Children and young people support worker jobs

Overall Purpose of the Role

Youth Action Alliance (YAA) is seeking an enthusiastic, committed, and values-driven Support Youth Worker to support the delivery of two key strands of our youth offer: the Girls Project and the Youth Advisory Board (YAB).

This is a varied and rewarding role combining hands-on youth work with project support, centred on empowering young people aged 11–19 (and up to 24 where appropriate). The post holder will work directly with girls and young people from diverse communities, supporting their personal development, wellbeing, confidence, and ability to use their voice to influence positive change in their communities.

Working within a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment, the Support Youth Worker will help deliver innovative programmes that promote life skills, female empowerment, youth voice, and meaningful participation, while supporting the smooth day-to-day running of both projects.

About the Projects

Girls Project (Wednesday and Thursday)

The Girls Project supports girls aged 11–19, focusing on life skills, wellbeing, confidence-building, and female empowerment. The programme provides safe spaces for girls to explore identity, build resilience, and access mentoring, advice, and signposting to additional support services.

Youth Advisory Board (YAB) (Friday)

The Youth Advisory Board is a group of young people aged 11–19 who act as advisors to Youth Action Alliance. YAB members amplify youth voice across YAA’s work, contribute to decision-making, attend meetings and events, lead consultations, and develop skills in leadership, communication, and civic engagement.

Team Leader – Children’s Home – West London

• Location: Pelham House
• Contract Type: Permanent
• Closing Date: 23 February 2026
• Salary: £30,784 per annum
• Specific Hours: 40 hours per week

About the Role

As Team Leader, you will be directly involved in managing the outstanding Ofsted rated and CYPN award winning home and providing positive support for challenging young people aged 12-17. Whether shift leading or joining in with daily activities, you will also share in the leadership of the team, helping to develop staff by modelling high standards of professionalism. 

The successful candidate will have:

• Desirable professional qualification (CQSW, DipSW, NVQ3), or willingness to undertake Diploma Level 3 for Residential Childcare.
• One years’ experience working at a level of responsibility with children and young people in a residential setting.
• An understanding of the regulatory framework relating to the provision of residential services for children and young people.
• Good understanding of the needs and risks regarding children in care.
• Experience of taking on leadership responsibilities in a teamwork setting.
• Ability to build genuine and trusting relationships with young people maintaining at all times high personal and professional standards.
• Excellent communication and team working skills.

Recruitment Process

At St Christopher’s we are committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people in our care. During the recruitment process you will be expected to complete an online application form to ensure we capture essential information to meet legislation, best practice and vetting requirements.

Applicants will ideally already be on the DBS Update Service; if this is not the case St Christopher's will carry out a DBS (police) check prior to starting.

Your online application must include a supporting statement addressing the criteria stated in the Person Specification.

It is against the law to apply for work with Children/Young People if you are barred from working in Regulated Activity and if your name is added to a Children Barred List.

All shortlisted candidates invited to interview will be asked to submit a Self-Declaration and Disclosure form which will need to be returned prior to an interview being booked.

We advise to apply as soon as possible as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and this opportunity might be filled before the stated closing date.

St Christopher’s Fellowship has a minimum age requirement of 21 for roles working directly with children and young people in our residential and semi-independent Homes.

Purpose of Job 

To deliver a high-quality service to and facilitate opportunities for individuals with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus and their families/carers through Shine membership.To empower and enable members living with the conditions to lead healthy and happy lives through greater independence, better condition management and by creating links to the Shine community across England. 

SHINE has over 15,000 members with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. This post will bring a real focus to the Essex, Suffolk & Norfolk area and will be an exciting opportunity to engage with members and develop and deliver the services we offer. 

We work with members of all ages from our Little Stars aged between 0 – 12, young people are members of our FIRE project and we have established adult support. Working alongside our multi skilled, established team, you will be supporting members across all age groups and building on the great foundations already in place. 

The role is home based but you will be required to attend clinic at Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge on the first Friday of every month. You may also be required to cover other clinics, events in London and meet members one to one where necessary within your allocated area of Essex, Suffolk & Norfolk and occasionally across wider areas and nationally including meetings at our head office in Peterborough.

