Apprentice Customer Supporter in Basildon

Imagine kickstarting your career doing work that matters, and getting paid to learn as you go. As an Apprentice Customer Supporter with Sanctuary Supported Living, you will make a real difference from day one by supporting people in everyday moments while working towards a free, fully funded care qualification. You’ll be supported by a welcoming Retirement Community team who value your ideas and want to see you grow. The role offers structure and balance, helping you build confidence, develop practical skills and enjoy meaningful work that fits around your life. As a not‑for‑profit organisation, we reinvest in our people and services, so your development comes first, with real opportunities to progress once you qualify. Here, your potential matters, and we will support you to BeYourBest and feel genuinely valued.

Your role

• Be the warm, welcoming face of our community – greeting residents and visitors at reception, answering queries, and making everyone feel at home.
• Plan and lead engaging activities – from fun group sessions (like arts & crafts, games, or gentle exercise classes) to one‑on‑one moments that reflect each resident’s interests.
• Empower independent living: encourage and help our residents to stay active and connected.
• Support residents to connect with their local community – for example, arranging outings, bringing in local volunteers/entertainers, or simply helping someone facetime with family.
• Champion choice – above all, enable our residents to live life on their own terms – whether it’s helping someone continue a beloved hobby or try something new, you listen to what matters to them and make it happen.

You’ll be working in a single location as part of our Retirement Community team. (If you’ve been a Wellbeing Assistant, Activities Coordinator, Lifestyle Facilitator or have experience helping others live life to the fullest, we’d love to hear from you! This role goes by many names – what matters is your passion for people.)

What we’re looking for

• Energy and creativity – you bring positivity and imagination to everything from coffee mornings to community projects, making sure everyone can participate.
• Strong interpersonal and customer care skills – you’re patient, a good listener, and confident communicating with a wide range of people.
• Confidence in prioritising tasks and meeting deadlines – whether it’s planning next week’s event schedule or juggling a busy afternoon in reception.
• Basic Microsoft Word and Excel skills.

To join this apprenticeship, you will need a level 2 grade 4 (C) in English and maths, or an equivalent qualification – if you are under 19 and do not yet have a grade 4 (C) or above, you will be supported to complete Functional Skills level 2 as part of the programme.

Your rewards

• Annual leave – 25 days’ annual leave pro rata (rising to 30 with service, plus bank holidays).
• Occupational sick pay – linked to length of service.
• Contributory pension scheme – matched up to 5%.
• Growth and development – fully‑funded training and ongoing development opportunities – we’ll help you gain new skills and achieve industry qualifications, opening doors to your future career.
• Inclusive culture and flexibility – work in an environment where everyone belongs – with flexible working options, a Youth Panel, and active staff networks (LGBTQ+ Network “PRISM”, Disability, Race Equality, and Parent network) to support you; we celebrate diversity and will make sure you can be your authentic self at work.
• Lifestyle perks – save money with exclusive retail discounts, a Cycle to Work scheme, and salary sacrifice options.
• Health and wellbeing support – enjoy free access to Aviva Digicare+ (virtual GP appointments) and confidential Employee Assistance Programme support for medical, financial, and legal advice, plus short‑term counselling when you need it.
• Company‑paid life insurance.
• Parental leave arrangements, paid volunteering days, and annual leave purchase scheme.

Some rewards are subject to a qualifying period or other criteria – visit our website for more information.

Eligibility and Legal Requirements

We can only accept applications from individuals with the right to work in the UK. All roles require safeguarding and pre‑employment checks, including criminal records and overseas police checks if needed; for more information, please get in touch.