Independent social worker jobs

About the Project – Door of Hope (East London)

The Door of Hope Project provides support to women who sell sex in Tower Hamlets.  This includes journeying alongside women, whilst providing advocacy, information, emotional and practical support.  The project also has a strong team of around 15 volunteers, who deliver street outreach to women in Tower Hamlets on a Thursday morning and Friday night. 

About the Role

Beyond the Streets is a UK charity with over 20 years’ experience of partnering with women in the sex industry, to see them safe from coercion, violence and abuse. We deliver trauma-informed, person-centred support, provide training, and create resources and reports informed by research, lived experience, and practitioner experience.

Our ‘Direct Work’ is central to the organisation, and we are looking to recruit a new Women’s Support Worker.

Taking a woman-centred approach, your role is to provide holistic support for women with complex needs who want support, or to exit the sex industry. We are looking for someone with energy, motivation and experience of working with vulnerable adults; someone who a highly developed sense of self-awareness who can work in a gender and trauma informed way.

This role will be part of a small team of support workers, and a service manager, who deliver an in-person support service, with women who sell sex on-street in East London. You will have frontline experience of working with individuals who experience multiple disadvantage. This might be in the VAWG sector, domestic abuse, substance misuse, mental health or counselling or direct experience of women in the sex industry. You will have a good understanding of working with vulnerable people and be aware of the need for Safeguarding.

You will be a champion of the cause, have a passion for supporting women who face multiple disadvantages and be familiar with the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) sector.

You will have excellent interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence and be able to support women in a trauma-informed and non-judgemental way.  We are looking for someone with energy, resilience, who can increase our reach and positive impact on women.

You’ll enjoy…

· Competitive pay

· Flexible working

· Career opportunities – develop yourself and your career with a reputable national organisation in the VAWG sector

· Personal development allowance – to further your work-based skills and knowledge

· Cycle to work scheme – tax free allowance to buy

· Tech Buying Scheme – spread the cost of personal technology equipment and homeware across 12 months via payroll

· Travel season ticket loan scheme – an interest-free loan to enable team members to purchase a season ticket for travel between their usual place of residence and their usual place of work

· Clinical supervision – all staff are entitled to clinical supervision on request. A place to discuss work issues and challenges, and their emotional impact, on a regular basis

· Blue light discount – a well-recognised national discount card scheme. For only £4.99 for two years’ membership, the discounts are large, and widely accepted

· Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – a confidential and independent service designed to help you deal with personal and professional issues that could be affecting your home life, work life, health, and general wellbeing. EAP is available to you and to your immediate family

You’ll need…

• Experience of working withing a front-line delivery team
• Understanding of the complexities of working with women who have multiple disadvantages and the barriers to service access they face
• Experienced with working with and engaging with diverse groups of people from varying backgrounds
• Familiarity with working within Adult Safeguarding protocols and procedures
• A non-judgemental and women-centred approach to support
• Comfortable working within a Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) framework
• Commitment to providing quality, women-lead and trauma-informed support
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Patience, compassion, non-judgemental and motivational attitude
• Resilience to work with women who have often experienced trauma
• A responsible, dedicated and flexible approach to work
• Competent IT knowledge and computer skills

When you join, you will receive a structured induction and training plan, including access to all our in-house paid training.

All roles are subject to proof of eligibility to work in the UK, satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR)

Due to nature of this role in working alongside women with lived experience of violence against women, this post is restricted to female applicants under Section 9 of the Equality Act 2010. 

Make a real difference in the lives of D/deaf & disabled people in Islington.

At Disability Action in Islington (DAII), we are a user-led Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisation providing free, independent advice and advocacy. Our work is rooted in the social model of disability and focused on empowering people to overcome barriers, access their rights, and live independently.

We are looking for a compassionate and skilled Advice Worker to join our small, committed team. You’ll support disabled residents with advice and advocacy on key issues such as welfare benefits, housing, health, and social care—helping people navigate complex systems and secure the support they’re entitled to.

What you'll do

• Provide one-to-one advice and casework on a range of social welfare issues
• Support clients with applications, reviews, and appeals
• Advocate on their behalf with agencies such as the DWP, housing providers, and the council
• Keep clear case records and contribute to service improvement
• Work closely with the Advice Services Coordinator and wider team

What you'll bring

• At least 1 year’s experience in advice, advocacy or support work 
• Knowledge of welfare rights, housing, social care, and health systems
• Excellent communication and case management skills
• A client-centred, trauma-informed, relational and inclusive approach 
• Confidence working with people facing complex and multiple barriers

Why work with us?

• Be part of a values-led, user-led organisation rooted in community
• Deliver life-changing support in a role where your work is truly valued 
• Join a collaborative, supportive team with a strong sense of purpose

Are you looking for a dynamic and rewarding role working for an organisation with the feminist agenda at the core of its ethos? Then Advance Charity could be the career choice for you!

We are looking for a Social Care IDVA - RBKC

Salary: £28,000 - £32,000

Location: Across three locations within RBKC and Hammersmith Head Office

Contract: Permanent

Hours p/w        35 hours per week (some working from home up to 2 days)

This post is open to female applicants only as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.  

Please note: Any offer of employment will be made subject to references, confirmation of the right to work in the UK, and satisfactory enhanced DBS check. This role is also subject to Police Vetting.

About us

Advance is an award-winning and innovative women-only organisation, established in 1998, providing emotional and practical support to women and girls survivors of domestic abuse and supporting women with short-term sentences to reduce offending.  We believe in empowering women and girls to lead safe, non-violent, equal lives so that they can flourish and contribute to the community. 

