Specialist housing first worker jobs

Salary: £37,000 – £41,000 per annum (depending on experience)
Location: Reigate, Surrey (with some hybrid working)
Contract: Full-time
Closing Date: 12th February 2026
Start date: ASAP with consideration given to notice periods

Do you have the vision, leadership and compassion to transform the futures of women experiencing homelessness?

Keychange is a Christian charity with over 100 years of experience supporting people facing vulnerability. Today, we provide specialist housing for women and young people experiencing homelessness, alongside residential care for older people across the South and South West of England.

We are now seeking an exceptional Women’s Homelessness Lead (Surrey) to shape and lead our specialist women’s homelessness service at Wayside Community in Reigate. This community is a 19 bed, 24-7 supported housing for women experiencing homelessness. This is a rare opportunity to combine frontline leadership, strategic development, and church and community partnership building in a role with real depth, influence and impact.

About the Role

• This is a leadership role with both operational and strategic responsibility. You will:
• Provide leadership and line management to the Deputy Manager, Senior Administrator and a skilled team of support workers
• Lead the delivery of trauma-informed, strengths-based, person-centred support
• Develop strong partnership networks across local authorities, charities, housing providers and churches
• Shape the future of Keychange’s women’s homelessness strategy across Surrey
• Represent Keychange externally and explore opportunities for future service growth

At the heart of this role is a deep commitment to co-production, dignity, recovery, community and belonging.

Who We’re Looking For

You will bring:

• Substantial experience supporting or managing services for vulnerable individuals
• A strong understanding of trauma, safeguarding, risk and recovery-based practice
• Proven ability to build partnerships and influence across multiple stakeholders
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Confidence engaging with churches and Christian networks across traditions
• A values-led approach aligned with Keychange’s Christian ethos

Desirable experience includes:

• Managing accommodation-based services
• Existing Church partnerships across Surrey

What We Offer

• Salary of £37,000 – £41,000
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Hybrid working (with 4 days regularly site or community based)
• Employee Assistance Program and Life Insurance
• Contributory Pension Scheme with matched employer contributions
• Ongoing personalised learning and professional development
• A supportive, faith-centered, values-driven culture

For more information about the opportunity and for details on how to contact us informally to discuss the role in greater detail before applying, please see the job pack attached to this advert.

How to Apply
Please submit a cover letter clearly addressing the essential and desirable criteria and an up-to-date CV focused on relevant experience. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

Recruitment Timeline

• Deadline for submitting your application: 12 February 2026
• First screening interviews, remotely: 16 February 2026
• Full interviews in person in central London: 23 February 2026
• Start date: ASAP with consideration given to notice periods

Neighbourhood Housing Project Lead (Sheffield and Scunthorpe)

Fixed term (18-months), full-time post, 40 hours per week (1 FTE), inclusive of breaks 

Salary: £42,752 (National)

Regular travel to Sheffield and Scunthorpe will be required. Occasional travel to London will be required.

Building Tomorrow – Neighbourhood Housing Project Lead

Oasis exists to build stronger communities where there is no one left out. Building Tomorrow is an innovative new neighbourhood housing programme that Oasis is developing in Sheffield and Scunthorpe.

We are pioneering a new community-led solution to housing challenges in two communities where Oasis already works, running five schools and two community Hubs. We are working to develop quality housing that offers opportunity for families to find a stable and supportive place of belonging in community.

The programme will combine quality housing, excellent education (provided through Oasis academies), and community wrap-around support (delivered through our existing youth and community teams). This programme is designed to offer a preventative approach to housing challenges, acting as a proof of concept that can be replicated in other communities around the country. 

This role will act as the central point of coordination which will ensure Building Tomorrow moves successfully from initiation to full activation over the initial 18-month period. In the activation period, we will purchase and refurbish the 20 properties, and this role will work in close coordination with our property consultants. As properties are purchased, we will begin to move into the delivery phase, where we start to house families.

This role requires a person who:

· Loves organisation and turning complex plans into simple, actionable steps.

· Is a fantastic communicator – someone who can talk to a contractor, a community leader, and a new resident with  equal ease and effectiveness.

