At a Glance
- Tasks: Transform spaces by painting and decorating homes for young people in need.
- Company: Join YMCA DownsLink Group, a leading charity supporting youth across Sussex and Surrey.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, vehicle provision, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with a commitment to safety and quality.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while honing your skills.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 in painting and decorating or equivalent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 28330 - 28330 £ per year.
Employment Type: Full Time, Permanent
Location: Hastings, East Sussex, TN37 6RS, United Kingdom
Work Style: On-site
37.5 hours per week / permanent / working onsite Monday – Friday 9am-5pm.
As a Painter and Decorator, you will be based in either Eastbourne or Hastings, East Sussex, and will be required to travel and work across any of our YMCA DLG sites, with demand varying throughout the year. A full UK driving licence is therefore essential, and a vehicle will be provided.
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 work alongside them to make that happen. Our values guide us in all our actions.
The focus in our housing services is to help develop the young people’s skills and confidence so that they can move on from supported accommodation and live independently. Our Maintenance team works across multiple properties to give our residents a good quality, safe home, working closely with project staff to identify repairs required, make repairs, undertake ad hoc cleaning and decoration, ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, and to make empty homes ready for re-occupation.
We have sites across East Sussex, centred around our Foyers in Eastbourne and Hastings. These services provide 24‑hour supported housing for young people aged 16–25, offering low to medium levels of housing‑related support. There are homes throughout East Sussex for young people we continue to support into independence via our Transitional Housing teams, these are typically larger shared houses of four to eight residents sharing some communal facilities such as bathrooms and kitchens. In total there are approximately 180 residents in East Sussex that the maintenance team oversee.
Responsibilities:
- Redelegate empty homes promptly to prepare them for new residents, ensuring a consistent standard and timely communication with site and maintenance teams to meet relet target times.
- Carry out planned redecoration within communal areas of accommodation, as well as offices and workspaces used by staff and volunteers.
- Identify repairs required, make repairs, undertake ad hoc cleaning and decoration, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
Qualifications and Experience:
- NVQ Level 2 or equivalent in painting and decorating, or equivalent work experience.
- Practical experience in maintenance, cleaning, or decorating within supported housing, residential, or community‑based settings.
- At least two years’ experience undertaking duties similar to those required in this role.
- A strong commitment to safety, quality, and resident wellbeing, ensuring all work is completed to a consistent and professional standard.
- Good knowledge of health and safety requirements relevant to painting, decorating, and maintenance work, including safe working practices and compliance procedures.
- An understanding of professional boundaries, and awareness of the challenges faced by vulnerable young people and how these may influence behaviour.
- A proactive and organised approach to managing workload, with the ability to prioritise effectively.
- Strong team‑working skills, with the confidence to support and appropriately challenge colleagues where needed.
Closing Date: Sunday 12 July 2026 at midnight. Early applications are strongly encouraged.
Equal Opportunities: 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.
Safeguarding: 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.
Background Checks: Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third‑party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity checks. Applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently. This role does not offer work permit or visa sponsorship.
Painter and Decorator in Hastings employer: YMCA
YMCA DownsLink Group is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the wellbeing of both employees and the young people they serve. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees have ample opportunities for growth while contributing to meaningful projects that make a real difference in the community. Located in Hastings, this role offers the unique advantage of working within a charity that values safety, quality, and collaboration, ensuring that every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of vulnerable young individuals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Painter and Decorator in Hastings
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Painter and Decorator in Hastings
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch YMCA's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at YMCA. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at YMCA.
