At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals experiencing homelessness with proactive housing management and crisis intervention.
- Company: Emmaus North East, a regional charity dedicated to transforming lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, meaningful work experience, and access to training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on empowering individuals towards independence.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a commitment to high standards of care.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 39200 £ per year.
The Housing Responder is a blended frontline role, combining proactive housing management with responsive support and concierge duties. The role ensures the safety, security, and wellbeing of companions within Emmaus North East's Durham SHAP services, offering practical assistance, crisis intervention, and a welcoming, professional presence during night and weekend shifts.
This position requires strong communication and administrative skills, the ability to build trusting relationships with companions, and a commitment to maintaining high standards of care and professionalism within the Emmaus North East ethos.
Durham SHAP (Single Homeless Action Partnership) is a specialised service aimed at supporting those experiencing homelessness within the County Durham area. It focuses on providing tailored interventions that help people access safe accommodation, address underlying issues contributing to homelessness, and build pathways to independence. The project includes community homes and a number of disbursed properties with localities in Bishop Auckland and Spennymoor.
Emmaus North East is proud to deliver the SHAP service, on behalf of Durham County Council (DCC). This innovative service responds to the pressing need for a holistic support model that provides a pathway of provision for individuals experiencing homelessness. SHAP is designed to offer flexible, person-centred support alongside appropriate accommodation. Its ultimate goal is to guide individuals towards independent living.
The service addresses gaps in existing provision, ensuring that those who might otherwise be left without suitable support can access the tailored assistance they need.
Emmaus North East is a regional homelessness charity with a difference – offering more than just a bed for the night to individuals who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion. As part of a network of Emmaus communities across the UK, Emmaus North East provides a stable home for as long as needed, meaningful work experience within our social enterprises, access to funded training, and a real opportunity for the people we support to rebuild their lives and regain independence.
In the North East, our Companions contribute to the community by working in our social enterprises. These include house clearances, stock collection, merchandising in our charity shops, running our community launderette, and creating bespoke items from recycled wood in our workshop. At Emmaus North East, we believe in empowering our Companions by fostering autonomy and providing a transformative path to recovery. We welcome people from all walks of life, understanding that homelessness has many causes.
With our programme in County Durham, we are proud to extend our mission of creating lasting change and supporting individuals across the North East.
Application process: To apply please send your CV to our SHAP Team at: If you would like an informal discussion about the role please email the above inbox.
Interview process: We will accept applications on a rolling basis, and interviews are scheduled for 26/03/2026 at One Trinity Green, Eldon Street, South Shields, NE33 1SA. It is our intention to conduct an initial virtual interview prior to invites to full interview on 26/03/2026.
Pay: £28,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
Housing Responder employer: Emmaus North East
Emmaus North East is an exceptional employer, dedicated to creating a supportive and empowering work environment for its staff. With a strong focus on employee growth, the organisation offers meaningful opportunities for professional development while fostering a culture of compassion and community engagement. Working in Durham, you will be part of a transformative mission that not only addresses homelessness but also enriches your own career through hands-on experience and collaboration with a diverse team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Responder
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Emmaus North East and their SHAP services. Understanding their ethos and mission will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since this role requires strong communication, try role-playing common interview questions with a friend. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently during the actual interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience! Think of specific examples from your past that demonstrate your ability to build trusting relationships and provide support. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you’re proactive and keen to be part of the Emmaus community right from the start.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Responder
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Housing Responder role. Highlight any relevant communication and administrative skills, as well as your ability to build trusting relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. Share any personal experiences or insights that connect you to our mission at Emmaus North East.
Showcase Your Commitment:In your application, emphasise your commitment to maintaining high standards of care and professionalism. We want to see how you embody the ethos of Emmaus North East in your work.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your CV and cover letter, and it helps streamline the process for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at Emmaus North East
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Housing Responder role. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, especially around proactive housing management and crisis intervention. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since strong communication is key for this role, prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in past situations. Think about times when you built trusting relationships or provided support to someone in need. This will highlight your ability to connect with companions and maintain professionalism.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Care
Emmaus North East values high standards of care and professionalism. Be ready to discuss your approach to providing support and how you ensure the wellbeing of those you work with. Share any relevant experiences that showcase your dedication to helping others, particularly in challenging situations.
✨Prepare Questions About the Organisation
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions about Emmaus North East and the SHAP service. Ask about their approach to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness or how they measure success in their programmes. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the organisation aligns with your values.
