At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead impactful research to improve systems for women at risk of homelessness.
- Company: Join Simon Community, dedicated to social change and support for vulnerable women.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Collaborate with diverse stakeholders and influence meaningful improvements.
- Why this job: Use your research skills to create lasting change for women experiencing homelessness.
- Qualifications: Experience in qualitative research and a passion for social justice.
The predicted salary is between 35976 - 39463 £ per year.
Are you passionate about using research to create lasting social change? Simon Community is seeking a dedicated Researcher to lead an exciting two-year project focused on improving how systems identify and respond to women at risk of chronic homelessness across Northern Ireland. Working at the intersection of research, service delivery and system change, you will deliver a qualitative, trauma-informed research programme that generates practical insights to inform better outcomes for women experiencing homelessness.
You will collaborate with frontline services, policymakers, researchers and women with lived experience to influence improvement across housing, health and support systems. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced qualitative researcher who wants to see their work make a tangible difference, translating evidence into action and supporting meaningful change for some of the most vulnerable women in society.
Please note: Due to the nature of the service provided, applications are invited from women only. This is a genuine occupational requirement in accordance with Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010.
Salary: £35,976 - £39,463 (Scale Points 33-37)
Location: Hybrid working based in Belfast City Centre
Contract: Fixed Term, 24 Months | 35 Hours per Week
Interviews: Due to take place on Thursday 3rd September 2026
Main Responsibilities:
- Design and deliver a qualitative research programme focused on women experiencing, or at risk of, chronic homelessness.
- Conduct in-depth interviews and longitudinal research to better understand women's experiences of homelessness and system interaction.
- Analyse complex qualitative data to identify patterns, risk factors and opportunities for earlier intervention.
- Collaborate with housing, health and voluntary sector partners to develop and test practical service improvements.
- Translate research findings into clear recommendations, reports, briefings and policy-focused outputs.
- Support learning, innovation and system change through stakeholder engagement, workshops and knowledge-sharing activities.
- Ensure all research activity is ethical, trauma-informed and grounded in lived experience.
To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page.
Researcher - Women's Homelessness & Systems Improvement in Belfast employer: Simon Community
At Simon Community, we pride ourselves on being a supportive and non-judgmental employer dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of those facing homelessness. Our Portadown location offers a collaborative work culture with extensive learning and development opportunities, ensuring that our Accommodation & Community Support Workers can grow both personally and professionally while enjoying a comprehensive benefits package. Join us in our mission to improve lives and be part of a team that values trust and respect in every interaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Researcher - Women's Homelessness & Systems Improvement in Belfast
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to Simon Community, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Researcher - Women's Homelessness & Systems Improvement in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of Simon Community. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at Simon Community. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Simon Community
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with Simon Community.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary Researcher - Women's Homelessness & Systems Improvement role at Simon Community, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show Simon Community that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
