Support Worker Jobs

JOB DESCRIPTION AND PERSON SPECIFICATION

LGBTQ+ Project Worker (Supported Housing)

This role provides support to LGBTQ+ people who are living in Stonewall Housing supported accommodation or in the community. The goal is to help people prepare for independent living in their own tenancies. People usually stay with us for 6 – 18 months and the project worker will meet with each resident to assess their needs and agree goals which will help them achieve independence. The Project Worker then puts together a support plan and meets regularly with residents to provide support, challenge and encouragement as they make their journey.

Collaborating closely with our housing providers, our project worker will actively develop fresh partnerships within the local community to enhance the support and services available to our residents.

Key Responsibilities

· To provide a high quality, flexible and responsive support service to LGBTQ+ people, supporting them for independent living or suitable alternative housing through the provision of 1-1 support sessions and group work.

· To assess the individual needs of each person and provide a bespoke support plan.

· To ensure that effective service user participation mechanisms are in place.

· To ensure a high level of customer care and practice at all times.

· To develop links with relevant external agencies.

· To work 2.5 days per week in Newham and 2.5 days per week in Ealing, working flexibly across both sites with a total of 12 residents.

Main Duties of the Post

Support Sessions

· To give holistic support to LGBTQ+ people accessing our supported accommodation service and to provide proactive support to these service users who are sometimes hard to engage.

· To meet service users regularly to provide structured support, in relation to LGBTQ+ and Housing specific issues, such as gender identity pathways, mental health services, health issues, safeguarding, liaising with the professional network.

· To work with LGBTQ+ people accessing supported accommodation to develop and review individual support plans and risk assessments.

· To liaise with other service providers ensuring service users receive the necessary support to sustain their accommodation, acquire relevant independent living skills, maintain or improve positive physical and mental health and access into meaningful occupation of their time.

Financial Support

· To assist service users in maximising and managing their income including universal credit, ESA, PIP and Housing Benefit.

Semi-independent Living Support

· To work with service users to enable them to develop the life and social skills necessary to sustain their accommodation and prepare them for independent living.

· To assess individual service user’s suitability for independent accommodation.

· To act quickly to manage incidents and to advise, support and assist service users unable to maintain supported accommodation into more appropriate housing options.

Resettlement

· To support service users in the completion of application forms necessary to support move-on housing, including the private rented sector.

· To ensure that all service users are provided with information about local services whilst in supported accommodation and during their move on.

· To ensure all service users are fully aware of their rights and responsibilities in their home.

· To work with housing providers, both public and private, to negotiate move on options.

Groupwork, Consultation and Participation

· To work as part of a team in developing user participation.

· To identify and develop appropriate and flexible processes for consulting with our service users, via social media platforms, newsletters, events and workshops.

· To devise innovative and creative ways of involving LGBTQ+ people in the running of the schemes with an independent approach.

· Supporting our residents to participate in group and peer support and to access online support mechanisms.

· Facilitating and promoting an LGBTQ+ group work programme.

Other Duties

· To establish and maintain accurate and complete records in all areas of work.

· To complete statistics for the collation of performance and funding information.

· To maintain up to date knowledge of legislation and regulations in relation to funders and other key areas.

· To participate in individual and clinical supervision meetings, annual appraisals and training.

· To act in accordance with the organisation’s Diversity Policy, Health and Safety Policy, Code of Conduct and all other corporate policies and procedures.

· To act in the best interests of Stonewall Housing and its clients at all times.

· To work evenings as necessary.

· To promote Stonewall Housing at external meetings and community events.

· To carry out any other duties commensurate with the aims and objectives of the post that may be require.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Experience

·       Lived experience, or experience of working with homeless people or vulnerable LGBTQ+ people, in a voluntary or paid employment setting.

· Experience of working with and delivering services to a diverse client group with a wide range of support needs.

· Experience of lone working and working as part of team.

Essential Knowledge

· Knowledge and understanding of the causes and effects of homelessness, particularly in relation to LGBTQ+ people.

· Knowledge of the current benefits available to single people.

· Knowledge of common themes, trends and issues within supported and shared accommodation.

· Knowledge of pathways into medical and social support for LGBTQ+ people.

Essential Skills and Abilities

· Ability to provide a range of housing related support services, i.e. assessment, developing and using support plans, support planning, key working, independent living support, welfare benefits advice and providing resettlement support.

· Ability to manage challenging behaviour and complex needs, report and raise incidents and safeguarding alerts.

· Ability to prioritise and maintain case work across multiple projects at the same time.

· Excellent recording and reporting skills to accurately reflect work with young people.

· Excellent written and verbal communication with vulnerable people.

· Ability to effectively involve and engage LGBTQ+ people in services.

· To be resilient in regard to working with challenging behaviour from service users who may have experienced trauma leading them to be mistrustful of support providers.

As with all members of Stonewall Housing’s Team, the postholder will also:

· Be an adept and nimble multitasker who relishes being busy and can keep multiple plates spinning.

· Have strong networking and relationship-building skills.

· Have a positive and can-do attitude.

· Be able to adapt to changing circumstances with flexibility, and to work well under pressure.

· Be required to support the wider Stonewall Housing team when needed, to ensure the smooth running of the organisation.

· Join Stonewall Housing’s All Team meeting in person (held near Liverpool Street Station) once per month.

· Be able to travel occasionally around the UK for key events.

· To work as part of a mostly-remote team, embracing online communication and collaboration tools.

