P546764 Housing Officer - Private Rental Access
Job description
Housing Officer (Private Rental Access) - Gateshead Council
Housing, Environment and Healthy Communities
Grade G, SP 19-23 | Full Time | 1 Permanent and 1 Temporary position for 2 years.
Location: Live Centre | Casual Car User
Are you passionate about preventing homelessness and expanding housing options for those in need?
Do you enjoy working with people, building partnerships, and making a real difference in your community? If so, we'd love to hear from you.
Who We Are
At Gateshead Council, we're committed to putting people at the heart of everything we do. Our Housing Support Services team plays a vital role in supporting residents at risk of homelessness. We're now looking for a Private Rental Access Officer to help us grow our housing options in the private rented sector and support some of our most vulnerable residents.
We're a forward-thinking, inclusive organisation that values collaboration, innovation, and compassion. If you're someone who thrives in a fast-paced, people-focused environment, this could be the perfect role for you.
About the Role
As a Private Rental Access Officer, you'll lead the development and delivery of our new Private Rented Access Programme (PRAP). Your work will directly support the council's statutory homelessness team by helping individuals and families access and sustain private rented accommodation.
Your key responsibilities will include:
* Designing and promoting landlord incentive packages (financial and non-financial)
* Building and maintaining strong relationships with private landlords
* Supporting landlords with tenancy setup, including sign-ups
* Matching customers to suitable tenancies and ensuring sustainability
* Liaising with internal teams and external partners (e.g., DWP, Private Sector Housing)
* Promoting the PRAP through media, mailshots, and outreach
* Keeping accurate records and contributing to performance reporting
What's in It for You?
We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
* Competitive Salary - Fair and transparent pay reflecting your skills and experience
* Gateshead Council contributes significantly towards your membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme
* Generous Annual Leave - 28 days, rising to 32 after 5 years, plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days
* Flexible Working Hours - Up to 26 flexi days per year (subject to business needs)
* Hybrid & Flexible Working - Supporting a healthy work-life balance
* Learning & Development - Wide range of training and progression opportunities
* Health & Wellbeing Support - Discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL and mental health resources
* Cycle to Work Scheme - Tax-efficient way to stay active and save money
* VIVUP employee benefits platform - Discounts on shopping, travel, and services, plus salary sacrifice options on electronics and more
What You'll Bring
We're looking for someone who can demonstrate:
* Knowledge of homelessness legislation, landlord/tenant law, and housing pressures
* Experience working in housing, homelessness, or a customer-focused environment
* Strong communication, negotiation, and partnership working skills
* Ability to manage a varied caseload and work independently
* Confidence in dealing with challenging situations and supporting vulnerable people
* A full UK driving license and access to a vehicle
It's Time to Apply
We're excited that you're interested in joining us.
To apply, please complete our application form. In your supporting statement, we recommend that you:
* Structure your response around the key responsibilities and essential criteria
* Provide clear examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
* Highlight your relevant experience, skills, and achievements
If you have any questions or would like an informal chat about the role, please contact Matt Myers on 0191 433 5876 or email matthewmyers@gateshead.gov.uk
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