Volunteer support worker at homeless day centre jobs

Spires was established as a response to homelessness in the late 1980s. Spires has developed into an organization that provides a range of services, including day centre style drop-ins for homeless people, a Women’s drop in, a Refugee drop in and outreach targeted at supporting Women who are sex working. Our core mission is to support homeless people into housing and to assist those who have been homeless in maintaining their accommodation.

Part 1:  The Role

This role sits within our Housing and Homelessness [H&H] team. The post holder will support with the running of our drop-ins and support a caseload of clients who will be homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Part 2: Key duties and responsibilities

Service Delivery & Support

· Welcome and engage service users in a non-judgemental, compassionate manner.

· Provide basic needs support such as food, clothing, and access to a safe space.

· Offer advice, advocacy, and signposting on housing, health services, and other support agencies.

· Conduct assessments of need and develop personalised support plans.

Case Management

· Maintain accurate, confidential records of interactions and support plans.

· Liaise with housing teams, healthcare providers, social services, and other partners to coordinate support.

· Monitor individuals’ progress and update plans as required.

Centre Operations

· Assist with daily tasks such as setting up service areas, distributing supplies, and managing donations.

· Ensure safeguarding procedures and organisational policies are always followed.

Crisis Support

· Identify signs of crisis, risk, or safeguarding concerns and respond appropriately.

· Support individuals experiencing emotional distress, mental health issues, or substance misuse challenges.

General                                                                               

· Be proactive in reviewing and evaluating own performance and identifying and acting upon areas for improvement and development

· Undertaking other duties compatible with the level and nature of the post and/or reasonably required by more senior members of staff, including session cover

· Attend and participate in staff and team meetings and other meetings as required

This job description covers the current range of duties and will be reviewed from time to time. It is Spire’s aim to reach agreement on changes, but if an agreement is not possible, Spires’ reserves the right to change this job description.

Part 3: Person specification

Essential experience

· Working with vulnerable and socially excluded people, particularly people experiencing homelessness or insecure accommodation and associated culture – drugs, alcohol, violence, mental and physical ill-health.

· Managing a caseload, needs assessment, planned support, key working, goal setting and advocacy.

· Experience of challenging appropriately and maintaining clear and appropriate boundaries

· Networking and effectively liaising with specialist service providers or agencies to establish and/or improve access to services for clients   

Desirable experience

· Working with volunteers

· Working in the charity sector and/or a day centre environment

Essential knowledge

· Sound understanding of the issues faced by homeless or vulnerably housed people and the difficulties they experience in accessing services that are fully responsive to their needs

· Good understanding of safeguarding practices in a social care and/or day centre environment

· Good understanding of confidentiality and working with sensitive information

· Working knowledge of health and social care services

Desirable knowledge

·A relevant NVQ2/3 or equivalent qualification in a relevant field.

Essential skills and personal qualities

·Excellent written and spoken communication skills

·Information and relationship management skills

·Ability to effectively manage time, work under pressure and balance competing priorities to meet deadlines

·IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and databases

·Non-judgemental with the ability to empathise

Part 4: Summary of terms and conditions of service

Location: The postholder will be an employee of The Spires Centre. This post is based at

Elmfield House 5 Stockwell Mews SW9 9GX. However, the post holder will be working across Spires’ drop-ins in Lambeth, Wandsworth and Croydon.

Probation: This post is subject to a 6-month probationary period.

Notice: This post is subject to a four-week notice period.

Annual leave: The annual leave entitlement is 35 days per year pro rata, made up of eight bank and public holidays and 27 days annual leave. The 27 days annual leave is normally split between 24 ‘bookable’ days and three closure days that fall between Christmas and the New Year. Although the centre is closed between Christmas and the New Year.

Pension: The Spires Centre will contribute 5% of annual salary for those who qualify for our group pension plan.

Other benefits: The Spires Centre will provide life and income protection insurance for those who qualify for our group plans. We operate a staff loan scheme.

