Are you passionate about supporting and transforming the lives of people who are experiencing homelessness?

About the role

The Longhills hostel is part of the Bristol complex needs service; which provides level 1 accommodation and housing related support for vulnerable adults with complex needs and/or mental health issues. You will be joining a team dedicated to providing clients with a safe environment in which to build their confidence, promote opportunities for positive change and support their recovery journey and move on.

As a Support Worker (known internally as a Project Worker), you will provide high-quality support, care and advice to clients that focuses on their strengths and goals, and is delivered in a way that suits them. You will work with clients to identify their personal aims and ambitions, and assist in developing plans to achieve them.

What we’re looking for

We are working hard to create a diverse and fully inclusive culture where all staff feel valued and we welcome applications from all sections of the community. Above all we are looking for inspirational, committed individuals who have a genuine desire to support people to transform their lives.

To succeed in this highly rewarding roles you will need an understanding of the issues faced by homeless or vulnerably housed people and have experience of helping vulnerable people to identify personal goals and supporting them through a process of change. You will need to be committed to a person centred recovery approach to support and will a sound understanding of the support needs of people with low incomes, including rent payments/arrears and professional boundary issues. Please note, due to the needs of our services, our Support Workers are required to work a shift rota, so flexibility is required. This will include some weekends and bank holidays.

To view the job description and guidance on completing your application form, please click on the ‘document available’ tab at the top of the advert page on our website.

What we offer

• Excellent Development and Growth Opportunities

St Mungo’s employees are encouraged to consider opportunities to develop new skills or progress including; secondments, internal transfers, application to new roles in the organisation or just to get involved in various projects happening within the organisation.

As a result last year 35% of our vacancies were filled by promotions. In 2019 we achieved We Invest in People Gold level accreditation and are one of just 3% of housing associations to achieve this standard; 82% of staff who took part in the IIP survey say St Mungo’s is a great place to work.

• A Diverse and Inclusive Work Place

At St Mungo’s, equality, diversity and inclusion are central to the organisation's values and how we work. We are proud of our commitment to diversity and inclusion and have 8 great Diversity Networks to support clients and staff from different backgrounds so they are able to be their best selves. Our Networks include: BAME, Carer’s and Parent’s, Lived Experience, LGBTQIA+, Disability Awareness, South West, Irish and Women’s Action.

• Pay and Other Benefits

St Mungo’s is proud to pay client facing staff above average for the sector. We run a cycle to work scheme and also offer season tickets loans to all staff.

St Mungo’s contribute 4% of your gross annual salary, and you are able to enrol in the Defined Contribution scheme following a successful probationary period in which the employer contribution is 6%.

What we do

At St Mungo’s our vision is that everyone has a place to call home and can fulfil their hopes and ambitions. As a homelessness charity and housing association, our clients are at the heart of what we do, and in 2019 we supported nearly 30,000 people who were either homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Our staff are crucial to making this happen.

How to apply

To find out more and apply please go to the St Mungo’s careers page on our website. 

Closing date: 10am Tuesday 8 December 2020

Interview and assessments on: Friday 18 December 2020 (to be held remotely via video conference call)

It is a requirement for this post that an enhanced DBS disclosure check will be undertaken for the successful candidate.

Please be advised that all appointments will be made on St Mungo’s current standard Terms and Conditions (T&Cs); this also applies to any internal candidates.

Assist with the Charity’s Quality Assurance, data development within HMP Eastwood Park and HMP Styal. Taking a lead on managing databases and responding to the data needs for external and internal reports.  In addition, to provide administrative support to Safer Wales Resettlement Service and Management Team.

36.25 hours per week on a fixed term contract to 25th June 2021, maybe extended subject to funding. This position is subject to prison vetting, references and a DBS check.

FULL ROLE DESCRIPTION IS ON THE SAFER WALES WEBSITE

Monitoring and evaluation

• To maintain robust monitoring, evaluation and quality assurance systems; including jointly with the Resettlement Manager to develop and implement or adapt systems and policies as appropriate.
• To complete internal case management  file checks audits ensuring consistency throughout the team 
• To support the team in conjunction with the Safer Wales Resettlement Manager  in order to deliver results to meet the expectations of funders and Safer Wales Senior Management team
• Support the development of systems to evaluate and improve organisational performance of service

Management Responsibility

• Have responsibility for line managing a trainee or volunteer, as necessary

Person Specification:

