Job Summary:
The Homeless Response Support role is a key position at Cornerstone Supported Housing and Counselling, designed to support the charity's mission to provide essential services to individuals experiencing homelessness. This role will lead on assisting the homeless community both within the local area and at our new homeless hub, which includes a retail outlet. The role involves helping with the collection and distribution of donations, including furniture, food, and other essential items, and supporting the smooth running of the hub to help clients in need.
You will be working as part of a dynamic team to support both the daily operations of the hub and contribute to ongoing community outreach and support services, including our rough sleeper outreach project and emergency accommodation services. The role will evolve to meet the changing needs of the service, and flexibility will be key.
Key Responsibilities:
Community Support:
· Lead on the execution of community outreach projects, such as the First Steps Scheme and assertive outreach initiatives for rough sleepers.
· Engage with service users to gather feedback, assess needs, and identify areas for improvement.
· Support and train volunteers who contribute to community outreach activities.
· Monitor and record service activities and outcomes, ensuring data is up to date and accurately recorded.
· Collaborate with local services and partners to address immediate needs and foster long-term support strategies.
Hub & Retail Operations:
· Oversee the day-to-day operations of the homeless hub and retail outlet, ensuring smooth, effective service delivery.
· Manage and coordinate the collection, delivery, and storage of donations (furniture, food, and other items).
· Ensure that donations are processed efficiently and that the hub is well-stocked and organized to meet client needs.
· Support the maintenance of attractive and functional retail displays, ensuring stock levels and inventory are properly managed.
· Facilitate drop-in services and other community programs, ensuring all interactions meet the needs of those accessing the service.
· Provide assistance with operational tasks, such as coordinating donations, engaging clients, and resolving issues that arise.
Maintenance:
· Identify and report maintenance issues across the hub and other Cornerstone facilities.
· Work with the maintenance team and contractors to ensure timely repairs and upkeep.
· Complete minor maintenance tasks as required.
· Ensure all safety protocols and health standards are followed, both in the hub and during outreach activities.
Business Development:
· Contribute ideas for business development and new service opportunities to expand Cornerstone’s support services for the homeless community.
· Participate in fundraising and community engagement efforts, helping to secure resources for ongoing and new projects.
· Provide flexible support across various operational areas, including covering shifts or tasks when needed.
· Assist in the planning and execution of fundraising and community events, raising awareness of homelessness and Cornerstone’s work.
Additional Responsibilities:
· Perform any other reasonable duties as assigned by the Homeless Response team leader or management to support the charity’s overall mission.
· Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate respect and dignity in all interactions with service users.
· Actively participate in team meetings within Cornerstone to share updates, challenges, and successes, contributing to a collaborative and supportive work environment.
· Attend meetings with external organisations such as local authorities, charities, and community partners, representing Cornerstone and strengthening relationships with key stakeholders.
· Advocate for the needs of homeless individuals in external meetings and collaborate on community-based solutions and resources.
· Help develop partnerships with external agencies to enhance service provision and improve outcomes for clients.
· Provide feedback from both internal and external meetings to improve the efficiency and impact of the services we provide.