Specialist support worker jobs in London

About us

For homeless people, or those at risk of homelessness, finding employment and housing opportunities can feel like an uphill battle, even more so if they’re affected by physical, mental health or substance misuse issues. Providence Row works with those affected by homelessness and those vulnerably housed in London, offering an integrated service of crisis support, advice and progression programmes. We ensure that people often excluded from mainstream services gain the support and opportunities they need to create a safe, healthy and sustainable life away from the streets.

The ideal candidate

To be considered for this role you should meet the following criteria:

• Deliver support to people experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping in the borough of Tower Hamlets.
• Agree support plans with service users to move into accommodation and access specialist services that address the underlying causes of their homelessness.
• Make referrals into Tower Hamlets and Pan-London local authority housing options services, in line with the Homelessness Reduction Act.
• Work with partner agencies to provide joint support to service users where appropriate.
• Build relationships with housing providers and the private rented sector to expand the portfolio of affordable referral routes into accommodation.
• Demonstrate excellent communication skills and the ability to create positive working relationships with a wide range of people, including external services.
• Contribute to the development of the service, ensuring a solution-focused and strengths-based approach in all areas of work.

Research shows some people, especially women and marginalised groups, may hesitate to apply unless they match all the criteria. However, we want to assure everyone that we encourage applications from all individuals, regardless of whether they fulfil every point in the job description. Your unique perspective matters to us – please apply with confidence.

Benefits

• 27 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Season ticket loan
• Employee assistance programme
• Access to shopping discounts
• Learning & development opportunities
• Monthly reflective practice

To apply

Please upload your CV with a covering letter detailing how you meet the job specification by 29.05.2026 at 23:30.

Interviews

Please note that we may interview on a rolling basis and therefore encourage early applications.

Providence Row is a charitable company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales; company number 07452798 registered charity number 1140192.

About the role: 

Every day in this role is different, but at the heart of it is one thing: helping people feel safer, more stable and more in control of their lives.

As a Floating Support Worker, you’ll support people living across Westminster to sustain their tenancies, navigate challenges and build the confidence and skills needed to live independently. You’ll work alongside people facing homelessness, isolation, poor mental or physical health, domestic abuse, substance use and other forms of multiple disadvantage, providing practical and emotionally intelligent support that meets people where they are.

This is a role built on relationships. You’ll work closely with clients in their homes and communities, creating support plans that feel realistic, empowering and genuinely person-centred. Whether you’re helping someone manage rent arrears, reconnect with services, settle into a new home or take steps towards work, training or improved wellbeing, your support will help people move forward in meaningful and lasting ways.

You’ll be part of Westminster Floating Support, a fast-paced and supportive service funded by Westminster City Council, delivering housing-related support to people in all types of accommodation across the borough. Working as part of a collaborative and psychologically informed team, you’ll build strong partnerships with local services and agencies to make sure clients receive joined-up, holistic support.

At Single Homeless Project (SHP), we’re committed to helping our staff grow too. You’ll have access to ongoing training, reflective practice and real opportunities to develop your career within an organisation that is ambitious about creating change for homeless Londoners.

About you:

• You bring experience supporting people facing multiple disadvantage, including homelessness, mental ill health, substance use, domestic abuse or social isolation, and know how to build trusting relationships that help people feel heard, respected and supported
• You feel confident helping people navigate the practical challenges that can put a tenancy at risk, from budgeting and benefits to rent arrears, housing options and building everyday independent living skills
• You work in a psychologically informed, strengths-based way, understanding how to motivate and empower people to move towards greater stability, confidence and independence at their own pace
• You’re able to balance empathy with professional curiosity, using support planning, risk assessment and safeguarding practice to provide safe, thoughtful and person-centred support
• You’re organised, proactive and able to manage a varied caseload while working collaboratively with colleagues and partner agencies to help clients achieve meaningful and lasting outcomes

About us:

We’re London’s leading homelessness charity – and we get things done.

In a city where hundreds are forced into homelessness every day, our work has never been more needed or more challenging. And we’re not shying away. We’re rolling up our sleeves to make change and helping over 10,000 Londoners every year. We prevent homelessness, provide safe places to live and give people the opportunity to rebuild their lives and transform their futures. And we never give up. 