Shine will offer you:  

• A competitive salary of £28,471 (pro-rata for part-time hours)

• Regular working hours, and no shift work (some very occasional weekends or evenings)  

• 3% pension contribution 

• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays + additional discretionary leave between Christmas and New Year (pro-rata for part-time hours)

• Additional annual leave due to length of service 

• Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave 

• Broadband allowance

• Life insurance after 12 months’ employment  

• Access to our Employee Support Programme and Mental Health First Aiders 

• Support to learn and develop 

How to apply 

Please see the full Job Description & Person Specification below and on our website. 

Shine is a Disability Confident employer and will offer guaranteed interviews if a disabled applicant meets the minimum criteria for the job. 

If you would like to discuss the role, please contact Sarah Carrier, England Services Manager to arrange a convenient time for a call. 

To apply please submit your CV and supporting statement, which should outline your interest and explain how you meet the role criteria.

We understand that you may wish to use AI tools to help you with some aspects of your application but we do expect tailored applications which are personalised to your experiences and not generic applications which are completely AI generated. We encourage candidates to be transparent about AI usage in their applications. 

*Please note applications without a supporting statement will not be accepted* 

Closing date:  Wednesday 25th February 2026 at 11pm 

Interviews:  Friday 6th March 2026  

Please note: we reserve the right to interview suitable candidates before the closing date, therefore we encourage applications as soon as possible. 

We're looking for a kind, resilient and compassionate Support Worker to join our Learning Disability Service in Newham.

£28,808 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Hi, I'm P and I am a 27-year-old man who currently lives in a supported living service in Newham. I have lived here for just over one year, and came to England with my mother from Poland in 2015.
I am a friendly and engaged man, but I speak very little English and communicate easiest in Polish so need someone who can support me with this and support me with learning some English. I do enjoy staying connected with my Polish heritage but would like support to socialise better with those around me. I have a very good relationship with my family, particularly my mother, brother, nieces and nephews, and usually spend the weekends with my mother at her home when I can.
I enjoy dancing and singing, and like watching Youtube to sing and dance along to the videos. I also attend the local learning zone for crafting classes, and enjoy games and other crafting activities. I also enjoy "man things" like sports and drinking coffee (decaf!) or going shopping and to the pub (where I enjoy non-alcoholic beer). It is important to me that I can live as independent and adult a life as possible.
My favourite foods are burgers, pizza and cola but I need to be supported and encouraged to keep healthy, and make healthy choices as well as maintain my environment - I may need prompting and support to engage in chores such as cleaning my room, doing my laundry, washing up etc.
I am looking for a proactive individual to support me with these daily living skills, building and maintaining relationships, keeping myself and my home safe but also to help me develop my skills to live more independently, to share my hobbies and interests and to explore new activities.
I am looking for someone who is a good and clear communicator, in both Polish and English, is assertive, has good IT skills and shares my enthusiasm for what interests me, like music, food and meaningful activities.
Look Ahead ensures I am treated with dignity and respect and only staff who can live up to the organisational values become part of my support team.

Professional Skills:
* Compassionate and able to help me manage my support needs
* Assertive and able to help me make choices that I want for my life
* Experience in working with people with Learning Disabilities and Mental Health
* Understands the Positive Behaviour Support framework
* Can be creative around activities, both in the house and in the local community
* Calm and patient
* Good reporting skills, IT skills and keen on using digital systems and new technologies.

Essential criteria - Polish Language Speaker

Shifts are 07:00-15:00 or 14:00-22:00 so includes evenings, weekends and bank holidays as required.

Want to feel valued? 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.
Our benefits include:
* Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
* Free DBS (take this out if BSW advert)
* Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
* Fully paid induction programme and further training
* ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
* Cycle to work scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
* Online wellbeing resources
* A generous pension - we will contribute up to 4% and life assurance cover up to £10,000 (T&Cs apply)
* Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
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.

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 100 services, providing support to thousands of 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 and complex needs, young people and care leavers 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.

Location: Loughborough, England (Travel required to all Baca Services locations)
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £24,754 - £28,454 per annum FTE
Working Hours: 37.5 hrs per week (including evening and weekend hours on a rota)
Start Date: February 2026

About Us
Baca is dedicated to providing support and care to 16 to 18 year old unaccompanied asylum seeking children who are newly arrived in the country, helping them rebuild their strength, dignity, and hope for the future. We work closely with social workers and representatives from other agencies to benefit the young people in our care.