· Thrives on problem-solving and is comfortable making quick, informed decisions to keep the project on track.

Why might you consider Oasis?

We work in 52 local neighbourhoods in the UK, building stronger communities. Our place-based, holistic neighbourhood work brings together local people to create belonging, opportunity, and change.

Where you live and grow up in the UK determines a lot about your opportunities and life chances – your access to public services, education, employment, housing, life expectancy and much more. We work in many communities where poverty and inequality are deep rooted. We know too many families and individuals feel excluded and ignored, lacking hope that anything will change for themselves or their children. We are not content with this disparity. Together we deliver joined-up education, youth work and family support, housing, church and community work, so that everyone can thrive.

Over the past four decades we’ve set up different parts of our organisation to develop expertise and deliver our mission to build stronger communities.

- A network of 56 Oasis Academies (Oasis Community Learning).

- Youth and community work (Oasis Community Partnerships)

- Homelessness and housing (Oasis Community Housing)

- Secure education for young people (Oasis Restore)

- Anti-human trafficking work (STOP THE TRAFFIK)

What will you do?

The key areas of responsibility for the role are as follows:

· To act as the main link between all stakeholders: the Oasis teams including academies; contractors; and any community partners. To make sure everyone is communicating effectively and working toward the same goal.

· To work in close collaboration with Oasis Community Leaders in Sheffield and Scunthorpe. To support the Community Leaders and wider community teams to welcome families by acting as a key part of the community support offer through the 18-month activation phase.

· To own the 18-month master plan. This will involve tracking progress, analysing potential delays, and proactively solving problems so the activation stays on time and on budget.

· To focus on transitioning the housing element from a period of acquisition and refurbishment into functioning homes. This includes everything from smooth resident move-ins to ensuring the community support is fully accessible.

· To work alongside colleagues in the Operations Group to design operational processes including the community support offer, housing management systems, and tenancy arrangements. 

· To help the team set clear, achievable goals for the activation period and then track whether those goals are being met, providing regular, honest updates to all stakeholders.

· To support the Group CEO in liaising with our social investor.

What will you get in return?

· A network of peers and partners all sharing the same vision and an environment set up to ensure everyone is supported and included.

· A package of reward that includes a 7% employer contribution pension scheme, annual leave allowance starting at 25 days (plus Bank Holidays) increasing over time, eligibility to join the Green Commute cycle to work scheme and cash benefit health plan.

· Be part of an international network of Oasis charities offering opportunities to develop your career in new directions and locations.

· A competitive salary and workplace flexibility.

To apply, please send your CV and a Supporting Statement via Charity Jobs or view our website for further information.

Please expand on your CV to tell us about relevant skills, experience and qualifications you have that relate to the job description and person specification.

Completed applications should be returned by 12 noon on Friday 30th January 2026.

Interviews will be held the week commencing Monday 2nd February 2026.

We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and underrepresented groups. If you require any assistance to overcome potential barriers during the recruitment process, please let us know. 

Oasis is committed to making a difference to the lives of the communities it works in, and as such you must show a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the values and behaviours which flow from the Oasis ethos.  We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to undergo appropriate checks, including enhanced DBS checks. 

The successful candidates must have the right to work in the UK.  Oasis cannot assist with sponsorship or visas.

Oasis supports Equal Opportunities.  Registered Charity No. 1026487

ob Title: Refuge Worker

Location: Hillingson. This is an on-site role, located within the London Borough of Hillingdon, there may be requirement to occasionally work in the London Borough of Hounslow
Salary: £28,857.12 per annum, Inclusive of London Weighting, which may not be applicable depending on your home location and any agreed permanent homeworking arrangement
Contract type: Full Time, Permanent

Hours: 37.5 hours per week 

This is an opportunity to join Refuge as a Refuge Worker to provide high quality practical and emotional support to survivors of domestic violence and their children living in our refuges.

The post holder will provide high quality practical and emotional support to survivors of domestic violence and their children living in our refuges. This includes safety planning and enabling women to access housing, welfare, benefits, and legal advice. A key requirement is to provide personal welfare support and to ensure that women are provided with a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment in accordance with Refuge’s philosophical principles. 

