Independent social worker jobs

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Specialist Support Worker to join our Mental Health Social Care Service in Lambeth. No personal care or experience is required, just the right values.

£29,101.99 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

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

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

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
* 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.

We are looking for someone with an inspiring and creative personality to work as part of a team within the Independent Living Medication Support Service.
You will work with clients diagnosed with a mental health condition and who are living within the borough of Lambeth in their own homes.
The role of the Specialist Support Worker is to enable our customers to develop greater independence and fulfilling lives. As part of your role, you will be required to oversee Medication compliance, provide practical support to those with general needs issues.
Create robust Support and Risk plans, updating as required, and working with a patch list of customers on an agreed basis.
Enable customers to improve their overall wellbeing, through maintaining good physical and mental health, motivating customers to par-take in social activities, and assisting customers to identify goals to improve their quality of life.
Ensure customers have applied for the correct benefits; that customers are managing their rent and utilities, whilst maintaining their home to a safe standard.
Applicants require a good standard of English and Maths, and established IT skills in the workplace, to support the multiple IT systems we use within the organisation. We are looking for staff members who are motivated and keen to positively engage with our customers.

Working pattern of 12 hrs shifts rolling:

W1: 3 day week
W2: 3 day week
W3: 3 day week
W4: 4 day week

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.

Please see our jobs site for the full job description.

About this role: Based in Higher Openshaw, East Manchester, Justlife currently works across Manchester and Tameside providing one-to-one key work support to empower vulnerable adults housed in temporary accommodation (TA) to move towards more secure housing, independent living and improved health and wellbeing. The role of Specialist Support Worker involves playing an active part in the Specialist Support Team by supporting a caseload of clients that are experiencing housing vulnerability and taking part in regular outreach visits to TA’s across Greater Manchester on the Justlife minibus. The role requires the use of specialist knowledge and relationship skills to support clients with varying degrees of mental and physical health, addiction and trauma related issues to engage with health services and to access suitable housing solutions. The Specialist Support Worker is also expected to develop good working relationships with TA Landlords and Managers recognising the important role that they play in ensuring that their tenants experience of TA is as positive as possible. This will include advocacy in registering them for medical services and accompanying them to appointments, assisting them in addressing all aspects of physical and mental health and addiction needs, as well as advocating for them to get access to suitable housing and social security benefits. The role is dependent on excellent communication and collaborative working with colleagues and a variety of partners and professionals, including the Probation Service, local council services and other third sector organisations. The role requires a high degree of motivation in addition to creativity and flexibility to support people with multiple and compound needs. With a passion to work collaboratively with others for the good of our clients, and with experience of working in a related field in a voluntary or paid capacity. A high degree of emotional intelligence is required to support clients, many of whom have complex emotional needs, with backgrounds of trauma, neglect, abuse and involvement in the criminal justice system. In a role of this nature you will experience a range of emotions from joy to grief and as such it requires a high degree of resilience and self-awareness to cope with the emotional demands of the role. The role sits within a highly supportive team with all staff in receipt of regular line management and external clinical supervision; with reflective practice actively encouraged in team meetings.

37.5 hours per week / £27,770 per annum / permanent / working onsite on a seven-day rolling rota, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

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.

 services delivers specialist 24-hour supported accommodation where young people are supported to acquire the necessary skills in preparation for living independently, safely explore their increased freedom of choice and develop responsibilities associated with adulthood, whilst still having the appropriate level of support from an experienced team.

We adopt a trauma informed and psychologically informed approach to supporting our residents to help them build essential life skills, identify their goals and support residents into independent accommodation. We have a dedicated team of Support Workers, Night Workers and additional Bank Workers who provide support, guidance, and signposting around areas such as housing, budgeting, living skills, jobs and relationship building.

We are looking for a Supported Housing Support Worker to join our Ewhurst Road, Crawley team, who will hold a caseload of residents and meet with them weekly to build a support plan. 