Expenses: The role may require travel within the UK. Out-of-pocket expenses will be paid when incurred in accordance with our expenses policy.

Safeguarding: The postholder will adhere to The Spires Centre’s safeguarding policy for vulnerable adults. This post is also subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

About You:

Those who know you describe you as kind, understanding, and open-minded. You listen without judgement and treat everyone with dignity and respect.

In the workplace, you are recognised as reliable, approachable, and professional. You communicate clearly, remain calm under pressure, and are confident managing competing priorities. You have a natural ability to encourage, empower, and motivate others to make positive changes, even in challenging circumstances.

You are reflective and emotionally intelligent, with a strong desire to support individuals to achieve greater independence and wellbeing. Making a meaningful difference isn’t just important to you — it’s what drives you.

You may already have an understanding of the complex challenges faced by people who are vulnerable or at risk of exclusion. This experience could come from previous employment, volunteering, training, or your own lived experience, and you are keen to use this knowledge to support others.

If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you and welcome you to join our dedicated and supportive team.

Main Purpose Of Job:

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to join our team in a dual-role capacity, supporting two vital services run in partnership with Homeless Oxfordshire and Connection Support. The role covers both our Step Down provision—designed for individuals discharged from hospital under the Discharge to Assess model—and our service at Mawle Court, which provides temporary accommodation and support for people with complex needs, including those preparing for more independent living or in need of emergency provision. Working as part of a small, dynamic, and enthusiastic team, you will be responsible for delivering a safe and supportive environment across both services. You will lead on the case management of clients with complex needs, working collaboratively with partner agencies to develop and implement holistic, individualised support and move-on plans. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals, helping them on their journey towards stability and independence.

Main Areas Of Responsibility:

• To proactively and dynamically assess, monitor, manage and respond to risk for individuals and in the service.

• To assess risk and suitability of referrals to the service and book new clients in.

• Ensure the effective delivery of high-quality care, support and housing management according to Homeless Oxfordshire policies and procedures.

• To work collaboratively with partner agencies to ensure the creation and delivery of holistic wrap around support and risk management plans for clients with complex needs as well as to ensure clients have access to appropriate healthcare as needed.

• To work collaboratively with clients to identify and work towards suitable move on.

• To work with other agencies to provide client centred support & risk management plans for clients with complex needs to identify work towards a suitable move on option within 6 weeks.

• To work alongside the Client Engagement Co-Ordinator to ensure clients have access to opportunities to be empowered, build their confidence and develop independent living skills; to facilitate groups and activities as part of this.

• To make and maintain Housing Benefit claims.

• Ensure that IT systems are updated as required clear, concise and up to date record keeping is maintained and ensure information is shared with the team and external agencies as required.

• To represent Homeless Oxfordshire at interagency meetings, as required.

• Manage challenging situations and report any safeguarding concerns without delay in line with procedures and to ensure the safety of yourself and others.

• Maintain positive relationships with all stakeholders.

• Contribute to a positive working environment in which equality and diversity are valued and staff are enabled to do their best.

• To be a supportive and effective part of the team, including contributing to the induction of new colleagues and work of the broader team.

• To ensure that Homeless Oxfordshire’s Equal Opportunities Policies are complied with and promoted in carrying out duties of the post.

• Comply with Homeless Oxfordshire’s policies and procedures.

• To undertake any other duties that can be reasonably required to meet the operational needs of Homeless Oxfordshire.

About Us:

We are an open door for people experiencing homelessness whose lives have been shaped by trauma and disadvantage; providing safety, stability and support when it is needed most. We deliver this support across Oxfordshire by providing a range of accommodation with access to high quality support, offering a safe and welcoming space for people to take control of their own lives. We are an accredited Oxford Living Wage employer, and benefits to the role include: annual leave starting at 26 days (excluding bank holidays), flexible working, enhanced benefits with qualifying service, retail discounts with our Homeless Oxfordshire Benefits Hub, and life assurance up to four times your salary and a £250 bonus if you successfully refer a someone as a new colleague through our Employee Referral Scheme as a thanks from us!

