YMCA DOWNSLINK GROUP

Job Application Form

Emotional Health Worker, Worthing, £26,765.00

Employment Type

Part Time, Fixed Term

Application Start Date

27-11-2025

Application End Date

28-12-2025

Location

Worthing

State/County

West Sussex

Zip Code

BN11 1HD

Country

United Kingdom

Work Style

On-site

Description

15 hours per week / £26,765 per annum pro rata / fixed term until 31 March 2027 / working two days a week, Tuesday 10-6pm & Friday 10-6pm 

Our mission  is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, increasing life skills and self-confidence, and improving emotional wellbeing and mental health.

We are recruiting for an Emotional Mental Health Worker to support young people aged 11-25 living in Worthing and surrounding areas.

Mind The Gap Emotional Health Support offers young people an alternative way of accessing mental health support. The service offers support to young people who are struggling to find or engage with the right services. This support offer is youth-work based non-clinical support. Working primarily from Worthing Library, you will deliver face-to-face sessions using evidence-based interventions to engage, educate and empower young people around issues affecting their emotional wellbeing.

Key responsibilities: 

• Offer 7 sessions of support to each young person, including initial needs assessment and weekly sessions
• Lead on facilitation of emotional well-being and psycho-educational groups
• Support young people transitioning from specialist CAMHS/AMHS services
• Work systemically with parents/carers, educators, and health professionals
• Develop links with agencies and make appropriate referrals
• Promote service user participation and voice
• Comply with safeguarding, health & safety, data protection and EDI policies

Qualifications, knowledge, and experience

• Knowledge of issues facing young people, especially those socially excluded
• Experience in safeguarding children and young people
• Ability to support appropriate mental health pathways
• Training in emotional wellbeing interventions or qualification in youth work
• Understanding of short-term support models

If you would like any further information or an informal discussion about this post, please contact  Ellie.Hayes@ymcadlg.org. Should you require any assistance with our application process, please email us at 

Recruitment@ymcadlg.org.

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 28 December 2025 at midnight.

TO APPLY: Scroll down the page to the application form. Please download the job profile (below), which includes the full role description and person specification.

We are not able to support a work permit or offer a visa sponsorship for this role. Candidates must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

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. Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced DBS (including the Children’s and Adults’ barred lists) check, along with a reference and background check carried out by a third-party service provider.

Job Application Form

Supported Housing Support Worker, Crawley, £27,770.00

Employment Type

Full Time, Permanent

Application Start Date

02-12-2025

Application End Date

28-12-2025

Location

Crawley

State/County

West Sussex

Zip Code

RH11 7AQ

Country

United Kingdom

Work Style

On-site

Description

37.5 hours per week / £27,770 per annum / permanent / working onsite on a seven-day rolling rota, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

Our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, increasing life skills and self-confidence, and improving emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Crawley Foyer provides 24-hour supported housing services offering medium levels of housing-related support for young people aged 16-25 with 38 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 centre of Crawley, the service has strong links with and contributes to the local community.

Each Support Worker holds a caseload of residents and meets with them weekly to build a support plan and help them achieve their goals.

We are looking for a Supported Housing Support Worker to join our Crawley Foyer team. Main areas of responsibilities are:

Housing:

• Coach young people to manage their occupancy agreement and adhere to house rules, in preparation for independent living
• Promote a credit culture, encouraging young people to keep up to date with all payments for rent
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of housing and welfare benefits for young people and be well-informed on significant changes to housing law
• Deal effectively with non-compliance issues, such as non-payment of rent or damage to room, using restorative practices and working collaboratively with the rest of the team

Coaching and Engagement:

• Coach young people so they can articulate their aspirations and ambitions and take the lead in acquiring the skills they need to live independent and fulfilling lives
• Ensure young people are encouraged to take responsibility for their own personal development, to engage with the services on offer and build strong networks and connections within the local community
• Ensure consistent standards of safeguarding and Trauma Informed Practice when supporting young people, observing our safeguarding procedures, and keeping yourself and residents safe by respecting professional boundaries
• Maintain client records on In-Form (client database) detailing the young person’s journey in relation to their strengths and needs, any risks, and any outcomes (to monitor service performance)