· To receive regular supervision from the line manager and attend training courses as required.

Your attitude and personal attributes

· A commitment to equal opportunities in all aspects of work.

· A commitment to the aims, values and beliefs of the organisation.

· Ability to empathise with vulnerable LGBTQ+ people.

Conditions:

This job description does not constitute a ‘terms and conditions of employment’. It is provided only as a guide to assist the employee in the performance of their job. Stonewall Housing is an evolving organisation and therefore changes to the employees’ duties may be necessary from time to time. The job description is not intended to be inflexible or a finite list of tasks and may be varied from time to time after consultation/discussion with the post holder.

More about who we are:

Stonewall Housing is the UK’s leading LGBTQ+ homelessness charity. We help LGBTQ+ people in the UK who are experiencing homelessness or living in an unsafe environment.

Founded in 1983, we provide specialist housing advice, advocacy and support for LGBTQ+ people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. We have specialisms in Mental Health, Domestic Abuse and Supported Accommodation.

We’re a team of caring, driven people, fighting to end homelessness and ensure that everyone has a safe and secure space to call home.

Our Values:

· We are LGBTQ+ informed.

· We are tenacious.

· We are empowering.

· We are collaborative.

· We are inclusive.

What we can offer you:

Whatever stage of your career you may be at, we’ll support you with the training and development that you to reach your goals.

Our benefits include:

· Competitive salary

· Flexible working

· Generous annual leave – 30 days (FTE)

· An additional ‘Stonewall Housing’ day off per year

· Pension scheme

· Employee Assistance Programme

Stonewall Housing’s core hours are between 10:00 – 16:00 and staff can agree regular working patterns with their line manager.

Applying for the role:

No formal qualifications are needed for this role, and we encourage everyone with the appropriate skills, experience and potential to apply. We welcome applications from those who are able to understand and show empathy with our mission and purpose.

We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that represents the people we support. We particularly welcome applications from people who are Black, Asian or from other minority backgrounds. We welcome difference whether it’s gender, gender identity or expression, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion or belief, marital status, national origin, or pregnancy and maternity status; so please be yourself! Additionally, we particularly encourage applications from candidates with lived experience of homelessness who we believe are an essential asset in our sector.

For more information about us, please visit our website and follow Stonewall Housing on our social channels.

Equity is important to the success of our team and work. We don’t want any barriers to applying so if you want to discuss particular aspects of our approach, or get a better understanding of whether Stonewall Housing (or this role) is right for you, then please contact John, our Services Manager, on john[at]stonewallhousing[dot]org.

Interesting in researching more about us? If you're looking us up online to help with your application, bear in mind that Stonewall Housing is both a Community Benefit Society and Charitable Foundation. Our company number is IP24277R and our charity number is 1187437. You can find Stonewall Housing Charitable Foundation (SHCF) on the Charity Commission Register, and Stonewall Housing Association (SHA) on the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) Register.

About the role 

As a Family Resettlement Worker, you will work with a caseload of families and individuals who have arrived in Westminster, London under a UK government (refugee) resettlement scheme (or who have been resettled to Westminster through another route). You will support people in their homes and in the local community, guiding them to identify their goals as they begin their new lives in Westminster.

Support to our clients is holistic and will include: support to register with GP and access/understand the UK health system; support to understand and apply for benefits; support and encouragement to engage in Employment, Training and Education opportunities; and support to manage their housing tenancies. Our ultimate goal is for clients to feel safe, respected and hopeful for their future in the UK. 

For occupational requirement reasons, we are seeking female applicants only for this post (exemption under the Equality Act 2010; Schedule 9 Part 1). We strongly encourage applications from people with Afghan language skills and/or with lived experience of immigration to the UK. We understand people’s identity is not defined by their past experiences and do not expect candidates to describe their lived experience during the interview unless they wish to. 

About you 

• You will have experience of supporting people and families to overcome challenges and to access services. This experience can be gained through voluntary/community work as well as through paid employment.
• Your approach is both caring and empowering, working with people’s strengths to encourage them to take opportunities.
• Strong active listening and communication skills and able to share information in a clear way with people unfamiliar with UK systems. 
• You are committed to working with individuals from different communities and backgrounds in an anti-discriminatory way. 
• You are willing to undertake training in relation to the job and learn new skills.
• We strongly encourage people with ‘lived’ (first person) experience of migration to the UK to apply. This could be as refugee or other through another immigration route.
• Ideally you would be proficient in one of the community languages: Dari, Pashto or Urdu.

About us:

Single Homeless Project is a London-wide charity. Our vision is of a society where everyone has a place to call home and the chance to live a fulfilling life.

We help single Londoners by preventing homelessness, providing support and accommodation, promoting wellbeing, enhancing opportunity, and being a voice for change. From supporting people in crisis to helping people take the final steps towards independence and employment, we make a difference to 10,000 lives every year across all 32 boroughs.

We offer you more than a job; we offer you a chance to be part of a compassionate, driven team that's committed to making a real difference in people's lives. You'll have the opportunity to lead, co-create, and inspire change while enjoying a collaborative, growth-oriented environment.

Join us in creating a brighter, more hopeful future for individuals in need. 

Important info:

Closing date: Sunday 17th November at midnight

Interview date: Tuesday 26th November via Microsoft Teams

This post will require an Enhanced DBS check to be processed for the successful applicant. 

