Homeless Support Worker

You will have your own caseload of clients to support and will work with them on a one to one basis out in the community and in the clients homes.
You will identify their needs by listening to them and put together a support plan which is equally achievable and realistic for them
You will link in with outreach workers and other agencies to build rapport and trust with clients who are homeless in preparation for them getting their own accommodation
You will support clients to attend appointments and act as a link for clients to engage in services with the aim to improve their physical and mental health
You will work with people to identify their strengths and talents, and encourage them to focus and build on these, with a view to affecting behavioural and lifestyle changes that are positive and sustainable
You will be conscientious in areas such as safeguarding and lone working
You will help clients to access the benefits they are entitled to claim
You will challenge harmful behaviours and play an active role in encouraging people to come inside from the street, or to play an active part in sustaining their accommodation
You will support them to manage and safely manage alcohol and or substance misuse
You will encourage their involvement in personal progression in the form of education, training, employment activity or volunteering
You will help them improve their practical skills in areas such as budgeting, shopping, cooking, housework and managing a tenancy
You will work with external partners to maximise the opportunities available to clients so that they can resettle in the community. Specifically working closely with the client's property owners and Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch councils to ensure a successful tenancy
Maintain client records using relevant systems to a good standard
Work in accordance with the Health and Safety regulations and all policies and procedures
You will gain knowledge and understanding of the Housing First principles and how Housing First uses a client-led approach
You will be non-judgemental and work towards the clients' goals and not towards societies expectations
Attend supervision, appraisal, training and meetings as directed which may be outside your normal working pattern
Work flexibly across all areas of operation where required and prior notice given
Any other reasonable task as requested by a member of staff

Previous experience in this type of work is not essential but you will have a real passion for wanting to work with people who are homeless. You will receive support and training in understanding the key principles of Housing First but some prior research and understanding of the support model is desirable Your values will match ours, you will be committed to helping others and enjoy the real job satisfaction that this brings.

Clear verbal and written English
Good IT and keyboard skills
Polite, assertive manner, ability to self -motivate
Passion for working in a client/customer facing role
Knowledge of the benefits system and tenancy legislation
Have an interest and genuine concern for homelessness and related issues
Knowledge of voluntary and statutory agencies
Knowledge of best practice in supporting people with drug/alcohol and/or mental ill health issues, including realistic harm reduction approaches
Important: Driving licence and access to a car is essential for this role
Important: Job requires staff to work on a rota including some weekends and has elements of lone working in the community

BCP Housing Led supports individuals aged 18 and over, who have high support needs and a history of long term rough sleeping and homelessness. Our aim is to give them a home of their own, where they can regain stability, safety, and support. We work in partnership with BCP council and all support services within BCP, this helps us deliver a strength based, person-centred approach, creating a positive environment to help them sustain a home.

Our dedicated team provides intensive one to one support to help our clients achieve their goals, everything we do is to coach and empower our clients to eventually achieve independent living.

If you love working with people and are looking for a role where you can make a real difference in the lives of those you support, then this is the role for you!