Role Overview
As a Support Worker, you will be a key worker for several young people in Baca's care, providing high-quality holistic and therapeutic support for their transition to adulthood. You will deliver services in line with Baca’s Theory of Change, ensuring the highest quality outcomes in physical and emotional wellbeing, education, employment, training, social engagement, and personal safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality support and care to young people, ensuring their holistic development.
• Work proactively to safeguard young people and resolve any issues that arise.
• Be a role model, offering care and compassion without discrimination.
• Support young people in developing essential life skills and preparing for independent living.
• Engage young people in education, vocational training, and hobbies.
• Foster positive relationships within the community and support social engagement.
• Plan and participate in day trips and annual residential weeks.
• Develop partnerships with social workers, solicitors, teachers, volunteers, and other partners.
• Maintain excellent communication and keep accurate records.

Requirements

• Alignment with Baca’s values and mission. Ability to respond to change and work as part of a diverse team.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and able to take initiative.
• Knowledge of safeguarding practices and issues faced by unaccompanied asylum-seeking young people.
• Relevant training or willingness to complete essential training within the first year.
• Experience working with young people, especially in cross-cultural settings.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and ICT skills.
• Driving licence and access to a car.
• Enhanced DBS check required.

Personal Attributes

• Approachable, reliable, and a strong team worker.
• Supportive, responsible, and personable.
• Flexible and able to work occasional evenings and weekends.

Holidays And Benefits

• 33 days’ holiday a year (pro rata for part-time staff) including bank holidays.
• Pension scheme
• Health & Wellbeing programme
• Free parking
• Casual dress

How To Apply
If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of young asylum seekers and have the skills and attributes we are looking for, we would love to hear from you.
Please note: You must have the right to work in the UK for this role as Baca is not on the Home Office list.

Exciting Job opportunity: we are looking for a Participation Worker

Are you looking for a role where you can work directly with young people, make a real difference in their lives, and support them to have their voices heard at local, regional, and national levels? If so, this could be the job for you.

The National House Project (NHP) works with care-experienced young people, encouraging them to take ownership of their futures and supporting them to live connected, fulfilling lives. The approach was co-designed with young people from the outset and is centred around a group work approach. It supports young people to move into properties that become their homes, while also building strong and supportive friendship networks.

NHP supports Local Authorities to establish Local House Projects (LHPs) and to place young people at the centre of decision-making. Once an LHP is established, NHP supports staff to work with young people in inclusive ways, encouraging them to develop solutions to the challenges they face. LHPs enable young people to leave care in a planned and supported way, improve outcomes, and help staff develop relationship-based and psychologically informed ways of working.

To ensure young people are involved at every level of the organisation, each LHP elects two young people to represent them in the Care Leavers National Movement (CLNM). This forum provides a platform to hear, amplify, and act on young people’s voices. Members contribute not only to the development of their own LHP, but also to practice and policy at a national level. CLNM meets regularly, undertakes peer evaluations, hosts and delivers an annual national conference, and provides “expert user” consultancy. Members of this group also sit on the Board of Trustees as expert advisors.

We are looking for someone who is motivated, experienced in working with young people, and excited about supporting them to have their voices heard and acted upon.

Many people enter youth work or social work wanting to make a difference, but find that large organisational systems can limit their impact. At NHP, you will be able to use your energy and enthusiasm creatively, enabling young people to use their care experience to positively influence the systems that support them. You will work with CLNM and the core NHP team to ensure young people continue to drive our work at both local and national levels.

You will need a professional or academic qualification in a related field (e.g. Youth Work, Social Work, Education, or Health). Current registration with a professional body is desirable. We actively encourage applications from care-experienced individuals and will guarantee an interview where the essential criteria are met.

The NHP office is based in Crewe. We support hybrid working and currently spend a minimum of two days per week in the office. This Participation Worker role will support LHPs in the West Midlands. You will be expected to travel regularly to LHPs and attend meetings across the country. Some planned weekend work will be required throughout the year.

Benefits: 31 Days Annual Leave plus bank holidays, 10% Contribution to Pension, Salary Sacrifice Option, Hybrid working, Professional Development

Find out more

If you’re excited by the opportunity to be a part of something transformative, we’d love to hear from you.

ℹ️ You are invited to join the Participation Worker online briefing.

When: Thursday 12th February 1:00 – 2:00pm

Please register in advance for this meeting: 

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/YBymZxICRxq5QM9QqzLQcA#/registration

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

How to Apply

• Submit your CV and Cover letter via Charity Job detailing what skills, knowledge and experiences make you the best candidate for the role by Sunday 22nd February 2026. Apply now.
• We welcome applications from all backgrounds. If you require adjustments during the process, let us know.
• Interviews are due to take place in person on 2nd and 3rd March 2026 at the NHP Office in Crewe.