For further infomation regarding the role, please view our downloadable job pack. 

As part of this role, you will be required to participate in an out-of-hours on call rota

Please note that this post is restricted to women due to the nature of the role. The Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies.

Closing Date: 09:00am 9 February 2026

Interview Date: 23 and 24 February 2026

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. 

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Specialist Behaviour Support Workers to join our Birchall Wood Service in Hertfordshire.

£28,808.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

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

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.

Specialist Behaviour Support Workers are responsible for supporting people with learning disabilities and behavioural needs to live full lives, develop skills and maintain their wellbeing.

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:

• Supporting the customer to lead a full and active life and do things they enjoy, sensitively and persistently trying to new things to open new opportunities for the customer.
• Developing the customer's independent living skills and involving them in aspects of maintaining and developing their home, including cooking, shopping, cleaning, and decorating.
• Supporting the customer in their sensory routine, trialling and testing new sensory experiences.
• Supporting the customer to communicate their wants and needs and develop new ways of doing this, communicating with them in a person-centred way.

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:

• Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in with the hobbies and interests of the customer and can facilitate connections with new people and places.
• Has a reasonable level of physical fitness and is able / likes to participate in active pursuits such as running and swimming.
• Is confident enough to try new things and take positive risks on a regular basis.
• Exudes a warm friendly and fun presence.
• Prefers working as part of a group or team.

What you'll bring:

Essential:

NVQ Level 2 or equivalent

Minimum 2 years of experience working with customers with Autism/Challenging Behaviour/learning disabilities

Driving licence and a willingness to drive as part of support duties

Desirable:

Experience of engaging vulnerable people with complex needs in meaningful activities.

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 120 services, providing support to around 6000 customers each year.

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 website for full Job Description

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.

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Specialist Behavioural Support Worker to join our learning disabilities service in Hertfordshire.

£23,046.00 per annum, working 32 hours per week.

Want to feel like you have an exciting future? 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

* 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.

Specialist Behaviour Support Workers are responsible for supporting people with learning disabilities and behavioural needs to live full lives, develop skills and maintain their wellbeing.

Driving is mandatory for this role.

This role requires sleep-in shifts at the service.

What you'll do:

* Supporting the customer to lead a full and active life and do things they enjoy, sensitively and persistently trying to new things to open up new opportunities for the customer;

* Communicating with a range of other key stakeholders including social work, psychology and commissioning teams;

* Acting in accordance with the policies and procedures of Look Ahead Care & Support plus those specific to the service including any statutory requirements;

* Consistently reviewing the customer's life goals and their progress towards achieving them, in partnership with them and those important to them;

* Supporting the customer with personal care;

* Reporting any observations relating to customer welfare;

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:

* Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in with the hobbies and interests of the customer and is able to facilitate connections with new people and places;

* Has a reasonable level of physical fitness and is able / likes to participate in active pursuits such as running and swimming;

* Is confident enough to try new things and take positive risks on a regular basis;

* Exudes a warm friendly and fun presence;

* Prefers working as part of a group or team;

* Is persistent and determined in adverse circumstances;

What you'll bring:

Essential:

* NVQ Level 2 or equivalent

* Minimum 2 years of experience working with customers with Autism/Challenging Behaviour/learning disabilities

* Driving licence and a willingness to drive as part of support duties;

Desirable:

* Experience of engaging vulnerable people with complex needs in meaningful activities.

About 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.

This role uses experiential insight to inform peer support, service design and engagement. We will assess how candidates apply that insight professionally (boundaries, safeguarding, confidentiality). This role is open to applicants with demonstrable, recent lived experience of homelessness (including rough sleeping, insecure or temporary accommodation).

About the role

The Passage has secured funding to deliver a 1-year pilot, exploring how the use of peer support can prevent further homelessness and increase social mobility, by giving people the support and confidence to get reintegrated into the community. 