General:

• Work as part of a team, on a rota shift pattern, ensuring young people at the service have non-judgemental, objective, and supportive staff during the day/evening, along with taking responsibility for personal safety during periods of lone working
• Contribute to a great working environment, with a calm, yet assertive manner, being able to handle potentially difficult situations
• Participate in relevant continuing professional development and utilise Reflective Practice Supervision as part of leading psychologically informed practice

There will be times when lone working will be a requirement for this role, but you will get to know the team and service, along with an induction and training prior to starting on a rota. Please download the job profile for full role details.  

If you’re enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferrable.  You may be just the right candidate.  

This is a dynamic and varied role; you will be passionate about being involved in the support and growth of young people.

Experience and Knowledge:

• Experience relating to housing, support work, and/or working with young people at risk
• Experience of working proactively with a caseload of young people with multiple and complex needs to enable them to achieve independent living
• Knowledge of statutory and voluntary resources available to young people with multiple and complex needs
• Knowledge of good safeguarding procedures in relation to young people and the ability to maintain effective professional boundaries
• Demonstrated confidence and competence in recording notes/actions in service log, incident forms and health and safety check lists

Skills and Abilities: 

• Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing for appropriate recording of a resident’s progression, and to evidence outcomes achieved
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with all stakeholders, including signposting and advocating for clients as necessary
• Ability to work autonomously, and use own initiative, as well as being part of a team
• Clear verbal and written communication skills, good IT, and keyboard skills
• Ability to de-escalate volatile situations and manage challenging behaviour appropriately

If you would like any further information or an informal discussion about this post, please contact Wesley.Lucas@ymcadlg.org 

Should you require any assistance with our application process, please email us at Recruitment@ymcadlg.org

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 28 December 2025 at midnight. If we identify a strong candidate, we may invite them to interview ahead of the closing date.

TO APPLY: Scroll down the page to the application form. Please download the job profile (below), which includes the full role description and person specification.

We are not able to support a work permit or offer a visa sponsorship for this role. Candidates must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

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. Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced DBS (including the Children’s and Adults’ barred lists) check, along with a reference and background check carried out by a third-party service provider.

Job Application Form

Supported Housing Support Worker, Hastings, £27,770.00

Employment Type

Full Time, Permanent

Application Start Date

03-12-2025

Application End Date

28-12-2025

Location

Hastings

State/County

East Sussex

Zip Code

TN37 6DJ

Country

UK

Work Style

On-site

Description

37.5 hours per week / £27,770 per annum / permanent / working onsite on a seven-day rolling rota, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

Our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, increasing life skills and self-confidence, and improving emotional wellbeing and mental health.

YMCA Hastings provides medium-low supported accommodation for a total of 47 young people at risk of homelessness, aged 16 to 25, and care experienced young people under the age of 18. We have a dedicated team of Support Workers, Night Support Workers and additional Bank Workers who provide support, guidance, and signposting around areas such as housing, budgeting, living skills, jobs and relationship building. Situated just of the seafront, the service has strong links with and contributes to the local community.

We are looking for a Supported Housing Support Worker to join our team, who will hold a caseload of residents and meet with them weekly to build a support plan. Main areas of responsibilities are:

Housing

• You will hold a caseload of young people who are housed across our sites with the support of the team. Support provided is light touch, and a good knowledge of partner agencies is essential for relevant signposting
• Interview young people to assess their suitability for our housing
• Support young people to manage their occupancy agreement and adhere to house rules in preparation for independent living. Helping young people navigate shared living skills is key to this role and includes facilitating house meetings, rotas and cleaning sessions
• Support young people to keep up to date with all payments for rent and liaise with housing benefit
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of housing and welfare benefits for young people
• Complete Occupancy Sign up and induction with incoming residents
• Deal effectively with non-compliance issues, such as non-payment of rent, ASB or breaches of Health and Safety, using restorative practices
• Contribute to maintaining properties to a high standard including conducting health and safety checks