Main areas of responsibilities are:

Housing:

• Coach young people to manage their occupancy agreement and adhere to house rules, in preparation for independent living
• Promote a credit culture, encouraging young people to keep up to date with all payments for rent
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of housing and welfare benefits for young people and be well-informed on significant changes to housing law
• Deal effectively with non-compliance issues, such as non-payment of rent or damage to room, using restorative practices and working collaboratively with the rest of the team

Coaching and Engagement:

• Coach young people so they can articulate their aspirations and ambitions and take the lead in acquiring the skills they need to live independent and fulfilling lives
• Ensure young people are encouraged to take responsibility for their own personal development, to engage with the services on offer and build strong networks and connections within the local community 
• Ensure consistent standards of safeguarding and Trauma Informed Practice when supporting young people, observing our safeguarding procedures, and keeping yourself and residents safe by respecting professional boundaries
• Maintain client records on In-Form (client database) detailing the young person’s journey in relation to their strengths and needs, any risks, and any outcomes (to monitor service performance)

General:

• Work as part of a team, on a rota shift pattern, ensuring young people at the service have non-judgemental, objective, and supportive staff during the day/evening, along with taking responsibility for personal safety during periods of lone working
• Contribute to a great working environment, with a calm, yet assertive manner, being able to handle potentially difficult situations
• Participate in relevant continuing professional development and utilise Reflective Practice Supervision as part of leading psychologically informed practice

There will be times when lone working will be a requirement for this role, but you will get to know the team and service, along with an induction and training prior to starting on a rota. Please download the job profile for full role details.

If you are enthusiastic about this opportunity but don’t meet every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Your skills and experiences may be more transferable than you think, and you could be exactly the person we’re looking for.

This is a dynamic and varied role; you will be passionate about being involved in the support and growth of young people.

Experience and Knowledge:

• Experience relating to housing, support work, and/or working with young people at risk
• Experience of working proactively with a caseload of young people with multiple and complex needs to enable them to achieve independent living
• Knowledge of statutory and voluntary resources available to young people with multiple and complex needs
• Knowledge of good safeguarding procedures in relation to young people and the ability to maintain effective professional boundaries
• Demonstrated confidence and competence in recording notes/actions in service log, incident forms and health and safety check lists

Skills and Abilities: 

• Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing for appropriate recording of a resident’s progression, and to evidence outcomes achieved
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with all stakeholders, including signposting and advocating for clients as necessary
• Ability to work autonomously, and use own initiative, as well as being part of a team
• Clear verbal and written communication skills, good IT, and keyboard skills
• Ability to de-escalate volatile situations and manage challenging behaviour appropriately

CLOSING DATE: Wednesday 18 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 check.

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 Support Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex needs Service in Croydon.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

Empower a caseload of service users to manage their health and wellbeing. As part of a team, you will support a ​staffing rota offering support to service users between the hours of 8am-10pm Mon-Sun each week. In ​collaboration with your team, you will actively monitor wellbeing, mental health, housing and living environment ​to ensure service users journey into independence. Moreover, you will take a solution focused and co-produced approach to supporting service users with their move-on into independent living.​

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.

You will have experience working with people with mental health and/or dual diagnosis needs, gained through paid or voluntary roles. You will be able to learn quickly, gather and assess information, and make sound decisions while accurately recording and sharing information in line with confidentiality requirements. You will be confident supporting individuals who may display challenging behaviour, using a calm, non-judgemental and solution-focused approach to de-escalate difficult situations and work collaboratively towards positive outcomes. The role requires resilience and optimism, with a strong belief in people's capacity for change, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and sometimes pressured environment. A sound understanding of safeguarding is essential, along with the ability to respond appropriately to concerns. You must also be flexible and willing to work unsociable hours, including early and late shifts and occasional weekends as part of a team rota.

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.

About you:

Your friends as know you as empathetic, compassionate, and non-judgemental.

You are great at inspiring and motivating people to take action and improve themselves.

You are very self-aware, reliable, attentive and punctual.

Perhaps you are already aware of the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness and understand how to support them. You may have gained this knowledge as a volunteer, through a previous job, or from your personal lived experience.

If all this sounds like you then you could make a great addition to our fantastic support team here at Homeless Oxfordshire.

About the role

In this role we will trust you to work with other team members on a caseload of clients delivering personalised support to them. You will proactively engage with our clients and provide a hand so they can overcome barriers, move into independent living and sustain a tenancy. Our clients have a range of support needs that impact their experience of homelessness. This includes mental health problems, social isolation, challenging behaviour, finance and debt, alcohol and drug abuse. You will deliver structured support and do some risk management so we will trust you to keep proper records and complete some admin tasks. This includes, reviewing support and risk plans, involving key stakeholders where required, showing and signposting our clients to appropriate external support and services, following safeguarding procedures, do some cleaning and contribute to the delivery of a housing management service including collecting income. You’ll also resolve difficult and challenging situations in a sensitive manner balancing the needs of the clients and the safety of the service.