We are a community-based organisation who lead in best practice approaches to supporting women in their local community. We achieve this by being available to meet and support women in local settings and at our women’s centres, and by working in close partnership with other agencies.

Our values are to listen and support, to empower and respect, collaboration, innovation, and accountability. 

About the role:

The Social Care IDVA will work within a dynamic, fast paced, crisis intervention, advocacy, and support service to ensure the voice of survivors informs every stage of the process, specialising in working with women whose families are involved with Family Children Services and risk to children is a factor.  You will work to make proactive contact and provide high quality advocacy and support based upon a client led needs and risk assessment to women, focusing on working with those aged 18 and over who access the domestic abuse service. This role is part advocacy, part training/education and project work to improve response to victim/survivors experiencing domestic abuse. You will be embedded in the local authority Family Children Services team, working with Social Care professionals to ensure they adopt a trauma informed approach, can recognise the dynamics of domestic abuse and are providing more holistic support. You will be the domestic abuse subject matter expert on site, upskilling fellow professionals and acting as a point of contact for any clients experiencing domestic abuse and support requirements from Family Children Services.

The Social Care project was established in 2021 and has been working in partnership with Hammersmith and Fulham Family Children Services, so the IDVAs will inherit strong working relationships and a commitment from all parties to offering more trauma-informed services.  The borough has a focus on prioritising and developing good DA work in social care and this is an opportunity to be a major player in institutional change, ensuring that women accessing Family Children services for their children have an improved experience and that the local authorities are leading the way for all survivors engaging with their services.

Advance delivers nationally accredited, quality marked services in Hammersmith & Fulham, Westminster, Kensington & Chelsea, Brent, Ealing, and across parts of East London. We work within a coordinated partnership response to domestic violence to provide independent domestic violence advocacy and support for women, children and young people and women’s community services for women who are involved in the criminal justice system, in anti-social behaviour or are at risk of breaking the law.

About You:

You will have an excellent understanding of domestic violence and its effects on women and children and of best practice within the domestic abuse in various areas of need, with particular knowledge on children safeguarding/legislation. As an experienced domestic violence advocate who has worked with complex and multiple needs, the post holder will be skilled in risk management and safety planning, remaining calm in a crisis and in handling sensitive information on a daily basis. Experience of direct work with female survivors of domestic violence, of supporting women with child safeguarding, needs, and of working within safeguarding procedures is essential for this post, as is the need to adopt and promote a strong partnership approach to service provision.

To be successful as the Social Care IDVA you will need the below experience and skills:

You will establish positive, proactive, and innovative working relationships with housing services and partner agencies.Provide high-quality crisis intervention, information, advocacy, and proactive support to women referred to the service, in respect to risk management and safety planning, criminal and civil remedies, housing, health, welfare rights, and children’s legislation.

Your abilities extend to assessing the needs and risks of survivors, carry out short and longer-term risk management, safety planning and support and identify and refer to services appropriate to their needs.Advising women of their rights and options for seeking help and support from other agencies and proactively advocate to ensure barriers to accessing support and protection are reduced. You will work as an advocate and educator to raise awareness and upskill professionals within Children Social Care plus work with colleagues to successfully develop and deliver training.

How to apply:

Please submit your up-to-date CV with a supporting statement. Please note that only applications made via the job advert on the Advance careers page, and those that include a cover letter will be considered. 

· Interviews are taking place on rolling basis

*Advance reserves the right to close the advert early, or on the appointment of a candidate

What we can offer you - Employee Benefits: 

• A 35-hour working week
• An exceptional 30 days of paid holiday per year (pro rata for part time), PLUS public holidays on top (that's nearly 40 days paid holiday per year!) 
• Additional days off to celebrate International Women’s Day, and for religious observance and moving home
• Perkbox - an employee discount platform where you can receive free rewards as well as take advantage of savings on clothes, groceries, travel, leisure and more
• Pension scheme
• Enhanced maternity/adoption provision
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee eye-care scheme
• Clinical supervision for front line staff and first line management roles
• Refer a Friend Scheme - £250 for each referral who passes probation
• Organisation wide away days
• Thorough induction and training
• Career development pathways 

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Under the Equality Act 2010, we are required to make any reasonable adjustments. If you have a disability as defined under this act and/or have special needs, please email contact the Talent team via our website and the Talent Acquisition Team will aim to make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs.

Diversity, Inclusion and Equal Opportunities

We are committed to providing equality of opportunity and actively seek to recruit people from groups underrepresented in our current team. We have policies and processes in place to ensure that all employees are offered an equal opportunity in recruitment and selection, promotion, training, pay and benefits.

Safeguarding

Advance is committed to safeguarding and creating a culture of zero-tolerance of harm and expects all staff, including volunteers to share this commitment. We believe all individuals have the right to live their life free from violence and abuse and the right to feel and be safe.  We have a suite of safeguarding policies, procedures and practice guidance, accessible to all staff, which promotes safeguarding and safer working practices across all our services and activities. When we recruit staff, we follow rigorous safer recruitment practices, this involves carrying out pre-employment checks including references, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, and identity checks.  We ensure all staff undertake mandatory safeguarding training relevant to their role and responsibilities, to empower them to be competent and feel confident in recognising and responding appropriately to safeguarding issues and promote wellbeing.

Support Time and Recovery Worker (Female only, Fixed Term Contract)

When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed.

