Jobs for the Housing and Homelessness sector

Director of Housing & Neighbourhoods
North & East London
Executive Leadership Opportunity
Salary: £110,000 + Benefits

We are delighted to be partnering exclusively with Islington & Shoreditch Housing Association to appoint a Director of Housing & Neighbourhoods, a key Executive role at the heart of an ambitious and community-focused organisation.

This is a rare opportunity to join ISHA's Leadership Team and lead their largest directorate, shaping and delivering services that directly impact residents' homes, neighbourhoods and lived experiences.

About the organisation

ISHA is a values-led, community-based housing association with a clear mission: to provide safe, high-quality and genuinely affordable homes, while building inclusive and thriving communities.

With a new corporate strategy in place, ISHA is focused on:

• Enhancing resident experience and service quality

• Expanding community investment and engagement

• Strengthening data, insight and operational performance

• Maintaining resilience while continuing to develop new homes

The role

Reporting to the CEO, the Director of Housing & Neighbourhoods will lead a broad and high-impact portfolio, including housing management, repairs, planned maintenance and asset strategy.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing strategic leadership across housing and neighbourhood services

• Driving a high-performing, resident-focused culture

• Leading service transformation through insight, innovation and technology

• Ensuring compliance, value for money and strong governance

• Building effective relationships with residents, partners and stakeholders

• Contributing at Executive level to organisational strategy and performance

About you

We are seeking an experienced and inspiring leader with a strong track record in housing and asset management within a regulated environment.

You will bring:

• Significant senior leadership experience, ideally at Executive or Director level

• Strong financial and operational management capability

• A proven ability to lead change and improve service performance

• Deep und

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 Tower Hamlets.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

The main purpose of the role is to prepare individuals to move on to independent living in the community. Service users may step down from the intensive support service to high, medium or lower needs before moving into the community.

From the outset of an individual's tenancy the focus of the support is on preparing them for their journey of recovery and independence over an agreed period. Our support service is provided 24 hours a day 365 days per year with tailored flexible support delivered in accordance with need. ​

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 bring demonstrable experience of working with individuals who have mental health and/or dual diagnosis needs, alongside a strong understanding of recovery principles and a range of recovery approaches. You will be confident working both independently and as part of a team, including supporting the induction of peer staff and volunteers, and collaborating effectively with statutory services such as the NHS. You will have sound knowledge of mental health legislation, including CPA processes, and be skilled in crisis management, communication, and providing dignified, person-centred support. A good awareness of health and safety and safeguarding is essential, as is the ability to work flexibly across early and late shifts, weekends, and bank holidays to meet 24-hour service needs. You will also bring strong IT, literacy, and numeracy skills, with the ability to produce clear written correspondence and maintain accurate records.

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.

Hours: 35 per week (full time)

Location: Home-based with regular travel across London.

Contract: Fixed term (until 31 March 2027)

About us

Housing Justice brings together communities and finds solutions to homelessness by building personal connections, a sense of belonging, and creating justice in the housing system. We train and support volunteers to offer various accommodation options while building a network of local support. This includes providing personalised assistance to help individuals access relevant local services and address their other needs. Through compassionate, courageous, and collaborative action, we implement innovative solutions to tackle housing injustice, enhance the quality of housing, and elevate the voices and experiences of groups affected by housing injustice to both local and national governments.

About Citadel

Citadel is a volunteer-powered homelessness prevention project that supports people experiencing, or at risk of homelessness, to find a place to live, settle into a home, and feel part of a welcoming and supportive community. Coordinators recruit and train volunteers before matching them with a person referred for support. Coordinators and volunteers work closely with people who have been referred, to establish what matters to them and how best they can support them.

About you

We are seeking to hire an outgoing, confident leader who is skilled and comfortable in building relationships and influencing people. You will be a dedicated, diligent person with experience of leading teams in the homelessness, housing or voluntary and community sectors and passionate about the role of the community in ending homelessness.

About the role

The successful candidate will provide supportive line management to six Coordinators working in North-East and South-East London. They will be responsible for overseeing and developing our London projects: building our partnerships, supporting the teams to grow the support we offer and supporting the projects’ continuous improvement and sustainability.

This role is being advertised as a Shop Manager but on appointment your job title will be Community Shop Manager.

We’re looking for confident and influential people who want to be at the heart of their local community looking for an opportunity to have control of creative merchandising within managing a Shelter shop. Do you have experience of managing a team whilst also empowering and motivating individuals? If so, then this could be the role for you at our Skipton shop.

About you

You will need to be an active team player and be able to demonstrate how you’ve managed and motivated a team previously beyond expectations and experience of providing excellent customer service in a face-to-face role.

