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About The Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join Runnymede Borough Council as we continue our positive work in the Housing Solutions Service. As the Housing Allocations Officer, you will:

• Assess housing register applications in line with the Council’s Housing Allocations Scheme
• Make decisions on applications and notify the applicant in writing
• Advertise available accommodation on the Council’s choice-based lettings scheme
• Allocate and nominate applicants for suitable offers of accommodation in line with the Council’s Housing Allocations Scheme
• Accompany applicants on viewings of offers of Council owned accommodation
• Carry out home visits
• Liaise with other Council departments to ensure applications are correctly verified
• Draft written materials such as standard letter and email templates, checklist forms and information offered to the public in paper or electronic format.
• Provide a full housing solutions service, offering advice and support as part of the wider Housing Solutions Team

Benefits

• Hybrid working 3 days in the office, 2 days working from home
• Flexible working and Flexi-leave
• 29 Days annual leave, plus bank holidays
• Excellent Pension Scheme
• Free Parking
• Training and development opportunities
• Payment of one professional membership per annum
• Cycle to work + further related discounts
• Season ticket loan
• Health insurance plan after 1 years’ service/ Dental after 3 years' service
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Mileage allowance

Salary

Please note that Runnymede Borough Council is currently undertaking a pay and grading review, which is expected to be implemented during the summer. The successful applicant will be appointed under the Council’s current grading and salary structure and, following implementation of the new framework, will be assimilated into the revised pay structure in line with all existing employees.

The grading in the new pay structure for this role will be RBC4 £34,388 to £37,589.

About You

We are looking for a capable and motivated individual to join our team who can provide excellent customer service to support us in continuing to deliver a first-class housing service. We are looking for exceptional candidates with a range of skills including:

• Strong knowledge of Housing Allocations processes, including the Council’s Allocations Scheme, lawful allocation requirements, and relevant legislation under the Housing Act 1996 (Parts 6 and 7).
• Sound understanding of welfare benefits, including Housing Benefit, Universal Credit, disability‑related payments, and safeguarding principles for both adults and children.
• Proven experience managing personal caseloads, prioritising competing demands, and handling complex or challenging customer situations effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with partner agencies and service providers to achieve positive outcomes for customers.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage clearly, sensitively, and professionally in both written and verbal contexts, while maintaining confidentiality and following information‑sharing protocols.
• Strong analytical and organisational skills, including the ability to assess complex and sensitive information objectively, manage risk (including lone working), and maintain accurate, concise case records.
• Confident user of Microsoft Office and case management systems, with experience producing high‑quality documentation, spreadsheets, and extracting data for analysis.
• Holds a full UK driving licence with access to a vehicle insured for business use, able to undertake lone home visits, and willing to work flexibly, including occasional work outside normal office hours, with a commitment to continuous professional development.

Interview date: Wednesday 29th July 2026

About Runnymede

Runnymede is an ambitious, passionate, and progressive council with a forward- thinking attitude and award-winning departments. As a Borough Council, we are committed to our core values which we demonstrate through our ongoing policies and projects. We continually strive to improve our services and welcome innovative and proactive individuals who are open minded and have a positive approach in supporting our vision.

From March 2027, Runnymede Borough Council will become part of the new West Surrey Unitary Council as part of the Local Government Reorganisation across Surrey. West Surrey will bring together the full range of local government services under one organisation, creating simpler, more efficient and more responsive services for our communities.

As one of the largest unitary authorities in the country, West Surrey will serve a diverse population across a region with a strong economy, vibrant communities, and significant opportunities for growth and innovation. The scale and variety of our work will provide a wide range of career pathways, professional development opportunities, and the chance to contribute to shaping an ambitious, modern, resident‑focused council. It is an exciting time to join us as we build West Surrey together.

Runnymede Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults with care support needs and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. You may be requested to present your identification at the interview stage and there will be several checks conducted during the onboarding process inclusive of an enhanced DBS check for specified roles.

All applications are handled in compliance with our privacy policy

Use of AI in your application

We understand that some applicants may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist with preparing their applications.

All submitted information whether supported by AI or not must accurately reflect the applicant’s own skills, experience, and qualifications. Recruitment decisions will be based on how well applicants demonstrate these attributes during the interview and selection process.

To Apply click here: https://jobs.runnymede.gov.uk/vacancies/153/housing-allocations-officer.html