Safeguarding Statement
NHP is committed to protecting the well-being of young people. All staff must adhere to our safeguarding policies.

Recruitment Agencies: We do not accept unsolicited CVs from agencies.

General Requirements: Right to work in the UK, two professional references, and a DBS check.

36 hours per week / £36,530 per annum pro rata / permanent / working two days onsite and three days from home, working pattern to be discussed at interview

At YMCA DownsLink Group,  is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

 is delivered by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with YMCA DownsLink Group. We offer a variety of support including counselling and psychological therapies to children and young people within Brighton and Hove.

We are looking for a compassionate and experienced Wellbeing Children & Young People's (CYP) Lead to support and shape our therapeutic services for young people in Brighton and Hove.

Overview of key areas of responsibility:

Leadership

• Provide line management support and supervision to wellbeing workers (e.g. counsellors, practitioners, therapists, link workers and trainees).
• Work alongside a team of leads to support the running, development and management of the service.
• Lead induction, mentoring, and training of new staff, trainees, and volunteers.
• Foster a culture of learning, innovation, and continuous improvement across the team.

Core Clinical

• Carry out individual general counselling assessments of children and young people and make appropriate referrals.
• Provide guidance and oversight for complex or high-risk cases.
• Ensure all interventions are evidence-based, child-centred, and trauma-informed.
• Develop and oversee counselling protocols, therapeutic pathways, and risk assessment frameworks.

Safeguarding and Risk

• Lead and give oversight for safeguarding concerns, embedding a safeguarding-first culture across the service.
• Work to ensure all counsellors, staff, and link workers, are trained, confident, and compliant in safeguarding practice.
• Implement robust risk assessment and management processes.
• Monitor safeguarding incidents, identify themes, and strengthen safeguarding practice.
• Liaise with schools, health, social care, police, and other agencies in safeguarding matters.

Service Development

• Work with the Service Manager, Leads and Clinical Leads to strengthen and expand counselling provision, including group work.
• Triage referrals and represent the service in multi-agency triage meetings.
• Promote and develop opportunities for community participation and youth voice in service design.
• Build strong relationships with schools, health services, local authorities, commissioners, and community partners.
• Represent the service at local and regional forums, influencing CYP wellbeing strategies.

Please download the job profile (below), which includes detailed role description and person specification.

Qualifications, knowledge, and experience

• More than 2 years post-qualified at graduate or post graduate level Counselling Diploma or equivalent [of two years minimum duration including personal counselling or psychotherapy].
• BACP Registration or Accreditation and/or other eligible Professional Accreditation e.g. UKCP/HPC.
• Strong team-management and line-management experience is required, including demonstrated experience in supervising, developing, and supporting staff.
• A good level of understanding in therapeutic or counselling theory and practice and working to short-term models.
• A sound understanding of child developmental processes, Child Protection and Vulnerable Adult Safeguarding issues and procedures, along with proven experience in safeguarding young children.
• Solid experience in delivering counselling and/or therapy and assessment, along with experience with dealing with complex cases.
• Experience of multi-disciplinary team working, with the ability to work within time-limited frameworks.

CLOSING DATE: Tuesday 24 February 2026 at midnight. Proposed interview date Thursday 19 March 2026.

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. 

Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third-party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity checks.

Support Worker – Children’s Homes (Days or Nights)
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £27,248 – £29,490 (up to £30,682 with progression)
• Day role: £27,248 per annum
• Night role: £29,490 per annum
Hours: 40 hours per week, shift work including weekends, bank holidaysand occasional sleep-ins
Sleep-ins: £50 per session
Overtime/Bank Holidays: Paid at enhanced rates
Locations: Ealing (W13) or Balham (SW12)

Are you looking for excellent training, therapeutic support and clear career progression? Join our committed team and make a real difference to young people living in residential care, where no two days are the same.

About Us

We have a strong history of providing fostering, children’s homes and leaving-care services across the UK and the Isle of Man. Our work is underpinned by therapeutic expertise, and we place young people at the centre of everything we do. We support children and young people who are unable to remain in their parental or foster placements, offering positive, life-changing experiences, education support and life-skills development.