Have a good knowledge of recruiting and developing a diverse team and how you have supported and motivated teams to progress and how you would bring these skills into this position.

You will need to have good communication skills to engage with the local community to seek out new opportunities to increase the shops contribution to help further Shelter’s cause. You will develop your own and your teams’ interests in merchandising the shop attracting customers and continually develop yours and your team’s knowledge of Shelter, who we are and what we do.

About Shelter

Home is a human right. It’s our foundation and where we thrive. Yet everyday millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything,

We need ambitious, passionate people to join us. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. To win this fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, equitable and transparent. We are committed to combating racism both within and outside Shelter. We welcome you on our journey to becoming truly anti-racist.

Safeguarding statement

Safeguarding is everyone's business. Shelter is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. All our staff will be expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies.

Shelter does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

We're looking for an inspirational people person to join us as a Assistant Shop Manager in our Skipton shop. This is an exciting opportunity, and we'd like you to join us to help raise vital funds for homeless and badly housed people.

You will work closely with the Shop Manager to ensure the shop looks welcoming, visually appealing and the team of volunteers are motivated and keen to engage with customers and maximise sales.

About the role

You will assist the Shop Manager in the recruitment, support and development of a strong community focused shop team and empower them to maximise Shelter's income. Representing Shelter in your local community, ensuring that you and your team share your knowledge of Shelter's cause with customers, volunteers, donors and potential Shelter clients will also be important aspects of the role. You will always ensure a safe, clean, bright and happy environment for your team to work in and for your customers to shop in, in turn attracting potential donors and volunteers.

About you

You are a naturally energetic person with an enthusiasm for managing and empowering people. You know how to recruit and develop a team of volunteers, and your extraordinary motivational skills will enable you to inspire your team to increase sales and control costs. Above all, you are ready to take on a new challenge and have a keen interest in Shelter's cause.

Apply to be part of our team and be the change you want to see in society.

Benefits 

We offer a wide range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave, enhanced family friendly policies, pension and interest free travel loans. Our employees also have access to a tenancy deposit loan, payroll giving, cycle to work scheme and an employee assistance programme.

Shelter helps millions of people every year struggling with bad housing or homelessness through our advice, support and legal services. And we campaign to make sure that, one day, no one will have to turn to us for help. We’re here so no one has to fight bad housing or homelessness on their own.

We are happy to talk about flexible working, personal growth, and to promote a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit.

About Shelter

Home is a human right. It’s our foundation and where we thrive. Yet everyday millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything,

We need ambitious, passionate people to join us. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. To win this fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, equitable and transparent. We are committed to combating racism both within and outside Shelter. We welcome you on our journey to becoming truly anti-racist.

Safeguarding statement

Safeguarding is everyone's business. Shelter is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. All our staff will be expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies.

Shelter does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

A collaborative and tenant focused Housing provider in London is looking to take on a Rent Recovery Officer in their welcoming team environment.  They believe in affordable, good quality houses and are committed to making a difference to their customers and communities in the local area.

They are looking to bring someone in for a minimum of 6 months with the high likelihood it is extended further.  The candidate will manage their patch of properties and are responsible for maximising rental income whilst providing great customer support.

Responsibilities:

• Lead on rent accounts and be the point of contact for tenants for queries
• Maximise income recovery through intervention
• Follow landlord approved escalation processes and procedures
• Hit personal and team KPI’s and help with the take-up of Universal Credit

Requirements:

• Knowledge of income management and relevant housing legislation
• Understanding of welfare benefits and use of financial records and IT systems
• Strong customer service and working well in a team environment
• Ability to communicate effectively with both internal and external stakeholders

If you are looking for your next role and are experienced in Rental Income Recovery, please apply ASAP.

A well-established Housing Association in London is looking to take on a Service Charge Officer for an initial 6 month interim role with the option of going permanent. This association has a significant impact in its community and creates an inspiring, inclusive place to work.

They are looking to bring someone into their collaborative team who comes from a housing association background with strong experience within Service Charges.

Responsibilities:

• Service Charge Estimate and Actual setting
• Reconciliation of Actuals
• Clearing backlog including section 20Bs and hitting specific deadlines
• Mix of accountancy and compliance (knowledge of Service Charge Legislation)

Requirements:

• Service Charge candidate, ideally from a Housing Association background
• Knowledge of Service Charge legislation and ability to build relationships with colleagues and wider stakeholders
• Experience of working in a high volume workload organisation
• Good excel and system skills

If this role sounds of interest, please apply ASAP as the opportunity is urgent and a great opportunity to join a recognised organisation.

