Support Worker

Recovery Focus; Greater London; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

27 days annual leave

Pension scheme with employer pension

Life assurance (3× annual salary)

Enhanced sick pay

Professional qualification reimburse

24/7 online GP access

Job summary

Waythrough in Buckinghamshire is seeking three Community Connectors to join the Assessment and Engagement Team as Support Workers, delivering advice, advocacy and practical help to people facing challenges related to alcohol and drug use. You will assist in developing recovery plans and coordinating access to services.

The role emphasises person-centred support, safeguarding and data accuracy, with a focus on diverse, compassionate practice and meaningful community impact.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Social Care or willingness to work toward this qualification.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Comfortable with safeguarding, confidentiality and health and safety policies.
• Ability to maintain accurate client records and data requirements.
• Commitment to person-centred support and inclusive practice.

Responsibilities

• Provide advice, support, advocacy and practical assistance to people experiencing challenges relating to alcohol and drug use.
• Develop and review recovery-oriented goals and plans with individuals.
• Support assessment and case management tasks as directed.
• Collaborate with partners to ensure coordinated access to services.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure confidentiality.
• Engage with individuals using a person-centred and compassionate approach.

Skills

Communication skills

Empathy

Flexibility

Education

NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Social Care

Job description

Support Worker Location: Buckinghamshire Working Hours: 37 hours (full-time) Contract Type: Permanent Salary: £25,877.80 - £28,930

Make a Real Difference in Your Community

Help us create positive change, one person at a time. Are you approachable, compassionate and passionate about helping people make positive changes in their lives? Do you want to work for an organisation that supports people to overcome challenges and move towards a healthier, safer and more independent future? At Waythrough, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to make positive changes and move towards a brighter future. We support people experiencing challenges relating to mental health, substance use, homelessness, housing and domestic abuse. We are part of One Recovery Buckinghamshire (ORB), a partnership between Inclusion (MPFT NHS Trust), Waythrough and Build on Belief, working together to provide support for people experiencing difficulties relating to alcohol and drug use across Buckinghamshire. We are looking for three motivated and compassionate Support Workers (Community Connectors – Assessment and Engagement Team) to join our team. This is an opportunity to become part of a supportive and dedicated service, where your communication skills, understanding and person‑centred approach will help people access the support they need to make positive changes and work towards recovery.

About the Role

Working as a Support Worker (Community Connector) within our Assessment and Engagement Team, you will play an important role in providing advice, support, advocacy and practical assistance to people experiencing challenges relating to alcohol and drug use. You will support individuals to develop and work towards their recovery plans, undertaking elements of assessment and case management as directed. You will work alongside people to understand their individual circumstances, identify their needs and help them access appropriate support and services. The role requires an understanding of the functional model of substance use, the Recovery Agenda and the wider impact that alcohol and drug misuse can have on individuals, families and communities. You will be expected to work in a way that recognises and values diversity, promotes equality and inclusion, and places the individual at the centre of everything you do. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference to people's lives, helping them build confidence, access support and take positive steps towards recovery.

What You'll Do

• Providing advice and support: Offering practical advice, guidance, advocacy and ongoing support to individuals experiencing challenges relating to alcohol and drug use.
• Supporting recovery plans: Working alongside individuals to develop, implement and review recovery plans, encouraging positive change and supporting progress towards personal goals.
• Undertaking assessments: Supporting elements of assessment and case management as directed, helping to identify individual needs and appropriate support.
• Promoting recovery and engagement: Encouraging individuals to engage with services and take an active role in their recovery journey, using a person‑centred and compassionate approach.
• Working collaboratively: Building positive relationships with colleagues, partner organisations and other professionals to ensure individuals can access appropriate and coordinated support.
• Maintaining accurate records: Completing client records, maintaining confidentiality and ensuring information is recorded accurately and in line with service requirements.
• Working safely and professionally: Following relevant policies and procedures, including safeguarding, child protection, protection of vulnerable adults, confidentiality and health and safety.
• Promoting equality and inclusion: Recognising and valuing diversity, ensuring everyone is treated with dignity, respect and understanding.

About You

We are looking for someone who is compassionate, flexible and committed to helping people make positive changes in their lives. Ideally, you will hold an NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Social Care, or be willing to work towards achieving this qualification. You will have good written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to maintain accurate records and meet data requirements. You will also be comfortable working within policies and procedures, including those relating to safeguarding, confidentiality and health and safety. A flexible approach is important, alongside a genuine commitment to person‑centred support and an understanding of the challenges associated with alcohol and drug misuse. Most importantly, you will be someone who can build positive relationships, recognise individual strengths and needs, and work in a way that values diversity and promotes recovery.

Please note: The salary listed reflects the full earning potential for this role. Starting salaries depend on experience and progression within the band.

About Waythrough

Waythrough was formed in 2024 following the merger of Humankind and Richmond Fellowship. Together, we’ve created one of the largest mental health and social support charities in England. Every year, we support around 125,000 people through nearly 200 services – and it’s all made possible by our 3,500 brilliant staff and volunteers. Make a real difference in your community. Are you passionate about helping others live safer, healthier, more independent lives? Join our team at Waythrough and support people facing challenges around mental health, substance use, housing or domestic abuse. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to build meaningful relationships and create lasting change.

What We Offer

• 27 days’ annual leave, rising to 32 after 1 year (plus bank holidays)
• Pension scheme with 4.5% employer contribution, matched up to 6.5%
• Life assurance (3× annual salary)
• Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly pay
• Birthday leave and the option to buy up to 5 extra days’ annual leave
• Professional fee reimbursement for relevant qualifications
• 24/7 online GP access and Employee Assistance Programme
• Recognition and long service awards via our Way to Go and Aspirations portals
• £500 Recommend a Friend bonus
• Cycle to Work scheme and Credit Union membership
• Discounts via Blue Light Card, Charity Discounts, Extras and Tickets for Good
• Free will writing service and wellbeing initiatives throughout the year

Inclusion and Accessibility

Waythrough is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, especially those with lived experience of the issues we support. We have signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme - all applicants are welcome, and adjustments can be made to enable fair participation.

Closing Date: 2026-11-20

Waythrough launched in October 2024 following the merger of Humankind and Richmond Fellowship. In April 2026, Aquarius, our former subsidiary partner, merged with Waythrough. Our vision is to break down the barriers that stop people getting the support they need to live a life they value. We tackle poverty and disadvantage in communities, through mental health, drug and alcohol, housing and related support. We have 260 services around England – and nearly 3,500 amazing staff and volunteers who run them. Every year our services support around 130,000 people.