What’s Next: Have a look at the job description to find out more about the role and apply on our website. Please be aware that this role is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure check and will be undertaken for the successful candidate .

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we identify a suitable candidate before the advertised closing date.

About the role

The Reception Worker is an essential and key role within the Resource Centre, acting as the first point of contact and providing a consistent, familiar and friendly welcome when service users enter the space. The role requires excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to provide a high level of customer service in a busy and fast paced environment, to individuals impacted by trauma. 

Main duties 

• To be the lead worker on client reception in the Resource Centre, working with the Resettlement Team and a rota of staff and managers from across the organisation, as well as locum staff, agency staff and volunteers.
• To be the first point of contact for service users and guests accessing the Resource Centre, ensuring they are provided with a high level of customer service.
• To maintain accurate records of who is accessing the service, what services they are utilising, and ensuring that database access notes are kept up to date by liaising proactively with lead workers.
• To manage and de-escalate potential incidents at the client reception area, and challenge inappropriate behavior as needed, with support from colleagues and duty managers.
• To assist with any admin tasks required.
• To ensure that the reception area is operated safely in accordance with health and safety, and GDPR policies.

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 ensure that all The Passage policies and procedures are being adhered to.
• To contribute to the effective implementation of The Passage’s Diversity, Equity & 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 Passage.
• Undertake any other duties that may be required which are commensurate with the role

Desired experience

• Experience of working in a high-pressured environment and managing multiple responsibilities.
• Experience of working collaboratively within a team.
• Experience of delivering a high level of customer service within a demanding setting.
• Some experience of dealing directly with the public and/or clients or customers in a busy service environment

Desired knowledge

• A genuine interest in helping vulnerable people to make positive changes in their life and a willingness to develop these valuable skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Personal experience of homelessness and/or an understanding of and empathy with the issues faced by homeless or vulnerably housed people.

Our Vacancy

As a Support Worker for the Young People’s Services at Peabody, you will play a vital role in helping young people live independently and thrive within their communities. This is a meaningful and rewarding position where you will support individuals who may be socially excluded, disabled, unwell, or homeless. Your work will directly contribute to their wellbeing, independence, and inclusion, ensuring they are empowered to lead fulfilling lives. You will be part of a team that values human rights, dignity, and respect, and you’ll be instrumental in helping young people overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

What you'll do
In this role, you will provide high-quality, person-centred support to young people in supported housing. Your day-to-day responsibilities will include conducting needs and risk assessments, developing and reviewing support plans, and offering practical assistance with daily living skills such as cooking, cleaning, shopping, and managing finances. You will work closely with each individual to help them build confidence, develop life skills, and work towards their personal goals. You’ll also support them in accessing community resources, sustaining their housing, and exploring future housing options. Your role will involve liaising with external agencies, attending team meetings and training, and ensuring accurate record-keeping. You’ll be a key part of a collaborative team, committed to safeguarding, promoting equality, and delivering excellent service in line with Peabody’s values and policies.

What you'll need

• Experience supporting vulnerable people in the community or a supported living environment, either professionally or through volunteering
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with young people and external partners
• A compassionate, empathetic approach with a genuine desire to make a difference in people’s lives
• Confidence to work independently (including lone working) and collaboratively as part of a team
• Good IT literacy, including the use of Microsoft Office and data entry systems
  

Why join us?

When you join Peabody, you’re joining a team guided by our values, Be Kind, Do the Right Thing, Love New Ideas, Celebrate Diversity, Keep Our Promises, and Pull Together. We believe in creating a workplace where everyone feels supported, included, and empowered.