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 Employment Specialist to play a pivotal role in our Complex Needs Service in Waltham Forest.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

Employment Specialists provide personalised support to set career goals, overcome barriers to work, and navigate every stage of the job search—from CV writing and interview preparation to engaging with employers and understanding how employment may affect benefits. The team also offers ongoing in-work support to help individuals stay in their roles and thrive in the workplace.​

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 need to have experience of working in a target driven environment where you achieved or exceeded your targets as well. A good understanding of mental health and supporting those in times of need along with a positive and empathetic manner. It would be beneficial if you have knowledge of the IPS model and have worked in that function. Ideally you would have worked in this sort of position before or in a recruitment role where you were supporting applicants in improving there chances of success.

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.

We are Hestia. We make a difference.

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 Peer Support Worker to play a pivotal role in our Hammersmith and Fulham MHCA service. 

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

Hammersmith and Fulham MHCA is a drop‑in mental health crisis support service for anyone in Ealing aged 18 and over who is experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress. The service provides a safe, calm, and welcoming space where individuals can receive immediate support without needing to attend A&E. Our aim is to reduce distress, help people feel heard, and support them to regain stability in the moment.

Visitors can access one‑to‑one emotional support, help creating short‑ and long‑term safety plans, guidance and signposting to other relevant services, and access to refreshments. The service may also offer group activities, such as peer support sessions, creative groups, or wellbeing‑focused activities, which create opportunities for connection, expression, and recovery in a supportive environment.

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.

The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of issues affecting individuals with a wide range of mental health conditions and will be able to communicate and provide support with dignity and respect. They will be an effective team player who can also work independently, take initiative, and support the induction of new staff and volunteers. The role requires the ability to work confidently with statutory services, alongside excellent listening skills and strong verbal and written communication abilities. Candidates should demonstrate effective partnership‑building skills with both statutory and voluntary/community sector organisations, as well as experience in risk assessment, case management, and working under pressure in a dynamic environment. Strong organisational, prioritisation, and time‑management skills are essential, alongside good IT proficiency—including MS Word, Outlook, and internet use—and solid literacy and numeracy skills. A good understanding of recovery tools, local mental health and wellbeing services, and safeguarding principles is also required, with the ability to address safeguarding concerns appropriately.

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.

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 Peer Support Worker to play a pivotal role in our Hammersmith and Fulham MHCA service. 

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

Hammersmith and Fulham MHCA is a drop‑in mental health crisis support service for anyone in Ealing aged 18 and over who is experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress. The service provides a safe, calm, and welcoming space where individuals can receive immediate support without needing to attend A&E. Our aim is to reduce distress, help people feel heard, and support them to regain stability in the moment.

Visitors can access one‑to‑one emotional support, help creating short‑ and long‑term safety plans, guidance and signposting to other relevant services, and access to refreshments. The service may also offer group activities, such as peer support sessions, creative groups, or wellbeing‑focused activities, which create opportunities for connection, expression, and recovery in a supportive environment.

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.

The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of issues affecting individuals with a wide range of mental health conditions and will be able to communicate and provide support with dignity and respect. They will be an effective team player who can also work independently, take initiative, and support the induction of new staff and volunteers. The role requires the ability to work confidently with statutory services, alongside excellent listening skills and strong verbal and written communication abilities. Candidates should demonstrate effective partnership‑building skills with both statutory and voluntary/community sector organisations, as well as experience in risk assessment, case management, and working under pressure in a dynamic environment. Strong organisational, prioritisation, and time‑management skills are essential, alongside good IT proficiency—including MS Word, Outlook, and internet use—and solid literacy and numeracy skills. A good understanding of recovery tools, local mental health and wellbeing services, and safeguarding principles is also required, with the ability to address safeguarding concerns appropriately.

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.

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 Peer Support Worker to play a pivotal role in our Hounslow MHCA service.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

Hounslow MHCA is a drop‑in mental health crisis support service for anyone in Ealing aged 18 and over who is experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress. The service provides a safe, calm, and welcoming space where individuals can receive immediate support without needing to attend A&E. Our aim is to reduce distress, help people feel heard, and support them to regain stability in the moment.

Visitors can access one‑to‑one emotional support, help creating short‑ and long‑term safety plans, guidance and signposting to other relevant services, and access to refreshments. The service may also offer group activities, such as peer support sessions, creative groups, or wellbeing‑focused activities, which create opportunities for connection, expression, and recovery in a supportive environment.

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.