Approach Social Work (formerly known as the Frontline programme)

Designed and delivered by social work charity Frontline, we teach social work differently. By blending learning and practice, what you discover in theory is eased into real-life settings, supervised by a social worker. Gaining your postgraduate diploma within 12 months, will be the first step in your life-changing career.

You’ll learn how to connect with children, young people, parents and carers. How to gain all important trust, so a family opens their door to you again. You’ll gain the technical knowledge and build on your relational skills. We’ll give you the time and support to develop your approach, with confidence. 

You earn while you learn, and once you gain your qualification you’ll step right into a job. And through our Frontline Fellowship, you’ll join a network of peers intent on transforming social work practice in England.

Be part of something bigger. Join the next generation of social workers.

What’s in it for you?

• Earn as you learn with a salary of up to £34,000 from year two.  
• Qualify as a social worker and complete a fully funded master's degree. 
• Get high-quality training and supervision from experienced social workers, academics and coaches in a rich, supportive environment. 
• Become part of the Frontline Fellowship and receive ongoing support and training throughout your career.

What to expect as a trainee social worker

Year 1:

• Start with five weeks of intense online study, including five in-person sessions, led by experts in social work theory.
• Begin your 12-month placement in a local council social work team, where you'll work closely with fellow trainees and an experienced social worker. You'll gradually take on more responsibility in supporting children and families.
• Qualify as a social worker by the end of your first year.

Year 2:

• Manage your own caseload, building on your skills and confidence.
• Engage in ongoing study to further develop your professional abilities.
• Receive continued support from Frontline tutors, your employer and fellow trainees.

Year 3:

• Conduct a research project and complete the academic credits needed for your fully-funded social work master's degree.
• Receive leadership coaching to enhance your professional capabilities.

Who we’re looking for 

We are looking for your potential to become an outstanding children’s social worker and leader, empowering families to achieve positive change. No specific experience is required to apply. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and a commitment to advocating for the communities’ social workers serve. We're dedicated to fostering diversity in our programme and supporting applicants from underrepresented backgrounds.

You will also meet the following criteria: 

• Have at least a 2.2 (predicted or obtained) in an undergraduate honours degree (or international equivalent) 
• Have obtained GCSE English Language at Grade C/4 or above (or approved equivalent qualification) 
• Possess the right to work and study in the UK (including access to public funds) for the duration of the programme (until September 2028) 
• Be resident in England by the time the programme commences 
• Not be a qualified social worker

Be part of something bigger. Join the next generation of social workers.

Approach Social Work (formerly known as the Frontline programme)

Designed and delivered by social work charity Frontline, we teach social work differently. By blending learning and practice, what you discover in theory is eased into real-life settings, supervised by a social worker. Gaining your postgraduate diploma within 12 months, will be the first step in your life-changing career.

You’ll learn how to connect with children, young people, parents and carers. How to gain all important trust, so a family opens their door to you again. You’ll gain the technical knowledge and build on your relational skills. We’ll give you the time and support to develop your approach, with confidence. 

You earn while you learn, and once you gain your qualification you’ll step right into a job. And through our Frontline Fellowship, you’ll join a network of peers intent on transforming social work practice in England.

Be part of something bigger. Join the next generation of social workers.

What’s in it for you?

• Earn as you learn with a salary of up to £34,000 from year two.  
• Qualify as a social worker and complete a fully funded master's degree. 
• Get high-quality training and supervision from experienced social workers, academics and coaches in a rich, supportive environment. 
• Become part of the Frontline Fellowship and receive ongoing support and training throughout your career.

What to expect as a trainee social worker

Year 1:

• Start with five weeks of intense online study, including five in-person sessions, led by experts in social work theory.
• Begin your 12-month placement in a local council social work team, where you'll work closely with fellow trainees and an experienced social worker. You'll gradually take on more responsibility in supporting children and families.
• Qualify as a social worker by the end of your first year.

Year 2:

• Manage your own caseload, building on your skills and confidence.
• Engage in ongoing study to further develop your professional abilities.
• Receive continued support from Frontline tutors, your employer and fellow trainees.

Year 3:

• Conduct a research project and complete the academic credits needed for your fully-funded social work master's degree.
• Receive leadership coaching to enhance your professional capabilities.

Who we’re looking for 

We are looking for your potential to become an outstanding children’s social worker and leader, empowering families to achieve positive change. No specific experience is required to apply. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and a commitment to advocating for the communities’ social workers serve. We're dedicated to fostering diversity in our programme and supporting applicants from underrepresented backgrounds.

You will also meet the following criteria: 

• Have at least a 2.2 (predicted or obtained) in an undergraduate honours degree (or international equivalent) 
• Have obtained GCSE English Language at Grade C/4 or above (or approved equivalent qualification) 
• Possess the right to work and study in the UK (including access to public funds) for the duration of the programme (until September 2028) 
• Be resident in England by the time the programme commences 
• Not be a qualified social worker

Be part of something bigger. Join the next generation of social workers.

This is an exciting opportunity to work as a refuge worker within a refuge service, supporting women and their children fleeing domestic abuse. Your responsibilities will include supporting and advocating for women and children, taking part in the on-call rota, managing day to day running of the refuge; health & safety, safeguarding, supporting the service and deputy manager. 

Some of the key accountabilities are: 

• Providing practical and emotional support to survivors of domestic violence and other forms of violence and abuse in accordance with Refuge’s philosophical principles. This will include conducting  key work sessions on a regular basis and keeping casework records up to date.  

