Youth Support Worker
| Posting date: | 04 July 2025 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £25,857.00 per year |
| Additional salary information: | 25857 - 25857 |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 01 August 2025 |
| Location: | Watford, WD18 7FH |
| Company: | Vacancy Filler |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | JUL20254214 |
Summary
Youth Support Worker - Young People’s Housing Service - WatfordFull time - 37.5 hours per week - £25,857paWatford YPHS is made up of two supported accommodation schemes, with 11 rooms in total for 16-19-year-olds who are homeless or in need of housing. YPHS Watford also has two move on schemes for young people aged between 18 and 24 who's support needs are lower, these schemes are not staffed.The young people housed at YPHS Watford come from a variety of different backgrounds and may have experienced trauma, adversity, or instability in their lives. Some may be living with mental health challenges, substance use issues, or other complex needs. As a service, we are committed to using Trauma-Informed Approaches and creating a Psychologically Informed Environment (PIE) to promote healing, trust, and resilience.This is a great opportunity for people who are passionate about supporting young people to achieve their goals and move forward into independent, fulfilling lives.This role operates within a 24-hour rotational shift pattern, which includes regular overnight sleep-in shifts on a weekly basis (2:30pm-10:30pm, Sleep in 10:30pm-7:30am and then 7:30am-3:30pm). Support Worker’s must be prepared to work a variety of shifts, including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays, as part of a consistent rota.As a Support Worker, you will play a vital role in helping young people develop the practical and emotional skills they need to live independently. You will:Develop personalised, trauma-sensitive support plans tailored to each young person’s needs and aspirationsPromote independence through life skills such as cooking, cleaning, and budgetingSupport access to education, employment, and training opportunitiesRefer young people to external services, including healthcare, mental health, and substance supportUse PIE principles to create a psychologically supportive environment within the serviceBuild trusting relationships and provide emotional supportRespond effectively in crisis situations and contribute to safeguarding plansYou’ll be part of a passionate, values-driven team that works collaboratively with social workers, local authorities, and other professionals. We aim to provide a stable, nurturing environment where young people fell heard, valued and empowered.About you:We’re looking for someone who is empathetic, resilient, and committed to empowering vulnerable young people.You will also need to:Demonstrate an understanding of trauma and how it affects behaviour, relationships, and engagementUse a psychologically informed, non-judgemental approach in your daily practiceCommunicate clearly and adapt to diverse needs and backgroundsWork flexibly as part of a 24-hour rota, including weekends, bank holidays, and sleep-insWork both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environmentHold a full UK driving licence with business insurance and have access to a vehicle. There will be occasions where staff will need to transport young people in their vehiclesPlease note that a condition of your employment is that you commit to starting the following qualification within one year of joining Hightown:Frontline Staff - NVQ Level 3 or equivalent Children and Young Peoples Workforce DiplomaSign up to the DBS Update ServiceWe offer a structured induction, ongoing training, and the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification in health and social care, a supportive team culture that values compassion, inclusion and psychological safety through monthly reflective practice.Hightown Benefits:Generous annual leave allowance of 33 days per year, including statutory bank holidays, rising to 35 days with service£25,857 pa for a 37.5 hour a week contractWorkplace pension scheme and life assurance of three times your annual salaryMileage paid for car usageFully paid DBSAnnual bonus based on satisfactory performanceMonthly attendance bonus and annual salary and cost of living reviewOngoing professional development and training to help you deliver outstanding supportEmployee assistance helplineAppointment to this position will be subject to satisfactory right to work, enhanced DBS and references.We are an Equal Opportunities & Disability Confident Employer.