Main Responsibilities Of The Role:

· Ensure the effective delivery of high quality care, support and housing management according to Homeless Oxfordshire policies and procedures.

· To be a supportive and effective part of the team working as part of a rota including evenings and weekends.

· Maintain a safe, clean and welcoming environment.

· To support and encourage clients to care for themselves and develop independent living skills.

· To assess and manage risk for individuals and in the service, making use of emergency services as required.

· Report any safeguarding concerns without delay in line with procedures.

· To make and maintain Housing Benefit claims and support clients to pay their service charges regularly.

· To work in partnership with other agencies to ensure the delivery of holistic wrap around support.

· To support the running of the service and perform shift responsibilities and duties that maintain good health and safety and ensures the safeguarding of clients and others.

· Manage challenging situations in line with procedures and to ensure the safety of yourself and others.

· To participate in handovers at the beginning and end of shifts, ensuring that information is properly recorded and passed on where appropriate and relevant and in a timely fashion.

· Ensure that IT systems are updated as required and concise record keeping is completed promptly.

· Maintain positive relationships with clients, relatives, carers, professionals, commissioners, contractors and the local community.

· Ensure clients are aware of and support them to maximise their opportunity to be involved in Client Participation.

· To participate in the induction of and support new team members.

· To ensure that Homeless Oxfordshire’s Equal Opportunities Policies are complied with and promoted in carrying out duties of the post.

· To undertake any other duties that can be reasonably required to meet the operational needs of Homeless Oxfordshire.

About us:

We are an open door for people experiencing homelessness whose lives have been shaped by trauma and disadvantage; providing safety, stability and support when it is needed most. We deliver this support across Oxfordshire by providing a range of accommodation with access to high quality support, offering a safe and welcoming space for people to take control of their own lives. We are an accredited Oxford Living Wage employer, and benefits to the role include: annual leave starting at 26 days (excluding bank holidays), flexible working, enhanced benefits with qualifying service, retail discounts with our Homeless Oxfordshire Benefits Hub, and life assurance up to four times your salary and a £250 bonus if you successfully refer a someone as a new colleague through our Employee Referral Scheme as a thanks from us!

Open to: This role is a shift and rota'd role that includes bank holidays.

What’s Next: Have a look at the job description to find out more about the role and apply on our website. Please be aware that this role is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure check and will be undertaken for the successful candidate. We also do not offer work sponsorship for this role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we identify a suitable candidate before the advertised closing date.

At YMCA DownsLink Group, our mission 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.

We are looking for Bank Supported Housing Support Workers to join our Our 16+ Older Looked After Young People (OLYP), Care Leavers and Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC) services. Our OLYP services delivers specialist 24-hour supported accommodation where young people are supported to acquire the necessary skills in preparation for living independently, safely explore their increased freedom of choice and develop responsibilities associated with adulthood, whilst still having the appropriate level of support from an experienced team.

We adopt a trauma informed and psychologically informed approach to supporting our residents to help them build essential life skills, identify their goals and support residents into independent accommodation. We have a dedicated team of Support Workers, Night Workers and additional Bank Workers who provide support, guidance, and signposting around areas such as housing, budgeting, living skills, jobs and relationship building

Our Bank Support Worker roles are similar to our Support Workers roles, but they work on a more flexible, temporary basis – they are great way into the organisation and can be a stepping stone into other roles. 

You will be offered available shifts (day, evening, night, weekends and bank holidays) in advance and at short notice – you choose which ones you want to work.

In this rewarding role you will work proactively and creatively alongside young people providing support, guidance, and signposting around areas such as housing, budgeting, living skills, jobs and relationship building. You will contribute to the smooth and safe running of the services by providing consistency and reliability.

You will ideally have experience of working with a similar client group and a good understanding of the key risks, challenges and opportunities for young people.

If you’re enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferrable. You may be just the right candidate. 

About Grapevine Wellbeing Centre

·Grapevine Wellbeing Centre is an independent charity supporting adults within our community to improve and maintain their own mental health. We do this through bringing people together, promoting creativity and embracing the natural environment as tools to move people forward.

