Worker jobs in London

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 Waking Night Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex Needs Service in Tower Hamlets.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

You will aim to support service users in the following areas: improve their health and wellbeing, improve their quality of life, connecting with the community, have appropriate goals, and control in their life choices and achieve economic well-being. ​

​You will ensure all support plans focus on areas where support is needed and promote positive risk taking. Service users will be offered a range of activities and opportunities to engage in voluntary and paid work. Each service user will have a move-on plan which is reviewed every 6 months with the resettlement team.​

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 have experience of supporting people with ill mental health with a strong understanding of recovery approaches and experience recording accurate and financial and critical information

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 Resettlement Worker to play a pivotal role in our Homelessness Service in Windsor.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

The main purpose of this role is to support rough sleepers on the RBWM housing pathway. The resettlement team help service users to maintain their tenancies and remove the risk of homelessness. 

You will be responsible for developing, supporting and maintaining independent living skills and general wellbeing for 25 service users within the Support Service

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.

PLEASE NOTE YOU WILL NEED TO HAVE A CAR YOU CAN USE FOR WORK PURPOSES AND VALID DRIVING LICENCE 

You should have a strong understanding of the issues faced by individuals at risk of homelessness and the skills to support them in maintaining their tenancies. You will have experience working with people with a range of mental health conditions, including dual diagnosis, and demonstrate the ability to communicate with empathy, dignity, and respect. A solid understanding of safeguarding and how to respond appropriately is essential.

Experience working with individuals who have experienced homelessness, rough sleeping, or temporary accommodation is required, particularly those with complex needs such as substance use, mental health issues, and offending histories. The candidate should be familiar with recovery principles and approaches, and committed to empowering service users to make informed choices and work toward independence.

You must be able to work both independently and as part of a team, including supporting the induction of peer staff and volunteers. An awareness of lone working and health and safety practices is important, alongside motivation to uphold professional standards and use management and peer support to maintain resilience. Good IT, literacy, and numeracy skills are essential, including proficiency in MS Word, Outlook, and email communication.

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.

Do you want to support people with mental health issues in a moment of crisis? Are you calm, non-judgemental and able to work effectively with people experiencing distress?

If you can embody our values of Hope, Courage, Togetherness, and Responsiveness, and want to help others build resilience and manage their wellbeing, we’d love to hear from you.

Mental Health Support Worker – Crisis House
Reference: 325
Responsible to: Crisis House Coordinator
Salary: £24,366 per annum, pro rata for part time (Salary review after successful probation completion)
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time 37.5 hours
Working days: Shifts available covering 7-day rota, Early: 7am-3pm, Late: 2pm-10pm Nights: 9pm-8am
Based: Crisis House – Hemel Hempstead

About the Service
Our Nightlight Crisis House offers a safe, homely, and welcoming space for anyone feeling distressed and experiencing a crisis.

The Crisis Centre and rest of Nightlight Services (Café’s, Helpline, Daylight provision) is proud to provide urgent support, crisis intervention and emotional support to people experiencing a mental health crisis in Hertfordshire as an alternative to statutory pathways.

We provide support to adults across Hertfordshire 7 days a week, 365 days a year through our helpline, crisis cafes and 24/7 Crisis Centre. We aim to provide a safe space for people in crisis to talk and feel supported, be listened to without judgement, access relevant support with problem solving and facilitate access to external services when necessary.

As a member of our diverse team, you will work closely with service users in crisis by using a person-centred approach to ensure that each individual is supported with dignity and respect. By honouring the individual experience of each service user, we are able to respect their autonomy as well as encourage and facilitate positive steps towards management of crisis and recovery.

Service Objectives
The objectives of Hertfordshire Mind Network’s (HMN) Nightlight Mental health Crisis House are:

• To endeavour to improve the mental and emotional wellbeing of people experiencing a mental health crisis across Hertfordshire.
• To provide 24/7 support for individuals experiencing mental health crisis in a safe and non-judgemental environment.
• To increase early access to help for people experiencing mental health crisis in Hertfordshire, by providing clear and effective pathways to other services provided by HMN and other third party and/or statutory providers.
• To remain a source of independent support for all Service Users.
• To provide an alternative pathway to people in distress and crisis, employing a person-centred approach in order to enable better outcomes for those in need as to reduce the demand on statutory Crisis and Emergency services.

