At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people overnight, ensuring safety and providing guidance for their development.
- Company: YMCA DownsLink Group, a leading charity for youth support in Sussex and Surrey.
- Benefits: Permanent role with training opportunities and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with ongoing training and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Passion for youth development and basic safeguarding knowledge; training provided.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 € per year.
37.5 hours per week / permanent / working onsite / this role operates on a seven-day rolling rota following a four-on, four-off shift pattern. Shifts will include evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
YMCA DownsLink Group is the leading charity for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. We offer safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice. We believe that every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We are here for children and young people, many of whom face multiple challenges and need our support.
Horsham Y Centre provides 24-hour supported housing services offering medium levels of housing-related support for young people aged 16-25 with 50 bedspaces and shared communal facilities. We adopt a trauma informed and psychologically informed approach to supporting our residents to help them build essential life skills, identify their goals and work towards aspirations so that they can move on to enjoy fully independent futures.
We have a dedicated team of Support Workers, Night Workers and additional Bank Workers who provide support, guidance, and signposting around areas such as housing, budgeting, living skills, jobs, relationship building and wellbeing. Situated in the middle of Horsham, the service has strong links with and contributes to the local community.
We are looking for a Housing Night Worker to join our team at Horsham Y Centre. In addition, you will carry out one-to-one interventions with young people who may be experiencing a mental health crisis or who require medical assistance, ensuring they receive timely and appropriate support.
What you will be doing:
- Provide a friendly, professional presence and ensure the building remains safe, secure and welcoming at night.
- Monitor risks and respond to incidents calmly and appropriately, recording and reporting to the relevant teams.
- Welcome residents and offer informal, responsive assistance to help them develop confidence, independence and life skills.
- Assist with evening groupwork sessions that promote learning, wellbeing and positive development.
- Complete essential admin tasks including data entry, case notes and record management.
- Log maintenance issues to ensure the building remains safe and well maintained.
- Work collaboratively on a four-on, four-off rota, providing consistent, non-judgemental support overnight.
- Take part in ongoing training and reflective practice to support psychologically informed care.
However, before joining the rota, you will have the opportunity to get to know the team and services, take part in a full induction, complete the required training, and undertake shadow shifts to ensure you feel confident, supported, and well prepared.
About you:
- This is a dynamic role for someone passionate, empathetic and committed to young people’s development.
- An understanding of the needs and experiences of young people and adults at risk.
- Basic safeguarding knowledge and the ability to maintain professional boundaries (training provided).
- Competent IT skills, including Microsoft 365 and basic system navigation (training provided).
- Ability to de-escalate situations and manage challenging behaviour calmly.
- You will bring an awareness of the challenges young people face and the ability to connect with them positively.
If you would like any further information or an informal discussion about this post, please contact David.
CLOSING DATE: Sunday 17 May 2026 at midnight.
An inclusive workplace: We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity check.
Night Worker - Homeless Services in Sussex employer: YMCA DOWNSLINK GROUP
YMCA DownsLink Group is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people across Sussex and Surrey. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we offer comprehensive training and support, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that values every team member's contribution. Working at our Horsham Y Centre not only provides the opportunity to engage directly with the community but also allows you to be part of a passionate team that prioritises the well-being and development of vulnerable youth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Night Worker - Homeless Services in Sussex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the sector, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to the role. Think about how you’d handle specific situations with young people. We want you to feel confident and ready to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them know why you care about supporting young people. Your enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at YMCA DownsLink Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Night Worker - Homeless Services in Sussex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the Night Worker role. Highlight any relevant experience you have in supporting young people or working in a similar environment.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for helping young people shine through in your written application. Share personal stories or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon, ensuring that your key points about your qualifications and motivations are easy to understand.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA DOWNSLINK GROUP
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the job description. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Night Worker in Homeless Services, especially the importance of providing support to young people and maintaining a safe environment.
✨Show Your Empathy
This role is all about connecting with young people who may be facing tough challenges. Be prepared to share examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your empathy and ability to support others, especially in crisis situations.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, such as managing challenging behaviour or responding to a mental health crisis. Think through your responses ahead of time, focusing on calmness and professionalism.
✨Highlight Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with a dedicated team, be ready to discuss your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in the past, particularly in high-pressure environments, to show you're a great fit for their supportive culture.