·As the project coordinator, you will work in conjunction with the trustees to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the charity, including the daily health and safety.

·We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We warmly welcome applications from people of colour, people living with a disability, and those with lived experience of marginalisation. If you need any adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.

About the role

The majority of our charity's funding comes from the National Lottery Community Fund, and we are now looking for a project coordinator to join our team. This role is funded until March 2029. The Project Coordinator will maintain, improve, and sustain all three strands of the charity: Weekday Grapevine, Community Grapevine, and Evening and Weekend Grapevine.

Key Responsibilities:

·The running of the Wellbeing Centre and drop-in sessions, groups/courses and community activities run through the Centre.

·Ensuring that all financial transactions and cash handling systems are properly and effectively recorded.

·The support and training of volunteers.

·To engage in community activities outside the Centre

To apply, please email your CV and a covering letter explaining how your skills and experience make you a strong fit for this role using the person specification as your guide.

Person Specifications

We’re looking for passionate individuals who care deeply about people, community, and equity, and who have a strong understanding of mental health.

Community Engagement & Inclusion

• • Experience designing and leading inclusive activities
  • Commitment to involving marginalised groups
  • Strong communication and volunteer management skills

Practical & Creative Skills

• • Confidence leading hands-on activities
  • An understanding of health and safety requirements
  • Skilled in monitoring, reporting and funding bids

Evaluation and monitoring

• • Excellent IT skills, including Canva, Eventbrite and Microsoft Office
  • Ability to implement and manage systems to track and evaluate project progress

Personal Qualities

• • Passionate advocate for wellbeing
  • Creative and self-motivated
  • Comfortable working independently and in emotionally sensitive environments
  • Skilled at managing group dynamics and defusing situations
  • Clear understanding of professional boundaries
  • Proven project coordination experience

Positive Pathways Coach (IAG Worker)

Salary: £32,000 | Contract: Permanent, Full-time | Location: St Helens

Are you passionate about empowering individuals to build skills and confidence for independent living? YMCA St Helens is seeking a Positive Pathways Coach (IAG Worker) to design and deliver a high-quality programme of training, activities, and events for residents and beneficiaries. You’ll work closely with stakeholders and internal teams to create opportunities that transform lives.

Key Responsibilities

Design and deliver engaging training, workshops, and events covering:
              • Health and wellbeing literacy
              • Financial literacy
              • Cultural understanding
              • Tenancy maintenance
              • Domestic skills (cooking, cleaning)
              • English language and other development opportunities
Provide 1:1 support to help residents develop skills for independent living

Build strong partnerships with community organisations and facilitators

Organise venues, resources, and manage programme budgets

Maintain accurate records and contribute to reports for stakeholders

Continuously improve the programme based on participant feedback

About You
Essential:

• Experience in delivering high-quality information, advice, and guidance
• Proven ability to design and deliver workshops and training programmes
• Strong understanding of challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders and multi-disciplinary teams
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Cultural competence and commitment to equality and inclusion
• Ability to work flexibly and independently

Desirable:

• Experience delivering IAG to people experiencing homelessness
• Knowledge of UK welfare benefits and housing rights
• Training and development qualification (e.g., NVQ in Learning & Development, PTTLS, CTTLS)
• Experience supporting refugees or those with humanitarian protection status
• Lived experience of homelessness

Why Join Us?

• Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals
• Lead innovative programmes that empower people to thrive
• Be part of a supportive, values-driven team

Closing Date: 12 noon, 6th February 2026
Interviews: Week commencing 16th February 2026
 

Specialist Support Worker - Co-Production Lead

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Specialist Support Worker to join our homelessness Social Care Service in Tower Hamlets.

£29.073 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel valued? 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
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.