About the Role
As a Crisis House Support Worker you will be a key member of staff supporting the delivery of the Nightlight mental health Crisis Service. You will take part in a rota which covers a 24/7 hour service, 365 days a year. Drawing upon your own lived and/or professional experience (where applicable,) in order to provide a mix of face-to-face, therapeutic and holistic support for those accessing overnight provision. You will work closely with other staff as part of a team in supporting the development of quality Crisis Support and instilling Hertfordshire Mind Network’s values throughout the provision.

We offer:

• Annual leave entitlement of 25 days per year pro rata, rising in increments to a max. of 29 days after 5 years employment (plus 8 days Bank Holidays)
• An additional day of leave each year for your birthday following completion of probation period.
• Ongoing training relevant to your role.
• An Employee Assistance Programme.
• Health cover (after 6 months employment) – compensation payment for Optical, Dental, Chiropody and Therapy Treatments.

Being able to drive and having access to your own vehicle (or equivalent) is essential for this role.

Closing date for applications is 23rd January 2026.
Interviews to be held week commencing 2nd February 2026.
N.B. Please quote reference number 325 when completing your application for this role.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, colour, religion, belief, or sexual orientation.

In addition, during the various stages of recruitment, specific measures can be taken to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.

Hertfordshire Mind Network is committed to the Disability Confident and Mindful Employer charters. We actively recruit staff who have a lived experience of mental ill health. Our inclusive approach recognises the unique skills, knowledge, and perspectives that lived experience brings to our team.

No agencies please.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Support Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex Needs Service in Kingston.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

This role is responsible for delivering person-centred support that promotes wellbeing, independence, and tenancy sustainment for service users with diverse and often complex needs. You will assess referrals, coproduce and review SMART support and risk management plans, and work in partnership with external agencies to ensure access to health, education, employment, and community resources. The role involves supporting independent living skills, financial stability, and recovery while preventing relapse or hospitalisation. You will maintain accurate records, uphold organisational policies, and contribute to service monitoring and development. Acting as a positive representative of Hestia, you will build strong relationships with service users, colleagues, and key stakeholders.

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 have extensive experience supporting individuals with diverse needs, aspirations, and associated risks, delivering high-quality, person-centred services that promote independence and well-being. Skilled in key working, support planning, and risk assessment, you focus on empowering service users to achieve their goals while managing potential challenges effectively.

With a strong understanding of welfare benefits, housing options, and statutory legislation, you are able to navigate complex systems to secure appropriate support for clients. You are confident liaising with external professionals and partner agencies to coordinate and enhance support packages, ensuring a holistic and informed approach.

Your knowledge of health and safety, particularly when working in service users' homes, and your awareness of safeguarding principles ensure safe and ethical practice at all times. You also bring insight into the issues and treatments associated with mental health and substance misuse, allowing you to provide sensitive and informed care.

Highly organised and IT proficient, you maintain accurate digital records and case notes, ensuring compliance and accountability. You are also committed to continuous professional development, open to learning and growth, and willing to travel across the borough to meet service needs.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

We are Hestia. We make a difference.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Floating Support Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex Needs Service in Kingston.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

This role provides high-quality, person-centred support to up to 15 Service Users across Kingston, promoting independent living and wellbeing. It involves assessing individual needs, developing personalised SMART support plans, and helping Service Users manage mental health, physical health, finances, and relationships.

The role includes liaising with families, carers, and partner agencies, encouraging engagement in meaningful activities, and supporting access to treatment and employment opportunities. It adopts a holistic ‘Think Family' approach and flexible working 
hours. The postholder ensures service delivery aligns with organisational values and contributes to service improvement through co-production and active Service User involvement.

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 bring substantial experience supporting individuals with diverse and often complex needs, helping them work towards their personal goals while managing associated risks. You have delivered high-quality floating, outreach, and accommodation-based support, tailoring your approach to each service user's circumstances and promoting their independence and well-being.

