Purpose of the Role:
The Hostel Support Worker provides support and assistance to individuals residing in a hostel, many of whom may be experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, or other vulnerabilities. The role focuses on delivering person-centered support to help residents achieve stability, develop life skills, and progress toward independent living.
Key Responsibilities:
* Support and Guidance:
* Provide practical and emotional support to hostel residents to address their individual needs.
* Develop and implement support plans with residents, identifying goals such as securing long-term accommodation, employment, or addressing mental health and substance misuse issues.
* Support residents in accessing relevant services, including health care, benefits advice, training, or community programs.
* Housing and Tenancy Support:
* Assist residents in understanding their responsibilities regarding hostel rules and tenancy agreements.
* Support residents in developing skills to manage finances, pay rent, and maintain their accommodation.
* Address issues such as rent arrears, anti-social behavior, or tenancy breaches in collaboration with the Hostel Manager.
* Daily Hostel Operations:
* Ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the hostel, including monitoring communal areas and maintaining a safe, welcoming environment.
* Conduct regular health and safety checks, including fire safety procedures, and report any maintenance issues.
* Facilitate the induction process for new residents, ensuring they understand hostel policies and available support.
* Safeguarding and Risk Management:
* Identify and address risks to residents, staff, and the wider community.
* Respond promptly to safeguarding concerns and escalate issues to management or external agencies where required.
* Maintain a safe and supportive environment, de-escalating challenging behavior in line with organizational policies.
* Record Keeping and Administration:
* Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of resident interactions, support plans, incidents, and progress toward goals.
* Assist with reporting and data collection to evidence service outcomes and compliance with funding or regulatory requirements.
* Ensure confidentiality and data protection policies are followed at all times.
* Partnership and Collaboration:
* Liaise with external agencies, including housing services, mental health teams, drug and alcohol services, and employment support providers, to ensure holistic support for residents.
* Attend multi-agency meetings and advocate for residents' needs as required.
* Develop positive working relationships with colleagues, residents, and partners to enhance service delivery.
* Promoting Independence and Life Skills:
* Organize activities, workshops, and training sessions to help residents build confidence, social skills, and practical abilities.
* Support residents to engage in education, training, volunteering, or employment opportunities.
* Encourage positive routines and behaviors, empowering residents to move toward independent living.
Person Specification:
Essential Skills and Experience:
* Experience of working with vulnerable individuals, including those affected by homelessness, substance misuse, mental health issues, or offending behavior.
* Ability to deliver person-centered support and develop effective support plans.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trusting relationships.
* Experience managing challenging situations and responding effectively to safeguarding concerns.
* Understanding of housing-related support and homelessness services.
* Proficiency in IT systems for record keeping and reporting.
Desirable Skills and Experience:
* Knowledge of welfare benefits, housing legislation, and tenancy sustainment strategies.
* Experience of delivering group sessions or life skills programs.
* Understanding of trauma-informed care and motivational interviewing techniques.
Qualifications:
* Relevant qualification in Health & Social Care, Housing, or equivalent (e.g., NVQ Level 2/3).
* Training in safeguarding, first aid, and risk management (desirable).
Personal Qualities:
* Empathetic, patient, and non-judgmental approach to working with vulnerable individuals.
* Ability to remain calm under pressure and de-escalate challenging situations.
* Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
* Resilient, adaptable, and committed to supporting positive outcomes for residents.
Working Conditions:
* The role may involve shift work, including evenings, weekends, and overnight duties.
* Some lone working may be required depending on the service.
* Occasional travel to external appointments or multi-agency meetings.
Pay: £12.50 per hour
Benefits:
* Casual dress
* Company pension
* Free parking
* On-site parking
Schedule:
* Day shift
* Monday to Friday
* Night shift
* Overtime
* Weekend availability
Experience:
* Supported Accommodation: 2 years (required)
* Support Worker: 2 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
* Driving Licence (required)
Work Location: In person
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