness legislation in Scotland. Understanding these regulations will not only help you in the role but also demonstrate your commitment and knowledge during any interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the housing sector, especially those working within temporary accommodation services. Attend local community events or workshops to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your customer service skills by volunteering or taking part in community service related to housing or support services. This hands-on experience can be invaluable and will make you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview by thinking about scenarios where you've successfully managed customer relationships or resolved conflicts. Being able to share specific examples will highlight your suitability for the fast-paced environment of the Housing Need Service.
We think you need these skills to ace Accommodation Assistant x 2, West Lothian Civic Centre, 493.34 - WEL09244
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Accommodation Assistant position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience in customer service, housing, or social work. Even if you don't have direct experience, showcase transferable skills that demonstrate your ability to support those in need.
Show Your Commitment to Diversity: Since the council values a diverse workforce, mention any experiences or perspectives that contribute to this commitment. This could include volunteering, community involvement, or personal experiences that align with their goals.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in the role and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Be sure to express your enthusiasm for helping those in housing need and your desire to grow within the Housing Need Service.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Lothian Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of an Accommodation Assistant. Familiarise yourself with terms like 'temporary accommodation' and 'homeless prevention' as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Show Your Customer Service Skills
Since this role involves delivering a high-quality customer-focused service, be prepared to discuss your previous experiences in customer service. Think of specific examples where you successfully handled difficult situations or provided exceptional support.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork
The position requires working closely with various teams and partners. Be ready to share examples of how you've effectively collaborated with others in past roles, highlighting your ability to maintain positive relationships.
✨Prepare Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, training opportunities, and the council's approach to homelessness. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.