Support and Engagement

• Light touch support to residents, signposting to partner agencies as appropriate
• Support each resident to develop their own person-centred Support Plan with short- and long-term goals to work towards independent living skills and their next accommodation steps
• Arrange Review Meetings with young people at least once every 3 months to update and review risk assessments and support plans
• Check in with each resident at least once a week
• Encourage a culture of education, employment and engagement
• Ensure consistent standards of safeguarding and Trauma Informed Practice when supporting young people, observing our safeguarding procedures, and keeping yourself and residents safe by respecting professional boundaries
• Maintain client records on In-Form (client database) detailing the young person’s journey in relation to their strengths and needs, any risks, and any outcomes (to monitor service performance)

General 

• Work as part of a team
• Treat young people at the service in a non-judgmental and psychologically informed way
• Contribute to a great working environment, with a calm, yet assertive manner, being able to handle potentially difficult situations
• Participate in relevant continuing professional development and utilise Reflective Practice Supervision as part of leading psychologically informed practice
• Liaise effectively with other professionals and services

There will be times when lone working will be a requirement for this role, but you will get to know the team and service, along with an induction and training prior to starting on a rota. Please download the job profile for full role details.  

If you’re enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferrable.  You may be just the right candidate.  

This is a dynamic and varied role; you will be passionate about being involved in the support and growth of young people.

Experience and Knowledge

• Experience relating to housing, support work, and/or working with young people
• Experience of working proactively with a caseload of young people with multiple and complex needs to enable them to achieve independent living
• Knowledge of statutory and voluntary resources available to young people with multiple and complex needs
• Knowledge of good safeguarding procedures in relation to young people and the ability to maintain effective professional boundaries
• Demonstrated confidence and competence in recording notes/actions in service log, incident forms and health and safety check lists

Skills and Abilities 

• Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing for appropriate recording of a resident’s progression, and to evidence outcomes achieved
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with all stakeholders, including signposting and advocating for clients as necessary
• Ability to work autonomously, and use own initiative, as well as being part of a team
• Clear verbal and written communication skills, good IT, and keyboard skills
• Strong time management skills with the ability to plan and prioritise

If you would like any further information or an informal discussion about this post, please contact Charlotte.Rodrigues@ymcadlg.org .

Should you require any assistance with our application process, please email us at Recruitment@ymcadlg.org.

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 28 December 2025 at midnight. If we identify a strong candidate, we may invite them to interview ahead of the closing date.

TO APPLY: Scroll down the page to the application form. Please download the job profile (below), which includes the full role description and person specification.

We are not able to support a work permit or offer a visa sponsorship for this role. Candidates must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

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. Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced DBS (including the Children’s and Adults’ barred lists) check, along with a reference and background check carried out by a third-party service provider.

Job Application Form

Housing Mobile Night Worker, Brighton and Hove, £27,770.00

Employment Type

Full Time, Permanent

Application Start Date

05-12-2025

Application End Date

28-12-2025

Location

Brighton and Hove

State/County

East Sussex

Zip Code

BN3 1DG

Country

UK

Work Style

On-site

Description

37.5 hours per week / permanent / working onsite on a seven-day rolling rota, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays on a four-on-four off shift pattern (a full, valid UK driving licence is essential, as this is a mobile role).

 

At YMCA DownsLink Group, our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

We are looking for a Housing Mobile Night Worker to provide floating support to our teams in high support 24-hour services as well as medium support and transitional housing units to ensure our properties are safe, secure, and welcoming through the night.

You will be based at Lansworth House in Hove and will support the static night worker there during the night as well as undertaking your mobile duties across Brighton, Hove and Worthing.

Working on site you will be responsible for ensuring the service is safe by keeping clear records of night time activity within the building. You will regularly complete building checks and monitor CCTV upkeeping health and safety regulations in accordance with YMCA DLG's policies and procedures. You will work to prevent any anti-social behaviour from impacting our neighbours and other residents. You will work alongside other support staff to maximise the wellbeing of residents by completing one to one interventions with young people who may be experiencing mental health crisis and/or who may need medical assistance.