Job Title: Support Time and Recovery Worker 

Location: Based in Lewisham, across various homes, hospitals, wards, and supported living accommodations

Salary: £27,000

Shift Pattern:  37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00. Please note that this is a 12 month fixed term contract.

Please note, due to the nature of the service, it is an occupational requirement that the post holder is female and the post is therefore exempt from the provisions of the Equality Act 2010 in terms of Schedule 9, Part 1, and Paragraph 1 of the Act.  

About the role

This role is a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting those who struggle with complex needs, substance use, and dual diagnosis. We are looking for someone who can work flexibly to support residents and participants who struggle to engage with the support available to them through various providers. You will be at the heart of engaging our participants to regain motivation and the strength to step down from acute psychiatric wards and other supported living, by empowering them with the relevant skills and knowledge to support their journey. You will support them towards achieving their personal goals including independent living. You will be based across various homes, hospitals, wards, and supported living accommodations based around Lewisham.

You will provide pathways, support, and appropriate interventions that will enable successful resettlements, and deliver to achieve more safer, integrated communities for our stakeholders. The areas of support will include: Prevention, Transition, Activities of Daily Living (ADL), Support, and Social Inclusion. 

This role will work alongside South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLAM) who provide the widest range of NHS mental health services in the UK. They also provide substance misuse services for people who are addicted to drugs and alcohol with 4,600 staff serving a local population of 1.3 million people.

• Support a caseload of participants, contribute to the development of support plans, risk assessments and reviews.
• Positively promote the pathways available towards independent living within the community. Ensure participants understand what tools and resources are available to them to regain independence.
• Participate in, and encourage R&Ps to participate in the running and development of projects, initiatives, training and volunteering.
• Recognise signs of deteriorating mental health and initiate appropriate interventions to prevent a crisis.
• You may need to attend external appointments when required.
• Admin duties will vary, this includes maintaining confidential records in a timely manner using 

About you

We are looking for someone who has a true passion to support those who face challenges with their mental health, substance use, and who have various complex needs. You will be able build rapport and trusting relations with others in a professional setting including with people who don't necessarily want to engage, you will be able to motivate them to build positive outcomes. You will be adaptable and flexible in your approach, and understand that each individual has different level and types of support needs, you will be able to flex your approach to suit the needs of different people. You will have an understanding and ability to help others overcome their personal barriers, and will be motivated to want to make a difference to people's lives. This is a fulfilling role, and is the perfect fit for someone who has a real passion in supporting others.

• You will have previous experience working with people with multiple and complex needs, substance use, and dual diagnosis
• You will be proactive in your approach, able to use your own initiative to resolve challenges
• You will have resilience and a creative approach to overcome barriers
• You will be able to show empathy and compassion to our residents, and different challenges they face
• You will be able to motivate, and empower others to achieve their personal goals and overcome barriers
• You will need some level of IT ability as we record records using our online CRM systems and use Microsoft programs daily
• You will have previous experience in creating co-produced support plans, key working, and care plans
• You will understand the housing and social needs of people with multiple and complex needs and be aware of the social marginalisation that can be attached to people who face personal challenges

We are looking for a team player, driven to provide high quality care and support to others, an effective communicator who is able to build rapport with others from various backgrounds. 

Please refer to the JDPS attached for more details on the vacancy and our requirements/key criteria.

What we offer

• This role is eligible to receive a Monthly travel card reimbursed ( zone 1-3)
• 25 days (Full time equivalent) annual leave, increasing with the length of service
• Training and Development, including access to courses, upskilling, and progression plans
• Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
• Reflective Practice regular sessions with a therapist provided by an external provider to support Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Eligibility to register with Blue Light Discount Card
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Annual Staff Awards
• Be part of an organisation which believes good care and support improves lives.
• Join an organisation with a mission to empower people who are marginalised by building powerful partnerships and creative solutions that bridge gaps in provision and aid recovery, reablement and resettlement.

We are committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). We value and celebrate the unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of all our employees. We have a team of ambassadors who are staff volunteers and actively support us in fortifying our organisational value of Inclusivity. We're proud to mention that our staff Ambassadors career aspirations generally benefit from embracing this unique opportunity to develop their respective skill sets in spaces that exist outside of their daily roles. 

SIG actively encourages applications from individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds, particularly lived experience; Naturally, we approach any emerging issues with empathy and sensitivity. 

About Social Interest Group (SIG)

SIG is a not-for-profit organisation providing thousands of people with good-quality support and care in residential, drop-in centres, community floating support settings (including people's own homes), probation settings, and hospitals awaiting discharge. We do so across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, and Kent. We believe in the power of well-planned, well-managed services to make a difference. We work with high standards and external and internal regulatory frameworks.

Want to know how we work? Watch our short Theory of Change video to see how we support people towards a brighter future: Theory of Change Further details can be found on our website here: Theory of Change - Social Interest Group - Social Interest Group. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Please note that this job advert may close early due to screening applications on an ongoing basis. We advise applying as soon as possible for your application to be taken into consideration at the early stages.

Please note that as part of our process, we complete an enhanced DBS check, some roles may require further vetting. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact us on the details below. 

Additional information on our company policies including Gender Pay, Equality and Diversity, Company Benefits and our Candidate Privacy Policy can be found on our website.

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide sponsorship, please ensure you have full right to work in the UK prior to applying to our positions. 

Job Title: Family Support Worker (12 months FTC)

Salary: £30,944 - £31,004 per annum

Team: Family Support Team     

Hours: 37.5 hours per annum

Location: Christopher’s

About Shooting Star Children’s Hospices

We have an exciting opportunity for a family support to join our Family Support Team at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices provides specialist care and support to families who have a baby, child or young person with a life-limiting condition, or whose child has died. Rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, we support families across Surrey, north-west London and south-west London from diagnosis to end of life and throughout bereavement with a range of nursing, practical, emotional and medical care.

