The growing demand for Welsh language services is reshaping the recruitment landscape for Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) in Wales. Bilingual professionals are increasingly essential to ensure that housing associations can provide inclusive, accessible, and impactful services. Welsh-speaking staff strengthen trust and communication, fostering deeper connections within communities.
Recent data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that around 29% of the Welsh population —nearly 883,000 individuals—have some level of Welsh language ability, with approximately 560,000 being fluent speakers. For housing associations, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity to meet the needs of Welsh-speaking tenants, especially in rural areas where Welsh is often the preferred language.
With Welsh language standards requiring public and third-sector organisations to deliver services bilingually, housing associations are at the forefront of this transition. These regulations ensure equitable service access for all residents and underscore the importance of recruiting staff who can communicate fluently in both English and Welsh. Currently, 20% of jobs in Welsh housing associations list Welsh as an essential skill, a figure expected to grow as regulatory requirements evolve.
The value of bilingual recruitment for Housing Associations
At Housing Jobs Wales we’ve seen a rising demand for Welsh-speaking candidates, particularly in roles requiring direct tenant engagement, such as housing officers, community outreach staff, and tenant support specialists. Bilingual job listings have increased by 15% this year, highlighting the urgent need for recruitment solutions tailored to attract these candidates.
Despite the high demand, roles requiring Welsh proficiency often take longer to fill, reflecting a shortage of bilingual professionals. This underscores the importance of platforms like Housing Jobs Wales where housing associations can connect directly with candidates who bring not just technical skills but also the linguistic abilities needed to support Welsh-speaking communities.
Empowering Welsh-speaking job seekers
For Welsh speakers looking to make a meaningful impact, the housing sector offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to community well-being while preserving cultural heritage. We are working hard to promote the latest jobs within arenas visited by Welsh speakers, investing in advertising through Welsh language mediums. Our platform is specifically designed to meet the recruitment needs of the housing sector in Wales, providing tailored job opportunities and resources in both Welsh and English.
Join the movement with Housing Jobs Wales
For housing associations, recruiting bilingual staff is more than a compliance requirement—it’s a way to build stronger, more inclusive communities. For Welsh-speaking candidates, it’s a chance to bring your skills to organisations making a real difference. Together, we can ensure that housing services across Wales are accessible and responsive to all. Visit Housing Jobs Wales to explore opportunities or register your CV today with our sister site Charity Job Finder. Let’s build a bilingual workforce that reflects the heart of Wales.