• Welcoming new residents, explaining and arranging for them to sign occupancy agreements, ensuring that they are aware of their options for moving on to more permanent accommodation and to develop a proactive move on strategy for individual residents.  

• Establishing the risks to, and the needs of survivors of, domestic violence and their children through assessing their practical and emotional support needs throughout their stay at the refuge.  

• Developing individual support and risk management plans which address the risk of harm to survivors of domestic violence and other forms of violence and abuse and their children, and to ensure that such plans are in place for each resident.  

• Ensuring that any issues in relation to safeguarding children or vulnerable adults are brought to the immediate attention of the service manager, or if unavailable another manager.  

• Working in partnership with other agencies and to advocate for survivors to ensure their needs are met.  

For more information, please view our job pack.

As part of this role, you will be required to participate in an out-of-hours on call rota. 

This post is restricted to women due to the nature of the role. The Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies. 

Peer Support Development Officer – Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire

 About Kinship:

Kinship is the leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We offer kinship carers financial, legal, practical and emotional support and understanding from the moment they need it, for as long as they need it. Our expert advice, information and guidance helps with complicated and stressful decisions that so many kinship families have to make. We are always there to support them through challenging times and celebrate the good. 

Kinship carers are strong and determined. Together, they are powerful. We help them build communities of support and action by connecting families locally and across England and Wales. 

We are at the heart of kinship networks, partnering with and influencing service providers, local and national government and other organisations. We give everything we have to fight for each family and their rights, changing society until every kinship family is recognised, valued and supported. 

Kinship care often begins in crisis. A child has parents who are unable to care for them, for whatever reason. It can be frightening, confusing and heart-breaking.

Instinctively, a loved one steps in – a grandparent, brother, sister, aunt, uncle or family friend. They are now a kinship carer, bringing up the children they love. There is often no chance to prepare. Plans may be pushed aside. Relationships, jobs and savings are frequently sacrificed.

It is life changing and challenging raising children who have been hurt or neglected, but kinship carers do it anyway because they put the children first.

We know how hard life can be for kinship carers, but we have seen the amazing things they are capable of, with someone by their side. With the right support, children raised in kinship families can flourish. 

That is why we support, connect and campaign – to keep kinship families stronger by keeping them together.

About the Team

The Peer Support and Community team at Kinship is dedicated to enhancing the lives of kinship carers across England and Wales by delivering the first national peer support service. With a focus on building and sustaining networks of peer support groups, the team aims to empower kinship carers through access to resources, training, and development opportunities.

By fostering connections within local, regional, and national ecosystems, the team plays a vital role in ensuring that every kinship carer has access to a supportive community.

As part of our commitment to growth and impact, the team develops innovative approaches to peer support, creating an inclusive environment where kinship carers can share experiences and access essential services. We prioritize collaboration across various departments, ensuring that support group leaders receive high-quality advice and training, facilitating their sustainability and effectiveness. This integrated approach also includes alignment with national and local campaigning efforts to further engage and support the kinship carer community.

In line with our strategic focus on cultivating a vibrant Kinship Community of over 10,000 carers, the team leads initiatives aimed at enhancing community connection and empowering kinship families. By developing a robust model of community engagement that encompasses both in-person and digital services, the team aims to amplify the voices of kinship carers, enabling them to effect meaningful change in their lives and communities.

 About the role

This role is community-based and focuses on engaging kinship carers, bringing them together to form Peer Support Groups, and supporting them to achieve independence at which point they will receive ongoing support from our national Hub.

You will do this by working with local authorities, schools, other charities and community groups. Arranging information events such as coffee mornings to engage kinship carers. You’ll create a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive community for kinship carers, building belonging, resilience, and empowerment.

Funded by the Department of Education, the National Peer Support Service is a game-changing service that creates a sustainable and life-changing legacy. It builds on Kinship’s 10 years of experience in developing peer support groups and two years of delivering a national service that has set up 145 new groups.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking an individual located in easy reach of Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire, who possesses the drive, passion, and skills to:

· Develop new Peer Support Groups across a diverse range of communities

· Demonstrate the energy and enthusiasm required to achieve key targets and objectives

· Work collaboratively within the Peer Support and Community Team, as well as throughout the broader organisation, to ensure the development of safe and effective support services for the kinship community.

· Maintain current Peer Support Group levels, taking the lead from the national Hub.

· Maintain accurate records that are used to populate reports, identify learning and share key insights across Kinship that allow the organisation to continuously improve our services and products.

You should have experience in developing and maintaining meaningful relationships with various community-based stakeholders such as local authorities, health services, schools, charities, and kinship carers. You will need to understand the key success factors involved in establishing and developing new in-person groups in areas of high need, as well as how to support existing groups in their journey towards sustainability.

As a practical thinker, you will work creatively to identify stakeholders and assets in areas of high need. You will build local connections and bring together kinship carers across the region, empowering them to build resilient and robust peer support communities.

You will be confident in building relationships that generate referrals from external stakeholders and in contacting kinship carers directly to secure engagement with local coffee mornings, community, and training events that will help kick-start a thriving peer support group.

As you establish new groups, you will provide support and training to help them lead their groups effectively, and develop their group culture, resilience, and skills to function independently while offering reassurance and support to empower them.

