At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals in housing needs and help them build independent lives.
- Company: Join Nacro, a leading organisation in criminal justice support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace welcoming all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that transforms lives and supports community reintegration.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 27807 - 27807 € per year.
Please note that this role is NOT a personal care role. Join Nacro’s CAS-2 team: Get an excellent grounding in the criminal justice system and the reward of helping people change their lives.
Location: Ashford
Covering: Kent
Salary: £27,807 Per Annum (Base salary £26,807 + £1,000 Unsociable Hours) - (Pro rata as this is a part time role)
Working Hours: 20 Hours Per Week. Shift patterns and flexibility will be discussed during the interview. The provision of the contract is between 08:00 and 22:00 Monday- Friday and Saturday 09.00 - 17:00 on a rolling rotational basis.
Enhanced DBS check and HMPPS check required. Full Driving license and access to car required: This role has an “essential travel” requirement. Should you choose to use your own vehicle to meet this requirement, please note that Nacro’s Driving for Work Policy requires all staff who drive for work purposes to have full business use insurance cover for their vehicle. Nacro does not reimburse any additional insurance premium costs, as these are already covered within the Inland Revenue mileage expense rate (currently 45p per mile).
This role is part of the Community Accommodation with Support, Tier 2 (CAS-2) programme, directly commissioned by the Ministry of Justice and operating nationwide across England and Wales. The service provides accommodation and support for low/medium-risk people eligible for home detention curfew or bail, helping to keep people out of prison (when living in the community on licence is an option) and to support prison leavers to re-establish (crime‑free) independent lives.
Role Overview
As a Housing Support Worker, you’ll enjoy varied and rewarding days, making a real difference to both service users and the wider community, and gaining a real insight into the criminal justice system.
Key Responsibilities
- Support Service Users: Assess individual support needs, create safety plans, assist with housing applications, Housing Benefit claims, and rent payments.
- Property Management: Ensure properties meet the Decent Homes Standard, address maintenance issues, and offer guidance on housing‑related matters.
- Collaboration: Work alongside probation services, court staff, and housing authorities to achieve the best possible outcomes for service users.
Who Will Thrive in This Role?
- Resilient individuals who know how to maintain a healthy work‑life balance.
- Problem‑solvers who enjoy thinking creatively to overcome challenges.
- Emotionally intelligent people who understand and respond to human behaviour.
- Team players eager to collaborate and contribute positively.
- Strong interest in engaging with people, adapting communication styles, and making informed decisions.
- Ability to work professionally whilst balancing service user needs and Nacro’s wider mission.
- Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Competent ICT skills (Outlook, Word, Excel) – internal systems training provided.
At Nacro, we believe in the power of a diverse and inclusive team. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those with criminal records and first‑hand experience of the criminal justice system. All applications are assessed on merit.
Vetting Requirements
Due to working with adults in a custodial setting, this role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check against the adult workforce and HMPPS check required as well as Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Having a criminal record will not preclude your success in this role; any criminal record information will be subject to a fair and proportionate assessment. If you would like advice about applying for work with a criminal record, please contact our confidential Criminal Record Support Service on 0300 123 1999 or by email at helpline@nacro.org.uk.
Please note that this role does not offer eligibility for visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Housing Support Worker - Ashford employer: Nacro
Nacro is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community while gaining valuable insights into the criminal justice system. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Nacro fosters a supportive work culture where employees can thrive, develop their skills, and contribute to positive change. Located in Ashford, this role provides flexible working hours and the chance to collaborate with various stakeholders, ensuring a rewarding experience for those passionate about helping others.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Support Worker - Ashford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Nacro and its mission. Understanding their values and how they operate will help you tailor your approach 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. They can provide insider tips about the role and the team, plus it shows your enthusiasm for joining the Nacro family.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions! Think of examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated resilience, problem-solving, and teamwork. This will help you shine during the interview and show you're a perfect fit for the Housing Support Worker role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining Nacro and making a positive impact in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Housing Support Worker - Ashford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Housing Support Worker role. We want to see how you can make a difference in the lives of service users!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your written application, share examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past. We love seeing creative thinkers who can adapt and find solutions, especially in a supportive role like this one.
Highlight Your Team Spirit:Since collaboration is key in this role, let us know about your experiences working in teams. We’re looking for team players who can contribute positively to our mission at Nacro.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While we appreciate professionalism, don’t hesitate to let your personality shine through. We value emotional intelligence and want to see how you connect with people in your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Nacro
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Housing Support Worker. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks like assessing support needs and collaborating with probation services. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully tackled challenges. Whether it’s helping someone navigate housing applications or resolving maintenance issues, be ready to share how you approached these situations creatively and effectively.
✨Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence
As this role involves working closely with service users, it's crucial to show that you can empathise and communicate effectively. Prepare to discuss how you’ve adapted your communication style to meet different needs and how you handle sensitive situations with care.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about the team dynamics, shift patterns, or how success is measured in this role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.