With a strong understanding of welfare benefits, housing options, and statutory legislation, you are able to provide accurate guidance and advocacy to ensure clients access appropriate entitlements and services. You are also well-versed in health and safety procedures, particularly when working within service users' homes, maintaining a safe and professional environment at all times.

You are confident in key working, support planning, and risk assessment, ensuring that all interventions are person-centred and outcome-focused. Your knowledge of mental health, substance misuse, and related support needs enables you to respond effectively to complex situations. You collaborate productively with external professionals and partner agencies, ensuring cohesive, holistic support plans.

Organised and IT-literate, you maintain accurate digital records using computer-based case management systems. You also demonstrate a thorough understanding of safeguarding principles and the ability to act appropriately to protect vulnerable individuals. Flexible and proactive, you are willing to travel throughout the borough to deliver responsive, community-based support.

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 seek individuals deeply committed to supporting children and young people (CYP), driven by intrinsic motivation and unwavering standards for themselves and others. If you resonate with this, we invite you to join our team!

AllChild (formerly West London Zone) is a non-profit organisation that proactively works with children and their families to flourish socially, emotionally and academically through our tailored Impact Programme.

Working with schools, we identify and support children and young people before the need for crisis intervention, connecting them to the help they need through our trusted adult, the Link Worker.

Our Associate Link Worker/Link Worker/Senior Link Worker is based in the school with the children and young people they are working with on our programme. They work directly with the children, their families, their teachers and our partners to design and facilitate a two-year Impact Programme of support and champion the children and young people along the way.

Since our launch in 2016, our Impact Programme has helped thousands of children and young people at the tipping point of need. 75% are no longer at risk in their emotional and mental wellbeing; two-thirds improved their grades, and 90% of schools renew after the first programme, noting ‘transformational or significant positive impact’ for the children and the wider school environment.

We are proud to be an employer that puts equity, diversity and inclusion at the core of all that we do, for the benefit of our employees, our partners, and the communities that we work with. We are proud of our diversity and are therefore keen to receive applications from people who may be underrepresented in our AllChild community. Please read our EDI statement on our website for more information.

For more information and to apply, please visit our website via the Apply button.

Closing date: 6 February 2025.

Do you want to support people with mental health issues in a moment of crisis? Are you calm, non-judgmental and able to work effectively with people experiencing distress?

Can you demonstrate our values of Hope, Courage, Togetherness, and Responsiveness and want to be part of our mission to create opportunities for individuals to make choices, find their own solutions, build resilience and manage their whole life and wellbeing?

If the answer to all of these is yes, we want to hear from you.

Job title: Hospital Mental Health Outreach Worker (Bounce Back)
Reference Number: 323
Reports to: Team Lead (Bounce Back)
Contract: One Year
Hours: 37.5 hours per week (Full time, Monday – Friday)
Based: Watford General Hospital / Watford Wellbeing Centre
Salary: £26,000 - £27,000 per annum depending on skills and experience inclusive of Outer London Weighting (OLW)

We have a vacancy for a Bounce Back Worker to join our team.

The Bounce Back service forms an integral part of Hertfordshire Mind Network’s Complex Needs Community Services. The service provides one-to-one outreach support to facilitate a smooth, timely and supportive discharge from hospital back in to the community.

About the Project

Herts Mind Network (HMN) has formed a partnership with Hertfordshire Partnership Foundation Trust (HPFT) to deliver a one-to-one outreach service for people who are in hospitals across Hertfordshire.

There is an emergency department arm of the project and will be based at Watford General Hospital working in A&E departments, with the Mental Health Liaison Team, and hospital wards facilitating hospital discharge for people with a mental health and/or drugs and alcohol need.

About the Role:

The Bounce Back Worker will be based at Watford General Hospital and HMN Centres, promoting joint working between Watford A&E, creating a seamless pathway into community support for clients recovering from mental ill health.

The aims of the Bounce Back service are to provide up to 16 sessions of emotional and practical support and advice & information to patients. We will visit patients on the ward and continue the sessions in the local community and in patient’s homes once discharged. We will facilitate a smooth and timely hospital discharge.

Key Responsibilities

The Bounce Back worker will use a recovery orientated approach working with patients on the ward, and in the local community, including in people’s homes.  The recovery approach includes empathy, warmth, acceptance, authenticity, compassion and humanity. To work with hospital staff to ensure patients are offered advice, information, and holistic support.