About the role

Family Support Workers (FSW) are the frontline of our psychosocial care. Each FSW holds a caseload of end-of-life and bereaved families. They get to know their families, and check-in regularly with phone calls and home visits and can provide enhanced emotional support where required through more regular contact and interventions. Our FSWs inform families about the different psychosocial care and many services they can access at Shooting Star, assess their needs and make recommendations to our specialist psychosocial MDT. They work hard to support families of different ethnicities and families living in poverty, so that our service is as equitable as possible.

Our FSWs work closely with our Therapists, Counsellors, Social Workers, Transition Team and our Care Events Team. Weekly specialist psychosocial MDT meetings bring the team together to think of ways to help families in crisis. The work is varied and creative, taking place at the hospices, in family homes and hospitals, allowing the support to be where the families need it. Our Family Support Workers are hugely appreciated by the families we support.

The ambition of our strategy is to ensure every family affected by a life-limiting condition, or the sudden death of a child, has access to the specialist care that they need. Day to day duties are:

• Being part of the duty rota over both sites monitoring 3 email inboxes and answering the Family Support Line.
• Supporting the events team with admin tasks and attending various events
• Providing on the spot emotional support, sometimes in a crisis where a calm and empathic response is required.
• Support the in-house team with families staying at Christopher’s for assessed nights and end of life care.
• Attend various sites over the course of a week, hospice, hospital, family homes. Planning your own diary effectively.
• Building connections with families from different backgrounds, delivering culturally competent care.
• Acting as an ambassador for Shooting Star’s Specialist Bereavement Service, supporting other care team members with their learning and delivery of the bereavement pathway, and continually seeking ways to improve quality.

About you

This role requires experience of working with children and families who have experienced hardship, presenting with complex needs. You should have a calm positive manner, be consistent in your approach, and convey empathy whilst maintaining professional boundaries.

Please see the attached job description for more information about this opportunity at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

What we offer

In return you will receive a competitive salary along with a range of benefits, which include: 

Pension scheme

• NHS Pension Scheme (for eligible employees) or our stakeholder pension scheme, with up to 7% employer contributions
  
  Annual leave

• 27 days plus Bank Holidays rising with length of service
• 2 weeks paid sabbatical leave after 5, 10 and 15 years’ service
  
  Contractual benefits

• Generous sick pay scheme
• Enhanced maternity, adoption, and paternity leave pay
• Flexible working arrangements
• Death in service benefits
• Reimbursed professional membership fees
• Eye care
• Employee referral scheme
• Blue Light discount card
  
  Health and wellbeing

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Occupational Health
• Mindfulness sessions
• Cycle to work scheme
• Mental Health First Aiders
• Nutritionally balanced meals at Christopher’s (free for employees) and free fruit at our Hampton site

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all our staff to share this commitment. Also, we are committed to equal opportunities and consider all applicants to be in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Employment is subject to receipt of satisfactory references and an ehanced DBS check.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Shooting Star Children’s Hospice is committed to inclusion and diversity in everything we do. We know that getting things right is critical for us to live our organisation’s values: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Excellence.

We are always trying to improve our way of working to be more inclusive and equal. Our vision is for Shooting Star Children’s Hospice to be a place where people of all backgrounds, groups and communities feel welcomed to work and volunteer.

Closing Date: 15/05/2025

Interview Date: TBC

Our amazing team at Alana House - PACT are looking for Key Workers to join our Womens Community project.  Full time or part time applicants are welcomed to apply.

Could you make a lasting difference to women facing multiple disadvantages? Our award winning trauma recovery service empowers and enables women to access the support they need.  Our service covers Reading, Berkshire, Oxford City and South Oxfordshire.

Position: Womens Community Project Key Worker

Location: Based in central Reading.  The role requires travel across Berkshire, Oxford City and South Oxfordshire, the post holder must hold a full UK drivers license with access to own transport

Contract: Permanent full time – 37 hours per week Monday to Friday.  Part time hours will also be considered

Salary: Starting salary in the range of £25,734 to £31,453 per annum, depending on skills and experience (pro rata if part time)

Having regard to the nature and context of the work, there is a genuine occupational requirement permitted under the Equality Act 2010 that this post is only available to female applicants.

About the role:

As a Key Worker at Alana House, you will hold a case load of women and be involved in one to one work support work and group based sessions.  Your Key Worker responsibilities will include:

· regularly meet with women to provide dedicated emotional and practical support

· complete initial assessments of risk and need, and provide one-to-one support across rehabilitative pathways

· create and review support plans in collaboration with the woman, and other agencies

· facilitate and deliver group-based support

About you:

As a Key Worker, you’ll bring an in depth knowledge of issues facing women with multiple disadvantages, including those with convictions and those at risk of offending.  You’ll also have significant experience of supporting women with issues such as homelessness, substance misuse, domestic abuse and mental health, preferably within a criminal justice setting.

If this sounds like you then visit our website to apply today to join a collaborative and dedicated team who are part of something truly meaningful. Contact details for an informal discussion about the role can also be found on our website.

Early applications are encouraged as we may close this vacancy on an earlier basis if a successful candidate is found.