When you join us, you will receive a tailored development plan based on your goals. Whether you wish to progress into leadership, move services or develop further in your current role, we will support you throughout your journey.

The Role

As a Support Worker in a Children’s Home, you will provide direct care and support to young people aged 12–17 with complex emotional and mental health needs, including experiences of trauma and loss. Working within a therapeutic framework, you will build safe, trusting and professional relationships, support emotional regulation, and promote positive outcomes.

You will be responsible for safeguarding young people, supporting daily routines, liaising with professionals, and completing accurate support and care documentation. For Waking Night roles, on-call management support is provided, along with monthly team meetings and one-to-one supervision.

About You

You will have:
• At least 1 year’s experience supporting children or young people in residential, fostering, semi-independent or youth work settings
• A willingness to achieve the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare within 2 years
• A genuine commitment to helping children and young people reach their full potential
• An understanding of safeguarding and professional boundaries
• The ability to manage challenging behaviour effectively
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends, bank holidays and sleep-ins
• A commitment to ongoing training and development
• Creativity, enthusiasm and resilience

What We Offer

• A paid 4-week induction and training programme
• Clear career progression and tailored development plans
• Industry-leading training, including Level 3 qualifications
• 25 days annual leave rising to 27 days, plus bank holidays (pro-rata)
• Contributory pension, enhanced maternity and sick pay
• Life assurance (3x salary)
• BUPA employee assistance programme
• Cycle to work scheme and Blue Light Card discounts
• Employee awards and funded training opportunities

Recruitment Process

Applications must be submitted via our online form and include a supporting statement addressing the Person Specification. CVs are not accepted. The process includes an online situational test, interview, and a home visit.

Closing date: 26 February 2026

We are looking for a Key Support Worker to join Hummingbird Homes, a new and innovative supported accommodation model for young people aged 16/17 leaving care.

Be part of something genuinely differen

This is not a traditional support role. As a Key Support Worker, you will be part of a small, committed team offering relational, trauma-informed support to young people at a crucial point in their lives, helping them move towards independence with stability, dignity and hope.

Hummingbird Homes has been designed to bridge the gap between care and independent living, offering young people their own homes alongside consistent, trusted adult support in a nearby Support House.

Our Values

Everything we do at Handcrafted is shaped by our values. We are a Christian charity, and while we do not expect service users to engage in faith-based activity, our work is grounded in the following principles:

• Creativity Everyone can make something to be proud of

• Empathy We walk alongside people through challenges

• Empowerment Everyone can learn to take back control of their life

• Community We accept people as they are and support one another

These values underpin the way our Key Support Workers build relationships, respond to need, and create safe, supportive environments.

About the Role

As a Key Support Worker, you will play a central role in supporting young people living in Hummingbird Homes. You will work relationally and practically to help each young person develop the skills and confidence they need to move forward.

This is a hands-on, people-centred role that combines emotional support, safeguarding, practical life skills and community building.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build trusted, consistent relationships with young people aged 16–17

• Provide day-to-day support within the Hummingbird Homes model

• Support young people to develop independent living skills

• Maintain a safe, welcoming and supportive environment in the Support House

• Contribute to care planning, risk assessments and support reviews

• Work collaboratively with social workers, local authorities and partner agencies

• Support young people during challenging moments and periods of crisis

• Participate in rota-based working, including evenings, weekends and on-call

• Maintain accurate records and contribute to safeguarding and quality assurance

(Full responsibilities are detailed in the recruitment pack.)

The Support House – A Core Part of the Role

This role includes your accommodation made available rent-free for the better performance of this role

• A base for staff while on shift or on call

• A safe and welcoming space for young people

• A hub for community activities and relationship-building

Who We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has experience supporting vulnerable young people or care leavers

• Is emotionally resilient, calm and able to build trust

• Understands safeguarding and trauma-informed practice

• Can work flexibly, including evenings and weekends

• Shares our values and is comfortable working within a Christian ethos

• Is committed to helping young people grow in confidence and independence

A full UK driving licence and Enhanced DBS are required.

Why Join Handcrafted?

• Be part of an innovative, relational model of care

• Work within a values-led organisation making real impact

• Join a supportive, close-knit team

• Receive ongoing training and development

• Play a meaningful role in transforming young people’s futures

Salary: £20,420 pro-rata (£27,227 FTE)

Hours of Work: 30 hours per week (working 1 weekend out of 4)

Location: Leicester city centre - Dispersed properties

Benefits: 33 days of annual leave, including bank holidays (pro-rata), Birthday leave, Service leave (pro-rata), Pension and Health Cash Plan, Company Sick Pay, Free on-site Gym access, Menopause Welfare leave, complimentary Y Theatre tickets and Blue Light discount card eligibility.