The post holder will need to:

• Provide practical and emotional support to encourage patients to develop their independence within their local community.
• Facilitate a smooth discharge from hospital back to the community.
• Have a solid understanding on the dual effect of mental health and drugs and alcohol.
• Monitor outcomes and evaluate the service.
• Ensure that the safety and wellbeing of patients using the service is monitored and reviewed regularly.
• Embed a person centred and recovery orientated approach in all aspects of the roles and responsibilities.

We offer:

• Annual leave entitlement of 25 days per year pro rata, rising in increments to a max. of 29 days after 5 years employment (plus 8 days Bank Holidays)
• An additional day of leave each year for your birthday following completion of probation period.
• Ongoing training relevant to your role.
• An Employee Assistance Programme.
• Health cover (after 6 months employment) – compensation payment for Optical, Dental, Chiropody and Therapy Treatments.
• Eligibility for blue light card.

Being able to drive and having access to your own vehicle (or equivalent) is essential for this role.

Closing date for receipt of applications is Wednesday 4th February at 5pm.
Interviews to be held on Thursday 12th February at our Watford Wellbeing Centre.
N.B: Please quote reference number 320 when completing your application for this role.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, colour, religion, belief, or sexual orientation.

In addition, during the various stages of recruitment, specific measures can be taken to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.

Hertfordshire Mind Network is committed to the Disability Confident and Mindful Employer charters. We actively recruit staff who have a lived experience of mental ill health. Our inclusive approach recognises the unique skills, knowledge, and perspectives that lived experience brings to our team.

No agencies please.

Housing and Lettings Worker

Hackney

£34,116 - £38,115 pa

Are you passionate about making a lasting difference to the lives of vulnerable adults?

Our client's service provides semi-independent accommodation consisting of 39 bed spaces split between 7 shared properties to people exiting short stay/long term hostel/supported housing provisions in preparation for independent general needs accommodation. Clients accessing their services have all experienced homelessness, may be in recovery for substance or alcohol use or an addressed mental health need or are currently positively engaged with external services around any identified needs.

Their team is looking for a Housing and Lettings Worker who will play a key role in providing a welcoming, safe and supportive environment while providing housing and tenancy related management support to clients at the service. You will be responsible for the quick turn-around of bed space voids and supporting new/current clients with benefits claims, accessing relevant health care and treatment appointments and signposting to other relevant support services. Additional responsibilities will include:

• Working as part of a team in to ensure that a person-centred approach is taken when working with clients
• Advice and assistance to clients in relation to fulfilling tenancy conditions
• Advice and assistance to clients to identify and access move-on options
• Taking the lead on the process of clearing rooms when residents leave, deal with housing management and maintenance issues across our 7 sites and support the day to day running of the office and other communal areas.

Hackney Move On is staffed on a rota basis between the hours of 9am–9pm, including weekends and Bank Holidays and includes periods of lone working. 

About you

This role will suit people with some experience of housing or property management, experience of providing excellent service and managing complex and difficult situations in relation to people. You should also have:

• Good communication skills and the ability to work with others whilst managing your own time.
• A non-judgemental approach to working with homeless people and an understanding of the needs and support requirements of vulnerable clients on low (or no) incomes; including those with mental health and/or substance dependency problems.
• Ability to learn internal systems, processes and IT applications to manage compliance within the service.
• Good organisational and time management skills.

Our client is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. They strongly encourage applications from all under-represented groups.

Closing date: 10am on 22nd Jan 2026

Interview and assessments on: w/c 9th Feb 2026

Do you want to support people with mental health issues in a moment of crisis?

Are you calm, non-judgemental and able to work effectively with people experiencing distress?

If you can embody our values of Hope, Courage, Togetherness, and Responsiveness, and want to help others build resilience and manage their wellbeing, we’d love to hear from you.

