At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals experiencing homelessness to access healthcare and improve their wellbeing.
- Company: Join HARP, Southend-on-Sea’s leading homelessness charity with a mission to transform lives.
- Benefits: 33 days annual leave, life assurance, 24/7 digital GP access, and a birthday day off.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with clear career progression and comprehensive training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while gaining valuable experience and skills.
- Qualifications: Compassionate attitude and strong communication skills; experience with vulnerable populations is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
HARP has a clear pathway for career progression, from Support Worker to Team Leader. Many of our staff have lived experience or started by volunteering with HARP. We also offer a range of central service roles, from HR to finance and fundraising. Whatever your passion, HARP may have something for you.
Life Assurance Scheme
All employees are automatically enrolled in HARP’s non-contributory Death in Service scheme, where the benefit payable is up to 3x your annual salary.
Employee Assistance Programme
We offer all staff an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) that provides 24/7 support. This includes access to a free well-being app for health, financial, and mental health assistance.
Blue Light Card
Blue Light Card provides those in the NHS, emergency services, social care sector and armed forces with discounts online and in-store.
Staff are entitled to 33 days of annual leave including bank holidays, with an extra day awarded after 5 years of service (pro-rated for part-time employees).
A Career Where You Can Really Make a Difference
If you are looking for a job where no two days are the same and you can really make a difference, HARP may be for you.
Training and Development
HARP offers a comprehensive programme of training and development to help you grow in your role. Many roles don’t require previous experience or qualifications—just compassion, kindness, and a willingness to learn and develop.
24/7 Digital GP Access
A GP in your pocket! Access 1:1 video consultations with a GP 24/7.
A day off to celebrate your birthday
All staff members are entitled to an additional day off to celebrate their birthday.
Get a new tax free bike
All staff can join our cycle to work scheme where you may be able to purchase a new tax free bike.
Are you passionate about supporting people out of homelessness? We are looking for people who bring a range of skills to the organisation to help us meet our mission. HARP is Southend-on-Sea’s leading homelessness charity and every year we work with around 1,000 local people to help them overcome or avoid homelessness. It is an exciting time to be joining HARP. The organisation has undergone significant change and growth over the past twelve months and we have ambitious plans for the future which will continue to transform lives.
About The Role
We are looking for a compassionate and motivated Health Care Assistant to join our Health Equity Project. This role supports people who are homeless or experiencing multiple disadvantages to access healthcare and improve their overall wellbeing. You will provide practical, hands-on support such as helping people attend appointments, complete forms, and navigate health services. Working closely with Health Navigators and wider teams, you will play a key role in reducing health inequalities and supporting people to build independence.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide person-centred, trauma-informed support across HARP sites and in the community.
- Support individuals to access GP services, mental health support, substance misuse services, and other healthcare provision.
- Help people attend appointments, understand health information, and follow care plans.
- Work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners including health services and housing providers.
- Maintain accurate records, case notes, and data using HARP systems.
- Participate in outreach, multidisciplinary meetings, and service planning.
- Promote safeguarding, confidentiality, and anti-oppressive practice at all times.
About You
You will be empathetic, organised, and confident working with people who may be disengaged from traditional services. You’ll be able to build trust, work calmly in challenging situations, and manage a varied workload.
Essential experience includes:
- Supporting people affected by homelessness or complex needs.
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
- A trauma-informed, person-centred approach.
Desirable: NVQ Level 2 in Health & Social Care or similar.
At HARP, we are committed to fostering a workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered. We believe that equity is essential to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, socioeconomic background, or other characteristics, have access to equal opportunities for employment, advancement, and success.
We are dedicated to ensuring that our hiring, promotion, and compensation practices are fair, transparent, and free from bias. We actively seek to identify and eliminate barriers to employment and professional growth for underrepresented groups, and we embrace diverse perspectives as a source of strength, innovation, and growth. By embedding equity in our workplace, we aim to create a culture where differences are not just respected but celebrated, and where everyone has the opportunity to achieve their full potential. We believe that when everyone has an equal chance to succeed, we all benefit.
How to apply
To apply for this role, please fill out the application form below. You’ll need to confirm your right to work, fill out your contact details, attach your CV and covering letter and fill out a short equality, diversity and inclusion questionnaire. You can save and resume your application at any time.
Health Care Assistant in Southend-on-Sea employer: Harpsouthend
HARP is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture where compassion and personal growth are at the forefront. With clear pathways for career progression, comprehensive training programmes, and a range of benefits including generous annual leave and 24/7 access to healthcare support, HARP empowers its employees to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those experiencing homelessness in Southend-on-Sea. Join us to be part of a transformative mission that values diversity and fosters a sense of belonging.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Health Care Assistant in Southend-on-Sea
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know HARP and its mission! Research the organisation, understand their values, and think about how your skills align with their goals. This will help you stand out during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn, attend relevant events, or join community groups. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to health care and homelessness. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role. We want to hear your stories, so be ready to share how you've made an impact in similar situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Health Care Assistant in Southend-on-Sea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Health Care Assistant role. Highlight any relevant experience you have in supporting individuals, especially those facing homelessness or complex needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for helping others and how your values align with HARP's mission. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Soft Skills:In this role, empathy and communication are key. Make sure to mention specific examples of how you've built trust and supported individuals in challenging situations. We want to see your compassionate side!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s super easy to fill out the application form, and you can save your progress if you need to take a break. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harpsouthend
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand HARP's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness and how your role as a Health Care Assistant can make a difference. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to the cause.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
In this role, compassion is key. Be prepared to share examples from your past experiences where you've supported individuals in difficult situations. Highlight your ability to build trust and rapport, especially with those who may be disengaged from traditional services.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the Health Equity Project and how the team collaborates with other services. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if HARP is the right fit for you.
✨Practice Trauma-Informed Care
Since the role requires a trauma-informed approach, think about how you would handle sensitive situations. Be ready to discuss how you would support someone who might be struggling with mental health or substance misuse issues, demonstrating your understanding of their needs.