We are ideally looking for candidates based in easy reach of Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire. Key development areas for this post will initially include; Oldham, Bury, Tameside, Doncaster, York and the East Riding of Yorkshire. You may be required to support the development of groups in North Lincolnshire. This role may also involve work to establish groups on the periphery of this area that currently have no dedicated Development staff.

An essential requirement of the role is to be a driver with access to a vehicle for work purposes.

Key responsibilities: 

Service delivery:

• In-person (face-to-face) strategic outreach into local communities including setting up and attending local engagement events.
• Set up and develop sustainable in person peer support groups, initially attending and leading sessions in person before transition to self-sufficiency. 
• Working with existing groups that are at risk, closed or need support that need replacing or rejuvenating to maintain DfE service level agreement, in addition to new groups. Targets are subject to change and are not fixed. 
• Recruit and retain support group leaders to develop their peer support groups.
• Assist with the delivery of training to support group leaders and groups to become self-sufficient.
• Develop strong boundaried and positive relationships with support group leaders – building resilience, empowerment and community.
• Support established groups (including independent) in your area to access support group leader networks and training (this includes visiting groups in person) to build a peer community. 
• Follow (and where appropriate support further development off) the service blueprint to develop sustainable peer support groups.
• Collaborate with the Peer Support Hub team to provide a joined-up and positive user experience for kinship carers.
• Manage special interest groups and regional online groups as required, transitioning to ‘Hub’ team for sustainability and work with partners. 

Service quality, development and data management:

• Accurately record all recruitment, contact information and volunteer case management in Salesforce in line with service framework and data protection requirements.
• Ensure accurate data entry in Salesforce to support service performance, evaluation and learning.
• Provide regular reports to ensure targets and SLA are met for the service.
• Support continuous development and improvement of the service (new systems and processes) as required.
   

Team culture:

• Act in the best interest of Kinship and the families we support.
• Maintain and contribute up to date understanding of kinship care.
• Deliver effective administration with attention to detail and keeping to deadlines.
• Identify and contribute to appropriate case studies to demonstrate the impact of Kinship services and contribute to policy and campaigns work.
• Actively contribute to delivering and evidencing a high performing service.
• Take responsibility for your ongoing continued professional development.
• Work in line with the Kinship values.

 Knowledge, abilities, skills and experience (person spec):

 Essential:

· Proven experience in reaching and establishing strong relationships with hidden or underserved communities in person.

· Significant experience developing peer support communities.

· Proven experience of recruiting, managing, training and supporting volunteers in community settings with an emphasis on understanding and working with vulnerable volunteers.

· Proven experience of ensuring outcomes and impacts of services are evidenced through high-quality data collection.

· Evidence of developing and delivering training/support to volunteers, based on the needs of service users (in this case kinship carers).

· Strong facilitation skills and essential experience of peer support or user-led groups with charity beneficiaries.

· Proven experience of using a customer relationship management system effectively (we use Salesforce).

· In-depth understanding of safeguarding particularly around vulnerable families.

· Excellent communication and engagement skills, with good attention to detail.

Desirable:

· Lived experience of kinship care.

· Understanding of children’s social care.

· Digital community building (Facebook / WhatsApp etc).

· Full, clean driving licence/own car.

General characteristics and attributes:

· Flexible and willing to travel for work across England.

· Commitment to the values, aims and objectives of Kinship.

· A real commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion within your role and a respectful approach to working with people from a range of backgrounds.

· Excellent written and spoken English.

· Permission to work in the UK.

Equality Diversity and Inclusion 

Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion.  We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams.  We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work. We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us. 

Candidate Application Information

Please refer to the Job Description for this role to check that you meet the criteria necessary for the job. Closing date and interview details:

Closing date: 1 November 2024 12:00 pm

Interviews: Week Commencing 4 November 2024

We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the stated deadline.

We will guarantee interviews to any candidates with experience of kinship care (either of being in kinship care or of being a kinship carer) who demonstrate they meet the essential skills and experience outlined.

Please tell us if there are any reasonable adjustments, we can make to assist you in your application. If you have a disability, which you would like us to consider, please tell us about this when you apply.  Please let us know if we can help and remember that you can request information in large print or in a different format. 

Who we are:

LDN London is an award-winning charity with over 60 years’ experience of supporting people with learning disabilities to stay healthy, be safe and live well. 

We have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Head of Family Service to join our Children and Family Services.  Working with LDN London means that every day will be different, and you will be part of a team providing support to society’s most vulnerable children and adults.

You will have the privilege to be part of young people’s joys, triumphs, failures, frustrations, sadness and laughter. However, most of all you will be there to provide the right support to make a life worth living and enable access to everything life has to offer, just like for everyone else.

About the role:

The Head of Family Service will lead and manage our Family Service across all locations, providing holistic support to families with children and young adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

This role involves the delivery of grant and commissioned outcomes, supporting the Assistant Director for Children, Families and Communities and working with the Head of Community Engagement to secure new funding, ensuring services meet the current and future needs of children and young adults and of their families.

The Head of Family Service will build a high-performing team, work with stakeholders, and operate within legislation, policies, budgets, and other parameters to deliver outstanding support.

This role involves ambitious family-centred practice, tailored support plans, and ensuring positive outcomes for families. The Head of Family Service will encourage parent and carer engagement in consultation and participation activities, work effectively with a multidisciplinary team of external professionals, and establish and maintain close operational relationships with schools, family hubs, social care and health services. 