Why this role exists

At YMCA Leicestershire, we believe that having a safe place to live can change a life, but only when its paired with kindness, trust and the right support.

Many of the young people we work with have experienced homelessness, instability, trauma or displacement. Some are finding independence for the first time, others are re-building their confidence and sense of security.

The Housing Officer role exists to ensure young people are never doing that alone.

As a Housing Officer at YMCA Leicestershire, you’ll play a vital part in creating homes that feel safe, respectful and empowering, while helping young people move forward at their own pace.

About the Housing Officer role

As a Housing Officer, you’ll support young people living in our Move-On and Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC) accommodation. The Housing Officer role combines practical housing management with relationship-based support.  

This isn’t about fixing people. It’s about noticing strengths, building confidence and offering steady, practical support when it matters most.

Key duties of the Housing Officer role

You’ll focus on the core responsibilities below (full details are available in the job description)

• Supporting young people to settle into their homes
• Providing structured housing-related support (including more intensive support within the UASC provision)
• Managing housing responsibilities such as rent, behaviour, property standards and safeguarding
• Supporting access to education, training, employment and wider services
• Building trusting relationships while maintaining clear professional boundaries
•  closely with colleagues and partner agencies to achieve positive outcomes

You will be part of a supportive Housing Officer team where reflection, supervision and wellbeing are built into how we work, not as an afterthought.

An enhanced DBS check is required as part of our safer recruitment process.

About you

You don’t need to have all the answers, but you do need to care.

You’ll be a Housing Officer who:

• Treats people with dignity and respect
• Understands that behaviour often comes from experience
• Can be warm and human while holding clear professional boundaries
• Stays calm when things feel difficult

You may already be working as Housing Officer, Support Worker, Youth Worker or in a people-focused role, or you may be ready to take the next step into a Housing Officer position.  

You’ll bring:

• Experience supporting young people or adults in a people focussed role
• A Level 3 qualification in Housing, Youth & Community, Social Work, Coaching or a related field (or a willingness to work towards this)
• Confidence working alongside other professionals and agencies
• Emotional resilience, flexibility and good judgement
• A full driving licence, access to a vehicle and business insurance

Why work for YMCA Leicestershire as a Housing Officer?

Because people matter here, including the people who work here.

We are a values-led charity supporting young people aged 16-25 through housing, care, wellbeing, sport and culture (including the Y Theatre, Leicester’s oldest theatre).

People chose to work here because:

• You are trusted to do meaningful work,
•  Kindness and professionalism go hand in hand,
• Your development and wellbeing are genuinely supported,
• You can see the difference you make every single day.

Our vision is simple: every young person deserves a safe place to call home and the support to create lasting change.

Safeguarding

YMCA Leicestershire is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. All staff are expected to act in line with our safeguarding policies and procedures.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

We want our workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applicants from people of all backgrounds and identities, and we’re especially keen to hear from those under-represented in the charity and housing sectors. If you need adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, just tell us, we will do our best to support you.

GDPR

Applicants’ personal data will be handled in accordance with YMCA Leicestershire’s Data Protection and Privacy Policy.

Role Identifiers

#HousingOfficer #HousingSupport #YouthHousing #SupportedHousing #CharityJobs #ValuesLedWork #HousingCareers #YMCAjobs

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Children and Families Worker to play a pivotal role in our Domestic Abuse Service in Hackney.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

The role focuses on building positive and supportive relationships with women and their children, empowering them to work towards their goals through a strengths-based approach. This includes creating, implementing, and reviewing personalised support plans in collaboration with service users and external agencies, while also advocating on their behalf when needed. Key responsibilities involve assisting mothers with parenting skills, signposting them to appropriate services, and offering targeted support to families facing issues such as domestic abuse. Ensuring the safeguarding of children and maintaining confidentiality at all times are central to the role, alongside working within relevant policies and procedures.

