Published on Thursday 01 August 2024
The Housing Options Team at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council have received national recognition for their innovative apprenticeship programme which is helping inspire and develop talented individuals for a career in supporting people impacted by homelessness.
They’ve scooped a Homeless Link Excellence Award in the workforce development category, which recognises homelessness sector organisations that prioritise the professional growth and wellbeing of their staff.
The Housing Options Team provide advice and assistance to residents who may be homeless or worried about losing their homes.
Offering a wide range of help and support to prevent homelessness and rough sleeping, they also work closely with a range of services from across the BCP Homelessness Partnership to ensure people can thrive, live independent lives and access the help they need to sustain a safe, affordable and decent home.
The team were presented with a trophy at the BCP Council Civic Centre this week by Homeless Link Chief Executive, Rick Henderson, and Head of National Workforce Development, Kate Alaway, and introduced their Housing Apprenticeship scheme back in 2016, developing the programme significantly over the years with graduates securing several permanent jobs.
Apprentices gain valuable experience in a range of disciplines across the sector by spending time with the housing options teams, following a rigorous training regime and taking part in placements tailored to their respective career aspirations.
Using cutting-edge research and real-life case studies from people that have experienced homelessness, the teams approach empowers apprentices to significantly enhance service delivery and better meet the needs of those that need it most.
The team impressed a panel of high-profile judges to claim the accolade with their ability to attract new talent into the sector, providing career opportunities and helping address the recruitment challenges many other similar organisations face.
This year’s competition was particularly fierce, with 149 entries and a highly competitive shortlist of 30.
Cllr Kieron Wilson, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services said: “It’s fantastic our dedicated colleagues in the Housing Options Team have been recognised in this way.
“In the current climate where it is really hard to attract, maintain, and even progress talent within homelessness services nationally due to the challenges the sector has faced in recent years, it is brilliant we are setting an example.
“I want to congratulate the team for all their hard work that can often go unnoticed.”
Fraser Nicholson, Homelessness Partnerships Coordinator at BCP Council, said: “We are delighted to receive this prestigious award that recognises the council is providing opportunities for people to access apprenticeships in our housing service, while enabling us to develop and support their careers as part of our ongoing commitment to prevent and resolve homelessness in all its forms.
“We hope this will encourage many more future applicants and continue driving us forward in our journey to be an employer of choice.”
Homeless Link are a national membership charity of organisations working directly with people who become homeless in England, aiming to make services better and campaigning for policy change that will help end homelessness.
Launched back in 2018, they run these awards yearly to honour innovative and impactful contributions to supporting people experiencing homelessness.
As well as a trophy, winners in their respective categories are also awarded a financial sum to invest in staff wellbeing and professional development.