This pilot will involve the recruitment and training of 10 lived experience volunteers who will share their insights and provide support to people recently re-housed to set and achieve goals with a focus on community re-integration. The pilot will offer a range of interventions including 1:1 support, community events and online training. 

The Passage recognizes that someone’s journey of homelessness doesn’t just end when accommodation is secured. What is often a confidence-stripping and traumatizing experience can take time to recover from. The first steps can be the most challenging for individuals to put down new roots and get back to where they were before that period. 

As The Lived Experience Specialist Project Worker, you will support your manager in the design, delivery, monitoring and reporting of the pilot; with a particular focus on supporting the volunteers in their roles. 

The Passage believes that peer support and the sharing of lived experience are essential tools in supporting people to take steps toward becoming more active, involved and connected. We also know that delivering peer support and helping others are also crucial cornerstones in processing living experience into lived experience. 

Main duties

• To support the recruitment and retention of lived-experience volunteers. 
• Have oversight of the day-to-day delivery of volunteers work by providing guidance & direction and ensuring volunteer support is delivered in a safe and supportive manner. 
• Support the creation of a volunteering environment where having lived experience is not a barrier but a tool to help others. 
• To support the manager to create and maintain procedures which underpin the pilot and volunteers’ activities, ensuring they are fit for purpose. 
• Meeting potential referrals, explaining the scope of the service, and undertaking person centered role matching. 
• Identify challenges including safeguarding issues encountered by volunteers 
• and working with the manager to address them. 
• Ensuring accurate and efficient recording of actions undertaken by volunteers. 
• Maintain a directory of low-cost activities, promote local events, and support development of an online resource to boost social connection and reintegration. 
• To support the Lived Experience Project manager in reporting to key stakeholders about the project, including attendance at some external meetings. 

Key responsibilities

• In conjunction with your Line Manager to continuously develop the role to ensure that all tasks are being undertaken in an effective and appropriate manner which meets the strategic aims and objectives of The Passage. 
• To participate in internal/external meetings as required, and attend training events, conferences and other functions as necessary. 
• To participate in regular supervision and annual appraisal and help in identifying your own job-related development and training needs. 
• To adhere to all Passage policies and procedures. 
• To contribute to the effective implementation of The Passage’s Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Policy as it affects both The Passage and its work with vulnerable adults. 
• To at all times undertake your role in a professional manner maintaining a high- quality standard of work, and to always work in accordance with the aims, values and ethos of The Passage1. 
• Undertake any other duties that may be required which are commensurate with the role. 

Person specification

As a Vincentian organisation, The Passage strives to be inclusive; encompassing a diverse and rich culture from within our members, clients, volunteers and staff. This approach is reflected in our core values and it is important that all staff have respect for this.

The person specification sets out the essential abilities and qualities that will be used in the selection criteria for this post. When completing your application form, please address criteria E1 to E4 and K1 to K5 demonstrating your experience and knowledge, giving evidence of your experience and abilities. 

Any information you provide will be handled confidentially and in line with UK GDPR and our Recruitment Privacy Notice.

EXPERIENCE 

E1 - Demonstrable, recent lived experience of homelessness (including rough sleeping, insecure or temporary accommodation)

E2 - Volunteering in a peer support capacity and/or working with vulnerable people in a support role. 

E3 - Experience of working both collaboratively as part of a team, and able to work independently. 

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS 

K1 - Skilled communicator with strong emotional intelligence and an ability to connect with & motivate vulnerable people. 

K2 - Understanding of the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping. 

K3 - Proficient in digital literacy, for example use of digital applications and online navigation. 

K4 - Familiarity with safeguarding and personal boundaries principles (desirable). 

K5 - An understanding of data protection principles (desirable). 

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.

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.

We're looking for a kind, empathetic and resilient Specialist Support Worker to join our Mental Health Service in Tower Hamlets.

£29,681.60 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel like you have an exciting future? 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 seeking a Support Worker with a focus on Community Connection to join our mental health pathway in Tower Hamlets. In this role, you will engage with Look Ahead customers, helping them harness their talents and skills to broaden horizons, build networks, and access vital community resources.

