Support Worker SHAP

Emmaus North East supports people to progress after homelessness. Learn more about our charity, our team and how we support people across our region.

From house clearances to getting involved with the wider community, we offer a wide range of services.

There are many ways you can support us, from volunteering to donating goods. Your support means that we get to carry on doing what we do best - helping those who need it most.

The Support Worker plays a key role in helping companions at Emmaus North East build confidence, develop skills, and move towards independent living, volunteering, or employment.

Working closely with the Service Manager and wider support team, the role provides structured, person-centred support through individual support plans, daily engagement, and community involvement. Support Workers help companions with personal development, identify training or support needs, and connect individuals to specialist services where required.

Durham SHAP (Single Homeless Accommodation Programme) supports people experiencing homelessness across County Durham by providing safe accommodation and tailored support. The service includes a community home and dispersed properties in Bishop Auckland and Spennymoor.

This is a rewarding but demanding role supporting individuals who may experience complex challenges such as homelessness, trauma, mental health issues, or substance use. The role requires strong communication skills, sound safeguarding awareness, emotional resilience, and the ability to respond calmly to challenging situations.

• Develop and review individual support plans with companions
• Provide practical and emotional support to help individuals achieve personal goals
• Support companions to access training, development, volunteering, or employment opportunities
• Assist individuals experiencing emotional difficulties or addiction by connecting them with specialist services
• Assess referrals, conduct inductions, and maintain occupancy levels
• Maintain accurate records and update support plans and case notes
• Encourage participation in community life and activities
• Work on a rota basis, including being the responsible person on duty when required

We are looking for someone who is compassionate, organised, and committed to supporting vulnerable adults.

• Experience supporting adults at risk or in a similar role
• Strong communication, administration, and IT skills
• Ability to assess needs and manage challenging situations calmly
• Ability to work as part of a team and on a rota system
• Experience in supported housing, homelessness services, or social inclusion work
• Knowledge of mental health, substance misuse, or safeguarding
• First aid or other relevant qualifications

All roles at Emmaus North East are subject to DBS checks and require a commitment to safeguarding and professional boundaries.