Homeless officer jobs in east of england

Job Title: Health & Safety Officer

Reporting To: Health & Safety Lead

Salary: £34,000–£36,000

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent.

Location: Across Felix's London sites (Deptford, Enfield, Poplar, Park Royal, and Greenford), the role requires flexible work at various locations, with an option to work from home one day a week for administrative tasks. The Felix Project can only employ applicants who currently have the right to work in the UK. 

Hours/Days per week: 37.5 hours per week, 9 am – 5:30 pm, Monday – Friday.

Requirements: The Felix Project can only employ applicants who currently have the right to work in the UK.

About The Felix Project

The Felix Project is London’s largest food redistribution charity. Our vision is a London where good food is never wasted, and no one goes hungry. We aim to reduce the negative impact food waste has on the environment by working with the food industry to rescue high quality surplus produce, that would otherwise have gone to waste. This food is sorted at one of our four depots or turned into meals in Felix’s Kitchen. It is then distributed to over 1,200 community organisations, such as food banks, homeless shelters and primary schools, all of whom are working within communities across London to feed people experiencing hunger.

Our Values

Our values set the tone for our organisational culture and reflects how we do everything at The Felix Project, including our recruitment & Selection process.

We solve it differently - We make it happen - We do it together - We do it with heart.

Purpose of the Job

The Health & Safety Officer will support and report to the Health & Safety Lead to ensure that The Felix Project maintains compliance with all relevant health, safety, and food safety legislation. This role is integral in maintaining a safe working environment across all Felix sites by assisting in the development, implementation, and monitoring of robust health and safety systems. The Officer will work proactively with staff, volunteers, and external stakeholders to promote a strong safety culture, support operational improvements, and deliver H&S-related training and engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities

· Support the Health & Safety Lead: Assist in the day-to-day management of health and safety processes, ensuring that all activities comply with relevant legislation and internal policies.

· Risk Assessments: Support the creation, review, and regular update of risk assessments (RAs) and safe systems of work (SSOWs) across various sites, ensuring all potential hazards are identified and managed appropriately.

· Incident Reporting: Support the management of the reporting and investigation of accidents, incidents, and near-misses, ensuring all reports are accurate, timely, and followed up with corrective actions where necessary.

· Training and Induction: Support the delivery of health and safety training programs, inductions, and toolbox talks for staff and volunteers. Maintain records of all training and ensure they are kept up to date.

· Safety Inspections: Carry out regular safety inspections and contribute to internal audit processes to ensure high standards of compliance and housekeeping. Escalate issues and support local teams in resolving risks identified during audits or site visits. Report findings to the Health & Safety Lead and follow up on necessary actions.

· Documentation and Compliance: Maintain up-to-date health and safety records, including training logs, incident reports, and risk assessments. Ensure all documentation is compliant with legal and regulatory requirements.

· Contractor Management: Assist in reviewing contractors’ health and safety compliance when they are working on behalf of The Felix Project.

· Communication: Foster a positive health and safety culture and encourage behavioural safety across all teams by communicating updates, guidance, and key messages. Assist in developing campaigns and initiatives during safety weeks or other safety-focused events.

· Audit Support: Assist in preparing for internal and external health and safety audits, ensuring all documentation and procedures are in place and compliant.

· Food Safety: Support the implementation of food safety management systems, ensuring compliance with the Fareshare food manual and external audit requirements.

· Continuous Improvement: Contribute to the development and implementation of initiatives that promote a positive health and safety culture within the organization.

· Emergency Procedures: Assist in the development and testing of emergency procedures, including fire drills, evacuation plans, and first aid provisions.

· Support Projects: Provide administrative and practical support for any health and safety projects or initiatives led by the Health & Safety Lead.

Person Specification

Essential Skills/Knowledge

• NEBOSH Certificate or equivalent qualification.
• Knowledge of Health & Safety legislation and best practices.
• Experience in an administrative or supportive role within a health and safety environment.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Attention to detail and a methodical approach to work.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A proactive and positive attitude towards health and safety.
• Ability to work collaboratively with the Learning and Development Team as well as across other organisational teams.
• Ability to travel across London sites is essential, given site-based requirements

 
Desirable Skills/Knowledge

• Experience in the food industry or charity sector.
• Knowledge of food safety and hygiene practices.
• Experience in delivering training or presentations.
• Membership in IOSH or working towards it.
• Committed to the values and mission of The Felix Project.

Equity Diversity Inclusion & Belonging

At The Felix Project, we are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in everything we do. We value the unique contributions of every individual and strive to create a respectful, inclusive environment free from discrimination or prejudice. Our commitment extends to all employees, and volunteers, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of background or characteristics.

Application Procedure

Once you apply you will be directed to our recruitment portal. Please upload your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role and make sure that they are both uploaded before submitting your application. After you have submitted your application, you have 24 hours in which you can access you application and make edits. We will only consider applications with both CV and cover letter submitted.

Recruitment Timeline

We reserve the right to close advertisements early and we might assess candidates and arranging interview as applications come in, so please apply as soon as possible, to avoid missing out on this opportunity.  

Due to the anticipated large number of applicants, if you do not hear from us within four weeks of your application, we regret to inform you that your application has been unsuccessful. Consequently, will not be able to provide feedback.