Specialist Support Worker - Part-time - 18 hours per week – Bercleys Compass Ltd, Lewisham

Part-Time Specialist Support Worker

Location: Lewisham, London
Hours: Part-time - 18 hours per week
Salary: £35,000pa FTE, pro rata
Employer: Bercleys Compass

About the Role

Bercleys Compass is looking for a compassionate, practical and motivated Accommodation Specialist Support Worker to support people experiencing housing challenges, including individuals who are vulnerable to homelessness, have disabilities or need additional support to live independently.

This is an opportunity to make a real difference to people's lives by helping them access suitable accommodation, develop essential life skills and build the confidence to live more independently.

You will provide person-centred support to individuals living in hostel or shared-house accommodation, as well as through outreach and community-based support. Working closely with residents, colleagues and external agencies, you will help individuals overcome challenges, work towards their personal goals and maintain stable, sustainable living arrangements.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide individual support: Assess residents' needs and work with them to develop, review and update personalised support plans.
• Support housing needs: Help individuals find and maintain suitable accommodation, understand their housing options and access relevant financial assistance and community services.
• Promote independent living: Support residents to develop practical life skills, confidence and the ability to manage their daily lives as independently as possible.
• Respond to challenging situations: Support individuals experiencing housing difficulties or crises, following agreed support plans, risk assessments and safeguarding procedures.
• Advocate for residents: Liaise with landlords, housing providers, local authorities, social services and other partner organisations to help resolve issues and improve outcomes.
• Manage risk and safeguarding: Follow risk management plans, identify concerns and report incidents in line with company policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate records: Keep support plans, case notes, incident reports and other relevant records up to date, including information held on the company's case management system.
• Build positive relationships: Develop professional and supportive relationships with residents, families, carers, colleagues and external agencies.
• Deliver practical guidance: Help residents understand tenancy responsibilities, budgeting, housing-related matters and other skills that support independent living.
• Contribute to service improvement: Participate in team meetings, supervision, training and support reviews, helping to maintain a safe and effective service.

About You

We are looking for someone who is patient, empathetic and organised, with a genuine interest in supporting people who may be facing difficult circumstances.

You will be able to build trust, communicate effectively with different people and remain calm and practical when dealing with challenges. You should be comfortable working independently while also contributing positively to a team.

Essential Requirements

• A genuine interest in supporting vulnerable adults and promoting independent living.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive professional relationships.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills, including accurate record-keeping.
• A practical, solution-focused approach to resolving problems.
• An understanding of confidentiality, professional boundaries, safeguarding and health and safety.
• The ability to follow support plans, procedures and risk management arrangements.
• At least three GCSEs at grade 6 or above. Graduates are also encouraged to apply.

Desirable Experience and Qualifications

• Experience in housing, supported accommodation, social care, support work, social work, case management or community outreach.
• An NVQ Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in Health and Social Care, or an equivalent qualification.
• Additional training in safeguarding or Positive Behaviour Support (PBS).
• Good technical skills and using Microsoft Office
• A full UK driving licence.

Relevant experience is beneficial, but training and an induction programme will be provided.

Working Environment

The role is based in London, with an office base and work taking place in a hostel or shared-house setting. You will also undertake visits in the community and may accompany residents to appointments or other services.

You will work as part of a team, with support from line management, and will be expected to attend relevant team meetings, supervision and training.

Benefits

· 28 days Annual Leave including Bank Holidays (5 days reserved for Office shutdown) (pro-rated for Part-time contract)

· 1 extra day-off for your birthday

· Free Snacks, drinks and food provided

· Company Pension

· Company social events

· Really nice, collaborative team Culture and environment

· Fantastic Induction and training Structure provided.

· Plenty of scope for learning and career development.

What We Are Looking For

Above all, we are looking for someone who is committed to treating people with dignity and respect, recognising individual needs and helping residents achieve positive, lasting outcomes.

If you are approachable, reliable and passionate about helping people overcome housing challenges and build more independent lives, we would welcome your application.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV together with a short supporting statement explaining how your experience, skills and qualifications meet the requirements of the role.

Important information: The successful candidate will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, as the role involves working with adults at risk and/or accessing their records. Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK. Bercleys Compass is unable to offer visa sponsorship.

Pay: £35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company events
• Company pension
• On-site parking

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Lewisham, Greater London: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Location:

• Lewisham, Greater London (required)

Work Location: In person