We are looking for someone who has a good understanding of Special Education Needs and Disabilities and the challenges to navigate education, health and welfare systems. They need to understand needs of families and be able to work collaboratively to achieve our goals.  The ideal candidate will be able to self-motivate and work independently whilst keeping in line with LDN London.

About you:

The ideal candidate will be a well organised person with the ability to deliver successful outcomes. You will be confident networker and relationship builder with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

You must be able to demonstrate the ability to develop strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. As a self-starter, you will be able to use your own initiative, can problem solve and prioritise, with good planning and organisational skills. In addition, you will need a positive, resilient attitude, be able to work under pressure, meet deadlines and be flexible and adaptable.   

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is looking for a new challenge! 

Why join us:

We offer continuing opportunities for learning and development together with regular supervisions and support for all our staff. We offer:

· the opportunity to work flexibly

· up to 38 days annual leave (including bank holidays)

· a generous pension scheme

· season ticket loans

· family friendly policies and personal/professional development packages

How to Apply:

To apply please complete the online application form using the link below and submit your up-to-date CV to us.

Note: LDN London is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Background checks and an enhanced DBS will be required. You need to be 18 and over to apply.

Closing date: 5:00pm on 1 November 2024

Please note that we receive a high number of applications.  If you have not heard back from us within 2 weeks of the closing date, then you have not been shortlisted for the role.

Approach Social Work (formerly known as the Frontline programme)

Designed and delivered by social work charity Frontline, we teach social work differently. By blending learning and practice, what you discover in theory is eased into real-life settings, supervised by a social worker. Gaining your postgraduate diploma within 12 months, will be the first step in your life-changing career.

You’ll learn how to connect with children, young people, parents and carers. How to gain all important trust, so a family opens their door to you again. You’ll gain the technical knowledge and build on your relational skills. We’ll give you the time and support to develop your approach, with confidence. 

You earn while you learn, and once you gain your qualification you’ll step right into a job. And through our Frontline Fellowship, you’ll join a network of peers intent on transforming social work practice in England.

Be part of something bigger. Join the next generation of social workers.

What’s in it for you?

• Earn as you learn with a salary of up to £34,000 from year two.  
• Qualify as a social worker and complete a fully funded master's degree. 
• Get high-quality training and supervision from experienced social workers, academics and coaches in a rich, supportive environment. 
• Become part of the Frontline Fellowship and receive ongoing support and training throughout your career.

What to expect as a trainee social worker

Year 1:

• Start with five weeks of intense online study, including five in-person sessions, led by experts in social work theory.
• Begin your 12-month placement in a local council social work team, where you'll work closely with fellow trainees and an experienced social worker. You'll gradually take on more responsibility in supporting children and families.
• Qualify as a social worker by the end of your first year.

Year 2:

• Manage your own caseload, building on your skills and confidence.
• Engage in ongoing study to further develop your professional abilities.
• Receive continued support from Frontline tutors, your employer and fellow trainees.

Year 3:

• Conduct a research project and complete the academic credits needed for your fully-funded social work master's degree.
• Receive leadership coaching to enhance your professional capabilities.

Who we’re looking for 

We are looking for your potential to become an outstanding children’s social worker and leader, empowering families to achieve positive change. No specific experience is required to apply. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and a commitment to advocating for the communities’ social workers serve. We're dedicated to fostering diversity in our programme and supporting applicants from underrepresented backgrounds.

You will also meet the following criteria: 

• Have at least a 2.2 (predicted or obtained) in an undergraduate honours degree (or international equivalent) 
• Have obtained GCSE English Language at Grade C/4 or above (or approved equivalent qualification) 
• Possess the right to work and study in the UK (including access to public funds) for the duration of the programme (until September 2028) 
• Be resident in England by the time the programme commences 
• Not be a qualified social worker

Be part of something bigger. Join the next generation of social workers.

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Step Down Worker to join our Homelessness service in Kent.
£25,755.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week. Benefits include 25 days Annual Leave, pension schemes, staff discounts, healthcare and career progression.

Want to feel like you have an exciting future? You'll feel at home here.
Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.
The role of a Step Down Worker is to provide ongoing support to IDVA clients where the risk has been reduced to a safer level or where a client is referred into the service as medium/standard risk.. The post holder will provide ongoing support which is bespoke according to need and will work in a trauma informed way providing holistic support to aid client's recovery from abuse. This post will be part of the male IDVA team and will work collaboratively with the IDVAs to manage case loads.
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

What you'll do:
- Provide ongoing support with a range of client needs including but not limited to attendance at court hearings, mental health, substance issues, and housing support.
- Knowledge of the criminal justice system. Understanding of Marac protocols.
- Support clients to obtain orders where needed and any other civil remedies available to them.
- Working proactively with other members of the team to handle the service caseload and administrative responsibilities.
- Attending all court and Case Management hearings with clients
- Carry out administration tasks in line with the role as directed.
- Supporting clients to set personalised goals in the form of a Safety and Support Plan.
- Assisting in the recording and reporting of customer incidents.
- Managing any ongoing risks and creating safety plans when required.
- Raising concerns of any increase in risk levels to senior IDVAs.
- Attend case management session with IDVA Team Leader
- Developing productive relationships with partner organisations to improve service outcomes.
- Adhering to lone working protocols and maintaining high levels of awareness in relation to the
health and safety of yourself and colleagues.
- Encouraging clients to attend relevant programmes when appropriate.
- Ensuring Look Ahead Health and Safety policies and local protocols are adhered to
- Adhering to all other Look Ahead's policies and procedures.
- Engaging in learning and development activity to increase knowledge and skills.
- Undertaking any other duties consistent with the grade and nature of the post as assigned by the IDVA Manager.