Additionally, the position emphasises the importance of children's development and wellbeing by providing educational, recreational, and interactive play opportunities both during term time and holidays. Service users and children are encouraged to actively participate in shaping projects through consultations, feedback, and creative engagement. The role also involves promoting community involvement by networking, fundraising, and collaborating with statutory and voluntary organisations. Ultimately, the work contributes towards the five key outcome areas: being healthy, staying safe, enjoying and achieving, making a positive contribution, and achieving economic wellbeing.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

Here's what the team will be looking for

This role is restricted to female applicants under Schedule 9 (1a) of the Equality Act 2010 due to the nature of the work.

It requires someone who can bring optimism, resilience, and a non-judgemental, anti-discriminatory approach when supporting women and children. A calm manner, empathy, and compassion are essential, particularly when working with service users who have experienced trauma or domestic abuse. The role demands the ability to engage directly with families in a supportive, constructive way, while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality at all times.

In addition, the post holder must be skilled in partnership working with statutory, voluntary, and community agencies to achieve the best possible outcomes for families. Strong problem-solving abilities, accuracy in processing and sharing sensitive information, and a clear understanding of safeguarding responsibilities are vital. The role also requires flexibility to travel between service premises and to accompany clients when necessary. Success in this position relies on being able to manage responsibilities effectively within a structured and often pressured environment, while always keeping the wellbeing and empowerment of families at the centre of practice.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

36 hours per week / £36,530 per annum pro rata / permanent / working two days onsite and three days from home, working pattern to be discussed at interview

At YMCA DownsLink Group,  is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

 is delivered by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with YMCA DownsLink Group. We offer a variety of support including counselling and psychological therapies to children and young people within Brighton and Hove.

We are looking for a compassionate and experienced Wellbeing Children & Young People's (CYP) Lead to support and shape our therapeutic services for young people in Brighton and Hove.

Overview of key areas of responsibility:

Leadership

• Provide line management support and supervision to wellbeing workers (e.g. counsellors, practitioners, therapists, link workers and trainees).
• Work alongside a team of leads to support the running, development and management of the service.
• Lead induction, mentoring, and training of new staff, trainees, and volunteers.
• Foster a culture of learning, innovation, and continuous improvement across the team.

Core Clinical

• Carry out individual general counselling assessments of children and young people and make appropriate referrals.
• Provide guidance and oversight for complex or high-risk cases.
• Ensure all interventions are evidence-based, child-centred, and trauma-informed.
• Develop and oversee counselling protocols, therapeutic pathways, and risk assessment frameworks.

Safeguarding and Risk

• Lead and give oversight for safeguarding concerns, embedding a safeguarding-first culture across the service.
• Work to ensure all counsellors, staff, and link workers, are trained, confident, and compliant in safeguarding practice.
• Implement robust risk assessment and management processes.
• Monitor safeguarding incidents, identify themes, and strengthen safeguarding practice.
• Liaise with schools, health, social care, police, and other agencies in safeguarding matters.

Service Development

• Work with the Service Manager, Leads and Clinical Leads to strengthen and expand counselling provision, including group work.
• Triage referrals and represent the service in multi-agency triage meetings.
• Promote and develop opportunities for community participation and youth voice in service design.
• Build strong relationships with schools, health services, local authorities, commissioners, and community partners.
• Represent the service at local and regional forums, influencing CYP wellbeing strategies.

Please download the job profile (below), which includes detailed role description and person specification.

Qualifications, knowledge, and experience

• More than 2 years post-qualified at graduate or post graduate level Counselling Diploma or equivalent [of two years minimum duration including personal counselling or psychotherapy].
• BACP Registration or Accreditation and/or other eligible Professional Accreditation e.g. UKCP/HPC.
• Strong team-management and line-management experience is required, including demonstrated experience in supervising, developing, and supporting staff.
• A good level of understanding in therapeutic or counselling theory and practice and working to short-term models.
• A sound understanding of child developmental processes, Child Protection and Vulnerable Adult Safeguarding issues and procedures, along with proven experience in safeguarding young children.
• Solid experience in delivering counselling and/or therapy and assessment, along with experience with dealing with complex cases.
• Experience of multi-disciplinary team working, with the ability to work within time-limited frameworks.

CLOSING DATE: Tuesday 24 February 2026 at midnight. Proposed interview date Thursday 19 March 2026.

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. 

Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third-party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity checks.

About Us

Brent Carers Centre is a leading local charity supporting unpaid carers of all ages. Our Young Carers Service works with children and young people aged 5–24 who look after a parent or family member due to disability, long‑term illness, mental ill‑health or addiction.

