Young people support worker jobs

Are you an experienced practitioner with a passion for empowering young people and making a difference?

At NYAS (National Youth Advocacy Service), we are dedicated to making a lasting impact on the lives of children, young people, and adults at risk. We believe no child or young person should ever be alone or voiceless in the care system, in family court, or when decisions are being made about their future.

We are seeking an experienced and compassionate Senior Practitioner to join Project Unity England, working 28 hours per week. This is an exciting opportunity to deliver intensive, trauma-informed support to care-experienced young mothers who are pregnant or have recently given birth, helping families stay together and supporting young mothers to build positive futures.

About Project Unity England

Project Unity England is an innovative national initiative focused on improving outcomes for care-experienced young mothers and their children through collaborative, multi-agency working. The project aims to keep families together, strengthen service delivery, promote innovation and ensure that local needs are addressed effectively across England.

At the heart of Project Unity is a collaborative approach that brings together local authorities, health partners and community organisations to provide coordinated, community-focused support. By working closely with partner agencies, Project Unity helps ensure young mothers receive the right support at the right time, enabling them to make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcomes for themselves and their children.

About the role

As a Senior Practitioner, you will manage a complex caseload, providing independent, rights-based advocacy and one-to-one support to care-experienced young mothers. Working autonomously while supported by the Project Coordinator, you will empower young mothers to understand their rights, navigate statutory processes and make informed decisions that help keep families safely together.

You will build trust, complete assessments, develop support plans and advocate on their behalf within multi-agency settings. You will work alongside social workers, midwives, health visitors and other professionals to ensure each young mother's voice is heard and represented.

Alongside direct casework, you will contribute to peer support groups, workshops and community-based activities that reduce isolation, build confidence and strengthen parenting skills. You will also play an important role in safeguarding, quality assurance and service development by maintaining high-quality records, producing case studies and identifying opportunities to improve local services.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a tangible difference to the lives of care-experienced young mothers while working within an innovative, rights-based national programme.

About you

We are looking for someone who is passionate about supporting vulnerable young people and families. You will be confident working independently while building strong partnerships with professionals across health, social care and the voluntary sector.

You will have experience supporting families or parents with complex social care involvement and a sound understanding of safeguarding, risk assessment and relevant legislation. You will be an effective advocate with excellent communication skills, able to build trusting relationships while maintaining professional boundaries.

You will be organised, resilient and confident managing a demanding caseload, with strong analytical skills and the ability to make sound professional judgements in complex situations.

Above all, you will demonstrate NYAS's values of Collaboration, Accountability, Respect and Empowerment, sharing our commitment to ensuring children, young people and adults at risk have their voices heard.

How to Apply

Please apply via the the NYAS website. In your application, evidence using specific examples how your skills and experience meet the criteria in the person specification within the attached job description, including:

• Experience with vulnerable young people or families in a social care, advocacy or support setting
• Knowledge of legislation and policy relating to advocacy, safeguarding and children’s social care
• Excellent communication, organisational and report-writing skills, with sound professional judgement

Employee Benefits

We offer the following employee benefits:

• 26 days, increasing to 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time)
• Occupational sick pay (subject to completion of qualifying period)
• Enhanced pay for family friendly leave
• Free parking at some of our offices
• Employee assistance programme
• Group stakeholder pension scheme
• Access to BHSF health cash plan
• Cycle to work scheme
• Support and supervision from your line manager
• Learning and Development opportunities

Safeguarding and Compliance

NYAS operates robust safeguarding procedures, and internal candidates will be subject to references in line with our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy. In accordance with UK immigration law, proof of eligibility to work in the United Kingdom will be required as part of the recruitment process. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications.

About NYAS

NYAS (National Youth Advocacy Service) is an established rights-based charity ensuring that children, young people, and adults across England and Wales are respected, represented and supported in expressing their views. We work with care-experienced people who are often reliant on statutory services, and our combination of social care and legal services places us in a unique position to ensure their voices are heard.

We are an equal opportunities employer and a Disability Confident Employer, guaranteeing an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria. We welcome applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, nationality, religion or belief, or any other protected characteristic.

Young People Support Worker

We promise you that no day will be the same, and you will get so much out of working with our residents as you ensure that they are well-cared for, and empowered to make progress into Independence.

Location: Whitley Bay (Depaul House)

Salary: £19,738.88 per annum

Closing Date: 26 July, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 28

About the Role

You’ll play a vital part in delivering our mission: tackling homelessness, widening opportunity and championing fairness. Whatever your specialism, you’ll help create a safe, inclusive and empowering environment where people can thrive and move forward with confidence.

As a Young People Support Worker (Whitley Bay), you will provide practical, emotional, and goal-focused support to young people, helping them develop the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to move towards independent living.

You will manage a caseload of young people with a range of support needs, building trusted relationships and delivering structured, person-centred support plans. The role involves supporting young people through key transitions, including leaving care, sustaining accommodation, and accessing education, training, or employment.

Your work will be underpinned by the Depaul Endeavour Model, an assets-based and psychologically informed approach, ensuring young people are supported to build on their strengths and achieve positive outcomes.

Please note that this job opportunity is offered as a part-time (28 hours per week), permanent role.

Shift Pattern: Saturday & Sunday - 08:00 to 22:00

In this role, you will:

• Provide safe, supportive accommodation and champion the wellbeing of every client.

• Deliver personalised support plans that empower individuals to achieve independence.

• Build positive, respectful relationships with colleagues, partners and the people we support.

• Encourage participation in education, training, employment, and volunteering opportunities.

• Contribute to a positive team culture and maintain a safe, welcoming environment.

• Commit to continuous learning and uphold Depaul’s values of respect, inclusion, and action.