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead

About you:
- Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage customer involvement
- Exudes a warm friendly presence and open behaviour
- Prefers working as part of a group or team
- Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or obscure their judgement
- Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organized
- Able to apply the right balance of care and support dependant on the needs of the customer
- Thrives on change and enjoys dynamic diverse environments
- Is confident with high levels of self-esteem

What you'll bring:

Essential:
- Some domestic abuse knowledge or experience

Desirable:
- Experience working in the social care/charity sector

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 120 services, providing support to around 6000 customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness, young people and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.
We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:
* We focus on Excellence and innovation.
* We are Caring and Compassionate.
* We are Inclusive and Trusted.
* We work in Partnership and are One-Team.
Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Please see full Job description on our website.

The Junction is an out of hours service, open 365 evenings a year, to support and assist individuals experiencing a mental health concern. The aim is to alleviate the need for people in the Swindon locality to access A&E acute mental health services and primary care GP services unnecessarily by managing the presenting symptoms/mental health crisis along with the triggers and context for that crisis. 

As an Acute Mental Health Practitioner, you will be providing a preventative, person centred approach to people accessing the service who may be experiencing a mental health crisis.

The service is open from 4PM-11PM, 365 days a year so this position will include some weekends and bank holidays. 

 
What You'll Do: 
 

• Innovation and Empowerment: Channel your passion into providing evidence-based interventions, elevating the mental health and emotional well-being of the people we serve, while opening doors to life's possibilities. 

• Effective Partnerships:  Ensure effective and appropriate communication with all individuals, staff, community agencies and partner organisations.  

Why Join Us: 

• Impact Matters: Join a team where your work directly transforms lives and contributes to a healthier community. 

• Personal Growth: We offer professional development opportunities that will enrich your career and help shape the future of mental health services in Swindon. 

• Collaborative Culture: Work alongside like-minded individuals who share your passion for making a meaningful impact. 

Together, we can build a brighter, healthier future for Swindon. Your leadership can make all the difference. 

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Floating Scheme Manager to oversee two key homelessness support projects in St Albans and Broxbourne. This position is ideal for an experienced/skilled manager who can ensure the smooth, safe, and effective day-to-day operation of both a night shelter and a supported housing project, delivering trauma-informed care and managing all housing and support functions to a high standard. You will have proven experience of managing homelessness support schemes or similar settings, ideally within night shelters, supported housing, or outreach. This role is to cover for up to 3 months whilst a permanent Scheme Manager is appointed or you can apply for the permanent role, whilst working in the temporary role.
 

• Oversee the operations of a 12-bedroom night shelter in St Albans, catering to rough sleepers, single homeless, and vulnerably housed individuals, prioritising those with a local connection.
• Manage a supported housing project in Broxbourne, providing housing and outreach services for 16 single adults experiencing multiple disadvantages.
• Ensure a strong management presence at both sites, actively engaging with service users and ensuring safe, effective service delivery.

• Lead, supervise, and support a dedicated team of support workers & night workers, empowering them to deliver trauma-informed, psychologically grounded support.
• Oversee training, performance management, and the development of staff to maintain a supportive, safe environment.

At Prospectus we invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you with your application. We welcome all candidates to apply, regardless of age, sex/gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status or pregnancy/maternity.

In order to apply please submit your CV in the first instance. Should your experience be suitable, we will arrange for a call to brief you on the role. We are looking forward to connecting with you.

Contract: Permanent, full-time or part-time options available, 35 hours over 5 days
Location: Hybrid – Burford, Oxfordshire, OX18 4PF, with the flexibility to work from home. 
Closing Date: Sunday 10 November 2024 
 
We’re recruiting Business Support Manager to join our vibrant, high performing team. This key role will provide essential support to our Chief Information Officer and the Information Services Team, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently. If you thrive in a supportive environment and love making a difference, we’d be delighted to hear from you!

More about the role

As our Business Support Manager, you’ll assist our Chief Information Officer in focusing on strategic priorities while ensuring seamless operations within the Information Services Team. You’ll have the autonomy to make decisions and prioritise tasks, all while being a valued member of our collaborative team.
 
This role is hybrid, allowing for 40% of your time in the office and 60% remote. This balanced approach fosters both collaboration and individual productivity. We’re dedicated to creating a work environment that adapts to your needs, helping you thrive both professionally and personally. We welcome applications from those seeking full-time or part-time options
 
Key Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive support to the Chief Information Officer, enabling them to concentrate on key initiatives and priorities. 
• Work closely with the Information Services Team to ensure consistent compliance, process adherence and communication across the directorate. 
• Attend senior leadership meetings as the voice of the Information Services Team, taking minutes and following up on action points. 
• Oversee central budget items, including engagement with third party providers, ensuring that spending is accurately recorded and reconciled with monthly management accounts. 
• Oversee the Information Services sections of our intranet. 
• Collaborate with senior team members to create important documents, including presentations and meeting papers. 
• Represent the Information Services Team on various projects, sharing insights and feedback. 
• Ensure adherence to risk management and Blue Cross policies, helping to improve efficiency within the team. 
• Assist the Trustee Chair of a specific committee by organising meetings, preparing agendas, and taking notes during discussions. 

