Outreach and sustainment officer

Rough Sleeping Outreach and Support Officer

About the Role

We are looking for a proactive, compassionate and motivated Rough Sleeping Outreach and Support Officer to join our team in Waltham Forest.

The successful candidate will deliver assertive, trauma-informed outreach to individuals sleeping rough or at risk of rough sleeping, helping them access appropriate support, improve their wellbeing and move away from the streets.

The role involves regular street outreach across the borough, responding to reports of rough sleeping, carrying out welfare checks, assessing individual needs and working closely with partner agencies to identify safe and sustainable housing solutions.

You will also provide ongoing support to individuals moving into temporary accommodation, supported housing or independent living, helping them settle in, develop their independence and maintain their accommodation.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct regular street outreach sessions to identify and engage with individuals sleeping rough.
• Respond to reports of rough sleeping and undertake welfare and safety checks.
• Build trusting relationships using a trauma-informed, person-centred approach.
• Assess individual needs, risks and circumstances, including housing, health and welfare needs.
• Provide practical advice, support, signposting and referrals to relevant services.
• Work collaboratively with housing teams, health services and partner agencies to secure appropriate support and accommodation.
• Support individuals to move away from rough sleeping and access suitable housing options.
• Provide ongoing resettlement and tenancy sustainment support to help individuals maintain their accommodation.
• Identify safeguarding concerns and respond appropriately to risks and complex needs.
• Maintain accurate case records and contribute to effective support planning.

About You

We are looking for someone who is committed to supporting people experiencing homelessness and understands the challenges individuals face when trying to move away from rough sleeping.

You will have:

• Experience working with homeless households or vulnerable adults; experience supporting people with a history of rough sleeping is desirable.
• An understanding of the causes of homelessness and the barriers people face when accessing accommodation and support.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage individuals who may be reluctant to accept support.
• A compassionate, non-judgemental and trauma-informed approach.
• The ability to assess needs, recognise risks and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
• Good organisational and record-keeping skills, with the ability to manage a varied caseload.
• The ability to work independently in the community and collaboratively with partner agencies.
• A flexible and proactive approach to working in a challenging and changing environment.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of people experiencing homelessness. You will play a key role in helping individuals access support, improve their wellbeing, secure accommodation and work towards greater stability and independence.

If you are passionate about reducing rough sleeping, building positive relationships and helping people achieve lasting change, we would welcome your application.

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