At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people overnight, ensuring safety and providing guidance for personal development.
- Company: YMCA DownsLink Group, a leading charity supporting children and young people.
- Benefits: Permanent role with training, supportive team, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Dynamic role with ongoing training and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and help young people build essential life skills for independence.
- Qualifications: Empathy, basic safeguarding knowledge, and IT skills; 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:
- This is more than a night shift role - it’s an opportunity to make a real difference, working as part of a dedicated team committed to helping young people grow and develop.
- 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 group work 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 Young People's 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 young individuals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Night Worker - Homeless Young People's Services in Sussex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the sector, attend local events, and connect with organisations that align with your passion for supporting young people. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to youth work and trauma-informed care. Think about real-life examples from your experience that showcase your skills and empathy. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It shows you’re genuinely interested and can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our values and the amazing work we do at YMCA DownsLink Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Night Worker - Homeless Young People's Services in Sussex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting young people shine through. We want to see your commitment to making a difference in their lives, so share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application specifically to the Night Worker role. Highlight your understanding of the challenges young people face and how your skills can help them develop confidence and independence.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our community at YMCA DownsLink Group.
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 and how they contribute to the support of young people. This will help you articulate why you're a great fit for the role.
✨Show Your Empathy
This role is all about supporting young people through challenging times. Be prepared to share examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated empathy and understanding. Highlight any relevant situations where you've helped someone in need.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle difficult situations, such as managing crises or de-escalating conflicts. Think of specific scenarios you might face in this role and how you would respond. Practising these responses can give you confidence during the interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Use this opportunity to show your interest in the organisation and its mission. Ask about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or how they measure success in supporting young people.