We’re here for Londoners wherever they are on their journey. We start with trust, building relationships that help people feel safe, supported, and ready to move forward. Every day, we put people first in everything we do, challenging injustice and barriers that keep people from the safety, stability and opportunity they deserve. We stand alongside people as they rebuild and shape a future that feels their own. 

Joining Single Homeless Project means joining a team that’s bold, compassionate and determined to do better for the people we support and for each other. You’ll work alongside colleagues with lived experience, in a space that’s trans-inclusive, disability-friendly, and actively striving to be anti-oppressive and equitable. 

We’re not perfect, but we’re real. We listen. We learn. And we push forward, together. Because this isn’t just a job. It’s a chance to lead with empathy, spark change, and help build a London where no one is left behind.

Important info:

Closing date: Sunday 31st May at midnight

Interview date: Tuesday 9th June online via Microsoft Teams

Please note shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a short psychometric test before being confirmed for interview. 

This post will require an Enhanced DBS check to be processed (by SHP) for the successful applicant.

Please note applications are reviewed for AI use in application questions. Applications with insufficient right to work or requiring sponsorship will not be accepted or progressed.

About the role:

This is not a role where you sit on the sidelines. This is a role where you show up, stand alongside women, and help create the kind of safety and belief that many have never experienced before.

In our Women’s Respite Service in Camden, you’ll be working with women who have faced abuse, exploitation and homelessness, often after systems have let them down. You’ll be part of a space that feels different. A space where women are listened to, where their experiences are understood, and where they can begin to rebuild a sense of control over their lives.

No two days will look the same. One moment you might be de-escalating a sensitive situation, the next you’re advocating with services, or sitting alongside someone as they begin to make sense of what they’ve been through. You’ll use your understanding of trauma, gender informed practice and the realities of violence against women and girls to shape how support is delivered, making sure every interaction is grounded in safety, dignity and respect.

You’ll hold a small but complex caseload, working intensively with women to build trust, navigate risk and move towards stability and independence. You won’t give up easily. You’ll stay curious, creative and persistent, even when progress feels slow or uncertain.

As a senior in the team, your impact goes further. You’ll lead by example, guiding colleagues through complex situations and helping to embed a way of working that truly recognises what women have experienced and what they need to move forward. You’ll help shape a service that doesn’t just respond to crisis, but creates real, lasting change.

For roles in our women's services we ask for applications from Women only. For occupational requirement reasons (exemption under the Equality Act 2010; Schedule 9 Part 1). 

About you:

• You have experience supporting women who have faced abuse, exploitation and multiple disadvantage, and you understand how this shapes trust, behaviour and recovery
• You build relationships that feel safe, consistent and real, even when someone has every reason not to trust
• You stay grounded in challenging moments, able to respond calmly, think clearly and make sound decisions when risk is high
• You bring strong judgement and confidence in complex casework, and you’re comfortable guiding others to deliver high quality, consistent support
• You’re persistent, resourceful and proactive, able to advocate, challenge systems and keep moving things forward for the women you support

About us:

We’re London’s leading homelessness charity – and we get things done.

In a city where hundreds are forced into homelessness every day, our work has never been more needed or more challenging. And we’re not shying away. We’re rolling up our sleeves to make change and helping over 10,000 Londoners every year. We prevent homelessness, provide safe places to live and give people the opportunity to rebuild their lives and transform their futures. And we never give up. 

We’re here for Londoners wherever they are on their journey. We start with trust, building relationships that help people feel safe, supported, and ready to move forward. Every day, we put people first in everything we do, challenging injustice and barriers that keep people from the safety, stability and opportunity they deserve. We stand alongside people as they rebuild and shape a future that feels their own. 

Joining Single Homeless Project means joining a team that’s bold, compassionate and determined to do better for the people we support and for each other. You’ll work alongside colleagues with lived experience, in a space that’s trans-inclusive, disability-friendly, and actively striving to be anti-oppressive and equitable. 

We’re not perfect, but we’re real. We listen. We learn. And we push forward, together. Because this isn’t just a job. It’s a chance to lead with empathy, spark change, and help build a London where no one is left behind.