Community Outreach Worker (ConnectU St Albans)
Reference: 322
Salary: £26,000 - £27,000 per annum, pro rata
Hours: Part-time, 15 hours a week over 3 days (Flexible) (Friday is mandatory)
Contract: 1 Year
Reports to: Community Support Service Team Leader
Working base: St. Albans

About the Service

The ConnectU St Albans programme is a partnership-led initiative designed to address key social, economic, and health needs primarily those in Park Street and London Colney, as well as Chiswell Green, Sopwell and Cottonmill. Provide primary and secondary contact details to ensure continuity and responsiveness. Through a coordinated and targeted approach across Health and Wellbeing, Employment, and Community Engagement, the programme will expand vital services into underserved areas, while strengthening existing support to vulnerable groups.

The purpose of the Hertfordshire Mind Network Community Outreach Worker ConnectU St Albans role is to:

• Expand employment, health and wellbeing, and community engagement services into priority areas: Sopwell & Cottonmill, Park Street & Chiswell Green, and London Colney.
• Strengthen existing service provision for financial advice, food security, and homelessness support.
• Build strong local partnerships, volunteer networks, and stakeholder relationships.
• Deliver measurable outcomes for residents, with a focus on those experiencing deprivation and marginalisation.
• To provide advice, information, onward referral and holistic support to clients with coexisting drug and alcohol difficulties, mental ill-health, these will be clients who are presenting to the Police, Anti-Social Behaviour, Tenancy Enforcement, Housing and Environmental Health Services within Hertfordshire.
• To ensure that the safety and wellbeing of the client is monitored and reviewed regularly.
• To remain a source of independent support for all clients.
• Embed a person centred and solution focused approach in all aspects of the role.
• To raise greater awareness of complex needs and the effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) amongst local service providers. Supporting them to gain confidence in working positively and consistently with people who have multiple needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Encourage and support clients to participate in group activities, workshops, and community-based mental health programs.
• Provide employment-related support as part of mental health and wellbeing recovery services, including goal setting, job readiness, and workplace adjustment support.
• Assist clients in developing CVs that reflect their strengths, skills, and recovery goals, supporting confidence and readiness for employment.
• Engage individuals with early-stage mental health needs or employment barriers through accessible, community-based support delivered in partnership with local organisations near client’s homes.
• Encourage and support clients to access volunteering opportunities that build skills, confidence, and community connection.
• Work from the local food bank every Friday from 10:00am–12:00pm as a point of contact for individuals to access support and information, including referrals and signposting to appropriate services.
• Hold a caseload proportionate to working hours, delivering support through home visits and community-based interventions.
• Provide practical support by transporting clients to external appointments to reduce barriers to access and promote wellbeing.

We offer:

• Annual leave entitlement of 25 days per year pro rata, rising in increments to a max. of 29 days after 5 years employment (plus 8 days Bank Holidays)
• An additional day of leave each year for your birthday following completion of probation period.
• Ongoing training relevant to your role.
• An Employee Assistance Programme.
• Eligibility for blue light card.
• Health cover (after 6 months employment) - compensation payment for Optical, Dental, Chiropody and Therapy Treatments.

Being able to drive and having access to your own vehicle (or equivalent) is essential for this role.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 30th January 2026
Interviews to be held on a rolling basis at our Watford well-being centre
N.B. Please quote reference number 322 when completing your application for this role.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, colour, religion, belief, or sexual orientation. In addition, during the various stages of recruitment, specific measures can be taken to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.

Hertfordshire Mind Network is committed to the Disability Confident and Mindful Employer charters. We actively recruit staff who have a lived experience of mental ill health. Our inclusive approach recognises the unique skills, knowledge, and perspectives that lived experience brings to our team.

No agencies please.

Salary: £26,650 - £32,600 per annum 

Hours: 35 hours per week, with one late evening and occasional weekends  

Contract: Permanent 

Location: Various local authority locations across Oxfordshire/Community settings 

Job reference number: 1636 

About Us: Here4YOUth Oxfordshire, part of Cranstoun, is a social justice and harm reduction charity with a global ambition. Our vision is to be a world-class leader in rebuilding lives, and our purpose is to inspire and empower people to live healthier and safer lives. We value being ambitious, creative, compassionate, collaborative, and respectful.

