Due to the nature of the work and the needs of the women accessing the service, this post is open to women only. This is a Genuine Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010.
About Us
Mary Seacole Housing Association is a specialist provider of housing-related support services for individuals with complex needs. We are committed to delivering high-quality, person-centred support that enables people to live independently and safely within the community.
Our services focus on supporting those affected by homelessness, trauma, mental health needs, and social exclusion, with a strong emphasis on empowerment, recovery, and long-term stability.
About Our Services
RISE Service
RISE is a supported accommodation and assessment service for single homeless men who require stabilisation, assessment, and support to move towards sustainable housing outcomes.
SHINE Service
SHINE is a 24-hour, trauma-informed, women-only accommodation and support service providing safe housing and support for women experiencing homelessness, rough sleeping, domestic abuse, exploitation, and multiple disadvantage.
Both services operate within Luton’s homelessness pathway and deliver trauma-informed, psychologically informed, and person-centred support.
About the Role
We are seeking a committed and compassionate Supported Accommodation Officer (SAO) to join our SHINE Women’s Service.
Hours or work: 39 hours per week (Mon - Fri, on a rota basis)
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a caseload of clients, delivering tailored support and safety plans
- Support women to access safe, secure accommodation and sustain tenancies
- Carry out risk assessments and safeguarding interventions
- Work collaboratively with multi-agency partners, including housing, health, and specialist women’s services
- Provide practical support with benefits, budgeting, and independent living skills
- Maintain accurate case records and contribute to service monitoring and outcomes
About You
You will be a motivated and empathetic professional with experience supporting vulnerable individuals, ideally within housing, homelessness, or women’s services.
You will have:
- At least 3 years of experience working with vulnerable adults and/or women with complex needs
- Previous experience working in a residential or supported accommodation settings
- Strong understanding of safeguarding, risk management, and trauma-informed practice
- Ability to work in high-pressure or crisis situations
- Excellent communication and organisational skills
- A proactive and flexible approach to work
- Level 5 Diploma or suitable equivalent in a relevant field (e.g. Social Care, Youth & Community, Psychology, Criminology) or willingness to work towards.
Safeguarding & Risk Management
- Undertake risk assessments and safety planning
- Identify and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns
- Support women experiencing domestic abuse, trauma, exploitation, and homelessness
- Manage incidents professionally and follow safeguarding procedures at all times
- Work collaboratively with statutory and specialist agencies to reduce risk and improve outcomes
Housing & Tenancy Support
- Support residents to understand licence agreements and house expectations
- Assist with move-on planning and tenancy sustainment
- Promote positive engagement within the accommodation environment
- Support residents to develop budgeting, independent living, and life skills
Partnership Working
- Build positive working relationships with:
- Housing providers
- Local authorities
- Domestic abuse services
- Mental health services
- Substance misuse services
- Health professionals
- Voluntary and community organisations
- Attend multi-agency meetings and advocate on behalf of residents where appropriate
Administration & Record Keeping
- Maintain accurate case records and support notes
- Ensure all documentation is completed to required standards
- Contribute to service monitoring, outcomes reporting, and quality assurance processes
- Use case management systems effectively and maintain confidentiality at all times
Safeguarding & Pre-Employment Checks
Mary Seacole Housing Association is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people, and adults at risk.
This role is subject to the following checks:
- Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check
- Full employment history and reference checks
- Right to work in the UK verification
- Overseas police clearance (where applicable)
Please note:
Due to the nature of this role, we are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions Order 1986). This means all convictions, including those considered ‘spent’, must be disclosed.
Why Join Us?
- Work within a specialist women’s service making a real difference
- Be part of a supportive and values-driven organisation
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- Opportunity to work in a trauma-informed, psychologically informed environment
How to Apply
If you are passionate about supporting women to achieve safety, stability, and independence, we would love to hear from you.
Apply via Indeed with your CV and a supporting statement outlining your suitability for the role. We will be in touch with our application form.
Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 12 months
Pay: £31,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
Experience:
- supporting vulnerable adults (complex needs): 3 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- L5 Diploma in Social Care or eqv. (required)
- Full, valid driving licence and access to a vehicle (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