What you'll do:
* Champion co-production as a core principle, ensuring customer voices are central to service design and delivery.
* Work with customers to identify their aspirations and connect them to local resources, networks, and opportunities that help achieve those goals.
* Co-create a programme calendar of culturally relevant, social, and educational activities with customers.
* Maintain accurate and up-to-date information-sharing protocols and Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
* Organise and facilitate educational and developmental training opportunities for customers.
* Provide coordination and line management for Peer Support Workers.
* Arrange and invite in-reach sessions at drop-in groups to enhance engagement.
* Build and sustain strong relationships with community partners to expand opportunities for customers.
* Develop partnerships to meet emerging customer needs, such as access to assistive technology for physical health.

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:
* Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage customer involvement.
* Exudes a warm friendly presence and open behaviour.
* Prefers working as part of a group or team.
* Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or obscure their judgement.
* Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organised.
* Thrives on change and enjoys dynamic diverse environments.
* Is confident with high levels of self-esteem.
* Is respectful, articulate and sensitive in style of communication.
* Is motivated towards excellence and improvement of personal performance with a can do attitude.

What you'll bring:
Essential:
* IT literate
* Experience of working within communities with a diverse range of stakeholders.
* Ability to research information from a range of sources.

Desirable:
* NVQ Level 2 or equivalent or experience within charity/social care sector.
* Experience and understanding of mental health and social care services.

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 website for full Job Description

Support Worker (Women’s Homelessness)

Esther Women Supported Community, Exeter (on-site)
25 hours per week | Fixed-term (12 months, with potential to extend)
£13.29 – £13.65 per hour | 6 weeks’ annual leave (pro rata)

Make a real difference in women’s lives

Are you passionate about supporting women to rebuild their lives after homelessness and trauma? Do you believe that everyone deserves more than just a roof over their head?

At Keychange, we’re looking for a Support Worker to join our Esther Community in Exeter — a small, specialist service providing safe, trauma-informed accommodation for women experiencing homelessness.

About Esther Community

Esther Community offers a supportive, all-female environment where women can begin recovery, rebuild confidence, and prepare for a more secure future. Our women’s provision consists of five self-contained bedsits, alongside shared communal spaces and a garden, creating a calm and respectful place to live.

As a Christian charity, we are inspired by Christ’s example of love and service — but we warmly welcome people of all faiths and none, both as residents and colleagues.

About the role

As a Support Worker, you’ll play a vital part in the day-to-day running of the service and in supporting women on their individual journeys. This is a varied and rewarding role combining practical support, emotional encouragement, and casework. There is some flexibility to autonomously choose your working hours to suit your schedule.

You will:

• Build trusting relationships with women and provide strengths-based, person-centred support
• Act as a key worker, supporting women to identify goals around health, wellbeing, housing, education, employment, and relationships
• Carry out assessments, support planning, reviews, and accurate case recording
• Support women to access benefits, housing, and external services
• Work closely with partner agencies to ensure joined-up support
• Help maintain a safe, welcoming, and well-run living environment
• Respond calmly and professionally to challenging or crisis situations
• Contribute to a supportive, values-led team culture

Who we’re looking for

You don’t need to tick every box — we’re looking for someone with the right values, attitude, and resilience, alongside relevant experience.

Essential:

• Understanding of the issues facing women who are homeless or vulnerably housed
• Experience supporting women with complex needs
• A non-judgemental, caring and flexible approach
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to remain calm in stressful or crisis situations
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting women’s wellbeing
• Experience in supported housing or homelessness services

Desirable:

• Relevant qualification (e.g. social care, housing, mental health)
• Training in trauma-informed practice or mental health
• Knowledge of housing legislation or welfare benefits
• Experience with being a floating support worker

Occupational Requirement

This role is open to women only, under Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010. This is a genuine occupational requirement to ensure a safe, supportive environment for women who have experienced trauma and abuse.

Why work for Keychange?

• Be part of a supportive, values-driven charity with over 100 years’ experience
• Make a meaningful impact every day
• Access personalised learning and development opportunities
• Join a warm, collaborative team where relationships really matter

How to apply

Please submit your most recent CV to your application. 