Closing date: Midday, Wednesday 14 May 2025

Interview dates: Wednesday 07 and Friday 23 May 2025

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Family Support Worker, Family Key Worker, Womens Support Worker, Womens Key Worker, Domestic Abuse Support Worker, Domestic Abuse Key Worker, Recovery Worker, Assistant Support Worker, Assistant Key Worker, IDVA Independent Domestic Violence Advocate, ISVA Independent Sexual Violence Advocate, Probation Services Officer, etc.

Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do at PACT. We have robust measures and best practices in place to safeguard and protect the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we take pride in maintaining outstanding safeguarding standards.

Anyone joining our team is subject to PACT’s safer recruitment pre-appointment enquiries, including a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS). The role description provides information on what our safer recruitment enquiries include and the level of DBS required to work in the role.

All opportunities with PACT are based in the UK.

We are seeking a driven and dedicated Lead Community Advice Worker to join our community advocacy and advice service centred on the community that gathers in Gillett Square in Dalston, Hackney. This is an opportunity to make a real impact on the lives of people facing complex challenges, including poverty, homelessness, poor mental and physical health, disability, and racism and discrimination.

About Side by Side

Our Side by Side service has developed through several years of outreach on Gillett Square in Dalston. Recognising that many in the community that gathers there face severe disadvantages on multiple levels yet rarely seek support, we set about getting to know people, listening to their stories, and slowly building trust whilst offering practical help, advice and support. Now, our community advice workers are considered part of the community themselves and without hesitation, people refer themselves and their friends, neighbours and families to us for support. 

The Role

As our Lead Community Advice Worker, you will provide holistic advice, advocacy, and practical support to people connected to the marginalised and excluded Gillett Square community in Dalston. You will help them access essential services, navigate welfare benefits and housing issues, and challenge decisions they believe are unjust. You will also provide guidance and supervision to one Community Advice Worker. This role involves occasional outreach in Gillett Square and through home visits.

The role is offered on a part-time, 4 day week basis (0.8 FTE) with a salary of £36,050 pro rata per annum.

We are looking for someone with:

• Experience in supporting people with complex lives who face multiple disadvantages and social exclusion. 

• A proven ability to build trust and positive relationships with individuals who may be distrustful of services.

• A strong understanding of social justice and a commitment to working side by side with people in a way that empowers them to claim their rights.

• Knowledge of welfare rights and housing regulations.

• Excellent communication and advocacy skills.

• An understanding of the effects of racial discrimination and the ability to work effectively with diverse communities.

• Leadership skills and the ability to drive the service forward with service users’ needs at the forefront.

If you are passionate about social justice and meet the requirements, we encourage you to apply or get in touch to arrange an informal chat about the role.

We are recruiting for a IGVA to join our team in Barking & Dagenham; the scope on this job involves….

Job Title: IGVA

Location: Barking & Dagenham
Salary: £28,857.12 per annum
Contract type: Full-time, Fixed term (until 3 March 2026)

Hours: 37.5

We want kind and empathic people to work at Refuge, who believe in equality, diversity, and inclusion, are experts in their area of knowledge, want to make a positive difference and improve the lives of the women and children we support.

This is an opportunity to join Refuge as a Duty Worker to provide high quality practical and emotional support to survivors of domestic violence and their children seeking support from the community advocacy support service.

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.

Closing date: 9.00am on 21 May 2025

Interview date: 28 May 2025

Benefits

Refuge offers a variety of exciting opportunities to learn, develop and grow in your career. We recognise the value everyone brings to the organisation to achieve our aims and are dedicated to developing and rewarding our staff. More details of our benefits can be found in Job Information Pack.

Job Title: Positive Engagement Worker

Location: Based in Croydon, CR0 1EB, you will be based across multiple properties in the area

Salary: £27,000

Shift Pattern: 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00, you may also be required to work weekends and bank holidays as per service requirements.

About the role

We are looking for a dedicated and compassionate Positive Engagement Worker to join our team based in Croydon which aims to deliver residential based support to people referred by South London and Maudsley Trust (SLaM). Our residents are referred to gain support with their Mental Health and other multiple complex needs. Our aim is to support them and help them prepare for independent living, whilst managing their individual risks. You will be at the heart of providing person centred support in a tailored way, to help our residents improve their quality of life, and achieve their personal goals through providing flexible support. 

In this role, you will be at the centre of researching, sourcing, and providing various opportunities for our residents. This can include partnering with external employers for employment opportunities, liaising with colleges for courses and upskilling opportunities, or community based projects which residents can get involved in. The role is dynamic and you can put your own ideas forward to bring new ideas to the team to help support our residents have access to wider resources. You will work closely with the rest of the care and support teams to enhance the opportunities available to our residents. 

You will work directly with our residents to support them to overcome their personal barriers and challenges to achieve positive outcomes. You will do this through one to one support sessions, group sessions and activities, and general support with their daily living.

The role further includes:

• Plan and deliver various activities which includes within the service and outside in the local community to help gain a sense of community and belonging. This can include days out to museums, community events and other areas of interest by our residents
• Plan in service events to bring residents together which could include group cooking sessions, games days, sporting events, and religious festivals.
• Keeping support plans up to date using our online portal
• Carrying out housing management support including welfare benefits support

About you

We're looking for someone who has a true passion to support those who face challenges with their mental health and that may have substance dependency. You will be able to build rapport and trusting relations in a professional setting, and able to build positive outcomes. You will be creative in your approach to find new ways to bring people together to gain a sense of community and belonging through various events and activities both in house and externally. You will have an adaptable and flexible approach to helping others, with an understanding that each individual has different levels and types of support needs. 

