Having focused on working for the NHS and construction and hospitality sectors, today we’re taking a look at an industry less familiar than others, but equally as rewarding – housing associations.
Don’t forget, if you’re aged 16-24 and not in employment, education or training, for further employability and personal development support, you can enlist on to our ‘New Futures’ pathway programme. Email Yolande.Walsh@evertonfc.com for more information.
What Are Housing Associations?
Housing Associations provide homes and support for almost six million people in England. They are “not for profit” organisations who in some instances are registered charities. These homes are known as social housing and affordable accommodation.
South Liverpool Homes, Torus and Sovini are just some of the Housing Associations you may recognise in the Liverpool City Region. Within these companies and this industry, there are lots of customer facing and administration roles.
They all have their own repairs company, like HMS pictured above so there’s lots of job opportunities that come under the umbrella of construction, such as horticulture, ground maintenance, painter and decorator, plasterer, bricklayer, plumber, electrician and more.
Why Be Part Of A Housing Association?
If you care about people, your community and enjoy making a difference, working for a Housing Association could be a perfect fit for you.
If you feel like you have the ability to adapt to different situations, and have a basic understanding of the issues that tenants may face, such as welfare rights, substance misuse or homelessness, being part of a Housing Association could be the next step in your employment.
How To Apply?
Each Housing Association’s website will have details about the roles involved, as well as current vacancies and wider information about the business.
Don’t be afraid to offer yourself for some work experience to learn more. This will give you lots of transferable skills and a valuable employer reference. You could gain some experience by arranging a work placement in a local authority housing department or with a housing association, by volunteering with a housing charity such as Shelter or Crisis, or by getting involved with a tenants’ association.
For a tailored guide for school leavers on working for a housing association, click here.
This guide was created by the Employability team at Everton in the Community with resource support from Chartered Institute of Housing and South Liverpool Homes.