• The successful candidate will be able to provide evidence of the following:
• Good understanding of data quality and control
• Ability to analyse and think logically  and use data to identify opportunities
• A clear understanding  of statistical principles and excellent numeracy skills
• Excellent knowledge of entering data and producing queries and reports in EXCEL and ACCESS  as well as PALOMA or other databases (training can be provided)
• Excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Office packages
• The ability to proactively identify solutions to improve data collection
• The ability to achieve results and work to deadlines
• The ability to successfully multi-task and prioritise workloads
• The ability to self-motivate and work on own initiative, and as part of a team
• Good organisational and administrative and data skills, knowledge of office systems and procedures
• High level of competence in word processing, including formal presentation of letters, reports and other documents
• Competency in the use of internet technology, including the sending and receiving of e-mails
• The ability to handle confidential information and maintain discretion on sensitive issues
• Excellent written communication skills, with a sound knowledge of grammar and spelling
• A willingness to be trained on, and the ability to learn, a variety of new tasks

Desirable Skills & Abilities:

• The ability to communicate effectively in written and spoken Welsh
• The ability to communicate effectively in a community language – eg Somali, Urdu, Bengali etc

Pension Wise Guidance Specialist

Locations: Taunton - Taunton, Weston-Super-Mare, Exeter and Plymouth

Job Reference: Taunton

Salary range: £24,000

FTE: 1.5

Part Time or Full Time: Will accept part time or full time

Fixed term until March 2022

Pension Wise is a free and impartial government service that offers people guidance on their defined contribution pension options. Citizens Advice offers both telephone and face-to-face Pension Wise appointments in over 300 locations.

You’ll be part of a service that has helped over 300,000 people in the past 5 years offering them valuable and life changing guidance that gives them the confidence to understand their pension and how to get the best value out of them. In providing this necessary and impartial service you’ll see positive and rewarding results for the people you help. We receive fantastic feedback directly from the customers who use the service - Pension Wise has consistently received over 94% customer satisfaction scores.

You’ll be expected to supply accurate and relevant information and guidance on pension options and choices. You’ll need to have a good foundation knowledge of pension law and practice, gained in a pensions role, as well as a thorough understanding of a broad range of pension arrangements, both occupational and personal. You also should have an understanding and an ability to keep pace with wider retirement issues.

Successful candidates must be able to attend an online induction programme, exact dates TBC.

If you meet the essential criteria in the job description then please initially apply by sending your CV stating the job reference.

Unfortunately due to the high volume of applications we will only be able to respond to successful candidates.

The Role

DHI is an award-winning charity that challenges social exclusion by supporting people to achieve their potential and contribute to the richness and wellbeing of their community. We are looking for individuals who share our passion for our values of self-direction, stimulation and zest for life and our commitment to our client groups and the local communities we serve.

We are looking for a highly organised and motivated individual to join our high performing team of drug and alcohol workers. Following a successful implementation of this new team, we are embarking on the next phase of the project to increase the number of service users receiving treatment within primary care. Could you support a busy team to develop and implement systems and processes that will maximise time spent supporting clients? This would be in addition to working alongside the team leader to support the transfer of clients into primary care.

How To Apply

Please use the enclosed Job Description and Person Specification to complete an Application Form and Skills Form and send to HR before Midday Friday 4th December 2020. Please visit the DHI website for further information. 

The Role

DHI is an award-winning charity that challenges social exclusion by supporting people to achieve their potential and contribute to the richness and wellbeing of their community. We are looking for individuals who share our passion for our values of self-direction, stimulation and zest for life and our commitment to our client groups and the local communities we serve.

Now, more than ever, communities and individuals are relying on support services like ours.

This post sits within the Treatment Team as part of the B&NES Drug and Alcohol Service.

Our team is a vibrant blend of experience and personalities; offering an environment conducive to the fast pace and demanding nature of the role. We are resilient, supportive of one another and committed to supporting people to achieve their treatment goals.

If you feel that you would fit into this team, are motivated by supporting people, flexible, passionate and have a good sense of humour then please have a look at the job description and person specification.

How To Apply

Please use the enclosed Job Description and Person Specification to complete an Application Form and Skills Form and send to HR before Midday Friday 4th December 2020. Please visit the DHI website for further information.

Job description: Intern (Home Energy Services)

Main purpose

• To provide energy advice to householders by phone and face to face.
• To provide information to help householders and clients to access appropriate support.
• To maintain accurate and detailed records of all interactions with callers.
• To provide administrative support to projects.

Dimensions

• The intern will be based in the CSE office but may contribute to delivery of outreach events at various locations around Bristol, Somerset and Wiltshire. Responsibility for day to day updating of CSE and HES systems for recording calls, time etc.

Principal responsibilities

• To work on the advice line taking calls from people who may be struggling with energy related issues.
• To record client details and use own knowledge to assess help and support needed.
• To refer clients onto other support organisations in the area as appropriate for further support.
• To identify energy improvements that can be made to the property and refer to installers who can fit them.
• To provide administrative support to HES projects.
• To deliver outreach events and give advice to people in their own homes.
• To help clients make applications for grants and tariffs.
• To listen attentively to callers and respond to their needs in an empathetic way.
• To be familiar with CSE’s mission and strategy and to help the organisation in delivering these.