A word from one of our team members…

“ Being part of the Here4YOUth team at Cranstoun is incredibly rewarding. Every day, I see the difference we make in the lives of families and young people. The support, encouragement, and genuine care from colleagues creates an environment where you can truly grow and help others thrive.”

Job Purpose: Support families affected by substance use by delivering a whole family programme. You will help strengthen family resilience, improve communication, and support positive change for children, young people, and their families in Oxfordshire.

• Deliver the Cranstoun Here4YOUth Whole Family Programme, including comprehensive whole-family assessments exploring challenges, coping strategies, and readiness for change.

• Lead the co-ordination of group interventions for children, young people, and whole families.

• Contribute to service evaluations and service level reporting

• Mentor and participate in induction for volunteers within the family service.

• Provide guidance and peer supervision to team members working with children and young people who are affected by substance use

• Use trauma-informed and evidence-based approaches in your work and facilitate practical activities for engagement and skill-building, including mindfulness and grounding techniques.

Person Specification:

• Experience of community engagement and delivering group work.

• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team as well as a strong ability to liaise with and build effective working relationships with other agencies.

• Good written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience working with families and young people affected by substance use or similar challenges is highly desirable.

• Willingness to undertake relevant training (e.g., Drawing & Talking, group skills, internal programme delivery).

• Excellent understanding of safeguarding, harm reduction principles, and multi-agency working.

• High standard of IT and case management skills and ability to support others through basic IT tasks as needed.

• Ability to manage own time, prioritise activities, and maintain accountability and support others to do this.

• Cultural awareness, sensitivity, and ability to work non-judgementally in all arenas.

Benefits: As part of joining Cranstoun, and successfully completing your probation period, you will be able to access a diverse benefits package including access to store discounts, a car lease scheme, gym membership discounts, health cash plans and a yearly wellbeing day on top of annual leave. 

To find out more about this role and to apply, please visit the website via the apply button.

Closing date: 26 January 2026. 

Additional Information: This post will be subject to an Enhanced DBS Disclosure. Due to the nature of the role, being a driver is essential, with access to a car and business insurance required. 

We are an inclusive employer, committed to promoting equality and diversity in all areas of our work.

Registered Charity No: 1061582

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.

Job Purpose

• The hospital to home service works collaboratively with hospitals to support people
when they are discharged from hospital to return home. As a Hospital to Home
Outreach Worker you will provide temporary practical and emotional support to service
users within their home and make sure they understand the care and treatment choices
available to them. The service is time limited, usually up to 4 or 6 weeks, to adjust and
settle back in their homes.

Key Tasks

• Assess the needs of service users either in hospital before discharge, or in their homes,
and understand what barriers and enablers there might be to moving home.
• Aid the discharge process and improve patient experience through tasks such as:
• Key cutting
• Co-ordinating with colleagues for the setup of the home environment
• Checking heating, electric and gas is functional prior to discharge
• Allowing access to the property for cleaning/repairs
• Provide (and/or arrange) the practical and emotional support needed to enable
service users to move home and/or remain safely at home.
• Be vigilant and make referrals/signpost for additional needs that our wider team, or
partners can support. E.g. for benefit checks, energy advice, carers support,
befriending.
• Help maximise service user independence by adopting an enabling approach.
• Develop a listening and caring relationship with the service user and their
families/carers.
• Provide domestic practical support within the home such as:
• Light cleaning,
• Washing (e.g. bedding),
• Changing bed sheets etc.
• Prepare and service drinks and simple meals with or for the service user customer
ensuring nutritional needs are met.
• Accompany service user outside the home e.g. hospital/GP appointments etc.
• Support customers with other tasks e.g. making telephone calls on their behalf,
reading and responding to correspondence, completing simple forms (training will be
provided) as directed by the customer etc.
• Ensure services provided by AUKEL in the community are safe and person centred.
• Report safeguarding concerns, in accordance with AUKEL safeguarding procedures.
• Work within AUKEL’s expectations of professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Provide cover in the case of sickness and annual leave periods of colleagues.
• Support service user reviews, ensuring all visiting information is uploaded on to
AUKEL’s organisational case management system.
• Meet with volunteers to provide support and guidance.
• Work with a range of professionals including:
• Supporting health and social care professionals with patient discharge
• Liaising with the hospital health and social care professionals (e.g. Social Workers) to
facilitate smooth supported discharge.
• Handypeople & contractors

Administration

• Input all records, reviews, and visiting information to service user’s case notes in a
timely manner to maintain up-to-date and accurate records on AUKEL’s case
management system (currently Charity Log/Call-round App).
• Report all “no access” failed visits, or changes in service users’ condition or
circumstances in accordance with AUKEL’s policies and procedures.
• Ensure service user comment sheets are completed.
• Support the return of customer comment sheets and general feedback in respect of
your own service users.

