Merton Winter Night Shelter provides a much-needed emergency shelter for the homeless during the coldest winter months. We offer a warm, safe and respectful place, with a welcoming environment, providing hot food and professional support to those who would otherwise be on street. We offer an opportunity for guests to rest, recharge and be supported into a more sustainable and stable lifestyle.
We are seeking a part time Project Assistant to work with the Project Coordinator, who leads the project on a permanent basis. Min 6hrs over 3 evenings per week and occasional management meetings outside of the shelter. This would be initially shadowing the Project Coordinator at the different shelter venues and then independently and unsupervised attending venues supporting venue convenors and their volunteers. The hours will include weekends and bank holidays.
Purpose of Job:
Supporting the Project Coordinator in managing and coordinating the Night Shelter to ensure that all venues give a consistent service to all homeless persons accepted into the shelter, i.e., its guests.
Standing in for the Project Coordinator in supporting shelter convenors and their volunteers on two evenings per week after initial induction.
Assisting the Project Coordinator in providing advice and support to help each guest work through the challenges they are facing, recognising that homelessness is often a result of complex and multiple problems.
Responsibilities:
In close consultation with the Project Coordinator to:
Liaise with the Host Venue Co-ordinators to ensure timely communication and information, particularly in maintaining the Shelter Log Book, to enable the smooth running of the shelter.
Support guests who are using services for welfare, legal, debt, housing and other specialist issues, where necessary.
Engage with vulnerable people in a sensitive, empathetic and professional manner.
To assist in maintaining detailed case records ensuring all sensitive data is adequately protected and handled.
To apply for this role, please download the attached Job Description and Application Form and return the completed Application Form to us. Applications will close on 31st July 2025 and those shortlisted will be interviewed shortly after.