Working relationships and contacts

• The postholder will be managed by an appropriate member of the HES team
• The postholder will work closely with immediate colleagues in the HES team and will develop and maintain effective communication and working relationships with colleagues across CSE
• The postholder will have personal contact with callers to the Advice Line and will follow established procedures and processes for obtaining essential information to signpost to appropriate services or support organisations

General responsibilities

• To adhere to CSE’s policies and procedures
• To communicate clearly, confidently and persuasively using appropriate language and style for target audience, listening carefully and checking for understanding and providing challenge where appropriate.
• To represent self and CSE positively within and outside CSE (including representing CSE to external clients, partners, funders and wider public), encouraging action by others in line with project and CSE goals.
• To be responsible for your own health and safety and that of your colleagues in accordance with Health and Safety legislation and CSE policies and procedures.
• Commitment to maintaining and updating own skills and knowledge to ensure effective performance in the role.
• To maintain appropriate confidentiality at all times in accordance with relevant policies and procedures.
• Any other duties as directed and agreed with line manager.

The responsibilities of this post and reporting structure will be periodically reviewed.

We are looking for a Support Worker to join our North Somerset Team on a full-time basis across our dispersed accommodation. There are 2 members of team working with 24 residents across Weston-Super-Mare. We are very proud of our services and helping residents is at the heart of everything we do.

The team works with low support needs aged 18-30 years old who are impacted or threatened by homelessness in North Somerset in our temporary accommodation for between 6-12 months.  This could include single people, pregnant ladies, or small families.

The role involves working with benefits (housing benefits, universal credits, PIP and other), bills, exploring options around education, training and employment, writing support plans and risk assessment, budgeting, engaging with other professionals, working towards move-on from temporary accommodation. 

This role is being offered on a full-time basis, working 37 hours per week working on a rota basis, covering hours between 8.00am to 8.00pm. Due to the nature of this role, a full valid driving licence and access to a suitable vehicle is essential.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable groups and expect all colleagues to share this commitment. Appointment to the post will be subject to a satisfactory enhanced check via the Disclosure and Barring Service.

We are looking for someone who is motivated to make a positive contribution to the lives of the people we support and a “can do” approach to their work. Are you prepared to go the extra mile to ensure a positive outcome for your residents? Experience in a similar role would be desirable, however what is most important is having a passion for helping people in the local community.

To be considered for this role:

- You will have empathy and understanding of the needs of residents who are experiencing homelessness and the barriers they face.
- Have an understanding or experience, of issues surrounding homelessness and good awareness of associated risks this may bring such as alcohol and substance misuse, mental health, self-harm, offending behaviour
- Have understanding or experience of debt management
- Network building to be able to source accommodation options and opportunities for residents. 
- Be resilient with the ability to be open and responsive to the challenging needs of residents and commissioners of the service
- Have an understanding, or experience, of lone working
- Have a knowledge and understanding of welfare and housing benefits
- Have the ability to motivate and engage residents in the  service and their pathway to independence.
- Be able to adapt your style and be able to ‘think on the spot’ when reacting to difficult situations.
- Understand the impact of trauma and can show us you have experience of or the ability to provide high-quality support whilst managing challenging situations.
- Committed to LiveWest values and bring enthusiasm and willingness within all aspects of the role and service.
- Have good IT skills, excellent interpersonal skills and understand the importance of working within equal opportunities, safeguarding and confidentiality guidelines.
- Be able to communicate on different levels both verbally and in writing.
- Take ownership and responsibility.

The most important part of this role is to have pride in your work and have a positive attitude, a proactive approach and the confidence to support a diverse range of people.  You will be able to balance your passion and commitment with good organisational skills, and the ability to maintain appropriate boundaries. 
In return, we provide a generous entitlement to paid holiday increasing with length of service, a pension scheme, a healthcare cash back plan, and great opportunities and support to develop your career.

At LiveWest, we believe in a home for everyone.  We own and manage 37,000 homes across the South West, from Cornwall to Gloucestershire.
 
We take the time to listen to, understand and learn from our customers.  We focus on thriving as a business and employer, so we can deliver more homes and even better services.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all colleagues.

The Charity

The Youth Adventure Trust is a youth development charity working with vulnerable young people aged 11 to 16 years old from Wiltshire and Swindon. Our outdoor activity based Youth Adventure Programme enables young people to challenge themselves, experience success, learn to go beyond their own expectations and grow in confidence. Through a series of residential camps and day activities they are able to build resilience, self esteem and develop social and life skills. The Mentoring Scheme is an additional offer for those young people identified as in need of some further individualised support at the end of the main programme. Volunteer mentors work with a young person for up to a year, supporting them with issues they are experiencing, continuing to develop their confidence, resilience and life skills, and working towards the outcomes the young person has identified for themselves. The Trust’s Bursary Scheme is open to all those young people who have completed the main programme to assist their next steps into further activities. All our services are provided completely free of charge to the young people who are nominated to take part. Our aim is to make a lasting improvement to the lives of vulnerable young people.