What you'll do:

Support customers with job searches and employment search as well as support with completing job applications and CVs
Carrying out holistic assessments of new customers which incorporate relevant statutory referral information
Conducting regular key work sessions that are innovative and engaging in order to achieve Support Plan goals
Key-working the most complex service-users with particular needs aligned with the post holder's specialism - Co-Production
Create support plans for providing appropriate services based on on-going assessment and reflecting the services and resources available to enable customer to progress in their recovery
Ensuring ongoing assessment and management of risks associated with customers within an attitude of 'positive risk taking'
Provide support and access to relevant services to enable customers to continue their recovery and empower customers to self-manage their medication regimes through individual re-enablement programmes and informed decision making

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:

Embraces a Psychologically Informed approach
Is capable of maintaining unconditional positive regard
Views challenging behaviour as a support need.
A strong specialist support worker with excellent interpersonal skills
Socially adept, networks widely, well connected in sector, influential
Approachable, open & professional behaviour
At ease in directing others, is assertive and independent minded, will challenge others, and skilled in resolving conflict
Drives change, enjoys dynamic diverse environments and demonstrates entrepreneurialism, creativity and innovation
Demonstrates significant confidence and high levels of self-esteem
Demonstrates significant levels of emotional resilience and a positive attitude
Is respectful, articulate and sensitive in style of communication
Is passionate and enthusiastic about the business
Is motivated towards excellence and improvement of personal performance with a can do attitude
Is Customer focussed
We welcome applications from individuals with lived experiences of using services
What you'll bring:

Essential:

Up to NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in a relevant area (e.g. psychology, Health and Social Care, Mental Health) OR experience in the social care/charity sector.
Experience building and develop strong professional partnerships with external providers aligned to their specialism
Desirable:

2-3 years experience providing targeted recovery focussed support to individuals with needs around trauma, mental health, substance use and dual diagnosis.

For our full job description please visit our website

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.

Birmingham and Solihull Women’s aid have for over 45 years supported women and children with services around domestic violence and abuse. Could you be a part of our team as we continue our mission to end domestic violence and abuse? 

The region’s leading charity in tackling violence against women and girls, BSWA offers a helpline, webchat, drop in and and community support as well as emergency accommodation in six refuges across the area.  

Projects supports women in the criminal justice system, in healthcare settings, and throughout the community, offering support to women and children experiencing domestic violence. Alongside this, we also have staff offering training and consultancy to businesses and health and social care professionals alike, raising awareness on gender based violence issues.  

We seek like-minded women to join our enthusiastic team of workers, all of us passionate about the vital and valuable work we do to support women and children who have experienced domestic abuse, and tackling the wider issues of violence against women and girls. 

To provide specialist expertise on DVA within the Public Protection Unit (PPU) and the local policing unit (LPU) across Coventry and Solihull police stations, covering Solihull Borough. This role will support the improvement of police practice by providing tailored guidance, advice, and professional support to officers and staff, strengthening their understanding of safe, trauma informed and appropriate interventions with women and children affected by DVA.

 To provide information, support and signposting for women accessing WMP  disclosing experiences of domestic violence/abuse.

- Influencing professional practice, including delivering training and awareness sessions
- Carrying out needs and risk assessments and support of women experiencing abuse
- Working within safeguarding guidelines to protect and promote the well-being of children and young people
- Monitoring and evaluating projects

Benefits  

• 31 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays) 

• Up to 6% matched pension contribution 

• Free access to Employee Assistance Programme 

• Life Assurance scheme while in employment (a lump sum of 4 times salary) 

• Cycle to Work scheme 

• Health Cash Plan scheme available to all employees from day one 

• Successful candidates may have the opportunity to work under hybrid working arrangements, subject to the role and to the terms of our Hybrid Working Policy 

BSWA is a Disability Confident Employer. We want everyone to have equal chance at being considered for our jobs. Should you be unable to submit your application online and would prefer an alternative method, or you are experiencing another barrier to completing your application, please contact our recruitment team.

These posts are covered by a Genuine Occupational Requirement (Schedule 9; Equality Act 2010) and women only need apply.  

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is at 12 noon on Monday 9th Feb. Interviews will take place weeks commencing 2nd and 9th March.  

About You:

Those who know you describe you as kind, understanding, and open-minded. You listen without judgement and treat everyone with dignity and respect.

In the workplace, you are recognised as reliable, approachable, and professional. You communicate clearly, remain calm under pressure, and are confident managing competing priorities. You have a natural ability to encourage, empower, and motivate others to make positive changes, even in challenging circumstances.

You are reflective and emotionally intelligent, with a strong desire to support individuals to achieve greater independence and wellbeing. Making a meaningful difference isn’t just important to you — it’s what drives you.

You may already have an understanding of the complex challenges faced by people who are vulnerable or at risk of exclusion. This experience could come from previous employment, volunteering, training, or your own lived experience, and you are keen to use this knowledge to support others.