The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of issues affecting individuals with a wide range of mental health conditions and will be able to communicate and provide support with dignity and respect. They will be an effective team player who can also work independently, take initiative, and support the induction of new staff and volunteers. The role requires the ability to work confidently with statutory services, alongside excellent listening skills and strong verbal and written communication abilities. Candidates should demonstrate effective partnership‑building skills with both statutory and voluntary/community sector organisations, as well as experience in risk assessment, case management, and working under pressure in a dynamic environment. Strong organisational, prioritisation, and time‑management skills are essential, alongside good IT proficiency—including MS Word, Outlook, and internet use—and solid literacy and numeracy skills. A good understanding of recovery tools, local mental health and wellbeing services, and safeguarding principles is also required, with the ability to address safeguarding concerns appropriately.

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.

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 Peer Support Worker to play a pivotal role in our Ealing MHCA in Ealing. 

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

Ealing MHCA is a drop‑in mental health crisis support service for anyone in Ealing aged 18 and over who is experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress. The service provides a safe, calm, and welcoming space where individuals can receive immediate support without needing to attend A&E. Our aim is to reduce distress, help people feel heard, and support them to regain stability in the moment.

Visitors can access one‑to‑one emotional support, help creating short‑ and long‑term safety plans, guidance and signposting to other relevant services, and access to refreshments. The service may also offer group activities, such as peer support sessions, creative groups, or wellbeing‑focused activities, which create opportunities for connection, expression, and recovery in a supportive environment.

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.

The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of issues affecting individuals with a wide range of mental health conditions and will be able to communicate and provide support with dignity and respect. They will be an effective team player who can also work independently, take initiative, and support the induction of new staff and volunteers. The role requires the ability to work confidently with statutory services, alongside excellent listening skills and strong verbal and written communication abilities. Candidates should demonstrate effective partnership‑building skills with both statutory and voluntary/community sector organisations, as well as experience in risk assessment, case management, and working under pressure in a dynamic environment. Strong organisational, prioritisation, and time‑management skills are essential, alongside good IT proficiency—including MS Word, Outlook, and internet use—and solid literacy and numeracy skills. A good understanding of recovery tools, local mental health and wellbeing services, and safeguarding principles is also required, with the ability to address safeguarding concerns appropriately.

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.

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 Peer Support Worker to play a pivotal role in our Ealing MHCA in Ealing. 

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

Ealing MHCA is a drop‑in mental health crisis support service for anyone in Ealing aged 18 and over who is experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress. The service provides a safe, calm, and welcoming space where individuals can receive immediate support without needing to attend A&E. Our aim is to reduce distress, help people feel heard, and support them to regain stability in the moment.

Visitors can access one‑to‑one emotional support, help creating short‑ and long‑term safety plans, guidance and signposting to other relevant services, and access to refreshments. The service may also offer group activities, such as peer support sessions, creative groups, or wellbeing‑focused activities, which create opportunities for connection, expression, and recovery in a supportive environment.

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.

The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of issues affecting individuals with a wide range of mental health conditions and will be able to communicate and provide support with dignity and respect. They will be an effective team player who can also work independently, take initiative, and support the induction of new staff and volunteers. The role requires the ability to work confidently with statutory services, alongside excellent listening skills and strong verbal and written communication abilities. Candidates should demonstrate effective partnership‑building skills with both statutory and voluntary/community sector organisations, as well as experience in risk assessment, case management, and working under pressure in a dynamic environment. Strong organisational, prioritisation, and time‑management skills are essential, alongside good IT proficiency—including MS Word, Outlook, and internet use—and solid literacy and numeracy skills. A good understanding of recovery tools, local mental health and wellbeing services, and safeguarding principles is also required, with the ability to address safeguarding concerns appropriately.

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.

SMART CJS – Trust and Foundations Bid Writer

Role Overview

Are you committed to supporting people who are homeless or rough sleeping?

Are you proactive with a positive attitude?

Job Title: Trust and Foundations Bid Writer (with some responsibility for corporate fundraising)

The salary will be in the range of £36,000 to £42,000.

Hours: 37 hours per week

Term: Permanent

Location: Working from our office in central Bedford, with some provision for remote working.

About SMART CJS

Founded in 1997, we are a charity that provides safe spaces for people who are facing or experiencing homelessness, are rough sleeping or have fallen on tough times. As times have changed, our services have adapted and grown, but we’ve always kept the people we support at the centre of all that we do. We believe that everyone needs a little help sometimes and, with trust, respect and honesty, people can make incredible changes. Our vision is to transform communities so that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential, participate in and contribute to all aspects of life. Our mission is to provide safe spaces to work with vulnerable people within our communities, empowering them to make positive changes and take control of their lives.