This role involves lone working, so you will need to be comfortable with decision making and following procedures. However, before joining the rota you will have the opportunity to get to know the team and the services, take part in an induction, complete the necessary training, and undertake shadow shifts to ensure you feel confident and supported.

If you are enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferrable. You may be just the right candidate. This is a dynamic and varied role; you will be passionate about being involved in the support and growth of young people.

Ideally you will have experience working with young people, those considered vulnerable or with multiple and complex needs along with being able to demonstrate a real passion for wanting to work with young people. You will have an understanding of the needs of single homeless clients aged 16-25 and the ability to engage, motivate and inspire, with a strong commitment to changing the life of others for the better. You will already have clear verbal and written communication skills, good IT and keyboard skills and the ability to self-motivate. You will be an effective communicator who is able to deliver robust, clear handovers and build strong relationships with other members of your team. In addition, you will have the ability to de-escalate volatile situations and manage challenging behaviour appropriately.

If you would like any further information or an informal discussion about this post, please contact Niki.Wallace@ymcadlg.org. Should you require any assistance with our application process, please email us at Recruitment@ymcadlg.org

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 28 December 2025 at midnight. If we identify a strong candidate, we may invite them to interview ahead of the closing date.

TO APPLY: Scroll down the page to the application form. Please download the job profile (below), which includes the full role description and person specification.

We are not able to support a work permit or offer a visa sponsorship for this role. Candidates must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

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. 

Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced DBS (including the Children’s and Adults’ barred lists) check, along with a reference and background check carried out by a third-party service provider. 

Job Application Form

Wellbeing Children & Young People's (CYP) Lead, Hove, £36,530.00

Employment Type

Full Time, Permanent

Application Start Date

10-12-2025

Application End Date

11-01-2026

Location

Hove

State/County

East Sussex

Zip Code

BN3 2BE

Country

United Kingdom

Work Style

Hybrid

Description

36 hours per week / £36,530 per annum pro rata / permanent / working two days onsite and three days from home, working pattern to be discussed at interview

 At YMCA DownsLink Group, our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

 Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

 Brighton & Hove Wellbeing service is delivered by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with YMCA DownsLink Group. We offer a variety of support including counselling and psychological therapies to children and young people within Brighton and Hove.

We are looking for a compassionate and experienced Wellbeing Children & Young People's (CYP) Lead to support and shape our therapeutic services for young people in Brighton and Hove.

 Overview of key areas of responsibility:

Leadership

• Provide line management support and supervision to wellbeing workers (e.g. counsellors, practitioners, therapists, link workers and trainees).
• Work alongside a team of leads to support the running, development and management of the service.
• Lead induction, mentoring, and training of new staff, trainees, and volunteers.
• Foster a culture of learning, innovation, and continuous improvement across the team.

Core Clinical

• Carry out individual counselling assessments of children and young people and make appropriate referrals.
• Provide guidance and oversight for complex or high-risk cases.
• Ensure all interventions are evidence-based, child-centred, and trauma-informed.
• Develop and oversee counselling protocols, therapeutic pathways, and risk assessment frameworks.

Safeguarding and Risk

• Lead and give oversight for safeguarding concerns, embedding a safeguarding-first culture across the service.
• Work to ensure all counsellors, staff, and volunteers are trained, confident, and compliant in safeguarding practice.
• Implement robust risk assessment and management processes.
• Monitor safeguarding incidents, identify themes, and strengthen safeguarding practice.
• Liaise with schools, health, social care, police, and other agencies in safeguarding matters.

Service Development

• Work with the Service Manager, Leads and Clinical Leads to strengthen and expand counselling provision, including group work.
• Triage referrals and represent the service in multi-agency triage meetings.
• Promote and develop opportunities for community participation and youth voice in service design.
• Build strong relationships with schools, health services, local authorities, commissioners, and community partners.
• Represent the service at local and regional forums, influencing CYP wellbeing strategies.