If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you and welcome you to join our dedicated and supportive team.

Main Purpose Of Job:

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to join our team in a dual-role capacity, supporting two vital services run in partnership with Homeless Oxfordshire and Connection Support. The role covers both our Step Down provision—designed for individuals discharged from hospital under the Discharge to Assess model—and our service at Mawle Court, which provides temporary accommodation and support for people with complex needs, including those preparing for more independent living or in need of emergency provision. Working as part of a small, dynamic, and enthusiastic team, you will be responsible for delivering a safe and supportive environment across both services. You will lead on the case management of clients with complex needs, working collaboratively with partner agencies to develop and implement holistic, individualised support and move-on plans. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals, helping them on their journey towards stability and independence.

Main Areas Of Responsibility:

• To proactively and dynamically assess, monitor, manage and respond to risk for individuals and in the service.

• To assess risk and suitability of referrals to the service and book new clients in.

• Ensure the effective delivery of high-quality care, support and housing management according to Homeless Oxfordshire policies and procedures.

• To work collaboratively with partner agencies to ensure the creation and delivery of holistic wrap around support and risk management plans for clients with complex needs as well as to ensure clients have access to appropriate healthcare as needed.

• To work collaboratively with clients to identify and work towards suitable move on.

• To work with other agencies to provide client centred support & risk management plans for clients with complex needs to identify work towards a suitable move on option within 6 weeks.

• To work alongside the Client Engagement Co-Ordinator to ensure clients have access to opportunities to be empowered, build their confidence and develop independent living skills; to facilitate groups and activities as part of this.

• To make and maintain Housing Benefit claims.

• Ensure that IT systems are updated as required clear, concise and up to date record keeping is maintained and ensure information is shared with the team and external agencies as required.

• To represent Homeless Oxfordshire at interagency meetings, as required.

• Manage challenging situations and report any safeguarding concerns without delay in line with procedures and to ensure the safety of yourself and others.

• Maintain positive relationships with all stakeholders.

• Contribute to a positive working environment in which equality and diversity are valued and staff are enabled to do their best.

• To be a supportive and effective part of the team, including contributing to the induction of new colleagues and work of the broader team.

• To ensure that Homeless Oxfordshire’s Equal Opportunities Policies are complied with and promoted in carrying out duties of the post.

• Comply with Homeless Oxfordshire’s policies and procedures.

• To undertake any other duties that can be reasonably required to meet the operational needs of Homeless Oxfordshire.

About Us:

We are an open door for people experiencing homelessness whose lives have been shaped by trauma and disadvantage; providing safety, stability and support when it is needed most. We deliver this support across Oxfordshire by providing a range of accommodation with access to high quality support, offering a safe and welcoming space for people to take control of their own lives. We are an accredited Oxford Living Wage employer, and benefits to the role include: annual leave starting at 26 days (excluding bank holidays), flexible working, enhanced benefits with qualifying service, retail discounts with our Homeless Oxfordshire Benefits Hub, and life assurance up to four times your salary and a £250 bonus if you successfully refer a someone as a new colleague through our Employee Referral Scheme as a thanks from us!

What’s Next: Have a look at the job description to find out more about the role and apply on our website. Please be aware that this role is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure check and will be undertaken for the successful candidate .

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we identify a suitable candidate before the advertised closing date.

In Work Support Worker
Salary: £15 p/h
Place of work: Various London locations
Contract Period: Various hours as needed – Zero hours contract (Bank Staff)

About the Organisation

Action on Disability (AoD), founded in 1979, is one of London’s leading Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs).  As we believe in the Social Model of Disability, our values and principles embrace inclusive and accessible ways of working, seeking co-production and co-design from our Disabled members and encouraging and respecting diversity.

AoD is a medium sized charity with a Board of Trustees, 24 staff, a strong pool of casual staff and volunteers, including many with lived experience of disability – all of whom are passionate about removing the barriers faced by Disabled people.

AoD provides four key services: Youth, Employment, Welfare Benefits, and Independent Living.

AoD’s Employment Service

The Action on Disability Employment Service is setting the agenda for disability employment across London with great results. We are at the forefront of setting up and delivering supported internships for Disabled young people. We provide an holistic service from management and employer engagement to hands-on, supervised support work across all sites.

