Allocations Officer

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

• 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 year’s service/Dental after 3 years’ service
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

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.