Please download the job profile (below), which includes detailed role description and person specification.

Qualifications, knowledge, and experience

• More than 2 years post-qualified at graduate or post graduate level Counselling Diploma or equivalent [of two years minimum duration including personal counselling or psychotherapy].
• BACP Registration or Accreditation and/or eligible for other Professional Accreditation e.g. UKCP/HPC.
• Strong team-management and line-management experience is required, including demonstrated experience in supervising, developing, and supporting staff.
• An in depth understanding of counselling theory and practice and working to short-term models.
• A sound understanding of child developmental processes, Child Protection and Vulnerable Adult Safeguarding issues and procedures, along with proven experience in safeguarding young children.
• Solid experience in delivering counselling and assessment, along with experience with high-risk/complex cases.
• Experience of multi-disciplinary team working, with the ability to work within time-limited frameworks.

If you would like any further information or an informal discussion about this post, please contact  Conrad. Foote@ymcadlg.org . Should you require any assistance with our application process, please email us at  Recruitment@ymcadlg.org.

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 11 January 2026 at midnight. Proposed interview date Thursday 15 January.

 TO APPLY: Scroll down the page to the online application form.

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

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. 

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.

Job Application Form

Supported Housing Support Worker, Eastbourne, £27,770.00

Employment Type

Full Time, Permanent

Application Start Date

11-12-2025

Application End Date

04-01-2026

Location

Eastbourne

State/County

East Sussex

Zip Code

BN21 3LZ

Country

UK

Work Style

On-site

Description

37.5 hours per week / permanent / working onsite on a seven-day rolling rota, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

At YMCA DownsLink Group, our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

Our Eastbourne and Hailsham services provide 24-hour supported housing for young people aged 16–25, offering low to medium levels of housing-related support. Eastbourne Foyer houses 33 young people, while our two Hailsham sites - Grove House and Newton Park - houses 7 and 3 young people respectively, all with shared communal facilities. Across all three sites, we support residents to develop the skills needed for independent living. This includes managing finances and budgeting, building life and work skills, and maintaining personal self-care.

Our staff take a trauma-informed and psychologically informed approach, supporting residents to build essential life skills, identify personal goals, and work towards their aspirations so they can move on to independent and fulfilling futures. Our dedicated team of Support Workers, Night Workers, and Bank Workers provide personalised guidance, practical assistance, and signposting in key areas including housing, budgeting, daily living skills, employment, and healthy relationship building.

We are looking for a Supported Housing Support Worker to join our team at Eastbourne Foyer, with the expectation of working from our other sites in Hailsham when required. You will hold a caseload of residents and carry out regular key work sessions with them each week. Through these sessions, you will work together to develop personalised support plans, track progress, and help residents achieve their goals.

Main areas of responsibilities are:

Housing:

• Coach young people to manage their occupancy agreement and adhere to house rules, in preparation for independent living
• Promote a credit culture, encouraging young people to keep up to date with all payments for rent
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of housing and welfare benefits for young people and be well-informed on significant changes to housing law
• Deal effectively with non-compliance issues, such as non-payment of rent or damage to room, using restorative practices and working collaboratively with the rest of the team

Coaching and Engagement:

• Coach young people so they can articulate their aspirations and ambitions and take the lead in acquiring the skills they need to live independent and fulfilling lives
• Ensure young people are encouraged to take responsibility for their own personal development, to engage with the services on offer and build strong networks and connections within the local community
• Ensure consistent standards of safeguarding and Trauma Informed Practice when supporting young people, observing our safeguarding procedures, and keeping yourself and residents safe by respecting professional boundaries
• Maintain client records on In-Form (client database) detailing the young person’s journey in relation to their strengths and needs, any risks, and any outcomes (to monitor service performance)

General:

• Work as part of a team, on a rota shift pattern, ensuring young people at the service have non-judgemental, objective, and supportive staff during the day/evening, along with taking responsibility for personal safety during periods of lone working
• Contribute to a great working environment, with a calm, yet assertive manner, being able to handle potentially difficult situations
• Participate in relevant continuing professional development and utilise Reflective Practice Supervision as part of leading psychologically informed practice

There will be times when lone working will be a requirement for this role, but you will get to know the team and service, along with an induction and training prior to starting on a rota. 