Important info:

Closing date: Sunday 17th May at midnight at midnight

Interview date: Tuesday 26th and Wednesday 27th May online via Microsoft Teams

Please note shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a short psychometric test before being confirmed for interview. 

This post will require an Enhanced DBS check to be processed (by SHP) for the successful applicant.

Please note applications are reviewed for AI use in application questions. Applications requiring sponsorship or with insufficient right to work will not be accepted or progressed.

Specialist Support Worker

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Specialist Support Worker to join our Mental Health Service in Newham. No personal care or experience required, just the right values.

£31,593.00 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

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 Support Workers within Look Ahead are required to have either an extra dimension of experience or a higher qualification level as determined relevant for the particular post.

What you'll do:

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead .

• Work in partnership with our external partners
• 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

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

What you'll bring:

Essential:

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

Desirable:

• Other relevant professional memberships and/or specialist qualifications and languages

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.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Co-Production Specialist Support Worker to join our Homelessness and Complex Needs Service located in Tower Hamlets. No personal care or experience required, just the right values.

£31,068.00 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

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.

Hackney Road Project provides 24 hour accommodation based support for up to 31 individuals with complex histories, multiple traumas, complex personality disorder(s) and a varied, disrupted housing history with experience of homelessness as well as individuals who have been diagnosed with severe and enduring mental health conditions who are under the Care Programme Approach (CPA).

What you'll do:

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead .

• Support customers with job searches and employment search as well as support with completing job applications and CVs
• Support customers with training and volunteering opportunities
• Building supportive, trusting relationships with customers and external partners, 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
• Key-working the most complex service-users with particular needs aligned with the post holder's specialism - Co-Production

Adhere to all the policies and procedures of Look Ahead Care & Support plus those specific to the project including any statutory requirements

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

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 specialist

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.

About the role:

This is not a role where you sit on the sidelines. This is a role where you show up, stand alongside women, and help create the kind of safety and belief that many have never experienced before.

In our Women’s Respite Service in Camden, you’ll be working with women who have faced abuse, exploitation and homelessness, often after systems have let them down. You’ll be part of a space that feels different. A space where women are listened to, where their experiences are understood, and where they can begin to rebuild a sense of control over their lives.

No two days will look the same. One moment you might be de-escalating a sensitive situation, the next you’re advocating with services, or sitting alongside someone as they begin to make sense of what they’ve been through. You’ll use your understanding of trauma, gender informed practice and the realities of violence against women and girls to shape how support is delivered, making sure every interaction is grounded in safety, dignity and respect.

You’ll hold a small but complex caseload, working intensively with women to build trust, navigate risk and move towards stability and independence. You won’t give up easily. You’ll stay curious, creative and persistent, even when progress feels slow or uncertain.

As a senior in the team, your impact goes further. You’ll lead by example, guiding colleagues through complex situations and helping to embed a way of working that truly recognises what women have experienced and what they need to move forward. You’ll help shape a service that doesn’t just respond to crisis, but creates real, lasting change.

For roles in our women's services we ask for applications from Women only. For occupational requirement reasons (exemption under the Equality Act 2010; Schedule 9 Part 1). 

About you:

• You have experience supporting women who have faced abuse, exploitation and multiple disadvantage, and you understand how this shapes trust, behaviour and recovery
• You build relationships that feel safe, consistent and real, even when someone has every reason not to trust
• You stay grounded in challenging moments, able to respond calmly, think clearly and make sound decisions when risk is high
• You bring strong judgement and confidence in complex casework, and you’re comfortable guiding others to deliver high quality, consistent support
• You’re persistent, resourceful and proactive, able to advocate, challenge systems and keep moving things forward for the women you support

About us:

We’re London’s leading homelessness charity – and we get things done.

In a city where hundreds are forced into homelessness every day, our work has never been more needed or more challenging. And we’re not shying away. We’re rolling up our sleeves to make change and helping over 10,000 Londoners every year. We prevent homelessness, provide safe places to live and give people the opportunity to rebuild their lives and transform their futures. And we never give up. 

We’re here for Londoners wherever they are on their journey. We start with trust, building relationships that help people feel safe, supported, and ready to move forward. Every day, we put people first in everything we do, challenging injustice and barriers that keep people from the safety, stability and opportunity they deserve. We stand alongside people as they rebuild and shape a future that feels their own. 