You will have an understanding and ability to help others overcome their personal barriers, and will be motivated to want to make a difference to people's lives. This is a fulfilling role, and is the perfect fit for someone who has a real passion in helping others. You will have:

• Awareness of external opportunities which are available such as with education, employment and benefits
• Experience working with people with multiple and complex needs, ideally in mental health
• Ability to show empathy and compassion to our residents, and different challenges they face
• Ability  to motivate, and empower others to achieve their personal goals and overcome barriers
• IT ability to use our online CRM systems and Microsoft programs daily
• Understanding of the different needs people with multiple and complex needs have and be aware of the social marginalisation that can be attached to people who face personal challenges

Please refer to the JDPS attached for more details on the vacancy and our requirements/key criteria.

What we offer

• 25 days (Full time equivalent) annual leave, increasing with the length of service
• Training and Development, including access to courses, upskilling, and progression plans
• Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
• Reflective Practice regular sessions with a therapist provided by an external provider to support Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Eligibility to register with Blue Light Discount Card
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Annual Staff Awards
• Be part of an organisation which believes good care and support improves lives.
• Join an organisation with a mission to empower people who are marginalised by building powerful partnerships and creative solutions that bridge gaps in provision and aid recovery, reablement and resettlement.

We are committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). We value and celebrate the unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of all our employees. We have a team of ambassadors who are staff volunteers and actively support us in fortifying our organisational value of Inclusivity. We're proud to mention that our staff Ambassadors career aspirations generally benefit from embracing this unique opportunity to develop their respective skill sets in spaces that exist outside of their daily roles. 

SIG actively encourages applications from individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds, particularly lived experience; Naturally, we approach any emerging issues with empathy and sensitivity. 

About Social Interest Group (SIG)

SIG is a not-for-profit organisation providing thousands of people with good-quality support and care in residential, drop-in centres, community floating support settings (including people's own homes), probation settings, and hospitals awaiting discharge. We do so across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, and Kent. We believe in the power of well-planned, well-managed services to make a difference. We work with high standards and external and internal regulatory frameworks.

Want to know how we work? Watch our short Theory of Change video to see how we support people towards a brighter future: Theory of Change Further details can be found on our website here: Theory of Change - Social Interest Group - Social Interest Group. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Please note that this job advert may close early due to screening applications on an ongoing basis. We advise applying as soon as possible for your application to be taken into consideration at the early stages.

Please note that as part of our process, we complete an enhanced DBS check, some roles may require further vetting. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact us on the details below. 

Additional information on our company policies including Gender Pay, Equality and Diversity, Company Benefits and our Candidate Privacy Policy can be found on our website.

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide sponsorship, please ensure you have full right to work in the UK prior to applying to our positions. 

Team Leader – Semi Independent Home – South West London

£29,358 per annum

40 Hours per week, shift work including weekends and bank holidays

Twickenham (TW1)

We have presently a fantastic opportunity to join one of our 16+ Homes, located in Twickenham, and make a difference to our Young People’s lives.

About Us

Our vision is for every child and young person to be safe, loved and happy, to achieve their potential and have a bright future.

St Christopher's is a leading charity for children and young people and we are proud of our history for providing fostering, children's homes and a range of innovative leaving care services across the UK & Isle of Man.  We have a passionate commitment to our young people, placing them at the centre of everything we do.  We provide positive life experiences for young people who are unable to sustain a placement in their parental or foster home.

We are an equal-opportunity employer keen to develop an inclusive workforce where people feel they belong.  We hope to attract applications from under- represented groups, including people from different cultures, nationalities, socioeconomic backgrounds, ages, disabilities, religions, faith, sex, orientation, childcare responsibilities, and gender-diverse identities.

St Christopher’s Academy

At St Christopher's we can offer you a career where you can develop your skills and knowledge while making a difference to young people’s lives.

When you join St Christopher’s, we will set you up in your career with a tailored development plan. Whether you want to move across to a different service, become a Manager or just explore further your current role, we will support you to map out your career trajectory and help you achieve your professional ambitions. If you want to learn more about St Christopher’s Academy, please visit our website.

We are proud that 84% of all our Team Leaders, Deputies and Managers are internal promotions. 

About the Role

As Team Leader, you will assist the Manager in the running of a 16+ semi-independent supported accommodation service, supporting the delivery of high quality transition services for young people that promote their independence and increase their life skills.

We have an enthusiastic team including Support Workers, Waking Night Staff and Management who all have different interests which they bring to the service. If you’re ready for a challenge and think you have the skills to drive St Christopher’s forward we would love to hear from you!

Applicants should have

· At least two year’s relevant experience providing housing and/or support services to vulnerable individuals

· A good understanding of the regulatory framework relevant to the provision of housing services for young people

· Knowledge of the welfare benefits system in relation to young people.

· Ability to lead, motivate, supervise and support staff and be a positive role model.

· Ability to prioritise own workload and to work flexibly to meet deadlines or service requirements.

· Ability to use own initiative as well as be an active team member.

· Flexibility to occasionally work evening and weekend shifts and participating in the On-Call system.

In return we offer:

· Salary of £29,358 per annum.

· Competitive pay and reward structure offering salary progression based on performance.

· A friendly working environment, a fun, open and honest culture.

· 25 days holiday rising to 27 days after 3 years’ service, plus Bank Holidays, pro-rata.

· Industry leading training programme including access to level 3 qualifications, children’s right and participation, CSE, empowerment, mental health and social pedagogy.

· Contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity and company sick scheme.

· UK Life Assurance (Death in service) to the value of 3 times your annual salary.

