At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with individuals facing homelessness and support them in creating positive change.
- Company: Join Simon Community Scotland, the largest provider of homelessness services in Scotland.
- Benefits: Make a real difference while gaining valuable experience and skills.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for personal growth and community impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative project that empowers communities and individuals.
- Qualifications: Passion for helping others and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About Simon Community Scotland
Simon Community Scotland is the largest provider of homelessness services in Scotland. Our vision is for everyone to have a safe place to live, with access to the support they need. Every day we help make positive things happen for people facing extremely difficult circumstances. Everything we do is about and for people, the people we support, our staff, our partners and everyone affected by homelessness. Our values are built into every area of activity and tell the story of how people remain at the heart of Simon Community.
Creating Safer Communities (CSC) is a community centred initiative launched in May 2024 to address the complex challenges associated with antisocial behaviour, street drinking, substance use, begging, and homelessness across Edinburgh. The project was developed in response to a clear gap in provision for people experiencing multiple disadvantages, who are often excluded from traditional services, and instead congregate in public spaces, where unmet health and social needs can manifest as harmful street based behaviours. CSC takes a proactive, trauma-informed approach that prioritises early intervention, prevention, and long-term change, rather than relying solely on enforcement or crisis-led responses.
Job Purpose
CSC engages with over 3000 people a year who are often described as “hard to reach”, but more accurately are being let down by systems that don’t meet their specific needs. Through this work, CSC has supported people to secure accommodation, access employment and training opportunities, receive digital devices and skills support, engage with harm reduction services such as naloxone training, and connect with healthcare, food provision, and wider community resources. Beyond these practical outcomes, the project has played a critical role in restoring a sense of choice, purpose, and possibility while offering alternatives to street based lifestyles.
Key Responsibilities
- Fully involve and include people actively involved in potentially harmful street behaviours in understanding the causes and consequences, and help to create opportunities for change.
- Run activity days and psychosocial groups with the support of CSC and Streetreads team.
- Help with the mapping of services, resources, partnerships, and stakeholders that will create opportunities for people who are street focused.
- Work directly with Streetreads, We See You, Street Team, Digital Inclusion team, to ensure relevant development of psychosocial groups that meet the needs of this community.
- Provide digital and emotional support to people that are street focused.
- Assist in assessing people’s immediate and long term needs, and the impact that the CSC project has on their situation.
- Provide assertive outreaches to increase awareness and recruit people for the CSC project.
- Provide outreach to local business, residents and groups to find creative solutions for city centre spaces.
- Provide immediate individual holistic harm reduction support plans to people during the project.
- Assist with recruitment and training of volunteers to support the outreach model.
- Help host regular in-person networking events to strengthen relationships.
- Work creatively and innovatively with the Service Lead to create a network of support for supported people.
Project Worker - Creating Safer Communities in Edinburgh employer: Simonscotland
Simon Community Scotland is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those facing homelessness. With a strong emphasis on community, collaboration, and personal growth, employees are supported through a nurturing work culture that values every team member's contribution. The Creating Safer Communities initiative not only addresses critical social issues but also offers unique opportunities for professional development and engagement with diverse communities across Edinburgh.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Worker - Creating Safer Communities in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Simon Community Scotland. Understand their mission and values, especially around creating safer communities. This will help you connect your experiences to what they care about.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your skills can help tackle the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness, as this is key for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you’re in the interview, let your enthusiasm for making a difference shine through. Talk about any relevant experiences you have, especially those that align with the CSC's proactive and trauma-informed approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. Mention something specific from your conversation to remind them of your fit for the role and your genuine interest in joining their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Worker - Creating Safer Communities in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what drives you to make a difference in the community.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for the Project Worker role. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with our mission at Simon Community Scotland. Show us how you can contribute to creating safer communities!
Show Your Passion:We love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about supporting people facing homelessness. Share any personal stories or motivations that inspire you to work in this field – it really makes a difference!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Simonscotland
✨Know the Mission
Before your interview, take some time to really understand Simon Community Scotland's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their approach to homelessness and community support. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your past experiences that relate to working with vulnerable communities or in outreach roles. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've made a positive impact in similar situations. This will demonstrate your capability and commitment to the role of Project Worker.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Given the #OneTeam ethos at Simon Community Scotland, highlight your ability to work collaboratively. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams, especially in challenging environments. This will show that you can contribute positively to their team dynamic.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions prepared to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the Creating Safer Communities initiative or how they measure success in their outreach efforts. Asking insightful questions shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