Joining Single Homeless Project means joining a team that’s bold, compassionate and determined to do better for the people we support and for each other. You’ll work alongside colleagues with lived experience, in a space that’s trans-inclusive, disability-friendly, and actively striving to be anti-oppressive and equitable. 

We’re not perfect, but we’re real. We listen. We learn. And we push forward, together. Because this isn’t just a job. It’s a chance to lead with empathy, spark change, and help build a London where no one is left behind.

Important info:

Closing date: Sunday 17th May at midnight

Interview date: Tuesday 26th and Wednesday 27th May online via Microsoft Teams

Please note shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a short psychometric test before being confirmed for interview. 

This post will require an Enhanced DBS check to be processed (by SHP) for the successful applicant.

Please note applications are reviewed for AI use in application questions. Applications requiring sponsorship or with insufficient right to work will not be accepted or progressed.

Specialist Behavioural Support Worker

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Specialist Support Worker to join our Learning Disabilities Care Service in Newham. No personal care or experience required, just the right values.

£31,117.00 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

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 Support Workers within Look Ahead are required to have either an extra dimension of experience or a higher qualification level as determined relevant for the particular post.

What you'll do:

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead .

• 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

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

Essential:

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

Desirable:

• Other relevant professional memberships and/or specialist qualifications and languages

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 reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

Bowel Cancer UK is the UK’s leading bowel cancer charity. We’re determined to save lives and improve the quality of life of everyone affected by bowel cancer. We support and fund targeted research, provide expert information and support to patients and their families, educate the public and professionals about the disease and campaign for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care.

We currently have employees working across four nations in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we’re in a privileged position to be able to deliver our ambitious new strategy, On a Mission. There are huge challenges facing bowel cancer patients across the UK and our community needs us now more than ever. We’re building a strong and united team to bring us closer to a world where nobody dies of bowel cancer.

Job Summary

This role forms a key part of a new Strategy & Insight Team at Bowel Cancer UK, which seeks to build core capabilities to enable us to be as effective as we can be for people affected by bowel cancer. The Audience Insight Specialist will be an internal leader, building our capability to understand our core audiences and the people we need to reach to achieve our strategic goals. You will support a cultural shift in how the charity takes an audience-led approach to planning, decision-making, and communications, as our CRM, data infrastructure, and Strategy & Insight functions continue to develop. Making best use of internal and external sources, you will distil data into meaningful insight, tailored to different audiences. You will support a consistent approach to audiences across the organisation, while flexing to meet the needs of different teams, ensuring that any understanding of audience is rooted in evidence.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and at Bowel Cancer UK we are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Successful candidates may be subject to either a satisfactory basic, standard or enhanced DBS check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dependent upon the role.

Support Worker

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Support Worker to join our Homelessness and Complex NeedsCare Service in Slough. No personal care or experience required, just the right values.

£30,784.00 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

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.

You will work a mixture of early and late shifts (no nights shifts) across 7 days a week on a rolling rota. You will be expected to work some bank holidays.

What you'll do:

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead .

• Work proactively with Slough Hostel team to handle the service caseload and support an effective team approach to meeting each customer's identified needs.
• Motivate the team and champion a positive local culture within the service.
• Contribute to a positive service environment, ensuring the service is supportive and a place of safety and stability for customers. This includes working flexibly and being proactively in delivering, reviewing and arranging effective support for emerging needs and risks in order to prevent escalating concerns.

About you:

• Approachable 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.

What you'll bring:

Essential:

• Has relevant sector work experience
• NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care or equivalent

Desirable:

• Other relevant professional memberships and/or specialist qualifications

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East.

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

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 Recovery Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex Needs Service in Ealing.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

The role empowers service users to manage their wellbeing, build independence, and achieve personal goals through tailored support and co-produced plans. It involves liaising with external agencies, facilitating group and community-based activities, and promoting social inclusion. The position ensures users understand and engage with the service, while actively monitoring safety and wellbeing. Team collaboration and flexibility are essential to meeting service goals and maintaining high standards of care. 