· BUPA employee assistance programme, offering counselling, financial advice and legal support.

· Cycle to work scheme.

· Bluelight card; discount shopping scheme at hundreds of retailers across the UK.

· Discretionary funded training programs.

· Employee awards based on performance and length of service.

· Fantastic opportunities to develop your career within our range of services.

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. For the full Job Description and Person Specification please visit our website.

For more information or assistance during the application process, please visit our website

Closing date: TBC

Interview date: TBC

We advise to apply as soon as possible as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Please note this post has a minimum age restriction  of 21 for roles working directly with children and young people in our residential and semi-independent Homes in line with the Equality Act ‘occupational requirement’.

Job description

We are recruiting one or more Support Workers to work primarily at our Stud Nursery community garden project in Home Park, Richmond Borough as well as the potential of supporting our clients in the Wandsworth Borough.
 

Who we are

At Balance we are committed to empowering those we support to build independent, fulfilled and self-confident lives. We work hard to ensure our charitable values are central to the professional experience of those who work for us, with us and who benefit from our services.
 

About this post
You will be creative and independent thinker, with a desire to demonstrate and develop positive relationships with your colleagues and clients alike. You must have excellent IT skills. You will need the patience and and a commitment to enhancing the experience of those using our services on the basis of individual preferences, strengths and skills.
 

You are someone who:

• shares our values of professionalism, staff recognition, independence, empowerment, partnership and sustainability
• has excellent interpersonal, organisation and IT skills. 
• is willing to actively support and promote the charity's objectives across its core boroughs and contractual partnerships.
• works well both in a team and independently.

Working expectations:

• The working day is 8:30am - 4:30pm Monday to Friday, with the possibility of some out of hours or weekend working. Clients are typically on site from 9:30am - 3:30pm.
• Attendance and commitment to further training. 
• We are open to the possibility of multiple part-time roles within this setting.

Key Responsibilities for this role

• Through partnership, support and develop client’s skills, confidence and interests as part of a multi-disciplinary service offer. 
• To support your colleagues, team leaders, service managers, volunteers and other key professionals to put those using our services at the centre of your daily work. 
• To support the planning and delivery of garden-based activities and therapeutic interventions for adults with complex needs. 
• To maintain and update client and related operational records with an accurate and professional commitment. 
• To ensure compliance with and the delivery of the charity policies and procedures particularly those related to safeguarding, inclusion and disability discrimination. 

Please note we will be holding interviews as we get applicants in and may close the post early.

We are unable to support applicants who do not already have the right to work in the UK.

You must submit a cover letter explaining why you feel you are a suitable fit for this role and what your expectation of commitment to hours would be.

We are recruiting for a full time and part time Support Worker. A great opportunity to join a small friendly team. Are you empathetic towards and have passion, a commitment to working with those who have faced multiple disadvantages in their lives. Emmaus is a supported housing project that provides work opportunities, training and a place to call home. You will support companions (residents) living and working at Sussex Emmaus.

Project info:
Sussex Emmaus is a 58 bed supported accommodation project. We offer low to medium support for those who have experienced or may be at risk of experiencing homelessness. Emmaus supports people to work their way out of homelessness, providing a home for as long as someone needs it. Emmaus works with people who may have faced multiple disadvantages. This can include but is not exclusive to: homelessness; mental health issues; contact with the criminal justice system; historical substance and/or alcohol misuse; and domestic abuse.
Emmaus is a homelessness charity with a difference, we offer a home, work and a sense of belonging. For many people who have experienced homelessness, losing their self-esteem can be the most damaging part of their experience. Emmaus provides an opportunity to work; it can be valuable in rebuilding companion’s self-esteem and self-worth. 

Job Summary:
Provide support to Companions using a person-centred approach, both emotionally and practically, so they can live and work in the Emmaus Community. The role will involve using a Strength Based Practice model to encourage Companions to become resilient and fulfilled. Assist Companions to become independent and maximise their skills, where necessary accessing outside support and services. Where appropriate, in accordance with Companion requests, provide a move-on pathway that enables them to be ready to live independently. 
Promote and embed a proactive approach to equality and diversity, by example and approach, with a commitment to treat all staff, volunteers, visitors and Companions with equity and respect.
Please see the Support Worker Job Pack for more information about the role, you can also find this on the Emmaus Brighton and Hove website and the Emmaus UK website. 

Job Title: Mental Health Rehabilitation Worker

Location: In service based in Catford across two sites (SE6 2QB & SE6 3BE)

Salary: £27,000

Shift Pattern: 37.5 hours a week over a rota which can include 12.5 hour shifts (including breaks) Monday to Sunday (Including weekends, and bank holidays) 08:00 - 20:30. We also have a night rota between 20:00 - 08:30 which is not a part of this role but desirable if there is flexibility around working patterns

About the role

We are looking for a Mental Health Rehabilitation Worker to work within our Integrated Community Rehabilitation Service which provides rehabilitation support to residents who face challenges with their mental health, and have been discharged from acute mental health wards to start structured rehabilitation support for 9 months in the community. You will work directly with our residents to support them to overcome their personal barriers and challenges to achieve positive outcomes. You will do this through one to one support sessions, group sessions and activities, and general support with their daily living. This is not a personal care role, but is a role to rehabilitate and empower our residents towards independent living.