Our Employment Service welcomes external referrals and offers support for Disabled people via our in-work support service.

We are looking to recruit several support workers to expand our pool.

The Post

The purpose of the job is to provide face to face support work and guidance to Disabled people within their workplaces. The post holder will provide the necessary support and encouragement to enable them to be successful, which will lead, eventually, to independence. The post holder will also work closely with, and take guidance from, their supervisor within AoD. They will work closely with the employer of the Disabled person to ensure the employer has the skills and confidence to manage and train their intern/employee.

Main duties and responsibilities

• To work face-to-face with individual Disabled people, under the guidance of their AoD Supervisor, in accordance with their personalised support plans
• To be fully cognitive of the workplace of the Disabled person to identify the requirements of key tasks
• To follow bespoke Support Plans plans which will enable the Disabled person to fulfil their role to meet the requirements of the employer
• To provide weekly feedback to their AoD Supervisor to ensure continued progression, identifying new areas in need of support, and advising on the amendment of support plans accordingly
• Together with their Supervisor, to plan, discuss and implement a timely reduction of support as and when the Disabled individual becomes familiar and competent with their role
• To negotiate note disability-related reasonable adjustments required for individuals and feedback to their AoD Supervisor
• To liaise with managers to discuss individual progress, respond to issues and implement next steps

Organisational responsibilities

• To work in accordance with Action on Disability’s Aims, Objectives and Values
• To comply with all organisational and departmental procedures
• To ensure safe, fair and responsible working practices, specifically AoD’s Health & Safety, Equal Opportunities, Safeguarding and Confidentiality policies
• To promote the work of AoD and the Social Model of Disability
• To keep accurate records and provide monitoring statistics and evaluation information as required for internal and external purposes
• To participate in, and actively contribute to, individual Supervision, training, team and organisational meetings
• To work flexibly, being prepared to perform other duties commensurate with the role, which may include new areas of operation
• Any other task as directed by AoD management

Person Specification

Successful applicants must be:

• Professional
• Positive
• Motivated
• Dependable
• Flexible
• Patient
• Empathetic

Essential

Successful applicants must have:

• Experience of disability
• Experience of training, education or employment support delivery
• Maths and English to GCSE Grade C or equivalent
• Be willing and able to undertake any specific training required for the role
• An understanding of the needs of employers and ability to articulate the benefits of having a diverse workforce in businesses
• An understanding of the Social Model of Disability and its practical application
• Ability and willingness to learn and carry out a variety of employment tasks to support the Disabled person
• Evidenced experience of success in building strong and positive relationships with a variety of people and organisations
• Demonstrable problem-solving skills and experience
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a diverse population
• Good organisational skills with an ability to keep accurate records
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint and the internet
• Be willing and able to travel easily within London
• To be available for work at unsocial hours according to the demands of the work (occasionally)

Desirable

• Support Work qualification or equivalent is preferred but not mandatory
• An understanding of pan disability and employment

Deadline: Ongoing. We recruit for this role on a rolling basis with regular interview days.

If you would like to apply and find out more about this position, please click the apply button to be directed to our website. 

We welcome applicants from all walks of life.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we actively encourage applications from Disabled people and people with long term health and mental conditions. We operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme in that we will guarantee an interview to all Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post. Please state in a cover letter if you wish us to consider you for this guaranteed interview scheme.

AoD is a Living Wage Foundation registered employer and all of our employees, casual workers and contractors are paid above the London Living Wage.

No agencies please.

Drug and Alcohol Support Worker

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Drug and Alcohol Support Worker to join our Homelessness Social Care Service Tower Hamlets.

£29,073 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel in control of your career? 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
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.

What you'll do:

Carrying out holistic assessments of new customers which incorporate relevant statutory referral information
Building supportive, trusting relationships with customers and external partners, creating a positive atmosphere
Conducting regular key work sessions that are innovative and engaging in order to achieve Support Plan goals
Key-working the most complex service-users with particular needs aligned with Drug and Alcohol dependency
Creating support plans for providing appropriate services based on on-going assessment and reflecting the services and resources available to enable customers to progress in their recovery
Ensuring ongoing assessment and management of risks associated with customers within an attitude of 'positive risk taking'
Providing support and access to relevant services to enable customers to continue their recovery and empower customers to self-manage their medication regimes through individual re-enablement programmes and informed decision making
Undertaking support work in partnership with external stakeholders to compliment their interventions, leading on partnering with specialist stakeholders;
Upskilling staff team in particular area of expertise - Drug and Alcohol dependency.
Developing productive relationships with partner organisations to improve service outcomes
Demonstrate strong commitment to the functioning of the staff team and to support colleagues in providing a high level of service and safety to customers