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 be passionate and dedicated to helping others with good empathy and a willingness to learn this role involves sleeping on site overnight between shifts and has some longer shift schedules with an element of cooking for a group you must capable and open to doing this as well

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 Senior Recovery Outreach Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex needs  Service in Notting Hill.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

We're looking for a proactive and compassionate Senior to help lead our mental health recovery service. You'll support the Team Leader in delivering person-centred, recovery-focused support that empowers service users to sustain independence and avoid hospital readmission.

With strong leadership and organisational skills, you'll oversee team performance, service quality, and compliance while promoting coproduction and inclusion. This role suits someone passionate about collaboration, wellbeing, and delivering high-quality, empowering support within Hestia's values and standards.

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 supporting individuals with mental health and/or dual diagnosis needs, alongside a strong knowledge of community care, mental health, health and safety, equality, housing, and welfare benefits legislation. You will understand recovery principles and be confident in delivering person-centred support, including assessing, planning, implementing, and reviewing support plans. You will be able to work both independently and as part of a team, including supporting the induction of peer staff and volunteers, while maintaining high professional standards and resilience.

Strong literacy and numeracy skills are essential, with the ability to produce clear written communication and manage basic financial processes such as petty cash. You will be flexible in your approach, including working evenings and weekends when required, and will demonstrate a solid understanding of safeguarding, ensuring issues are addressed appropriately at all times.

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're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Senior Support Worker to join our Learning Disabilities Social Care Service in Kensington and Chelsea. No personal care required, just the right values.

£30,969.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

This is a fixted term contract until 30th September 2026.

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

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.

As a Senior Support Worker, you will be expected to undertake duties as part of the management team which includes supporting the team with their responsibilities whilst working flexibly to respond to the needs of your individual customer case load.

What you'll do:

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead

• Carry out administrative tasks as relevant to the service and directed by the contract manager.
• Work proactively with the team to handle the service caseload and support an effective team approach to meeting each customer's identified needs
• Motivate your team and champion a positive local culture within your service
• Carry out initial assessment for new customers and keep up to date referral log
• Deliver effective resident meetings with customers and ensure that information, reporting and communication
• Partnership working with a range of stakeholders including families, healthcare professionals, external personal assistants other support agencies to maximise outcomes for customers

About you:

• Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, networks in local business community
• Approachable 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

What you'll bring:

Essential:

• NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care or equivalent
• Minimum 2 years of experience working people with high complex needs.

Desirable:

• Other relevant professional memberships and/or specialist qualifications

About us:

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:

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

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 Recovery Workerto play a pivotal role in our Highbury Grove Recovery House in Highbury

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

 In this role, you will empower clients to build confidence, develop coping skills, and work towards greater independence throughout their time in the service. You will manage a varied caseload, deliver group activities and co‑produced programmes, and support service users to engage effectively with community professionals and local support networks. Working collaboratively with colleagues, you will help shape peer‑support opportunities, ensure the safety and wellbeing of all service users, and maintain accurate, timely records in line with organisational values and procedures. This is a dynamic position that requires flexibility, strong communication skills, and a commitment to recovery‑focused practice, including active participation in supervision, assessments, and service reviews.

The working hours are 8am-4pm and 2pm-10pm, including bank holidays and weekends.

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.

We're seeking someone with proven experience supporting individuals with mental health needs, including those with dual‑diagnosis, and a strong understanding of the challenges they face. You'll bring knowledge of mental health legislation, safeguarding, recovery‑focused practice and local wellbeing services, along with the ability to communicate with empathy, dignity and respect. The role requires someone confident working both independently and as part of a team, able to support new staff and volunteers, and comfortable collaborating with statutory and community partners. You'll have experience delivering groups or added‑value initiatives, strong organisational and time‑management skills, and the ability to work dynamically under pressure. Competence in risk assessment, case management, and maintaining clear written records is essential, as are solid IT skills and the confidence to represent the organisation externally, including presenting to stakeholders.

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.

ROLE OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE

This is a specialist youth work role with two complementary areas of practice focus: (a) gender-responsive work with girls and gender-diverse young people experiencing or at risk of violence, harmful practices, exploitation, and coercive control; and (b) inclusive practice with neurodivergent young people whose support needs are routinely missed by mainstream youth provision.