About You

You believe in people — their strengths, their rights and their potential. You bring empathy, energy and a solution‑focused mindset to your work. You communicate clearly, stay organised and adapt well in a fast‑moving environment. You’re committed to inclusion, fairness and continuous learning, and you turn values into meaningful action, whatever your role.

What You’ll Receive

· Tailored training and development

· Flexible working options where suitable

· 26 days annual leave, rising with service

· Family friendly leave policies

· Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%

· Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access

· Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more

· Cash health plan for you and your family

· Death in service benefit

· Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About Depaul UK

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.

Young People Support Worker

If you are the successful candidate, you will be joining a very tight-knit and supportive team that works tirelessly to ensure some of the most vulnerable individuals in the borough are well-cared for.

Location: Chester, Cheshire

Salary: £26,436 per annum + sleep in payments

Closing Date: 02 August, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

Young People Support Worker (+ Sleep-in Payments) – Chester

Make a real difference to the lives of young people leaving care. As a Young People Support Worker at our service in Chester, you'll support young people aged 16–18 to build the confidence, resilience and practical skills they need to live independently. You'll manage a caseload, deliver personalised support plans, promote wellbeing, and help young people access housing, education, training and employment opportunities.

You will be someone with experience supporting young people or vulnerable groups, strong safeguarding knowledge, and the ability to build trusted relationships. You'll be confident in support planning, risk assessment and multi-agency working, while taking a proactive, strengths-based approach that empowers young people to achieve their goals.

Join a values-led organisation committed to preventing homelessness and unlocking potential. In return, you'll receive excellent training, ongoing development and the opportunity to create lasting positive outcomes every day. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

Please note that this job opportunity is offered as a full-time (37.5 hours per week), permanent role.

Shift Pattern

A typical week consists of two shifts. Each shift begins at 9:30am and finishes at 11pm, followed by an overnight sleep-in. The shift then resumes at 07:00am and finishes at 12:00pm the following day. This entire period is classed as one shift. Sleep-ins are a requirement of the role and attract an additional payment. Flexibility to work bank holiday is also required in line with the needs of the service.

In this role, you will:

• Ensure the safety and wellbeing of clients in the service at all times possible, including using safeguarding and emergency alert procedures where applicable

• Carry a caseload of clients for whom you will be the named key worker, and you will also take joint responsibility with your team members for the well-being and day to day support of all clients in the services

• Lead on risk and needs assessment and support planning for your key clients and contribute to ongoing needs and risk assessment of other clients in the service

• Develop and implement SMART outcomes based support plans for your key clients

• Deliver one-to one and group support opportunities within their accommodation and in the local community aimed at increasing resilience in the clients we work with

• Proactively work in partnership with multiple agencies including statutory teams, to support the well-being of Depaul clients in accordance with data protection and information sharing protocols

• Adopt a flexible, reflective and creative approach in your engagement with clients and personalised in your support to them

• Involve clients in the decisions made about them and encourage participation in Depaul’s wider community programme of activities

• Support all clients to participate in Education, Training, Employment and Volunteering opportunities as appropriate to the development of their skills, assets and aspirations

• Have responsibilities as part of the team for ensuring the health and safety of the environment for clients, staff, visitors and volunteers through regular checks and reporting

• Have responsibility as a member of the team for preparing the accommodation for new clients to move into and supporting the client to settle in

• Support and facilitate the work of the volunteers who add value to the work that we do

• In conjunction with Senior Worker, ensure that regular health and safety inspections are carried out in DePaul’s managed properties. To respond to reported repairs in a timely manner and to review health and safety risk assessments with the senior worker

• To interview and assess suitability of referrals to the criteria and objectives of the project

• Undertake further duties as commensurate to the role and identified by your line manager

• To participate in internal/external meetings and attend Core training events

• Demonstrate a commitment to client involvement by advocating client involvement opportunities, for example by actively promoting the Voice of Depaul to clients and holding residents meetings

• To maintain appropriate young person files and ensure clear and concise written records

About You

When completing your application form please address all the points set out below.

• Experience in working with care leavers, young people or other vulnerable groups

• Experience of Safeguarding in children and adults and operating safeguarding requirements and procedures

• Experience of using Risk Assessments and Support Planning tools

• Experience of managing a case load, recording and record keeping

• Experience of lone working

• Excellent communication skills, literacy, numeracy and IT skills

• Commitment to promoting an environment, which has the highest regard for the Health and Safety of others.

• High level understanding of professional boundaries and ability to maintain boundaries

• An understanding and commitment to working in an assets based way

• Commitment to working in a manner, which promotes diversity and equality ensuring that everyone is treated with respect and dignity and no one, suffers from discrimination

• Commitment to promoting an environment, which has the highest regard for the Health and Safety of others

• High level understanding of professional boundaries and ability to maintain boundaries

• Effective collaborative working

• Ability to effectively reflect on own practices for ongoing learning and development

• Respect for the values and ethos of Depaul and its founding partners

What You’ll Receive

· Tailored training and development

· Flexible working options where suitable

· 26 days annual leave, rising with service

· Family friendly leave policies

· Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%

· Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access

· Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more

· Cash health plan for you and your family

· Death in service benefit

· Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About Depaul UK

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.

Young People Support Worker (Floating Support)

This is an opportunity for someone compassionate and driven to make a real impact, supported by training and reflective practice.

Location: Chester, Cheshire

Salary: £26,436 per annum

Closing Date: 02 August, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

Young People Support Worker (Floating Support) – Cheshire West & Chester

Help young people leaving care build the confidence and skills to live independently. As a Young People Support Worker, you'll provide practical, trauma-informed support to young people aged 15–19, helping them secure housing, develop life skills, access education or employment, and achieve their personal goals.

