Lead Play & Youth Worker

We're Hiring: Play & Youth Work Lead | Doorstep Homeless Families Project

Location: North London
Salary: £28,000 - £33,000 per annum (pro rata)
Hours: 28 Hours per week - 20 hours face to face and 8 hours for admin

About Doorstep
Doorstep is a vibrant community organisation providing inclusive support services to children, young people, and families. Our offerings include creches, stay-and-play sessions, after-school and youth clubs, holiday programmes, adult workshops, and practical help such as laundry facilities and a weekly community bazaar.

Our mission is to help local families thrive — and we’re now looking for a Play & Youth Work Lead to join us in delivering this vision.

The Role:

As the Play & Youth Work Lead, you'll be at the heart of our children and youth services — designing and leading a dynamic, inclusive programme that supports the wellbeing, development, and empowerment of local young people and their families.

You’ll manage our play and youth team, run a variety of sessions and events, and work collaboratively with partners and the local community. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate, experienced practitioner to make a real difference in young lives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead engaging, inclusive sessions across age groups (under 4s to 18s) including after-school clubs and youth programmes.
• Develop and deliver creative, youth-led programmes including play, learning, leadership, and personal development activities.
• Coordinate and support a team of staff, sessional workers, and volunteers.
• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead, ensuring a safe environment for all.
• Develop strategic partnerships and represent Doorstep in the wider community.
• Monitor outcomes, manage budgets, and produce reports for trustees.
• Promote youth voice and participation across our programmes and beyond.

What We’re Looking For:

Essential:

• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Youth Work or related field
• 3+ years’ experience working with children and young people
• Strong safeguarding knowledge and ability to lead a team
• Experience designing and delivering inclusive play/youth programmes
• Passionate about empowering young people and families
• Excellent communication, organisational, and leadership skills

Desirable:

• Play work qualification and/or sports coaching experience
• Knowledge of local support networks (e.g., mental health, housing, education)
• Experience managing partnerships or community engagement projects

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a passionate, close-knit team making real community impact
• Shape and lead innovative programmes that reflect the needs and voices of local children and young people
• Access training and professional development opportunities
• Enjoy a supportive, inclusive, and creative working culture