About You
 
We’re looking for a proactive and personable support professional who’s committed to delivering high-quality work. You’ll excel at building strong relationships with colleagues and stakeholders, working collaboratively to achieve our shared goals. Your attention to detail will shine through in everything you do, especially regarding budgets and written materials.
 
In this role, it’s essential to stay calm and composed, even when things get a bit hectic!
 
Essential Qualifications, Skills, and Experience

• Proven experience in supporting committees and senior meetings, including planning agendas and tracking actions.
• Experience working at a senior level with strong writing and proofreading skills to create clear and concise documents.
• Exceptional organisational and time management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, capable of sharing information effectively across teams.
• Experience in supporting colleagues to enhance team effectiveness.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint).
• A discreet approach to handling confidential information.
• Alignment with Blue Cross values of compassion, courage, and inclusion.
• Desirable Qualifications, Skills, and Experience
• Experience in a charity or not-for-profit organisation.
• Familiarity with roles relevant to the Information Services Team.
• Experience in minute-taking for meetings.

Why Blue Cross? 
 
Joining Blue Cross means becoming part of a team that truly cares about making a positive impact in the lives of pets and their owners across the UK. We take pride in nurturing a supportive and collaborative work environment, where your personal and career development is a top priority.
 
Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Without their dedication and commitment, we couldn’t achieve our mission of making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
 
In return, Blue Cross is committed to providing you with the best possible working environment. Your happiness and well-being are important to us, and we will strive to support you in every way we can.
   
Our generous benefits package includes:

• 38 days holiday rising to 43 with service (including Bank Holidays)
• Programmes for physical and mental wellbeing support 
• Free access to GP via MetLife - 24/7 GP services, private prescriptions and more for you and your family 
• Free physiotherapy advice and face to face intervention
• Health cash plan 
• Unlimited access to an employee assistance programme 
• Pension scheme with enhanced employer contribution
• Claim for professional fees 
• Life assurance
• 20% discount on Pet Plan pet insurance 
• Enhanced family friendly policies 
• Recognition scheme 
• Annual volunteer days
• Charity worker discounts across a variety of retailers
• Personal development programme
• How to apply 

 
Click the apply button below and complete the online application process before the closing date on midnight Sunday 10 November 2024. 
 
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to our mission, we can’t wait to hear from you!
 
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive an overwhelming response.

Our values 

Our values define the way we do things. We use them every day to guide us, and to make sure we put people and pets at the heart of everything we do.

Compassionate: We listen, we are non-judgmental, we are kind and caring to the pets and people we encounter, and we offer support in difficult times

Courageous: We make brave decisions, embrace change, and encourage innovation, ensuring we always act with integrity – doing the right thing even when no one is looking

Inclusive: We value all our relationships and work in an open and positive culture where we celebrate our diverse talents and empower you to be you 

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Support Worker to join our Mental Health Service in Tower Hamlets.

£27,352.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week. Benefits include 25 days Annual Leave, pension schemes, staff discounts, healthcare and career progression.

Want to feel like you're making a difference? You'll feel at home here.

Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.

Support Workers enable people with particular needs to manage their tenancies and live independent lives of their choosing in the community and move towards greater independence by providing a flexible and individually tailored support package. The position is in Tower Hamlets at 140 Cannon Street Road E1 2LF and consists of 1 high support building with 20 flats, and 2 low support buildings with 20 lower support flats spread over two sites within close proximity.

The shift pattern for this role includes Earlies 8.00 - 16.00 and Lates 14.00 - 22.00. It also includes working 2 weekends per month.

For a full job description, please visit our website jobs.lookahead.org.uk and search for the reference REQ005827

All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

What you'll do:
Building supportive, trusting relationships with customers and creating a positive atmosphere
Working proactively with other members of the team to handle the service caseload and administrative responsibilities
Conducting key work sessions as required, that are innovative and engaging in order to achieve Support Plan goals
Ensuring ongoing assessment and management of risks associated with customers within an attitude of 'positive risk taking'
Providing support with daily living activities, including practical assistance to support customers to independent living e.g. budgeting, cooking, establishing a night-time routine
Supporting customers to maintain a healthy environment and where appropriate assisting them to clean their accommodation and maintain good personal hygiene
Assisting in the recording and reporting of customer incidents
Managing customer referrals, completing assessments and obtaining and maintaining all relevant paperwork
Developing productive relationships with partner organisations to improve service outcomes
Adhering to lone working protocols and maintaining high levels of awareness in relation to the health and safety of yourself and colleagues
Involving customers in the design, development and delivery of the service
Encouraging and enabling tenants to pay their rent and avoid personal debt
Ensuring Look Ahead Health and Safety policies and local protocols are adhered to at all times e.g. fire risk assessments, fire alarm checks etc
Taking on shift leading responsibilities by coordinating and leading shifts in the absence of a manager

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead

About you:
Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage customer involvement
Approachable and open behaviour
Prefers working as part of a group or team
Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or obscure their judgement
Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organised
Open to feedback and self development
Is respectful, articulate and sensitive in style of communication
Is essentially customer-focused
Is motivated towards excellence and improvement of personal performance with a can do attitude

What you'll bring:
Up to NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent or experience in the social care/charity sector
Experience working in mental health

About us:
Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 120 services, providing support to around 6000 customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness, young people and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values: We focus on Excellence and innovation. We are Caring and Compassionate. We are Inclusive and Trusted. We work in Partnership and are One-Team.

Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role. We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date. We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.