A safe place to live. Someone to believe in. A chance to move forward. Not every young person starts adulthood with the same opportunities. Some have experienced trauma. Some have faced homelessness. Some are struggling with emotional wellbeing, substance misuse or difficult life circumstances. What many need most is somebody who will walk alongside them. Listen Encourage Challenge Support And help them recognise their own potential
What the role is really about
As a Youth Engagement Worker at YMCA Basingstoke, you'll develop and deliver engaging programmes, activities and support that help young people build confidence, develop skills and move closer towards independent and fulfilling lives. Because meaningful change often starts with a trusted relationship. YMCA Basingstoke provides a safe place to live, intensive personal support and a hub for group activities for 80+ young people aged 18-30 situated near the city centre. Many of the young people we support have experienced significant challenges and may have complex needs.
- This role is about creating opportunities.
- Opportunities to connect.
- To learn.
- To belong.
- To build resilience.
- To improve wellbeing.
- And to take positive steps towards education, employment, training and independent living.
You will work both one-to-one and in group settings, helping young people identify goals and supporting them to achieve them.
What you'll do
- develop, promote and deliver engaging daily activities and programmes for young people
- support, mentor, coach and walk alongside young people as they work towards personal goals
- undertake risk assessments and support planning
- build positive and trusted relationships with residents
- support activities that involve the wider community, including our adjacent youth centre
- engage external partners and specialist agencies to deliver support and activities
- advocate on behalf of young people and help them access appropriate services and opportunities
- actively support young people into employment, education, training and volunteering opportunities
- assist with the selection and induction of individuals applying for accommodation
- maintain clear and accurate records and programme information
- contribute to safeguarding, health and safety, and wellbeing processes
- identify and respond appropriately to emerging risks and concerns
This role is about more than activities. Activities create opportunities. But the real impact comes from the relationships behind them. Sometimes success looks like a young person attending a session for the first time. Building enough confidence to speak in a group. Applying for a job. Starting a training course. Making a positive choice. Or asking for help when they need it. Progress isn't always measured in big milestones. Often it's found in the small steps that build towards lasting change.
The person we're looking for
We’re looking for somebody who genuinely believes in the potential of young people and is committed to helping them thrive. You'll have:
- experience delivering programmes within a youth, adult or community-based setting
- experience supporting young people or adults with complex needs
- knowledge of trauma-informed approaches
- an understanding of the challenges facing young people today
- experience supporting individuals experiencing poor emotional wellbeing, trauma or substance misuse, or a willingness to develop these skills
- the ability to respond positively and effectively to challenging or high-risk behaviours
- good IT skills and confidence using digital systems
- a sound understanding of safeguarding principles and procedures
- a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Most importantly, you'll be:
- approachable and supportive
- resilient and patient
- confident building relationships and establishing trust
- an effective communicator
- solution-focused and proactive
- able to motivate and encourage others
- passionate about creating opportunities for young people.
Benefits that make a difference
- 100% off childcare Free childcare for YMCA employees at our nurseries.
- Extra support during the school holidays One free week of YMCA Day Camps for each of your children every year, plus 50% off a second week.
- More time away from work 25 days' annual leave plus Bank Holidays FTE, increasing with service up to 30 days, with the option to buy up to 10 additional days.
- Celebration Leave An additional day to celebrate something that matters to you.
- Health and wellbeing Access to our Health Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme.
- Family support Enhanced family leave provisions.
- Everyday benefits Blue Light Card eligibility, gym discounts and Cycle to Work scheme.
- Career development Professional learning, Youth Work development and opportunities to grow your Youth Services career across YMCA Fairthorne Group.
Part of something bigger
YMCA Basingstoke is part of YMCA Fairthorne Group, supporting children, young people and families
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