At a Glance
- Tasks: Support homeless individuals in temporary accommodation and develop pathway plans for long-term housing.
- Company: Wyre Forest District Council, committed to equal opportunities and community support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for weekend work and physical activity.
- Why this job: Join a meaningful cause and help vulnerable people find stability and support.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English, plus experience in social services or housing.
The predicted salary is between 31206 - 33819 £ per year.
The purpose of the role is to support people who are homeless and living in our temporary accommodation, as well as those we are working with to prevent homelessness. This will include developing pathway plans for those customers into accommodation and support, alongside providing appropriate tenancy training to ensure they can maintain their tenancy in the longer term and developing positive relationships and pathways with organisations to ensure early reporting, intervention and support is available for households.
Qualifications & Experience
- 5 A-C, New Grade 4-9 (or equivalent) at GCSE level including Maths and English.
- To be resourceful and able to innovate/act on own initiative in a consistent way whilst being responsive to the needs of others.
- To communicate clearly, concisely and courteously with the public, other professionals, and the media; both face to face and by telephone.
- The ability to provide information and advice in accurate spoken English.
- To demonstrate negotiating and persuading skills and work well within a team.
- To have an excellent understanding of the underlying causes of homelessness and associated needs, such as mental health, substance misuse, alcohol dependency etc.
- Along with a very strong knowledge of how social benefits and the welfare system operates.
- It is desirable that you have a minimum of two years post qualification experience in a professional capacity including working with the homeless and/or vulnerable customers.
- Previous experience of working in a Local Authority or Housing Association would be desirable.
Additional Information
- This is a full time 37 hours per week (which may include some weekend working).
- Salary of £31,206.00 to £33,819.00 per annum.
- Appointment to this post is subject to satisfactory clearance of an Enhanced disclosure check (Disclosure & Barring Services (DBS) under the Police Act 1997).
- You may be required to provide a suitable vehicle in connection with the duties of this post.
- To work outside normal office hours from time to time as the demands of the post and emergencies dictate in addition to the hours of the rota.
- This job includes duties that may require a substantial amount of physical effort and mobility on a frequent basis.
- The closing date for applications is 15th June 2026, but we reserve the right to close applications early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
- Wyre Forest District Council is an equal opportunities employer.
Homeless Support Officer employer: WMJobs
Wyre Forest District Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the community. With a strong focus on employee development and a supportive work culture, we offer comprehensive training and growth opportunities for our Homeless Support Officers. Our commitment to equality and diversity ensures a welcoming environment, while our location provides the chance to engage directly with those in need, making your work both rewarding and fulfilling.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Homeless Support Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the sector, attend local events, and connect with organisations that focus on homelessness. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities you might not find online.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Contact local councils or housing associations directly to express your interest in working with them. Sometimes, they might have roles that aren’t advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your experience and understanding of homelessness issues. This can really set you apart during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application and keep track of your progress. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Homeless Support Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Homeless Support Officer. We want to see how you can make a difference in supporting those who are homeless.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since clear communication is key in this role, use your application to demonstrate your ability to convey information effectively. Whether it’s through your writing style or examples of past interactions, let us see your skills shine!
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've got experience working with vulnerable customers or in a similar field, make sure to bring that to the forefront. We’re looking for candidates who understand the complexities of homelessness and can provide the right support.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the underlying causes of homelessness and the support systems in place. Brush up on your knowledge of social benefits and the welfare system, as this will show that you're not just passionate about the role but also well-informed.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience working with vulnerable customers or in a similar role. Use specific examples to highlight how you've successfully supported individuals in the past, especially in developing pathway plans or tenancy training.
✨Communication is Key
Practice clear and concise communication. You’ll need to demonstrate your ability to interact effectively with both clients and professionals. Consider role-playing common scenarios to build your confidence in conveying information accurately.
✨Demonstrate Resourcefulness
Think of examples where you've had to innovate or act on your own initiative. This role requires a proactive approach, so be prepared to share how you've tackled challenges creatively while being responsive to the needs of others.