At a Glance
- Tasks: Help individuals and families at risk of homelessness find safe accommodation and support.
- Company: Join a dedicated council team making a real difference in the community.
- Benefits: Permanent position with a competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to prevent homelessness and support vulnerable people.
- Qualifications: Motivated individuals with a passion for helping others and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 28350 - 34650 £ per year.
We have exciting opportunities for motivated and enthusiastic individuals to join our Housing Access Team to help make a difference to the lives of people who are either experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness.
As a Housing Options Officer within a high demand, high performing team tasked with delivering the council’s housing options service in order to meet the needs of individuals or families identified as being at risk, including those who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. You will do this through providing a comprehensive range of housing options and assessment services to meet the statutory homeless and support needs of individuals and families. This will include undertaking the statutory homeless presentation and assessment where required, and in full compliance with policy, practice and regulatory codes of guidance.
The Housing Need Service operates a prevention first model of service delivery, and Housing Options Officers are responsible for assisting those who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, identifying risks and opportunities through housing options interviews, working with our partners to undertake interventions with the aim of preventing homelessness and sustaining safe accommodation wherever possible.
In order to achieve this, the post holder will be expected to deliver a programme of advice and support activities for customers, whilst ensuring that individuals/households housing needs are identified and appropriate action is taken either directly with officers through case management, or by making referrals to specialist support and advice providers.
The post holder will promote a person-centred approach through assessment to build capacity for individuals and families to where possible prevent homelessness and achieve sustainable outcomes. Officers are required to undertake home visits and office interviews throughout West Lothian, and will work in council buildings on a rota basis, and will be expected to deliver services face to face, virtually, and occasionally with travel required.
Officers will work closely with other services and teams responsible for supporting and managing the accommodation and tenancies of homeless applicants, and will be expected to successfully maintain a live homeless caseload, seeking solutions and good outcomes for applicants.
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 post is considered Regulated Work with children and/or protected adults under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scotland Act 2007.
Housing Officer - Council in Livingston employer: West Lothian Council
West Lothian Council is an excellent employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee development and well-being. At Polkemmet Primary School, you will be part of a forward-thinking team that values diversity and offers flexible working arrangements, ensuring that you can thrive both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Officer - Council in Livingston
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like West Lothian Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like West Lothian Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Officer - Council in Livingston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for West Lothian Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Lothian Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with West Lothian Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for West Lothian Council.