Closing Date: 6th February 2026

Interviews will take place on w/c 16th February 2026

Starting Date: 2nd March 2026

If this role feels aligned with your experience and values, we’d love to hear from you. 

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient female Specialist Support Worker to join our Learning Disabilities Social Care Service in Stratford Road.

£29,110.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel like you're part of one team? 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.

What you'll do:

• Building supportive, trusting relationships with customers and creating a positive atmosphere
• 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
• 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:

• Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage customer involvement
• Exudes a warm friendly presence and open behaviour
• Prefers working as part of a group or team
• Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or obscure their judgement
• Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organised
• Thrives on change and enjoys dynamic diverse environments
• Is confident with high levels of self-esteem

What you'll bring:

Essential:

• NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent with some or equivalent sector work experience

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.

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 the full Job decription on our website

Outreach Worker  

£16,386 - £17,248  

Sandown  

Permanent, Part Time (25hrs per week)  

A variety of shift patterns, including early morning and evening outreach

Our client works in partnership with the Council and housing associations to deliver intensive person-centred support and accommodation choices. 

Their priorities are to ensure each homeless person is safe, has access to amenities such as food/water, has their own bank account and to support them in either accessing Hostel accommodation through the single homeless pathway or private sector housing.

If you are passionate about working with individuals with complex needs and are looking for a role where you can make a real difference in the lives of those you support, then this is the role for you!

JOB PURPOSE  

To lead on the case management of clients and be part of a team that supports them in keeping them safe and helping them achieve their goals. 

To provide people with homes and specialist support so they feel more valued and secure, and ready to take the next steps

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES  

• To assess the needs of each client, helping to develop their individual support plan to achieve their goals

• To produce and regularly review comprehensive client-based risk assessments 

• To manage a caseload of clients on a one-to-one basis, providing personalised, intensive support via assertive outreach to long-term rough sleepers in the local area

• To engage with local authorities, health providers and other agencies, creating and maintaining constructive working relationships to maximise the opportunities available to clients

• To work with individuals to create clear housing plans, and to support individuals to access support services around health and wellbeing, money, benefits and housing

• To engage and support rough sleepers on the street working alongside local health care teams

• To help keep clients safe by reducing their contact with police and emergency services

• To identify barriers to accessing maintain safe tenancies and prevent eviction

• To attend community meetings and presentations with managers to support additional funding

• To support clients in trauma informed and psychologically informed ways

• To adhere to safeguarding responsibilities, following our safeguarding policy and procedure   

• To help maintain health and safety, ensuring clients, visitors and buildings are safe in accordance with Health and Safety regulations, policy and procedures

• To provide basic first aid assistance until help arrives (full training is provided)

• To work confidently and efficiently when lone working

• To maintain accurate records on our client management system and ensure these are stored in line with GDPR

• To maintain confidentiality 

• To represent the organisation in a professional manner

• To carry out any other reasonable duties required in the interest of the organisation

ROLE REQUIREMENTS  

• This role will require an Enhanced with Barred List(s) disclosure and barring service check is a requirement for this role. This would be completed on appointment of the role.

• This role will require a full drivers’ licence and access to a vehicle

• This role will require you to work flexibly across several sites

• This role will require you to work with clients on a one-to-one basis

• This role will require you to work early mornings and/or weekends

• This role will require you to lone work

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA    

• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written 

• Clear verbal and written English 

• Good keyboard skills for data inputting

• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Excel and Word

• Confident and assertive manner

• Ability to self-motivate as you will work on your own 

• Effective team working

• Ability to respond calmly to crisis

• Deal promptly with and effectively react to challenging situations

• Have an interest and genuine concern for homelessness and related issues

DESIRABLE CRITERIA    

• Experience of managing a caseload of clients

• Understanding of the complex support needs of people experiencing homelessness or those with complex needs

• Knowledge of voluntary and statutory agencies, housing regulations and the benefits system

• Understanding of risk assessment and person-centred, outcomes-based delivery

They reserve the right to close their adverts early if a successful candidate is found, so please submit your application as soon as possible.