Homeless Support Worker

Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom, SO15 0HW (On-site)
£25,527 per annum (pro rata of 26,986 per annum FTE)
Part-time (35)
Permanent
Job description

Homeless Support Worker

 Emergency Bed Support - Patrick House and Southampton Street Homeless Hostels 

Permanent, 35 hours per week 

3 days on / 3 days off, 8am-6pm (30mins unpaid break) 

Salary: £25,527 per annum (pro rata of 26,986 per annum FTE)

  

About Us:

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic Charity and Housing Association.  The Society of St James (SSJ) has been working in Hampshire for over 50 years, delivering high impact, person-centred, accommodation services to adults and young people experiencing homelessness, problematic substance use and mental health problems. We believe that every person is of worth and we are prepared to take risks to house and support the most at risk and socially excluded members of society. 

The Impact You'll Make:

You will work across two of our key hostels providing the vital emotional, practical and consistent, high-quality support needed to help individuals with complex needs regain their footing.  You will collaborate with onsite teams and partner agencies to transition people from emergency beds into the stability of permanent supported accommodation. Whether it’s navigating mental health challenges or helping someone manage substance misuse, your presence directly contributes to ending the cycle of homelessness.

 

Who We're Looking For:

We’re looking for a positive, flexible and resilient individual with great communication skills, a passion for helping vulnerable adults and a belief that safe housing is a fundamental human right. 

You will have good organisational and IT skills, and the ability to work on your own initiative as well as part of a team. 

You must have experience of or interest in:

  • The issues faced by people experiencing homelessness
  • Dealing with difficult and challenging behaviour.
  • The effects of alcohol and substance use on mental health.
  • Equality and diversity.
  • Safeguarding vulnerable adults. 

Essential Skills and Qualities: 

To be successful in this role you will need:

  • Knowledge & Interest: A deep understanding of (or a strong desire to learn about) homelessness, substance misuse, and the intersection of addiction and mental health.
  • Professionalism: Proven ability to manage challenging behaviours and a steadfast commitment to safeguarding vulnerable adults.
  • Operational Skills: Strong IT and organisational skills to manage caseloads and documentation effectively.
  • Values-Driven: A dedicated commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusive practice.
  • Driving Licence: A valid driver’s license and access to a car is essential as you will be working across our 2 hostels on a 3 days on / 3 days off work pattern, starting at Southampton Street 8am- 12pm and then onto Patrick House 12.30pm-6.30pm. 

What we can offer you:

We value and recognise our staff, offering some generous benefits, as well as the satisfaction of helping people at risk:

  • A competitive annual leave entitlement of 25 days rising to 30 days, plus public holidays
  • Flexible working options
  • Buying additional annual leave
  • Comprehensive induction and training
  • Counselling, financial, personal support and health and wellbeing services via our Employee Assistance Programme
  • Company cycle to work scheme
  • Discounted laptops and computers with Jamie’s Computers 

To apply, please send your CV & cover letter explaining why you would be suitable for the position.

Please note that CV's alone will not be considered during shortlisting. 

SSJ are an equal opportunity employer and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds and walks of life. 

Application closing date: Friday 25th September 2026 

Due to the high number of expected applicants, we do reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier. 

Should you not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume you have been unsuccessful on this occasion. 

 

 

Organisation
The Society of St James View profile Organisation type Registered Charity Company size 101 - 500

Supporting people experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness

The Society of St James logo Play
Posted on: 01 September 2026
Closing date: 25 September 2026 at 23:59
Job ref: HSWPH&ST010926
Tags: Social / Support Work