Support Worker

We're looking for a passionate, motivated and resilient Support Worker to join our Young People Social Care Service in Ealing. No personal care or experience is required, just the right values.

£30,784.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Our benefits include:
Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
A generous pension - we will contribute up to 8% and life assurance cover up to 3x Pensionable Salary (T&Cs apply)
Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
Free DBS

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.

Oaklands & St Kilda's is made up of two newly refurbished six-bedroom homes, located close to each other in Ealing, West London. We work with up to 12 young people at a time, providing a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment. Many of the young people joining us are moving on from hospital, stepping down from more intensive placements, or transitioning from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services to Adult services.

Our team delivers 24-hour trauma-informed and psychologically informed support. You'll play a key role in helping each young person shape their own support and service experience. Everyone receives a bespoke welcome pack and is encouraged to personalise their living space, helping them feel at home from day one.

What you'll do:

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

* Build supportive, trusting relationships with young people and help create a positive, welcoming atmosphere.
* Work proactively with other members of the team to manage the service caseload and carry out necessary administrative tasks.
* Conduct keywork sessions as required, using creative and engaging approaches to help young people achieve their Support Plan goals.
* Work collaboratively with young people to assess and manage risks, supporting positive risk-taking and shared decision-making.
* Provide practical support with daily living activities, such as budgeting, cooking, shopping, and helping to establish healthy routines.
* Support young people to maintain a safe and healthy living environment, including assistance with cleaning and personal hygiene where needed.
* Assist in the recording and reporting of incidents, ensuring accurate and timely documentation.

About you:
* Ability to advocate for young people in a variety of professional and community settings.

* Values working collaboratively with young people to ensure the service truly meets their needs.

* Understands the impact of individual context, including experiences of trauma and adversity, on young people's lives and mental health.

What you'll bring:

Essential:
- Up to NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent, or experience supporting young people or individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

Desirable:
- Experience working in complex mental health environments, supported accommodation, or similar settings.

- Understanding of trauma-informed and psychologically informed approaches.

- Experience supporting people to develop independent living skills.

About us:

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.