You will be someone who can build trusting relationships, manage a varied caseload, and work effectively with social workers, partner agencies and local services. In addition, you will have experience supporting young people with complex needs, strong safeguarding knowledge, and a passion for empowering others to succeed.

In return, you'll join an inclusive and values-driven organisation committed to preventing youth homelessness, with excellent training, ongoing development and the opportunity to make a genuine impact every day.

Please note that this job opportunity is offered as a full-time (37.5 hours per week), permanent role.

In this role, you will:

• To complete a full assessment of each young person’s strengths, needs and goals to develop a holistic and strengths-based support plan and tailored programme of support.

• Provide a programme of support with young people to cover accommodation needs, independent living skills, support with education, employment and learning and social and emotional issues.

• To support young people aged 16+ to prepare for independent living and develop necessary skills.

• To understand and support young people using a trauma-informed approach, awareness and understanding of adverse childhood approaches and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)

• Where young people have moved in to accommodation the worker will provide support through a programme of regular visits. These may include support and advice or more structured life-skills training as required.

• Help young people to apply for benefits, complete relevant application forms, train to learn budgeting skills and managing money, including support to prioritise and pay bills and rent.

• Actively support young people to stay in or enter suitable education, employment and training.

• Support young people to access and liaise with health services, including mental health services, drug and alcohol support services and counselling referrals.

• To create a package of support around the young person, signposting and making onward referrals for specialized support where appropriate.

• To be available to represent Depaul UK at meetings and to provide updates to all professionals involved with the young person, and keep clear and relevant records.

• To establish and build links with housing providers in order to maximise the alternatives available to young people and work closely with social care partners.

• To make a positive contribution to team meetings, case management meetings and make a contribution to any policy reviews and consultations.

• To demonstrate commitment to client involvement by advocating client involvement opportunities, for example by actively promoting the Voice of Depaul to clients and holding residents meetings

• To work in a manner that promotes positive team work.

• To have flexibility to ensure that all young people can access support around their employment, training and education commitments, which may involve some evening and weekend working.

About You

To carry out this role we are looking for the following from you in terms of experience, skills and competencies

• A commitment to the ethos and values of Depaul including the organisation’s policies and procedures

• Able to work on own initiative but at same time able to exercise sound judgement in knowing when to consult with peers and clients to meet the service KPI’s

• A clear understanding and ability to implement risk management, information sharing and data security arrangements.

• Awareness of and commitment to equal opportunity and diversity practise. Ability to promote and implement diversity practice and policies and treat colleagues and clients fairly and with respect.

• Demonstrate ability to use IT to a level which will enable high quality reporting to be carried out. This should include an ability to use data capture systems including running queries and reports.

• Experience of helping Young People with setting up benefits, developing independent living skills and maintaining their accommodation

• Experience of working with young people who may have complex needs such as mental health issues, drug and alcohol misuse, domestic abuse and offending behavior. (this list is not exhaustive)

• Ability and commitment to work as part of a multi-agency team to ensure young people in care and who are leaving care, achieve the best possible outcomes

• Able to demonstrate a clear understanding of safeguarding requirements and professional boundaries when working with young people.

What You’ll Receive

· Tailored training and development

· Flexible working options where suitable

· 26 days annual leave, rising with service

· Family friendly leave policies

· Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%

· Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access

· Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more

· Cash health plan for you and your family

· Death in service benefit

· Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About Depaul UK

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.

#INDSCP

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.

Young People Support Worker

We promise you that no day will be the same, and you will get so much out of working with our residents as you ensure that they are well-cared for, and empowered to make progress into Independence.

Location: Whitley Bay (Depaul House)

Salary: £26,436 per annum

Closing Date: 26 July, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

You’ll play a vital part in delivering our mission: tackling homelessness, widening opportunity and championing fairness. Whatever your specialism, you’ll help create a safe, inclusive and empowering environment where people can thrive and move forward with confidence.

As a Young People Support Worker (Whitley Bay), you will provide practical, emotional, and goal-focused support to young people, helping them develop the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to move towards independent living.

You will manage a caseload of young people with a range of support needs, building trusted relationships and delivering structured, person-centred support plans. The role involves supporting young people through key transitions, including leaving care, sustaining accommodation, and accessing education, training, or employment.

Your work will be underpinned by the Depaul Endeavour Model, an assets-based and psychologically informed approach, ensuring young people are supported to build on their strengths and achieve positive outcomes.

Please note that this job opportunity is offered as a full-time (37.5 hour per week), permanent role.

Shift Pattern: Monday - Friday - 15:00 to 22:30

In this role, you will:

• Provide safe, supportive accommodation and champion the wellbeing of every client.

• Deliver personalised support plans that empower individuals to achieve independence.

• Build positive, respectful relationships with colleagues, partners and the people we support.

• Encourage participation in education, training, employment, and volunteering opportunities.

• Contribute to a positive team culture and maintain a safe, welcoming environment.

• Commit to continuous learning and uphold Depaul’s values of respect, inclusion, and action.

About You

You believe in people — their strengths, their rights and their potential. You bring empathy, energy and a solution‑focused mindset to your work. You communicate clearly, stay organised and adapt well in a fast‑moving environment. You’re committed to inclusion, fairness and continuous learning, and you turn values into meaningful action, whatever your role.

What You’ll Receive

· Tailored training and development

· Flexible working options where suitable

· 26 days annual leave, rising with service

· Family friendly leave policies

· Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%

· Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access

· Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more

· Cash health plan for you and your family

· Death in service benefit

· Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About Depaul UK

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.

Young People Support Worker

If you bring experience in support or care environments, thrive in a role where every interaction matters, and value inclusivity, teamwork and professionalism, this is a meaningful opportunity to help.