About you:

Excellent interpersonal skills
Socially adept, networks widely, well connected in sector, influential
Approachable, open & professional behaviour
At ease in directing others, is assertive and independent minded, will challenge others, and skilled in resolving conflict
Drives change, enjoys dynamic diverse environments and demonstrates entrepreneurialism, creativity and innovation
Demonstrates significant confidence and high levels of self-esteem

What you'll bring:

Essential:

NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in a relevant area (e.g. substance misuse, addiction, psychology, Health and Social Care,).
Experience building and developing strong professional partnerships with external providers.
A minimum of 2 years experience in complex needs services, community development, addiction counselling, drug and alcohol work or other related fields.
Good written and oral communication skills
Desirable:

2-3 years experience providing targeted recovery focussed support to individuals with needs around trauma, mental health, substance use and dual diagnosis.

For our fulll job description please visit our webiste

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.

Do you want to support people with mental health issues in a moment of crisis?

Are you calm, non-judgemental and able to work effectively with people experiencing distress?

If you can embody our values of Hope, Courage, Togetherness, and Responsiveness, and want to help others build resilience and manage their wellbeing, we’d love to hear from you.

Job title: Mental Health A&E Link Worker – Watford General Hospital
Reference Number: 327
Salary: £24,336 per annum
Reports to: Crisis Services Manager
Contract length: Permanent
Working pattern: 37.5 hours per week over a 7-day rota (typically 3pm – 11pm)
Woking bases: Watford Wellbeing Centre / Watford General Hospital

We have a vacancy for a Mental Health A&E Link Worker to join our team.

About the Project

Our A and E Link Workers help adults access alternative mental health crisis support, including our Nightlight Crisis Service. We focus on providing a calmer, quieter environment away from the hospital when it’s needed.

Service Objectives

The objectives of Hertfordshire Mind Network’s (HMN) A&E Liaison Service are to:

• Improve the mental wellbeing of people experiencing mental health crisis in Hertfordshire.
• Increase timely access to help for people experiencing mental health crisis in Hertfordshire, by providing a clear and effective pathway to services provided by HMN and other third sector and statutory providers.
• Contribute to an improvement in individual mental wellbeing.
• Remain a source of independent support for all clients.
• Provide an alternative pathway to people in distress and crisis to support better outcomes and reduce the demand on statutory crisis services, emergency services and A&E departments.

About the Role:

The Mental Health A&E Link worker will work closely with individuals in a mental health crisis currently in A&E, by using a person-centred approach to ensure that everyone is supported with dignity and respect.

They will encourage and facilitate positive steps towards management of crisis and recovery; through providing emotional support, signposting and completing onward referrals into mental health support. They will work closely with A&E clinical staff, integrated discharge teams, Bounce Back, and mental health liaison teams, to proactively identify referrals into the crisis alternatives service to facilitate timely discharges from A&E.

We offer:

• Annual leave entitlement of 25 days per year pro rata, rising in increments to a max. of 29 days after 5 years employment (plus 8 days Bank Holidays)
• An additional day of leave each year for your birthday following completion of probation period.
• Ongoing training relevant to your role.
• An Employee Assistance Programme.
• Cash plan health cover (after 6 months employment) – compensation payment for Optical, Dental, Chiropody and Therapy Treatments.

A driving Licence with access to a car for the purpose of business use; or alternative means to travel reliably between places, outside of 9am - 5pm is essential for this role.

Closing date for applications is Friday 13th February 2026
Interviews will be held from the week commencing 23rd February 2026
N.B. Please quote reference number 327 when completing your application for this role.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, colour, religion, belief, or sexual orientation. In addition, during the various stages of recruitment, specific measures can be taken to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.

Hertfordshire Mind Network is committed to the Disability Confident and Mindful Employer charters. We actively recruit staff who have a lived experience of mental ill health. Our inclusive approach recognises the unique skills, knowledge, and perspectives that lived experience brings to our team.

No agencies please.