GETTING A FOOT ON THE HOUSING CAREERS LADDER

The government’s ambitious £39 billion Social and Affordable Homes Programme marks a transformative moment for the housing sector, aiming to deliver 300,000 new homes, with a focus on social rent. This investment not only promises to address the housing crisis but also opens doors to a wealth of career opportunities in social housing, a sector as diverse as the communities it serves

Liverpool City Region is well-positioned to be a role model for change in the nation’s housing sector, thanks to its innovative housing initiatives already underway, including zero-bills homes and large-scale retrofitting projects. Additionally, the region has been proactive in addressing homelessness, working collaboratively with local authorities and housing associations to provide support and secure housing for vulnerable individuals. 

The Government’s investment in housing means we are set to see a growth in job opportunities in the sector. If you are interested in supporting the provision of decent accommodation to people, including vulnerable groups, there is a broad spectrum of different roles to consider. These range from managing housing developments and allocating properties to working hands-on to maintain properties. Below, we spotlight a handful of these roles and consider what training can help you get a foot on the housing career ladder.

Housing and property management assistant 

The housing and property management assistant is an entry-level, customer-facing role focused on administrative tasks that support successful tenancies and leaseholds in both the social and private housing sectors. Working under supervision, responsibilities include preparing paperwork, conducting surveys, managing data, arranging meetings, and assisting with viewings and rental negotiations. 

Housing development manager

This kind of role could see you ‘living in’ – or spending your working hours – at a residential development for vulnerable tenants. Responsibilities typically include overseeing maintenance, liaising with suppliers and contractors, and dealing with tenant queries.

Qualifications and career opportunities: A Level 3 Diploma in Property Management, as part of an apprenticeship, is an ideal starting point. Your career could lead you to a supervisory role where you may become a line manager for support and care teams. In this job, it is a realistic aspiration to become a regional manager or supervisor, overseeing multiple housing developments.

The Learning Foundry in Liverpool offer a range of housing qualifications, including apprenticeships.

Housing officer  

Housing officers work closely with tenants, much like a ‘housing social worker’. They strive to ensure that housing needs are met, assist with tenancy agreements and disputes, advise on rent payments, and help tenants relocate. This role is crucial for social housing to remain true to its name. You may see the job advertised as ‘Housing & Wellbeing Officer’.

Qualifications and career opportunities: Qualifications in social care, public service, or housing provide a strong foundation for working as a housing officer. There are opportunities to specialise in helping people experiencing homelessness, people with disabilities, or older people. During your career, you may work your way up to being a head of housing services or a housing director.

Estate services

Social and supported housing developments require regular maintenance and ongoing safety checks. That’s where you come in. If working in a practical role appeals to you, then jobs include grounds maintenance, community area cleaning, and day-to-day property upkeep. Apprenticeships and entry-level jobs are often advertised and offer a route into this line of work.

Qualifications and career opportunities: Many landlords have planned maintenance programmes, and managers oversee this work —a promotional opportunity for the right employees. You could also develop into a role overseeing aspects of estate management across your employer’s entire portfolio. The job involves managing projects such as the installation of CCTV or environmental management systems, ensuring your employer’s green credentials.

Climbing the ladder

Once you start working in social housing, there is real scope for a long-term career. Progressing to roles such as regional coordinator, or becoming a policy developer or project lead, provides opportunities to help shape the future of social and affordable housing. Alongside local councils, check to see what roles regional housing associations tend to recruit for: 

• Riverside Housing
• Salvation Army Housing Association
• South Liverpool Homes
• Halton Housing
• One Vision Housing
• Magenta Living
• Wirral Methodist Housing Association
• Torus

The housing sector is as diverse as the communities it serves, offering a range of career paths that match various skills and interests. Graduates holding a degree or a master’s in housing and community planning or social work are well-positioned to join the sector. 

Likewise, in the private sector, employers will seek candidates who demonstrate the aptitude for the industry. Importantly, many jobs in these fields provide clear progression routes, allowing you to build a stable and fulfilling career.