The role further includes:

• Supporting residents with taking their correct medication
• Carrying out various health and safety tasks, including reporting repairs and maintenance
• Keeping support plans up to date using our online portal
• Plan and deliver various activities which includes within the service and outside in the local community. This can include days out to museums and other areas of interest by our residents
• Carrying out housing management support including welfare benefits support

The service works closely with a dedicated clinical team provided by South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLAM). The clinical team includes an Occupational Therapist, Psychologist, and Psychiatrist, complimented by a Substance Misuse/Dual Diagnosis worker in our internal team. The Rehabilitation service works with adults aged between 18 and 65, from Croydon, Lewisham, and Southwark. You will be part of a service which offers 24 hour support across 2 buildings in Catford. 

Please refer to the JDPS attached for more details on the vacancy and our requirements/key criteria.

About you

We are looking for someone who has a true passion to support those who face challenges with their mental health. You will be able build rapport and trusting relations with others in a professional setting, and able to build positive outcomes. You will be adaptable and flexible in your approach, and understand that each individual has different level and types of support needs, you will be able to flex your approach to suit the needs of our resident groups. You will have an understanding and ability to help others overcome their personal barriers, and will be motivated to want to make a difference to people's lives. This is a fulfilling role, and is the perfect fit for someone who has a real passion in helping others.

• You will be able to show empathy and compassion to our residents, and different challenges they face
• You will be able to motivate, and empower others to achieve their personal goals and overcome barriers
• You will need some level of IT ability as we record records using our online CRM systems and use Microsoft programs daily
• You will have previous experience working with people with multiple and complex needs, ideally in mental health
• You will have previous experience in creating co-produced support plans, key working, and care plans
• You will understand the housing and social needs of people with multiple and complex needs and be aware of the social marginalisation that can be attached to people who face personal challenges

What we offer

• 25 days (Full time equivalent) annual leave, increasing with the length of service
• Training and Development, including access to courses, upskilling, and progression plans
• Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
• Reflective Practice regular sessions with a therapist provided by an external provider to support Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Eligibility to register with Blue Light Discount Card
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Annual Staff Awards
• Be part of an organisation which believes good care and support improves lives.
• Join an organisation with a mission to empower people who are marginalised by building powerful partnerships and creative solutions that bridge gaps in provision and aid recovery, reablement and resettlement.

We are committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). We value and celebrate the unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of all our employees. We have a team of ambassadors who are staff volunteers and actively support us in fortifying our organisational value of Inclusivity. 

SIG actively encourages applications from individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds, particularly lived experience; Naturally, we approach any emerging issues with empathy and sensitivity. As an organisation, we’re proud to mention that our staff Ambassadors career aspirations generally benefit from embracing this unique opportunity to develop their respective skill sets in spaces that exist outside of their daily roles. 

SIG is a not-for-profit organisation providing thousands of people with good-quality support and care in residential, drop-in centres, community floating support settings (including people's own homes), probation settings, and hospitals awaiting discharge. We do so across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, and Kent. We believe in the power of well-planned, well-managed services to make a difference. We work with high standards and external and internal regulatory frameworks.

Want to know how we work? Watch our short Theory of Change video to see how we support people towards a brighter future: Theory of Change Further details can be found on our website here: Theory of Change - Social Interest Group - Social Interest Group. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Please note that this job advert may close early due to screening applications on an ongoing basis. We advise applying as soon as possible for your application to be taken into consideration at the early stages.

Please note that as part of our process, we complete an enhanced DBS check, some roles may require further vetting. We are an inclusive employer and encourage applicants from all backgrounds. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact us on the details below. 

Additional information on our company policies including Gender Pay, Equality and Diversity, Company Benefits and our Candidate Privacy Policy can be found on our website.

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide sponsorship, please ensure you have full right to work in the UK prior to applying to our positions. 

We're looking for a kind, compassionate, and resilient Support Worker to join our Learning Disabilities service in Tower Hamlets.

£27,352.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

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

Our benefits include:

Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
Free DBS
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
Healthcare Cashplan through our partner Healthshield
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
Support Workers will provide support to customers to help them develop the life skills they require to meet the assessed needs of the customers of the service. In some services, this will include providing physical, domestic, emotional and social care. They will work with customers to promote social inclusion and alongside other members of the team to promote independent living, encouraging customers to maximise their skills and choices.

The shifts for this role are Monday - Friday.

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:

If a need arises, deliver all aspects of support to enable a customer to develop independent living skills as appropriate to the individual needs of the customer. In some services, this will include delivering personal and physical care as appropriate
Support customer's practical assistance where they have not yet developed the skills
Participate in the support planning and risk management. Enable customers to make full use of community facilities by providing support as directed
Enable customers to make full use of leisure and learning-based opportunities in the service as well as in the community by providing support as directed e.g. Gym, swimming and visiting various public amenities
Supporting customers in the delivery of their prescribed health, physio, nutritional and sensory routines with guidance from/in partnership with external healthcare professionals
Partnership working with a range of stakeholders including families, healthcare professionals, external personal assistants other support agencies to maximise outcomes for customers
Providing support around personal care and mobility as well as the moving and handling of customers with physical disabilities/wheelchair users

For the full list please see our website.

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:

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
Flexible
Open to feedback and self development
Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organised
Thrives on change and enjoys dynamic diverse environments
Is confident with high levels of self-esteem
Is respectful, articulate and sensitive in style of communication
Is motivated towards excellence and improvement of personal performance with a can do attitude
Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage customer involvement
Ability to cope positively with challenging and diverse behaviour

What you'll bring:

Essential:

NVQ Level 2 or equivalent or experience within charity/social care sector

Desirable:

Experience in working with people with Learning Disabilities and Autism
Experience in PBS approach
Bengali speaking

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.