Quality

• Ensure services provided in the community are delivered in line with the Care Quality
Commission (CQC) principles.
• Deliver all work in line with AUKEL quality mark standards.
• Commit to undertaking the Care Certificate, if not already held or in possession of NVQ
level 2.
• Complete essential training as required by AUKEL to provide safe services.

Liaison

• Work in collaboration with other agencies providing support within the customer's
home.
• Work under the direction of the service manager and project officer/s.
• Represent AUKEL and participate in appropriate external meetings and events to
remain aware of local, regional, and national issues affecting quality and compliance
issues affecting care and home support services.

General

• Meet regularly with your line manager for support, supervision, and appraisal.
• Attend team and staff meetings, (and other meetings) as required.
• Undertake any other duties within the competence of the post holder as may be required
from time to time for the continued smooth running of AUKEL.
• Complete any training which is required to fulfil the role.
• Carry out the duties of the post in accordance with AUKEL policies and procedures
including Equal Opportunities, Mental Capacity, Deprivation of Liberty, Food Hygiene,
Health & Safety, Confidentiality, Complaints, GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation),
Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults etc.
• Work within AUKEL’s expectations of professional boundaries and confidentiality

Functional Links

• The post holder reports to the manager.
• Close working with NHS health & social care professionals.
• Close working with external partner agencies e.g. Age UK Redbridge, Barking & Havering, and
Age UK Waltham Forest.
• Close working with AUKEL internal departments e.g. information and advice, advocacy, Take
Home & Settle services, and volunteering department etc.

Person Specification

Research shows that while middle class white men tend to apply for job when they meet around 60% of the
criteria, women, people from the global majority, and people from other marginalised groups that
encounter systematic discrimination tend to apply only when they meet all criteria. So, if you think you have
what it takes, but don’t meet every single aspect of the job description, please still apply!

Experience

Essential

• Experience of one-to-one work with vulnerable service users, including those with multiple issues and needs either through paid or unpaid position.

Desirable

• Care Certificate or CQF Diploma NVQ Level 2, or equivalent, in Health & Social Care.
• Experience of working collaboratively with external partners.
 

Knowledge & Understanding

Essential

• Understanding and commitment to empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
• Understanding the principles of confidentiality in practice. 
• Understanding of safeguarding and when to raise a concern.
• Understanding of stigma and discrimination, and the impact this has on people’s lives.

Desirable

• Knowledge of local services available to adults and their carers
• Understanding of hospital discharge procedures.
 

Skills/Attributes

Essential

• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Good English verbal and written communication skills
• Good planning and organisational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to prioritise and manage time and resources in a competent manner
• IT skills to the level of being able to use Word, email, internet, mobile phone apps and logging information on AUKEL’s CRM
• Can demonstrate AUKEL values (accountable, kind, flexible, inclusive, collaborative) in the way the service is delivered.
 

Desirable

• Ability to speak community languages e.g. Bengali, Urdu, Punjabi, Turkish etc. 
• Able to use Charity Log (CRM used by AUKEL). Training will be provided as
necessary.
• Ability to drive with use of own vehicle (mileage and essential car users will be paid).

Additional Requirements

• This post is subject to the relevant check through the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS)
• Flexibility in working hours to meet organisational needs.
• The role requires daily travel across East London

Substance Misuse Worker

When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed.

Job Title: Substance Misuse Worker

Location: Catford, Lewisham (Approximately 11 minute walk from Bellingham Station - Thameslink and Southeastern rail services) - The service works across two properties which are located in close proximity to each other. This service has step free access.