If you are enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferrable. You may be just the right candidate. 

This is a dynamic and varied role; you will be passionate about being involved in the support and growth of young people.

Experience and Knowledge:

• Experience relating to housing, support work, and/or working with young people at risk
• Experience of working proactively with a caseload of young people with multiple and complex needs to enable them to achieve independent living
• Knowledge of statutory and voluntary resources available to young people with multiple and complex needs
• Knowledge of good safeguarding procedures in relation to young people and the ability to maintain effective professional boundaries
• Demonstrated confidence and competence in recording notes/actions in service log, incident forms and health and safety check lists

Skills and Abilities: 

• Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing for appropriate recording of a resident’s progression, and to evidence outcomes achieved
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with all stakeholders, including signposting and advocating for clients as necessary
• Ability to work autonomously, and use own initiative, as well as being part of a team
• Clear verbal and written communication skills, good IT, and keyboard skills
• Ability to de-escalate volatile situations and manage challenging behaviour appropriately

If you would like any further information or an informal discussion about this post, please contact Josephine.Cranley@ymcadlg.org. Should you require any assistance with our application process, please email us at Recruitment@ymcadlg.org

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 4 January 2026 at midnight. 

TO APPLY: Scroll down the page to the application form. Please download the job profile (below), which includes the full role description and person specification.

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

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. 

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.

Job Application Form

Supported Housing Support Worker, Eastbourne, £27,770.00

Employment Type

Part Time, Permanent

Application Start Date

12-12-2025

Application End Date

04-01-2026

Location

Eastbourne

State/County

East Sussex

Zip Code

BN21 3LZ

Country

UK

Work Style

On-site

Description

22.5 hours per week / £27,770 per annum, pro rata / permanent / working onsite with set shifts on a seven-day rolling rota, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

At YMCA DownsLink Group, our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

Our Eastbourne and Hailsham services provide 24-hour supported housing for young people aged 16–25, offering low to medium levels of housing-related support. Eastbourne Foyer houses 34 young people, while our two Hailsham properties houses 10 young people, all with shared communal facilities. Across all three sites, we support residents to develop the skills needed for independent living. This includes managing finances and budgeting, building life and work skills, and maintaining personal self-care.

Our staff take a trauma-informed and psychologically informed approach, supporting residents to build essential life skills, identify personal goals, and work towards their aspirations so they can move on to independent and fulfilling futures. Our dedicated team of Support Workers, Night Workers, and Bank Workers provide personalised guidance, practical assistance, and signposting in key areas including housing, budgeting, daily living skills, employment, and healthy relationship building.

We are looking for a Supported Housing Support Worker to join our team at Eastbourne Foyer, with the expectation of working from our other sites in Hailsham when required. You will hold a caseload of residents and carry out regular key work sessions with them each week. Through these sessions, you will work together to develop personalised support plans, track progress, and help residents achieve their goals.

Main areas of responsibilities are:

Housing:

• Coach young people to manage their occupancy agreement and adhere to house rules, in preparation for independent living
• Promote a credit culture, encouraging young people to keep up to date with all payments for rent
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of housing and welfare benefits for young people and be well-informed on significant changes to housing law
• Deal effectively with non-compliance issues, such as non-payment of rent or damage to room, using restorative practices and working collaboratively with the rest of the team

Coaching and Engagement:

• Coach young people so they can articulate their aspirations and ambitions and take the lead in acquiring the skills they need to live independent and fulfilling lives
• Ensure young people are encouraged to take responsibility for their own personal development, to engage with the services on offer and build strong networks and connections within the local community
• Ensure consistent standards of safeguarding and Trauma Informed Practice when supporting young people, observing our safeguarding procedures, and keeping yourself and residents safe by respecting professional boundaries
• Maintain client records on In-Form (client database) detailing the young person’s journey in relation to their strengths and needs, any risks, and any outcomes (to monitor service performance)

