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Rough Sleeping Outreach/In Reach Officer

Somerset Council • Full-time • BA4 5BT, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, England • £28,598 - £32,061 / year • 2d ago

Rough Sleeping Outreach/In Reach Officer

Date: 6 Aug 2026

Location: Shepton Mallet, GB, BA4 5BT

Company: Somerset Council

Salary: Grade 12 ranging from £28,598 to £32,061 per annum

Closing Date: 20/08/2026

This is an opportunity to make a real and lasting difference to the lives of people experiencing rough sleeping. As a Rough Sleeping Officer, you will work on the frontline, providing compassionate, practical support to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. Through outreach, assessment, and partnership working, you will help individuals move towards safer, more stable housing and improved wellbeing across Somerset.

Role Summary

The Rough Sleeping Officer plays a vital role in Somerset Council’s work to reduce rough sleeping. Reporting to the Senior Operational Manager for Rough Sleeping and Homelessness, the role focuses on outreach engagement, needs assessment, and the delivery of personalised support. Working closely with statutory and non‑statutory partners, the postholder supports individuals sleeping rough to access housing, health, and support services, advocating on their behalf and helping to coordinate effective, joined‑up responses to homelessness.

What you'll do - Key Responsibilities

Carry out regular outreach activity to identify and engage people sleeping rough
Assess individual needs and develop personalised support plans
Provide direct support and advocacy to help people access housing, healthcare, and essential services
Work collaboratively with statutory and non‑statutory services, housing providers, and support agencies
Monitor and review support plans, adjusting interventions as required
Maintain accurate, up‑to‑date records of engagement and outcomes
Participate in multi‑agency meetings and case conferences
Contribute to raising awareness of rough sleeping issues within the community
Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, policies, and procedures
Provide regular progress reports to the Senior Operational Manager

What We’re Looking For – Knowledge, Experience and Skills

Essential

Knowledge

Understanding of homelessness and rough sleeping issues, including housing legislation, policies, and local support services
Familiarity with safeguarding practices, data protection, and confidentiality requirements
Knowledge of mental health and substance misuse issues

Experience

Experience working with vulnerable people, particularly those experiencing homelessness
Experience developing and reviewing support plans through outreach and engagement work
Experience of multi‑agency working and partnership collaboration
Experience maintaining accurate records and documentation

Skills and Qualifications

Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport
Good organisational and time‑management skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making skills
Proficiency in using IT systems and databases
Relevant qualification in social work, housing, or a related field
Training in safeguarding and child protection

Desirable

Previous experience in a similar role
Certification in Mental Health First Aid
Qualification in substance misuse support
Training in conflict resolution or de‑escalation techniques
Professional membership with a relevant body

Any Additional Information

28 day’s annual leave (additional to bank holidays).
Full time role – 37 hours
This role may involve working with confidential information and supporting statutory or time‑critical processes. Some flexibility may be required to meet service demands, in line with Somerset Council’s working arrangements.
Regretfully, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for VISA sponsorship.
Job Description: TR0121 Rough Sleeping Officer.pdf

For an informal chat about the role, you can contact Kyleigh Callow, Service Manager - Rough Sleeping via email at kyleigh.callow@somerset.gov.uk

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