We’re now recruiting a Trainee Young Carers Service Worker — an ideal opportunity for someone passionate about working with young people and looking to start a career in youth work, family support or social care.

We offer full training, mentoring, and a structured development pathway.

About the Role

As a Trainee Young Carers Service Worker, you’ll support the team to identify, engage and support young carers across Brent. You will help deliver group sessions, holiday activities, school workshops and one‑to‑one support, all with guidance and supervision.

This is a hands‑on, rewarding role where you’ll help young carers build confidence, reduce isolation and achieve their goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Support school outreach, assemblies and awareness workshops
• Help facilitate group sessions and young carers clubs
• Assist with planning and delivering holiday programmes and trips
• Provide supervised 1:1 support to young carers (goal‑setting, wellbeing check‑ins)
• Help create support plans tailored to young people’s needs
• Work with schools, families and professionals to coordinate support
• Keep accurate records on our case management system
• Adhere to safeguarding, GDPR and professional boundaries

About You

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds — including those with lived experience of caring.

You will be:

• Passionate about supporting children & young people
• Kind, patient and a good communicator
• Willing to learn and take part in training
• Organised, reliable and able to follow procedures
• Comfortable working in schools, community venues and group settings
• Able to work occasional early evenings or weekends

Languages commonly spoken in Brent (e.g., Somali, Gujarati, Arabic, Polish, Romanian) are an advantage but not essential.

What We Offer

• Full training programme (safeguarding, youth work skills, communication, risk, GDPR)
• Regular supervision and access to professional development
• Supportive and friendly team environment
• Clear progression route into a Young Carers Support Worker role
• Pension, holiday allowance and flexible working
• Hybrid working for administrative tasks

How to Apply

Please submit:

• Your CV (max 2 pages)
• A short supporting statement explaining what interests you about this role, what you would bring and how you’d meet the person specification

Additional Information

Brent Carers Centre is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references and appropriate checks. We welcome applicants from all communities and backgrounds.

37.5 hours per week / permanent / working Monday to Friday 9am-5pm.

At YMCA DownsLink Group,  is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

Are you an experienced maintenance professional looking to step into a senior role? Do you take pride in creating safe, welcoming homes that make a real difference in young people’s lives?

Our Maintenance team works across multiple properties to ensure our residents have safe, good-quality homes. We work closely with project staff to identify and complete repairs, carry out ad hoc cleaning and decoration, ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, and prepare empty homes for new residents.

We operate across East Sussex, centred around our Foyers in Eastbourne and Hastings, which provide 24-hour supported housing for young people aged 16–25. We also manage several larger shared houses (typically 4–8 residents) through our Transitional Housing teams, supporting young people on their journey to independence.
In total, the team helps maintain safe homes for approximately 180 residents across the county.

We are recruiting for a Senior Maintenance Worker to supervise a small team of Maintenance Workers across East Sussex. This is a hands-on role, combining practical maintenance tasks with day-to-day staff supervision.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervising maintenance staff, offering constructive feedback, coaching, and support
• Providing a comprehensive maintenance, caretaking, and cleaning service to ensure safe, welcoming, psychologically informed accommodation
• Carrying out day-to-day maintenance across our sites in East Sussex, and occasionally supporting other housing schemes
• Completing maintenance, cleaning, repair, and redecoration works within agreed timescales, and delegating tasks where appropriate
• Performing or delegating general caretaking and cleaning duties, including cleaning communal areas, litter-picking, and waste removal

 If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t match every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply. We know that skills and potential come in many forms, and your background may offer valuable transferable strengths.

We’re looking for a someone with a positive, flexible attitude and a genuine desire to contribute to young people’s wellbeing.

Experience and Knowledge

We are searching for someone with:

• Previous supervisory or team-leading experience, with the ability to organise and direct a small team effectively
• Strong maintenance experience across a range of trade or repair tasks, including delivering high-quality maintenance and decorating work
• Experience working in supported housing, residential, or community-based settings
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and resident wellbeing
• Good understanding of health & safety requirements and compliance processes
• A proactive, organised approach to workload and prioritisation

Qualifications and Training (Desirable)

It would be beneficial, though not essential, if you have:

• City & Guilds or equivalent qualification in one or more maintenance skill areas
• Manual handling training
• Training in handling bodily fluids
• Boundaries training
• First Aid training

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 22 February 2026 at midnight. 

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. 

Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third-party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity checks.