General:

• Work as part of a team, on a rota shift pattern, ensuring young people at the service have non-judgemental, objective, and supportive staff during the day/evening, along with taking responsibility for personal safety during periods of lone working
• Contribute to a great working environment, with a calm, yet assertive manner, being able to handle potentially difficult situations
• Participate in relevant continuing professional development and utilise Reflective Practice Supervision as part of leading psychologically informed practice

There will be times when lone working will be a requirement for this role, but you will get to know the team and service, along with an induction and training prior to starting on a rota. 

If you are enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferrable. You may be just the right candidate. 

This is a dynamic and varied role; you will be passionate about being involved in the support and growth of young people.

Experience and Knowledge:

• Experience relating to housing, support work, and/or working with young people at risk
• Experience of working proactively with a caseload of young people with multiple and complex needs to enable them to achieve independent living
• Knowledge of statutory and voluntary resources available to young people with multiple and complex needs
• Knowledge of good safeguarding procedures in relation to young people and the ability to maintain effective professional boundaries
• Demonstrated confidence and competence in recording notes/actions in service log, incident forms and health and safety check lists

Skills and Abilities: 

• Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing for appropriate recording of a resident’s progression, and to evidence outcomes achieved
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with all stakeholders, including signposting and advocating for clients as necessary
• Ability to work autonomously, and use own initiative, as well as being part of a team
• Clear verbal and written communication skills, good IT, and keyboard skills
• Ability to de-escalate volatile situations and manage challenging behaviour appropriately

If you would like any further information or an informal discussion about this post, please contact Josephine.Cranley@ymcadlg.org. Should you require any assistance with our application process, please email us at Recruitment@ymcadlg.org

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 4 January 2026 at midnight. 

TO APPLY: Scroll down the page to the application form. Please download the job profile (below), which includes the full role description and person specification.

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

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. 

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.

Job Application Form

Community Counsellor, Horsham / Crawley, £33,795.00

Employment Type

Part Time, Fixed Term

Application Start Date

19-12-2025

Application End Date

18-01-2026

Location

Horsham / Crawley

State/County

West Sussex

Zip Code

RH12 1AH

Country

United Kingdom

Work Style

On-site

Description

15 hours per week / £33,795 per annum pro rata / fixed-term contract until March 2026 (funding for this service currently runs until March 2026; however, we anticipate that the contract will be renewed) / working two days a week, to be discussed at interview.

At YMCA DownsLink Group,  our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

YMCA Community Counselling Dialogue offer free short-term face to face, group and online therapy for young people aged 11 - 18 who live or have a GP in West Sussex. We offer a range of talking therapies, group sessions for young people who are struggling with their mental health. We see young people in different locations in the community such as youth centres, children and family centres and our own buildings. Our online counselling takes place over an electronic therapy platform.

We are seeking a qualified and experienced counsellor to deliver face-to-face and online counselling, as well as group work, to children and young people in local settings across West Sussex. You will be passionate about making a difference to lives of the children and young people. The role will be primarily based across two sites in central Crawley and central Horsham, with occasional delivery of services within community settings throughout West Sussex.

Key responsibilities

• Offer assessments to children and young people within the Tier 2 Counselling Service.
• Manage a caseload of children and young people, delivering counselling within the West Sussex Dialogue service model.
• Work with the project administrator and project manager to ensure high quality delivery of service.
• Work systemically, e.g. liaise with and include parent/carers, educators, health professionals when appropriate and as agreed by the client.
• Manage the tight time boundaries of the role and the often complex and varied workload.
• To develop and co-facilitate groups for children and young people in the service.
• Work at all times within the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions and follow YMCA Dialogue safeguarding procedures and policies.
• Maintain individual membership of the BACP and to become a Registered Member (or other professional body such as HCPC).

