Introduction
Leisure is big business nowadays. Local authorities have
responded to increased public demand for sports, social and
cultural activities. There are many jobs on offer in leisure,
theatre and community centres, public halls, libraries, galleries,
museums and tourist information premises. The duties of the
house attendant vary from front-of-house activities to
cleaning. The post exists in all local authorities.
Work Environment
This is mostly indoor work in public leisure arenas run by the
council. Occasionally it may involve duties at outdoor events
such as music and drama festivals. There will be heavy
lifting and carrying required. The hours are standard at 37
per week but include unsocial and shift working for which an extra
allowance is usually paid.
Daily Activities
House attendants have a wide range of duties that are necessary to
maintain a high standard of housekeeping throughout all municipal
leisure venues. They are responsible for preparing areas for
events such as art exhibitions, conferences, lectures, community
gatherings, concerts etc. This will include laying out of
furniture, setting up platforms, cleaning and security of
front-of-house and stage door areas and making sure that everything
runs smoothly for the customer. No matter where a public
event is being held, the house attendant has specific
responsibilities for:
- layout and preparation of foyers, auditoria and meeting rooms
including the arrangement of seats and tables for
catering;
- cleaning, tidying, maintenance and repair, seating, fittings
and furnishings in all internal and external areas;
- general security, including the locking and unlocking of the
buildings, conveying and collecting monies and other valuables to
and from the banks;
- checking tickets, forms of identification etc;
- covering the stage door which includes receiving people and
deliveries and answering the phone;
- delivering and collecting post and equipment to and from other
outside buildings;
- setting up publicity displays and signs outside venues;
- cleanliness of the main rooms, toilets and dressing
rooms;
- monitoring the emergency arrangements in all areas.
During opening hours (particularly during performances and when
the facilities have been hired) house attendants act as the main
point of contact for all queries from the public regarding
tidiness, cleanliness and accessibility. They will be
expected to be courteous as they meet and greet users and make sure
that their needs are met.
Skills & Interests
To do this job well you would need to be able to:
- lift and move heavy weights, furniture and props;
- stand for long periods when on security duties;
- be helpful and courteous on the phone and in person;
- use ladders and work at reasonable heights;
- work evenings, nights, weekends and public holidays;
- work long shifts from time to time.
Entry Requirements
Basic literacy and experience of portering and/or maintenance and
working with members of the public is essential.
Future Prospects & Opportunities
There is always a need for attendants and porters in both local
authorities and the private sector. Promotion is clear-cut when
there are vacancies. The house attendant can aspire to senior house
attendant, house manager or duty officer posts.
Further Information & Services
Asset Skills www.assetskills.org
Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport & Physical
Activity www.cimspa.co.uk
Institute of Maintenance and Building Management www.abe.org.uk
You may find further information about this area of work through
Careers Wales (www.careerswales.com/) or
in your local library, careers office or school careers
library.