Location: Durham

Salary: £26,436 per annum

Closing date: 26 July, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

You’ll play a vital part in delivering our mission: tackling homelessness, widening opportunity and championing fairness. Whatever your specialism, you’ll help create a safe, inclusive and empowering environment where people can thrive and move forward with confidence.

As a Young People Support Worker (Day) at our service in Durham, you’ll empower residents in supported accommodation to develop key life skills, strengthen resilience, and move forward with confidence in education, training, employment, and wellbeing. Using an assets‑based, psychologically informed approach, you’ll create SMART support plans, complete risk and needs assessments, and ensure every young person receives personalised, meaningful support.

As part of the team, you’ll respond to incidents, safeguard vulnerable clients and help new residents settle into the service. Working proactively with colleagues and external agencies, you’ll use clear communication, strong boundaries and steady problem‑solving to maintain safety and wellbeing throughout the night.

Please note that access to transport is essential due to location of the projects and lack of public transport links.

In this role, you will:

• Provide safe, supportive accommodation and champion the wellbeing of every client.

• Deliver personalised support plans that empower individuals to achieve independence.

• Build positive, respectful relationships with colleagues, partners and the people we support.

• Encourage participation in education, training, employment, and volunteering opportunities.

• Contribute to a positive team culture and maintain a safe, welcoming environment.

• Commit to continuous learning and uphold Depaul’s values of respect, inclusion, and action.

About You

You believe in people — their strengths, their rights and their potential. You bring empathy, energy and a solution‑focused mindset to your work. You communicate clearly, stay organised and adapt well in a fast‑moving environment. You’re committed to inclusion, fairness and continuous learning, and you turn values into meaningful action, whatever your role.

What You’ll Receive

· Tailored training and development

· Flexible working options where suitable

· 26 days annual leave, rising with service

· Family friendly leave policies

· Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%

· Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access

· Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more

· Cash health plan for you and your family

· Death in service benefit

· Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About Depaul UK

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People. 

Job purpose

To provide high-quality, intensive support to young dads and expectant fathers (aged 25 and under) across Tees Valley; to lead and coordinate peer support activity; to manage allocated budgets and contribute to funder reporting; and to take an active role in the development of NEYDL’s commissioned services in the region.

Hours - Full-time (35 hours per week). Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm, with some evening and weekend working expected to meet the needs of the charity.

Location - Tees Valley. Hybrid - mix of community-based, outreach and home working.

Key responsibilities

1. Direct support

•Provide in-person and online 1-to-1 support to young dads and non-birthing people, helping them address key challenges and achieve personal outcomes

•Assess new referrals and manage a complex caseload, prioritising according to need and risk

•Support young dads to attend key meetings with professionals (including child protection, child in need, family court and multi-agency forums)

•Help young dads to access wider opportunities including volunteering, employment, education and community activities

•Support young dads and their families to engage in father and child activities, stay and play sessions, and peer supported recreational activities

•Promote and support access to DigiDAD, NEYDL’s free e-learning platform, and other training and information resources

2. Peer support and group work

•Establish, coordinate and co-facilitate in-person peer support groups for young dads in Tees Valley

•Support the development and delivery of parenting, relationship skills and employability sessions in response to community-identified needs

•Support peer moderated video gaming groups as part of DigiDAD Gaming where relevant

3. Induction, onboarding and milestones

•Ensure every young dad is effectively inducted onto the NEYDL service, completing key onboarding steps and baseline self-evaluation measures

•Track and record progress against key milestones throughout the support journey, in line with NEYDL’s evaluation framework

•Ensure all relevant data is recorded accurately and on time in NEYDL’s data management system

4. Budget and targets

•Take ownership of allocated project budgets, monitoring expenditure and liaising with the Programme Manager (Commissioned Services) and Finance Officer as required

•Work proactively to achieve agreed referral rate targets, taking responsibility for building pathways and relationships that generate consistent referrals

•Contribute to the preparation of funder reports under the oversight of the Programme Manager and Fundraiser, providing accurate data and case study material

5. Specialism

•Take on a designated area of specialism within NEYDL, agreed with the Senior Leadership Team (for example, volunteering, safeguarding or environmental programmes)

•Take a lead role within the team in relation to your specialism, contributing expertise and supporting colleagues

6. Management of staff and volunteers

•Line manage junior staff, project workers and/or volunteers as required

•Support staff and volunteers with operational queries and day-to-day delivery

•Contribute to the induction, supervision and professional development of staff and volunteers

•Support the recruitment and progression of young dads into volunteering roles, including as DigiDAD content creators, peer researchers, DADvocates, AmbassaDADS and community leaders

7. Monitoring and evaluation

•Support the effective recording, monitoring and reporting of programme performance via NEYDL’s data management system and evaluation framework

•Comply with all monitoring, evaluation and reporting requirements, both internal and funder-related

•Support the work of NEYDL’s research partners and independent evaluators as required

8. Collaboration and partnerships

•Work in partnership with key stakeholders in Tees Valley to improve the service offer for young dads, including Family Hub teams, social care, health, housing, education and voluntary sector organisations

•Build referral pathways and maintain strong working relationships with local services and networks

•Develop and build effective relationships with principal stakeholders, supporters and referral partners

9. Advocacy and engagement

•Represent NEYDL at external events and meetings to raise awareness of the service and influence other organisations

•Promote, campaign and advocate with and on behalf of young men, ensuring NEYDL continues to be a leading voice for positive change

•Work proactively to enable young dads to influence the design and delivery of the service, including supporting their participation in community leadership programmes

•Support the charity’s communications and engagement activity, including contributing content to annual reports, social media and local media

10. Other

•Deputise for the Programme Managers as required

•Report to the Board of Trustees in person or in writing on a quarterly basis as required

11. Standard clauses

•The post holder must carry out their responsibilities at all times with due regard to NEYDL’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategy, policy and statement, and Safeguarding Policy

•The post holder is responsible for ensuring that policies and procedures relating to health and safety in the workplace are adhered to at all times

•The post holder must respect the confidentiality of data stored electronically and by other means, in line with NEYDL’s Data Protection Policy

•This role requires satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance prior to appointment

This job description is not exhaustive. NEYDL reserves the right to reasonably add to or revise it at any time in agreement with the post holder.