Qualifications, knowledge, and experience

• Experience of working as a Counsellor post-qualified at diploma, graduate or post graduate level or equivalent, including working with risk issues.
• You will also have a sound understanding of child protection and vulnerable adult safeguarding issues, policies, and procedures.
• An in depth understanding of counselling theory and practice and working to short-term models.
• You will have proven experience in safeguarding children and young people, responding to, managing, and referring safeguarding issues.
• You will have a BACP Membership; BACP Registered or Accredited. Or other professional body e.g. HCPC.
• You will be familiar with using creative therapeutic approaches, along with experience of working with children and young people aged 11-18 in community settings.

If you would like any further information or an informal discussion about this post, please contact Tracy.Partridge@ymcadlg.org. Should you require any assistance with our application process, please email us at 

Recruitment@ymcadlg.org.

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 18 January 2026 at midnight.

TO APPLY: Scroll down the page to the application form. Please download the job profile (below), which includes the full role description and person specification.

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

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. 

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.

Job Application Form

Personal Assistant, Hove, £33,075.00

Employment Type

Full Time, Fixed Term

Application Start Date

19-12-2025

Application End Date

04-01-2026

Location

Hove

State/County

East Sussex

Zip Code

BN3 2BE

Country

UK

Work Style

Hybrid

Industry

Non-profit charitable organisations

Description

37 hours per week / £33,075 per annum / 12 month fixed-term contract / hybrid; minimum of two days on site, flexible hours considered - working pattern to be discussed at interview.

At YMCA DownsLink Group,  our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

We are seeking a Personal Assistant to join our People and Programmes team, providing dedicated PA support to the Director of People and Programmes and the Head of Improvement and Impact. The People and Programmes directorate includes teams focused on HR and learning & development, safeguarding, impact and improvement and fundraising & communications.

This will be a pivotal role at the heart of this department, and the wider organisation, ensuring leaders can focus on making a bigger impact on the lives of children and young people.

The Personal Assistant will provide high level PA and administrative support to the Director of People and Programmes and to the Head of Improvement and Impact, including proactive diary management and acting as a gatekeeper to prioritise workload. In delivering the role, you will:

• act as a trusted partner, ensuring the Director and Head can focus on strategic leadership by anticipating needs, being proactive and responsive and co-ordinating follow-up.
• organise and coordinate meetings, including agendas, papers, logistics and follow-up actions.
• ensure meetings are planned and prepared for, efficiently documented, actions tracked and completed and communications are clear.
• be organised and efficient, able to manage sensitive and complex issues in a professional and objective manner.
• draft, edit and proofread correspondence, reports, and presentations in line with organisational tone and brand.
• attend meetings when required, taking accurate notes and tracking actions to ensure timely completion.
• work collaboratively with the central administration team and provide cover for senior administrative colleagues when required.

If you are enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience does not align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferrable.  You may be just the right candidate.  

This is a dynamic, fast-paced role, working in an unpredictable environment which requires adaptability and a willingness to be a champion of change. You will have already have:

• proven experience in a Personal/Executive Assistant or similar senior administrative role.
• collaborative and empathetic approach, with the credibility to inspire confidence among diverse stakeholders.
• exceptional organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• confidence in attending meetings and engaging with senior stakeholders.
• excellent attention to detail, with the ability to maintain a high level of accuracy.
• proficiency in Microsoft 365 and digital collaboration tools, along with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• a strong initiative and ability to work autonomously. Be resilient, reliable and flexible.
• ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment in handling sensitive matters.
• proactive problem-solving skills, with a track record of anticipating needs before they arise.
• experience in the charity or housing sector (desirable).

If you would like any further information or an informal discussion about this post, please contact  Jayne.Grier@ymcadlg.org. Should you require any assistance with our application process, please email us at 

Recruitment@ymcadlg.org.

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 4 January at midnight. Proposed interview date is Thursday 8 January. 

TO APPLY: Scroll down the page to the application form. Please download the job profile (below), which includes the full role description and person specification.

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

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. 

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 check.