The Role

We are looking for a motivated individual to support the delivery and expansion of our Mentoring and Bursary Schemes. You will be involved in all aspects of the schemes, supporting the Mentoring Manager to ensure they run effectively. You will need experience of direct work with young people, as well as experience working with or managing volunteers.

This role includes responsibility for:

• Supporting the young people’s transition from the main programme into the Mentoring Scheme including attending their Pathway Days, and acting as a key point of contact for young people and their parents.
• Assisting the recruitment of volunteer mentors including fulfilling our commitment to Safer Recruitment.
• Organising, preparing and information sharing with volunteers to ensure they are ready to fulfil their role.
• Supporting the matching process to establish the best fit between young people and mentors.
• Acting as a key point of contact and support for volunteers throughout their time as a mentor, including being available on-call during session times which may occur in the evening and occasionally at weekends.
• Working in partnership with the young people’s families, referral agencies and other organisations to maximise the benefits for the young people involved.
• Creating and delivering training opportunities for new and existing volunteers in conjunction with the Mentoring Manager.
• Administrating all aspects of a volunteer and young person’s involvement with the Mentoring Scheme, including completing the relevant checks and references, record keeping and database maintenance.
• Facilitating young people’s access to the Bursary Scheme including promoting the scheme, assessing applications, identifying and acquiring items and requesting follow up feedback.
• Supporting the effective monitoring of the schemes and measurement of young people’s outcomes.
• Participating in sector networking and awareness raising on behalf of the Youth Adventure Trust.
• Acting as an ambassador for the Youth Adventure Trust at all times.

The post is subject to a six months’ probationary period.

The Candidate

To be up to the challenge you will need excellent understanding and a proven track record of working with vulnerable and challenging young people. You will need comprehensive knowledge of volunteering, and demonstrable skills at building effective relationships with volunteers, parents/carers, and professional organisations. You will need strong engagement skills to effectively support both the young people and volunteer mentors. You’ll be an excellent communicator, a strong team player and an exemplary role model.

We need someone with:

• Experience of direct work with vulnerable young people, ideally within a mentoring context.
• Experience of recruiting, supporting and working with volunteers.
• Experience of working in partnership with parents/carers and other professionals.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A positive attitude, high energy and enthusiasm for the work of the Youth Adventure Trust.
• Self-motivation and the ability to work on their own initiative to plan and manage their workload.
• Excellent time management and prioritising skills.
• Excellent administrative skills and a methodical and thorough approach.
• The ability to perform well and problem solve in high-stress and changing situations. A flexible and dynamic approach.
• Strong IT skills including experience of e-mail, MS Office, databases and social media.

In addition:-

• The ability to work flexible hours, evenings and weekends as required, is essential - if you are looking for a predictable 9-5 work environment, this won’t be the right fit.
• A full clean driving licence and access to your own vehicle is required.

Safer Recruitment

The Youth Adventure Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and expects all employees to share this commitment. The suitability of all prospective employees will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment. Therefore;

• a satisfactory Enhanced DBS Disclosure will be required for this post;
• we will seek references on shortlisted candidates before interview, and may approach previous employers for information to verify particular experience or qualifications;
• if the applicant is shortlisted, any relevant issues arising from his or her references or application will be taken up at interview;
• if the applicant is currently working with children, on either a paid or voluntary basis, his or her current employer will be asked about disciplinary offences relating to children, including any in which the penalty is “time expired” (e.g. where a warning could no longer be taken into account in any new disciplinary hearing), and whether the applicant has been the subject of any child protection concerns, and if so, the outcome of any enquiry or disciplinary procedure. If the applicant is not currently working with children but has done so in the past, then contact will be made with that employer who will be asked about these issues; and
• applicants should note that providing false information is an offence and could result in the application being rejected, or dismissal if the applicant has been selected, and possible referral to the police.

Please review our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy available on our website.

How to Apply

Please complete the Application Form which includes the opportunity to outline why you think you are suitable for this role, making specific reference to the Role and Candidate descriptions above.

Applications Closing Date: Monday 18th January 2021 at 9am

Interview Date: Tuesday 26th January 2021 (Frome, Somerset)

A second interview will be held for selected candidates on Saturday 30th January 2021 (Wiltshire)

Unfortunately we are unable to reimburse interview expenditure incurred.

The Youth Adventure Trust sincerely thanks all those who apply, however only those considered for an interview will be contacted.