Job purpose

To lead and manage the DadVocates project, a four-year National Lottery-funded programme training volunteer young dads as peer advocates for young fathers in children’s social care proceedings; delivering professional training to social workers; and working towards the embedding of father-inclusive practice across children’s social care teams in five local authorities.

Hours - Full-time (35 hours per week), Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm, with some evening and weekend working expected to meet the needs of the project

Location - Hybrid, with travel across the North East required and activity based in Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Gateshead/Newcastle and County Durham

Key responsibilities

1. Project management

•Take day-to-day responsibility for the management and delivery of the DadVocates project across all strands of activity

•Manage the project budget, monitor expenditure and liaise with the CEO and Finance Officer

•Update and maintain NEYDL’s Evaluation Framework with DadVocates-specific indicators and methodologies within the first two months of the project start date

•Ensure the project meets its funder milestones and KPIs, maintaining accurate records of outputs and outcomes

•Produce quarterly progress reports for internal review and contribute to annual funder reports

•Commission and manage the external evaluator for the four-year evaluation

•Identify and escalate risks and challenges to the CEO, recommending solutions

2. Steering Committee

•Chair and manage the project Steering Committee, which meets every two months and comprises young dads, NEYDL frontline staff, the safeguarding lead, social work professionals and academic partners

•Induct Steering Committee members, including young dads, into their roles, providing tailored support to ensure they can contribute confidently alongside professionals

•Use Steering Committee meetings to review progress, identify challenges and agree recommendations for the next period of delivery

3. Co-creating the DadVocate training programme

•Work with training and research providers, young dads and Steering Committee members to co-create a 100-hour peer advocacy training programme for volunteer DadVocates

•Deliver the DadVocate training programme alongside NEYDL staff and delivery partners

•Lead annual reviews of the training programme and update content in response to learning and feedback

4. Managing and supporting volunteer DadVocates

•Recruit and train 10 young dad volunteers per year (40 over four years), all with lived experience of young fatherhood 

•Provide ongoing mentoring, supervision and wellbeing support to all active DadVocate volunteers: at least 50 hours per volunteer per year

•Set clear objectives for each volunteer, conduct regular appraisals and team meetings, and support their professional development and progression

•Recognise that DadVocates are young dads with lived experience rather than professional backgrounds, and provide the high level of structured support this requires, including supporting them to navigate professional environments with confidence

•Support the progression of volunteers into employment, further training and community leadership roles

5. Matching DadVocates with young dads in CSC proceedings

•Build and maintain referral pathways with social services, midwifery, Family Nurse Partnerships, Family Hubs and other local networks across target local authorities

•Match 100 young dads over four years with a volunteer DadVocate (10 in year 1, rising to 40 in year 4)

•Work closely with NEYDL’s Senior Young Dads Workers, who hold cases, to coordinate peer advocacy support within CSC proceedings

•Maintain oversight of active advocacy arrangements, ensuring DadVocates are appropriately supported and that safeguarding obligations are met at all times

•Engage directly with young dad beneficiaries through steering committee meetings, evaluation sessions and project learning events

6. Professional training for social workers

•Co-create professional training content with social workers and young dads on the Steering Committee, drawing on national research and NEYDL’s practice experience

•Deliver half-day induction training to 15-20 social workers per local authority at the outset of each area’s involvement, co-facilitated by young dads or DadVocate volunteers

•Deliver annual refresher training in each local authority

•Facilitate quarterly case review and learning meetings with social workers in each local authority, involving DadVocate volunteers

•Co-design guidance on what father-inclusive practice looks like within children’s social care teams, with social workers and young dads (first version in year 2; updated version in year 4)

•Organise and host two information-sharing events for social care professionals in years 2 and 4 (approximately 100 professionals per event)

7. Monitoring, evaluation and learning

•Coordinate data collection with young dads, DadVocate volunteers and social workers using NEYDL’s evaluation tools and new instruments co-designed for this project

•Produce annual evaluation reports and disseminate learning through NEYDL’s wider networks, events and conferences

•Share learning through stakeholder events, professional networks and NEYDL’s regular sector-facing activity

8. Safeguarding

•Ensure robust safeguarding arrangements are in place for all project activity, particularly for DadVocate volunteers operating within CSC proceedings

•Work closely with NEYDL’s Safeguarding Lead to ensure policies and protocols relevant to the project are current, understood and followed by volunteers and partners

•Act as first point of contact for safeguarding concerns arising within the DadVocates project

9. Collaboration and partnerships

•Work closely with NEYDL’s Senior Young Dads Workers as case holders, ensuring a joined-up and consistent approach to supporting young dads involved in the project

•Build and maintain relationships with academic, statutory and voluntary sector partners

•Work with the Business Development Manager to help secure longer-term Local Authority funding for DadVocates, using evidence of impact from the project to support conversations with Local Authorities and expand the project’s reach beyond the areas and targets in the original funding bid

•Represent NEYDL and the DadVocates project at external meetings, networks and conferences

•Contribute to NEYDL’s wider communications and engagement activity

10. Other

•Deputise for the CEO as required

•Report to the Board of Trustees in person or in writing on a quarterly basis as required

11. Standard clauses

•The post holder must carry out their responsibilities at all times with due regard to NEYDL’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategy, policy and statement, and Safeguarding Policy

•The post holder is responsible for ensuring that policies and procedures relating to health and safety in the workplace are adhered to at all times

•The post holder must respect the confidentiality of data stored electronically and by other means, in line with NEYDL’s Data Protection Policy

•This role requires satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance prior to appointment

•This job description is not exhaustive. NEYDL reserves the right to reasonably add to or revise it at any time in agreement with the post holder.

