Social Support Officer

Placements24; O Mente; Hybrid; EUR 14,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Flexible work arrangements

Supportive team environment

Positive community impact

Job summary

Placements24 in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, seeks a dedicated Social Support Officer to help individuals and families overcome socio-economic challenges and improve quality of life.

You will assess needs, connect clients with resources, provide counseling, and advocate across services, promoting self-sufficiency and community empowerment.

This role offers flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional development within a collaborative team.

Qualifications

• Experience in social support or community work.
• Strong knowledge of social welfare policies and resources.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage a caseload and maintain client confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Conduct needs assessments to identify challenges and strengths.
• Develop personalized support plans and connect clients with services.
• Provide counseling and emotional support to clients.
• Assist clients in navigating social grants, housing, and healthcare.
• Organize workshops and information sessions on relevant topics.
• Advocate for clients' rights within service sectors.
• Maintain accurate, confidential client records and reports.
• Collaborate with community organizations and government agencies.

Skills

Needs assessment

Counselling

Referral coordination

Communication

Active listening

Case management

Documentation

Education

Social Work degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated and resourceful Social Support Officer to join their impactful team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This role is critical in providing comprehensive support services to individuals and families facing socio-economic challenges, aiming to improve their quality of life and promote self-sufficiency. You will work closely with community members, connecting them with essential resources, facilitating access to services, and offering guidance and advocacy. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of social welfare systems, excellent interpersonal skills, and a genuine commitment to community empowerment in the Queenstown region. This is a fantastic opportunity for a proactive individual to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. The role requires a compassionate and driven professional.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct needs assessments for individuals and families to identify challenges and strengths.
• Develop and implement personalized support plans, connecting clients with relevant services and resources.
• Provide counseling, guidance, and emotional support to clients.
• Assist clients in navigating complex systems, such as social grants, housing, and healthcare.
• Organize and facilitate workshops or information sessions on relevant topics.
• Advocate for clients' rights and needs within various service sectors.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records and prepare regular reports.
• Collaborate with community organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Promote community engagement and foster social inclusion.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Social Work, Community Development, Social Sciences, or a related field.
• Previous experience in social support, community work, or a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of social welfare policies, community resources, and referral pathways in the Eastern Cape , particularly Queenstown .
• Excellent communication, active listening, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to build rapport and trust with diverse individuals and communities.
• Proficiency in needs assessment, case management, and documentation.
• Ability to work independently and manage a caseload effectively, with some remote flexibility.
• Commitment to a client-centered and empowering approach.
• Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic community setting.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in social support.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment focused on community impact.
• The chance to make a significant positive difference in the lives of individuals and families in Queenstown .
• Flexible working arrangements supporting a healthy work-life balance.
• Exposure to a wide range of community support initiatives.