Housing Support Officer

Helpline Advisors are the first port of call to people who want to gain support and advice to deal with concerns relating to child sexual abuse. This can involve supporting them through the emotional impact of their personal and family circumstances; advising them of resources available that relate to their circumstances; but also guiding them through steps to help their situation so that they can move forward positively. There are a number of follow-on services offered by the organisation. The helpline is often the first point of access for these.

The helpline is open 9am-9:30pm Monday-Thursday and 9am-5pm Friday. Advisors typically work 4 hour shifts and we are looking for people who can commit to between 3 and 5 shifts per week.

You will have experience of working in child protection, ideally with one or more of our key target groups: e.g adults and/or children and young people who have sexually harmful behaviours, or child victims of sexual abuse, or family members of these individuals. You may be studying for a career in a related field, e.g psychology, or criminology. You will be energetic with excellent communication skills and a warm, empathic telephone manner.

Key attributes we are seeking include:

·       A confident telephone manner

·       An ability to explore a caller’s personal circumstances and provide confidential advice to callers through the Stop It
        Now helpline, chat and email services

·       A team player who works well with colleagues to do their best to prevent child sexual abuse

·       An enthusiasm to learn and to develop knowledge and skills to enhance their contribution to child safety

·       Confidence and competence in the use of modern technologies for the effective discharge of many day to day tasks

·       A finisher who pays attention to detail and maintains effective records in line with agreed policy and practice

We have an office in Epsom with the option to work there, however most of our team are home based. We offer a NEST pension (depending on qualifying conditions), 33 days annual leave rising to 38 days after 5 years’ service (including bank holidays / pro rata depending on hours worked), up to 5 days learning and development per year, an employee assistance programme and the option of Benenden medical cover.

An application form and equal opportunities monitoring form are included in the application pack. We look forward to receiving your completed documents by 4:00pm on 26th February. Interviews will take place w/c 11th March. We reserve the right to close the post early. If you have not been contacted within 2 weeks of the closing date you have been unsuccessful with your application.

Please note the successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check for this position.

We believe in creating a positive environment where our differences are respected and each of us feels valued for our contribution. Treating people fairly is part of our values and at the core of our culture. As an inclusive employer, all qualified candidates will be considered regardless of race, ethnicity, religion or belief, age, socioeconomic background, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity and caring responsibilities, marital status, nationality and disability including invisible disabilities and neurodiversity.