About Coram

Coram is committed to improving the lives of the UK’s most vulnerable children and young people.

We support children and young people from birth to independence, creating a change that lasts a lifetime.

Coram is the UK’s oldest children’s charity founded by Thomas Coram in London helping vulnerable children and young people since 1739. Today, the Coram group helps more than one million children, young people, families and professionals every year by providing access to the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.

Coram Family Lives is part of the Coram group.

About the role

2 x posts (one based in North East & one Arabic speaking based in North West of Westminster)

This a highly rewarding role for an Outreach Worker to support parents and carers of children under 5 at Westminster Children Centres. We are currently looking to recruit two Outreach workers in Westminster to provide accessible information to parents and carers, particularly those who are marginalised, to ensure they receive the support they need in order to increase opportunities and strengthen family life, bringing better outcomes for children.

An Arabic speaking Outreach worker required for the North West of Westminster. A second Outreach worker required for the North East of Westminster, with Bengali language desirable but not essential. The roles will include developing an understanding of the local area including services and facilities. You will also need to pro-actively engage with vulnerable and isolated families and carry out home visits, as required. The role will include developing good relationships with health visitors and liaising with other agencies regarding the needs of parents and carers.

We are looking for someone who has experience of community and outreach work with diverse communities in an inner-city environment. This will include experience of a wide range of methods/techniques to reach out and engage with isolated individuals/communities and assessing family needs. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, along with the ability to empathise with parents and carers are required. A non-judgmental approach is essential. The ability to network is also important.

A commitment to safeguarding vulnerable adults and children, as well as an understanding of and commitment to equal opportunities and diversity.

 are essential.

To apply for this role, please click on the 'apply now' button below to complete the application.

 Please specify on your application if you are applying for Arabic post or general Outreach worker post.

 Closing Date: Sunday, 16th August 2026

Interview Date: Week commencing 24th August 2026

Coram is an equal opportunities employer and we believe a diverse workforce enables us to improve the services to the children and families we help. We are genuinely committed to encouraging candidates from all sections of the community we seek to support. This includes those from global majority ethnic backgrounds, those that identify as LGBQT+, those with disabilities, those with lived experience of care, those with neuro-diversity, and those from other groups who are underrepresented at Coram.

If applicants feel comfortable, we would encourage them to draw on lived experience as well as professional experience in their personal statement as part of their application.

We are committed to the safeguarding of children and where appropriate will require the successful applicant to undertake a check from the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Registered Charity No. 312278.

Job purpose

To grow DigiDAD's reach and impact by building relationships with professionals who can introduce the platform to young dads; showing those professionals how to use DigiDAD confidently with the young dads they support; and gathering feedback from professionals and young dads that informs ongoing improvement of the platform and NEYDL's outreach approach. This role works closely with the DigiDAD Programme Manager to support DigiDAD's growth, sharing feedback and helping to inform planning around outreach, platform and content development.

Hours - Full-time (35 hours per week), Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm, with some evening and weekend working expected to meet the needs of the project

Location - Hybrid, home-based with regular travel to NEYDL’s Gateshead base and professional meetings in the North East, with some national travel

Key responsibilities

1. Professional outreach and relationships

•Build relationships with professionals likely to introduce DigiDAD to the young dads they work with, or to recommend it to colleagues, through networking, invitations to present, and warm referrals

•Work with NEYDL’s Young Dads Workers to identify and follow up on professional contacts they already engage with who may be interested in DigiDAD

•Identify and strategically prioritise the outreach opportunities most likely to lead to new registrations

•Represent DigiDAD at a small number of carefully selected events or conferences each year, where the audience is a strong match for DigiDAD’s goals

2. Onboarding and engagement

•Deliver onboarding sessions and demonstrations to professionals, showing them what DigiDAD offers and how to use it with the young dads they support

•Deliver and/or support regular webinars for current and prospective DigiDAD users, covering both professional and young dad audiences as needed

•Support professionals through the registration and onboarding process, and help them confidently introduce DigiDAD to the young dads they work with 

•Encourage service beneficiaries to engage with DigiDAD content through dissemination of DigiDAD news, updates, and information across our in-house communication channels e.g. WhatsApp groups and DigiDAD Gaming community on Discord

3. Feedback and evaluation

•Hold structured conversations with young dads who use DigiDAD to gather feedback on content, design and user experience

•Gather feedback on outreach materials and messaging, and share insights with the DigiDAD Programme Manager to inform evaluation, reporting and improvements 

4. Working with the Business Development Manager

•Maintain regular contact with NEYDL’s Business Development Manager, including a simple shared tracker to record and follow up leads

•Refer any commissioning or training sales opportunities identified through DigiDAD outreach to the Business Development Manager

•Follow up DigiDAD-interested contacts referred by the Business Development Manager

5. Recording and reporting

•Record outreach activity and registration data accurately and in a timely way, in line with NEYDL’s data management and evaluation systems

•Contribute ideas for campaign activity, content and service development based on direct engagement with users and professionals

6. Standard clauses

•The post holder must carry out their responsibilities at all times with due regard to NEYDL’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategy, policy and statement, and Safeguarding Policy

•The post holder is responsible for ensuring that policies and procedures relating to health and safety in the workplace are adhered to at all times

•The post holder must respect the confidentiality of data stored electronically and by other means, in line with NEYDL’s Data Protection Policy

•This role requires satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance prior to appointment

This job description is not exhaustive. NEYDL reserves the right to reasonably add to or revise it at any time in agreement with the post holder.

