Upstream NI School Projects

MACS; Belfast; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An organization focusing on youth well-being is looking for a Project Worker for Upstream NI, aimed at preventing youth homelessness in schools across Northern Ireland. This role involves direct support to young people at risk, building relationships, developing support plans, and collaborating with schools and families. A relevant degree or 2 years of relevant experience is required, alongside a driving licence. This is a unique opportunity to be part of an innovative initiative to address housing instability before crisis occurs.

Qualifications

• 2 years of professional experience working with vulnerable young people or families is acceptable.
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use is required.

Responsibilities

• Deliver 1:1 support to young people identified as at risk of homelessness.
• Build trusted relationships with young people and their families.
• Develop and review personalised support plans.
• Support young people to strengthen relationships at home, in school, and in communities.
• Maintain accurate, strengths-based case notes.
• Contribute to prevention workshops in schools.

Skills

Youth Work

Social Work

Education

Psychology

Facilitating workshops

Mediation skills

Education

Relevant Degree

Job description

Are you passionate about supporting young people before they reach crisis point?Join Macs as a Project Worker for Upstream NI, a new schools-based initiative preventing youth homelessness before crisis hits.As an Upstream NI Schools-Based Project Worker, you will play a vital role in delivering an innovative, early intervention model aimed at preventing youth homelessness across schools in Northern Ireland. Working directly within educational settings, you will use a universal screening tool to identify young people who may be at risk of housing instability or crisis.You will provide person-centred, strengths-based support to young people and their families, helping to address underlying issues before they escalate. Collaborating closely with school staff, families, and external services, you will coordinate tailored interventions that promote wellbeing, resilience, and long-term housing security.This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of a pioneering approach inspired by international best practice and adapted to meet the specific needs of young people in Northern Ireland.

Responsibilities

• Deliver 1:1 support to young people identified through the screening tool as at risk of homelessness.
• Build trusted relationships with young people and their families to enable positive change.
• Develop and review personalised support plans based on individual needs and aspirations.
• Support young people to strengthen relationships at home, in school, and in their communities.
• Maintain accurate, strengths-based case notes to track progress and outcomes.
• Contribute to the design and facilitation of prevention workshops in schools.

Skills and Qualifications

• Relevant Degree (e.g. Youth Work, Social Work, Education, Psychology) OR 2 years professional experience of working directly with vulnerable young people and/or families.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use is required to meet the requirements of the post in full.
• Experience presenting to groups or facilitating workshops.
• Experience working in or with schools or education settings.
• Experience in mediation or family-based interventions.

Area: Republic of Ireland
Closing date: 20 Dec 2025