We are looking for an Assertive Outreach Worker to engage and support vulnerable adults who are at risk of, or currently experiencing, cuckooing (where perpetrators take over a person's home for criminal exploitation). The role requires proactive, persistent, and person-centred outreach to build trust with individuals who may be reluctant to engage with services, with the aim of improving safety, reducing harm, and supporting sustainable recovery and independence., Outreach & Engagement
Safeguarding & Risk Management
- Identify, assess, and respond to safeguarding risks related to cuckooing and exploitation.
- Develop and implement risk management and safety plans in collaboration with service users.
- Act promptly on safeguarding concerns in line with local authority procedures.
- Work closely with police and safeguarding teams to disrupt exploitation and protect victims.
Case Management
- Manage a caseload of service users, maintaining accurate and timely records.
- Complete needs assessments and co-produce support plans tailored to individual needs.
- Monitor progress and adjust interventions accordingly.
Multi-Agency Working
- Work collaboratively with partner agencies including:
- Housing providers
- Police
- Social services
- Substance misuse and mental health services
- Attend multi-agency meetings (e.g., MARAC, safeguarding meetings, case conferences).
- Advocate on behalf of clients to access services, housing, and support.
Prevention & Education
- Deliver awareness sessions to professionals and communities about cuckooing and exploitation.
- Support early intervention strategies to prevent exploitation.
Practical Support
- Assist service users with:
- Securing safe accommodation
- Accessing benefits and healthcare
- Re-establishing tenancies
- Provide crisis support where required.
Working Conditions
- Regular lone working and community-based visits, including high-risk environments.
- Flexible working hours, which may include evenings and weekends.
- Requirement to follow all health and safety and lone working procedures.
£29,220 per year Part-time (21 hours per week) Permanent Mental Health
Essential
- Experience of working with vulnerable adults, particularly within:
- Substance misuse
- Homelessness
- Criminal exploitation / safeguarding
- Demonstrable experience of assertive outreach or intensive engagement work
- Strong understanding of cuckooing, county lines, and exploitation
- Knowledge of safeguarding legislation, policies, and procedure
- Ability to assess risk and manage complex, high-risk situations
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multi-agency team
- Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
- Resilience and ability to work in challenging environments
- Empathy and non-judgemental approach
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
- Effective record-keeping and IT skills
- Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (if required)
- Ability to work flexibly across area
- Have authentic attributes of Kindness, Commitment and Integrity
- Ability to maintain Equal Opportunity standards at all times, A past history of drug/alcohol issues or criminality will not necessarily exclude you from this role; we encourage applications from people with lived experience where appropriate.
- All applicants must have a valid right to work in the UK.
- Catalyst Support is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate difference and are committed to fairness, accessibility, and inclusion throughout recruitment and employment.
- We welcome requests for reasonable adjustments at any stage of the process.
- 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays (increasing with service)
- Pension scheme and access to Simply Health (including optical, dental, counselling sessions)
- Birthday leave, employee discounts, and flexible working where possible
- Supportive probation, sick pay after probation, and wellbeing/EAP resources
Assertive Outreach Worker employer: CATALYST SUPPORT
As a Community Connector - Mental Health Professional, you will join a supportive and dynamic team dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of individuals within the community. Our organisation fosters a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee growth through continuous training and development opportunities, ensuring you can make a meaningful impact in people's lives while enjoying a fulfilling career. Located within vibrant GP practices, you will benefit from a strong network of resources and support, making this an excellent place to thrive both personally and professionally.