Future opportunity: there is potential for this role to develop a training product for professionals on making the best use of DigiDAD. There are no immediate plans for this, but it may form part of the role’s future development.

Homeless Support Worker

Southampton Street Intensive Homeless Hostel

Southampton

42 Hours per week

Rota of 3 days on and 3 days off (8am – 8pm)

Salary Scale: £29,453 per annum for 42 hours per week (FTE £25,947 per annum based on 37 hours per week)

About Us

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic Charity and Housing Association.  The Society of St James (SSJ) has been working in Hampshire for over 50 years, delivering high impact, person-centred, accommodation services to adults and young people experiencing homelessness, problematic substance use and mental health problems. We believe that every person is of worth and we are prepared to take risks to house and support the most at risk and socially excluded members of society.

The Impact You'll Make

Southampton Street Intensive Homeless Hostel has a permanent vacancy for a Homeless Support Worker to work in a busy, demanding, but rewarding environment. You will work in SSJ’s 24/7 intensive homelessness accommodation, helping to provide life-skills and housing-related support to individuals with complex needs through a trauma-informed, strength-based approach including structured support planning and guidance.

Who We're Looking For

We are looking for an empathetic, flexible, and resilient individual who can adapt to meet the needs of our clients. You will possess a strong sense of humour, emotional intelligence, and a compassionate approach to dealing with individuals with complex needs and challenging behaviour. Ideally, you will have experience or knowledge of working with homeless and vulnerable people in a residential setting or similar environment.

Essential Skills and Qualities

• Experience or understanding of working with people with histories of homelessness, mental health problems, and substance misuse.
• Knowledge and understanding of mental health issues, substance use, equality and diversity, and safeguarding vulnerable adults. 
• Ability to build positive working relationships and communicate effectively (verbally and in writing) with clients, colleagues, and external partners. 
• Strong literacy and IT skills to maintain case notes, write emails, and update client files. 
• Good time management skills, self-awareness, and the ability to maintain professional boundaries at all times. 
• Ability to deal with difficult and challenging behaviour calmly and effectively. 
• Ability to use initiative in responding to emergencies or unexpected situations. 
• Commitment to harm minimisation, promoting life skills, and offering emotional support.

What we can offer you

We value and recognise our staff, offering some generous benefits, as well as the satisfaction of helping people at risk:

• A competitive annual leave entitlement of 25 days rising to 30 days, plus public holidays
• Flexible working options
• Buying additional annual leave
• Comprehensive induction and training
• Counselling, financial, personal support and health and wellbeing services via our Employee Assistance Programme
• Company cycle to work scheme
• Discounted laptops and computers with Jamie’s Computers
• Electric Car Scheme
• Blue Light Card 

SSJ are an equal opportunity employer and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds and walks of life. 

At SSJ, we recognise the benefits of a supported workplace. SSJ is affiliated with Unite the Union. To learn more about their membership benefits or to sign up, you can visit their official website at . 

Application closing date: Friday 31^st July 2026 

Due to the high number of expected applicants, we do reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier.

Should you not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume you have been unsuccessful on this occasion. 

Are you ready for a new challenge?

Do you have a passion for working with young people, helping them grow in confidence, discover their strengths, and explore new opportunities? If so, we'd love to hear from you!

Location

This is a hybrid role, combining work from home with work in the local Harlow community. 

Negotiable, up to 30 hours per week, including some evening work (fixed term until 31st March 2027)

About the Role

The Barnardo's Co-op Partnership is an exciting and innovative programme aiming to support more than one million young people to build positive futures.

Our Sedgemoor for our Future service is co-designed with young people and centred around a welcoming, inclusive youth space where young people can feel safe, connected, and empowered to take part in meaningful experiences.

Using a youth work approach, we support young people to:

• Build positive relationships and develop a strong sense of belonging
• Grow in confidence, resilience, and self-esteem
• Take part in a wide range of activities, including creative, practical, and food-based sessions
• Explore issues that matter to them and have their voices heard
• Develop teamwork, communication, and essential life skills for the future

Session Details

You must be available to lead the following weekly sessions:

• Tuesdays – Harlow, 12.15pm-4pm - schools based session
• Wednesdays – Harlow, 12.00-1.30pm- school based session. 6pm-8pm youth club session

As part of your role, you will plan and deliver engaging, youth-led sessions in a variety of settings, including community venues and schools. You will build trusted relationships with young people, create inclusive spaces that meet diverse needs, and support them to achieve positive outcomes.

You will also contribute to community engagement, develop creative approaches to reaching young people across Harlow, and support ongoing evaluation through reflective practice and outcome recording.

What We're Looking For

• Experience working with children, young people, and families
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures, with experience applying this in practice
• Excellent listening and communication skills with a diverse range of children, young people and families
• Creativity and confidence in designing inclusive workshops and group sessions
• Good written and IT skills to accurately record case notes
• Flexibility to adapt to the needs and interests of young people

Interested and want to know more? Please contact Robyn Dunn, Children's Service Manager - Please refer to website via job link for contact details 

When applying, please refer specifically to the Person Specification and Job Description, explaining how your skills and experience meet the requirements.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date. We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

We are looking for an experienced, proactive, flexible, and knowledgeable Housing Support Worker to join our Housing Team. In this role, you will assess young people referred to the service and determine their suitability for New Horizon's Accommodation Pathway or private rented accommodation. You will provide high-quality, person-centred support to young people living within our accommodation projects, helping them to build the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to achieve positive and sustainable outcomes. You will be responsible for managing a diverse caseload across multiple accommodation schemes, completing assessments, developing support plans, and working closely with young people to identify and secure appropriate move-on options into independent living in a timely manner. The role requires effective partnership working with internal teams, local authorities, landlords, and other external agencies to ensure young people receive coordinated and holistic support.

