Nick Morley - Neighbourhood Housing Officer
Tell us about yourself
I have been with my wife for 10 years and we have two gorgeous children aged 7 & 2 ½. I have worked for SBC for nearly 14 years – all within the Housing department. During my time here I have worked with street homeless people and assisted with strategic planning in the Housing Needs team and assessing homelessness applications before moving into my current operational role as a Neighbourhood Housing Officer.
What attracted you to join SBC?
I was first attracted to SBC as it is a flexible employer. I didn’t anticipate staying as long as I have because it was a temporary assignment but one thing led to another!
What do you most enjoy about working here?
The best thing about working for SBC is my colleagues. I believe that there is a certain type of person who can stand working in the public sector given the austerity measures taken by central government over the last few years. Public servants do a very difficult job and are subject to the ever diminishing financial resources yet in spite of this we are still able to offer a great service and support those in most need and we are able to do it with humility and good humour.
Describe a typical day in your role
A typical day generally includes collection of rent but it often involves so many more things. Housing officers get involved in a wide variety of issues which affect both individuals and the community as a whole. We deal with Anti-Social Behaviour ranging from low level noise nuisance or neighbourly disagreements to larger problems affecting the whole community involving drug and alcohol problems.
Together with our partner agencies such as the police and social services we are charged with playing our part to protect the tenants and community which we serve. On any day I could be dealing with a serious child protection issue or a vulnerable adult at one end of the scale or a tenant who is bereaved or going through a relationship break down at the other end of the scale.
What motivates you at work?
I get most enjoyment providing help to those who are vulnerable and unable to help themselves or find it difficult to do so. I feel by doing this I am ‘levelling up the playing field’ and allowing them to access services which are much needed.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
With 2 young children I have a busy family life that keeps me fully occupied.
Where is the best place you have visited?
I enjoy travelling and have lived in the USA in my youth but these days and being married to a French lady, I like to explore France when I am able.
Who are your dream dinner guests?
Anyone that would make me laugh or really think. Top of the list would be Mel Robbins but I would love to be in the company of Richard Branson or Ricky Gervais or any super successful person because driven people have a certain infectious energy about them.
What is your favourite film or book and why?
My new favourite book is Book of Awakening by Mark Nepo. With daily entry for each day of the year it offers daily learnings that really make you think about life.
What are your ambitions/aspirations?
To become the best version of myself. This is a work in progress.