What You’ll Get

• 25 days’ annual leave 
• Flexible benefits including healthcare, dental, and discounts.
• 4x Life Assurance and up to 10% pension contribution
• Professional development, including funded apprenticeships.
• Two paid volunteering days each year.
• Family-friendly policies and a supportive team culture.

Please read before applying

This is a full-time, onsite role, and you’ll need to be available to work five days a week, including weekends and bank holidays. Shifts may include early mornings and evenings, so flexibility is key.

We’re reviewing applications as they come in, so you might hear from us before the closing date, keep an eye on your inbox and your phone! 

If successful, you will be required to complete two sleep-in shifts per week as part of your regular duties. 

The successful candidate will have a full and clean driving licence as well as their own vehicle as the role does involve working across two services, which will require driving.

Please read before applying:

Closing date: 08 February 2026

The Interviews for this role will take place on 16/02/26 and 19/02/26, in person in Waltham Cross. 

Please note: Peabody is not a licensed UK sponsor, so we’re unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.

Colleagues who are at risk of redundancy need to state this on their application as they will be given priority consideration above other applicants.

Please note, if you are currently on legacy Aldwyck or legacy Catalyst Terms & Conditions, and are successful in your application, you will automatically be transferred to the new Peabody Terms & Conditions. 

Additionally, if you move to a Peabody role on a secondment basis, your Terms & Conditions will not change.

We are looking for a Key Support Worker to join Hummingbird Homes, a new and innovative supported accommodation model for young people aged 16/17 leaving care.

Be part of something genuinely differen

This is not a traditional support role. As a Key Support Worker, you will be part of a small, committed team offering relational, trauma-informed support to young people at a crucial point in their lives, helping them move towards independence with stability, dignity and hope.

Hummingbird Homes has been designed to bridge the gap between care and independent living, offering young people their own homes alongside consistent, trusted adult support in a nearby Support House.

Our Values

Everything we do at Handcrafted is shaped by our values. We are a Christian charity, and while we do not expect service users to engage in faith-based activity, our work is grounded in the following principles:

• Creativity Everyone can make something to be proud of

• Empathy We walk alongside people through challenges

• Empowerment Everyone can learn to take back control of their life

• Community We accept people as they are and support one another

These values underpin the way our Key Support Workers build relationships, respond to need, and create safe, supportive environments.

About the Role

As a Key Support Worker, you will play a central role in supporting young people living in Hummingbird Homes. You will work relationally and practically to help each young person develop the skills and confidence they need to move forward.

This is a hands-on, people-centred role that combines emotional support, safeguarding, practical life skills and community building.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build trusted, consistent relationships with young people aged 16–17

• Provide day-to-day support within the Hummingbird Homes model

• Support young people to develop independent living skills

• Maintain a safe, welcoming and supportive environment in the Support House

• Contribute to care planning, risk assessments and support reviews

• Work collaboratively with social workers, local authorities and partner agencies

• Support young people during challenging moments and periods of crisis

• Participate in rota-based working, including evenings, weekends and on-call

• Maintain accurate records and contribute to safeguarding and quality assurance

(Full responsibilities are detailed in the recruitment pack.)

The Support House – A Core Part of the Role

This role includes your accommodation made available rent-free for the better performance of this role

• A base for staff while on shift or on call

• A safe and welcoming space for young people

• A hub for community activities and relationship-building

Who We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has experience supporting vulnerable young people or care leavers

• Is emotionally resilient, calm and able to build trust

• Understands safeguarding and trauma-informed practice

• Can work flexibly, including evenings and weekends

• Shares our values and is comfortable working within a Christian ethos

• Is committed to helping young people grow in confidence and independence

A full UK driving licence and Enhanced DBS are required.

Why Join Handcrafted?

• Be part of an innovative, relational model of care

• Work within a values-led organisation making real impact

• Join a supportive, close-knit team

• Receive ongoing training and development

• Play a meaningful role in transforming young people’s futures