This is a varied and rewarding role requiring excellent communication, sound professional judgement, and the ability to balance competing priorities while maintaining accurate records and delivering a high standard of service.

Key details

• Contract type and hours: permanent, full-time (35 hours a week Monday-Friday)

• Starting salary: £32,136 (salary scale is: £32,136.00-£35,778.00)

• Location: New Horizon Youth Centre, 68 Chalton Street, London, NW1 1JR

• Application deadline: 9am, Monday 3rd August 2026

• How to apply: complete our application form below, submit your CV and write a 2 page cover letter/supporting statement. Please don't include your name or address in your CV or cover letter.

About Kinship

We are Kinship. The leading kinship care charity. 

We're here for kinship carers - friends or family who step up to raise a child when their parents aren't able to. 

We support kinship families across England and Wales and are expanding our work into Scotland.

Let's commit to change for kinship families.

Purpose of the role: 

The Kinship Navigator provides intensive, time-limited support to kinship carers through the Kinship Connected programme, a structured six-month intervention designed to help kinship families stabilise placements and access the support they need.

Working directly with kinship carers in West Dunbartonshire, you will build trusting relationships while completing structured assessments, goal setting and reviews to help families strengthen their support networks and navigate services such as children’s social care, education, health and community support.

This is a community-facing role, working from Y Sort It’s offices and directly in kinship carers’ homes and community spaces. You will work alongside Y Sort It’s Intandem mentors to ensure that both carers and the children they care for receive coordinated, complementary support.

Accurate recording of your work is essential to enable Kinship and Inspiring Scotland to understand what is working, demonstrate impact and learn from this pioneering pilot.

Direct support

You will provide intensive one-to-one support to kinship carers for up to six months, working within the delivery approach set out in the Kinship Connected Service Manual. You will also establish and facilitate a monthly support group for kinship carers in West Dunbartonshire.

This may include:

• Providing emotional and practical support to kinship carers.
• Completing structured needs assessments, SMART goal setting and regular reviews with kinship carers.
• Advocating for kinship carers in meetings with professionals where appropriate.
• Establishing and facilitating a monthly support group for kinship carers in the local area.
• Mapping local services and building relationships with organisations that can provide specialist support, training or activities for kinship families in West Dunbartonshire.
• Liaising with schools, local authorities and other professionals to coordinate support around families.
• Supporting kinship carers with challenges relating to the child(ren) in their kinship care.
• Signposting to relevant services, support organisations and Kinship training opportunities.
• Referring children in kinship care to Y Sort It’s Intandem mentoring programme where appropriate.
• Coordinating celebration and family events (including in Kinship Care Week).
• Supporting applications for grants for essential items or family breaks.

Partnership working with Y Sort It and Inspiring Scotland

• Work closely and collaboratively with Y Sort It colleagues on a day-to-day basis, building a strong co-location relationship that benefits kinship families.
• Develop and maintain clear cross-referral pathways between Kinship Connected and Y Sort It’s Intandem mentoring programme.
• Contribute to joint learning and shared reflection about how the whole-family model is working and what outcomes are being achieved for both carers and children.
• Represent Kinship professionally in all interactions with Y Sort It, Inspiring Scotland and other local partners.
• Participate in any joint reporting, learning or evaluation activities required by Inspiring Scotland.

Collaboration and wider partnership working

• Build constructive relationships with West Dunbartonshire Council and other statutory and voluntary sector partners to support awareness of the programme and effective referral pathways.
• Work closely with colleagues across Kinship, including Peer Support, Training and Communications, to ensure kinship carers in West Dunbartonshire can access the full range of Kinship’s support.
• Contribute to cross-team learning, sharing emerging insights about kinship carers’ experiences and the local landscape in Scotland to inform Kinship’s broader organisational learning.
• Represent Kinship at local meetings, networks or events to strengthen collaboration and raise awareness of kinship care in Scotland.

Safeguarding and risk management

Kinship has a robust safeguarding structure. You will be supported by a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Designated Deputy Safeguarding Leads (DDSL). In line with this policy, and mindful of the Scottish legislative and practice context, you will:

• Recognise, report, record, respond and refer safeguarding risks via our safeguarding process with the support of the safeguarding team.
• Follow and understand Kinship’s organisational safeguarding policies, as well as relevant Scottish guidance and legislation.
• Complete risk assessments for events in line with Kinship’s policy.
• Follow the Kinship Health and Safety policy.
• Use the StaySafe lone worker app.

Monitoring, evaluation and data quality

Accurate and consistent data recording is a core requirement of this role. As Kinship Connected in West Dunbartonshire is a pilot programme, high-quality records and documentation are essential to demonstrate impact to Inspiring Scotland and to generate the learning that will inform future development of Kinship’s work in Scotland.

• Maintain accurate, timely records of all activity, assessments, support plans, contacts and outcomes on Kinship’s CRM system (Salesforce) in line with organisational policy and programme protocols.
• Complete kinship carer needs assessments, SMART goal setting, reviews and outcome recording in accordance with the Kinship Navigator model.
• Contribute to monitoring and reporting requirements for Inspiring Scotland, ensuring activity and outcomes are documented consistently.
• Fully contribute to quality assurance and learning processes, including collecting feedback and case studies that demonstrate impact for kinship families.
• Contribute to the learning about how co-location with Y Sort It supports whole-family outcomes