Why Join Us?

We believe in diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Benefits include:

• 27 days Annual Leave (rising to 30 after 3 years) + Bank Holidays (pro rata)
• Generous Pension scheme (after successfully completing a probation period)
• Excellent Development and Growth Opportunities
• Access to a Charity Worker Discount scheme
• Access to the company health and wellbeing service including support with mental health, legal advice and more
• Access to an online GP service

We require all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). This job description will be supplemented by annual objectives which will be developed in conjunction with the post holder.

The Role

SMART CJS is looking to recruit a Trusts and Foundations Bid Writer. The successful candidate will also have some responsibility for corporate fundraising with businesses based in Bedford and beyond; this responsibility will be shared with our Community and Corporate Fundraiser.

The main responsibility, though, will be to generate income by writing bids to charitable trusts and foundations, and to statutory funders.

The role will include researching and identifying charity trusts and similar bodies which are able to make an award to SMART. It will also include keeping abreast of developments in fundraising in the charity sector as a whole, especially in the field of grant awarding and, to a lesser extent, of corporate giving.

There will be a probationary period for the role. As it generally takes six months for a grant to be awarded (though some arrive more quickly), the probationary period will need to be for a minimum of seven months, though its precise duration can be negotiated with the successful candidate.

Training will be given; the scope of the training will depend on the candidate’s previous experience.

This is an exciting opportunity to join SMART’s friendly and dedicated team. You’ll need to be able to manage your time effectively; the role is primarily self-directed. We envisage that you’ll be working primarily from our offices in Prebend Street, Bedford, though you'll be able to work from home for some of the time as well. Given the nature of our work, personal resilience is important; some of the stories we use when applying for funding can be emotionally challenging.

Our fundraising comes from regular gifts, donations from the community (individuals and groups), and corporate bodies (businesses). The majority of our fundraising income comes from grants. There will be a realistic target for the amount you need to raise; this will reflect the performance for grant applications in the charity sector as a whole and it will not be unrealistic. Fundraising is not an exact science; the assessment of performance against the targets will be fair and reasonable. The final responsibility for SMART’s fundraising rests with the trustees; they appreciate and understand the complexity of the issues involved.

Main Purpose of the Role

You will work closely with the CEO, the Chair of Trustees, the Head of Business and the fundraising team. The post involves gathering information, writing the bids, tracking the progress of submissions, and reporting back to grant awarders on how their money has been spent, if they require this.

There will also be a responsibility for corporate fundraising. This will involve building relationships with businesses in and beyond the Bedford area. The responsibility for this will be shared with our Community and Corporate Fundraiser.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising and Bid Writing

• Research and identify suitable grant and funding opportunities from charitable trusts, foundations, and statutory bodies.
• Write and submit high-quality funding applications and proposals in line with SMART’s strategic priorities.
• Work collaboratively with service leads and front line teams to gather accurate, up-to-date data and service information for applications.
• Tailor the applications to the funder’s criteria, using storytelling effectively.
• Manage a pipeline of applications and submissions, ensuring deadlines are met and income targets are tracked.
• Maintain and build relationships with key funders, providing timely reports and updates on grant-funded work.
• Work to realistic targets and be able to provide feedback on these.
• Organisational Development and Support
• Contribute to the strategic development of SMART’s income generation plans.
• Support development of strong internal bid and grant management systems.
• Monitor success rates and provide monthly reporting on funding performance to the Head of Business and to the Chair of Trustees.
• Represent SMART CJS at funding briefings, webinars, and networking opportunities where appropriate.

Other Responsibilities

• Participate in SMART’s performance management and appraisal process.
• Attend the monthly meetings of the Fundraising Committee (a sub‑committee of the Board of Trustees).
• Comply with health and safety policies and procedures.
• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the role, as required by the CEO, the Head of Business or the Chair of Trustees.

Person Specification

Whether you’re already an experienced bid-writer, or whether you think this is something that you could learn to do effectively, we’d like to hear from you. You need to have excellent skills in written English and be able to write in prose that’s clear and readily understandable to the general reader. The criteria for each grant awarder are different; you need to be able to match your bid to what they would like to fund (homelessness, mental health, relief of poverty, women’s issues and so on). You need, then, to tell SMART’s story in a way which appeals to each funder.

You need to have excellent inter-personal skills and be able to work as part of a team. While there is a strong element of self-direction in the role, you need to be able to work closely with senior management and also with the trustees; the trustees have the final responsibility for fundraising in the charity.

You will need, too, to have a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and to have a genuine interest in homelessness and the work of the charity, and a commitment to improving our clients’ lives and wellbeing.