VAWG specialism is the primary area of expertise for this role; SEN-aware practice is a complementary area of focus, supported by mentorship and consultation from Angel Shed Theatre and external SEN expertise where deeper input is needed. The role is designed to ensure that the cohorts most often underserved by violence-reduction provision — particularly neurodivergent girls — are reached and supported well.

The post holder will work within MGWT's trauma-informed practice framework, in close collaboration with the Dahlia Project on harmful practices, and within Andover's operational vision.

KEY AREAS AND OUTCOMES

Specialist practice — VAWG and gender-responsive work

• Lead on the design and delivery of a weekly girls and gender-diverse group at Andover, with structured progression and trauma-informed group work practice

• Provide 1:1 keywork to young people experiencing or at risk of gender-based violence, harmful practices (FGM, forced marriage, breast ironing), online and image-based abuse, and coercive control

• Hold a clear understanding of safeguarding pathways for harmful practices and serious youth-on-youth violence, working closely with MGWT's Safeguarding Lead and the Dahlia Project

• Support the wider Andover team to develop gender-responsive practice across all sessions

• Contribute to safety planning for individual young people in collaboration with the Safeguarding Lead

Specialist practice — SEN-aware and neurodivergent-inclusive work

• Co-design and deliver a sensory-aware parallel offer for neurodivergent young people, in partnership with Angel Shed Theatre

• Provide adapted 1:1 support to neurodivergent young people, including those with and without formal diagnosis

• Build and sustain referral relationships with SEN services, schools' SENCos, and partner organisations including the LYTP SEND project

• Support the wider Andover team to develop SEN-aware and trauma-informed practice across all sessions

Outreach, engagement, and youth voice

• Build and sustain trusting relationships with young people from the cohorts the role is designed to reach

• Lead on outreach and engagement activity to reach young people not currently accessing the service, particularly girls, gender-diverse young people, and neurodivergent young people

• Support the embedding of youth voice in the design and review of the specialist offer, with paid lived experience contributors where appropriate

Safeguarding and partnerships

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding pathways relevant to VAWG, harmful practices, and SEN-related vulnerability

• Identify and escalate safeguarding concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead in line with policy

• Work in partnership with the Dahlia Project, Angel Shed Theatre, and external specialist organisations to maintain the quality of practice

• Participate in multi-agency meetings as needed for individual young people

Reporting and learning

• Maintain accurate records of 1:1 keywork, group sessions, and outcomes

• Contribute to the monitoring and evaluation of the VRU Stronger Futures programme and other relevant funded streams

• Contribute to learning and reflective practice across the Andover team

This job description is a broad outline of your main responsibilities. Manor Gardens' employees may be required to undertake other work at times in order to provide flexible services. In addition, all employees are required to:

• Support the broader mission and objectives of MGWT and contribute to its overall strategy

• Contribute to the shared operational effectiveness of MGWT through attendance and contribution to organisational team meetings and working groups

• Ensure organisational data collection and reporting processes are completed as required

• Know and adhere to MGWT policies and procedures

PERSON SPECIFICATION

a)  Specialist knowledge and experience of working with women, girls, or gender-diverse young people affected by violence, harmful practices, exploitation, or coercive control

b)  An understanding of neurodiversity, with willingness to develop SEN-aware practice further through mentorship from Angel Shed Theatre and external training

c)  JNC qualification in youth work, social work, or a related qualification (or working towards), or equivalent specialist experience

d)  At least two years' experience of working with young people in a youth work, community, or specialist support setting

e)  A strong understanding of trauma-informed practice and the principles of safe disclosure

f)  Knowledge of the safeguarding landscape relating to VAWG, harmful practices, and exploitation, including referral pathways in Islington or comparable boroughs

g)  Experience of running group work for young people, including closed groups, with structured progression

h)  Experience of 1:1 keywork or casework with young people experiencing complex harm

i)  Strong relational and communication skills with young people whose trust is hard-won

j)  Ability to work flexibly across after-school and school holiday provision, including evening hours

k)  Lived experience of any of the issues this role addresses is welcomed and valued, although not required

l)  A mature, thoughtful, and reflective approach to equalities, diversity, and the intersection of gender, race, disability, and class

m)  Good IT skills and the ability to maintain accurate records

n)  Willingness to engage in regular reflective supervision