We are moving into the fourth year of funding from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government as part of the Government’s Rough Sleeping Initiative directly aimed to reduce those living on the streets.

We are looking for an Outreach Officer who can provide robust and creative support to entrenched rough sleepers, those new to homelessness and those with lived experience who are now resettled across the district of Maidstone.

You must have effective communication skills, be able to flex your style to meet the needs of your audience, have a passion to help and support rough sleepers and homeless people who may have complex needs and be able to work autonomously with minimal supervision achieving creative outcomes.

You will be required to carry a caseload of clients and offer support to people both on the streets and within accommodation.

The post holders will be required to work out of hours including some weekends, evenings, and mornings to ensure the success of the service and a reduction in the numbers of people on the streets within Maidstone.

We would particularly welcome applications from those who have a lived experience of homelessness or those who have accessed support services.

Maidstone Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employee and volunteers to share this commitment.

The Council considers that the successful applicant will have access to young people and/or vulnerable adults and it is a requirement under The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 that you hold an enhanced disclosure and barring scheme check. Upon successful appointment, you will be required to provide evidence of an enhanced DBS check if you subscribe to the DBS Update Service or complete the process to obtain a DBS check.

This is a full time position on a fixed term contract for 12 months but we hope to secure an additional years funding, leading to a two year contract. The post holders will also be required to have an enhanced DBS check.

For further information or to discuss this opportunity in more detail, please contact Hannah Gaston on 01622 602262
To apply for the position please visit https://www.maidstone.gov.uk/jobs and complete the online application form or by phone on 01622 602555
Closing Date: Sunday 24th January 2021
Interview Date: Wednesday 3rd February 2021
Fixed term contract up to March 2022

Council Benefits: career average pension scheme, professional fee payment, flexible working (including opportunities for home working and job share), employee benefits package and generous leave entitlement.