Salary: £29,000 (Full Time Equivalent)

Shift Pattern: 22.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday 3 days a week which can be discussed directly with the hiring manager at interview 

About the role

We’re looking for a Substance Misuse Worker with experience in mental health and substance use to join our Catford team. Based in a 24 hour residential service, you’ll support adults with severe and enduring mental health needs through rehabilitation and recovery focused support, using your specialist knowledge to help residents and the team overcome personal challenges.

You will deliver evidence-based interventions based on holistic assessments to support personalised recovery, integration, and promotion of independent living skills. You will be a specialist in comorbidity, supporting the team to achieve positive outcomes for our residents. Some of your duties will include:

• Undertake joint holistic assessments, risk assessments, care plans, and interventions to support harm reduction and minimisation.
• Set up realistic and flexible strengths-based support plans, working closely with colleagues and support teams to support and advise on interventions and approaches to meet individual needs.
• Help reduce episodes of crisis and assist residents/participants to access services which can offer alternatives to crisis support.
• Work closely with support staff and clinical teams to support and advise them on interventions and approaches to meet resident/participant comorbid, complex mental health and substance misuse needs.
• Support multi-disciplinary teams and the wider community teams with support, advice, signposting, and move on care planning. 

About you

We are looking for someone who has specialist knowledge on how to support individuals with comorbid and complex needs, with experience in interventions, and in a similar role. Qualifications are desirable if paired with practical experience which is relevant to this role. We look at individual characteristics with the ability to engage with various people who may not want to receive the support, able to build trusting professional relationships, and able to demonstrate resilience, solve challenges, and be proactive. If this sounds like you, take a look at the further criteria:

• Full knowledge on comorbidity and complex needs, able to share knowledge, skills, and experience with others
• Previous experience in a similar role, providing interventions and holistic assessments and support for people experiencing mental health challenges
• Ability to provide specialist support and knowledge in risk assessment and risk management, particularly in relation to harm minimisation, substance misuse and mental health
• A commitment to promoting recovery, harm reduction, and active involvement in care planning
• Ability to apply relapse prevention models to promote sustained recovery and harm reduction
• Alignment with our values of Ambition, Empowerment, Inclusivity, and Transparency

Please refer to the JDPS attached for more details on the vacancy and our requirements/key criteria.

What we offer

• 25 days (Full time equivalent) annual leave, increasing with the length of service
• Employer Pension Contribution
• Eligibility to register with Blue Light Discount Card
• Access to discounted tickets for music events, shows, sports and more
• Reflective Practice regular sessions with a therapist provided by an external provider to support Mental Health and Wellbeing at work
• Training and Development, including access to courses, upskilling, and progression plans
• Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Annual Staff Awards
• EDI Ambassador programme
• Be part of an organisation which believes good care and support improves lives with the vision to create healthier, safer, and more inclusive communities.
• Join an organisation with a mission to empower independence through trauma-informed solutions and dynamic partnerships that keep people out of prison, out of hospital, and off the streets.

We value and celebrate the unique backgrounds, perspectives and experiences of all of our employees. We have a team of staff ambassadors who volunteer to actively support us in fortifying our organisational value of Inclusivity. They embrace this unique opportunity to deliver awareness, events, and developments to our organisation to support us in ensuring our value of Inclusivity is embedded throughout the organisation. 

SIG actively encourages applications from individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds, particularly lived experience; Naturally, we approach any emerging issues with empathy and sensitivity. 

About Social Interest Group (SIG)

SIG is a not-for-profit organisation providing thousands of people with good-quality support and care in residential, drop-in centres, community floating support settings, probation settings, and hospitals. We do so across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, Kent and Liverpool. Our goal is to transform lives through empowering change. 
Want to know how we work? Watch our short Theory of Change video to see how we support people towards a brighter future: Theory of Change Further details can be found on our website here: Theory of Change - Social Interest Group - Social Interest Group. 

Additional Information

Please note that this job advert may close early due to screening applications on an ongoing basis. We advise applying as soon as possible for your application to be taken into consideration at the early stages.

Please note that as part of our process, we complete an enhanced DBS check, some roles may require further vetting. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds.

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide sponsorship, please ensure you have full right to work in the UK prior to applying to our positions.