Community Support Specialist

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development opportunities

Supportive work environment

Travel within local community

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, seeks a compassionate Community Support Specialist to connect vulnerable individuals with social services and advocate for their needs. You will assess barriers, coordinate housing, healthcare, education, and employment support, and provide emotional support in a collaborative team.

The role requires strong communication, crisis intervention, and case-management skills, plus a willingness to travel within the local community.

Qualifications

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Community Development, or related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of proven experience in a community-facing role.
• In-depth knowledge of social welfare systems, available resources, and referral pathways.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the local community.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Understanding of cultural sensitivities and ethical considerations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive needs assessments for individuals and families, identifying barriers and creating tailored action plans.
• Facilitate access to housing, healthcare, education and employment services.
• Provide direct emotional support and counseling to clients.
• Collaborate with local government agencies, NGOs and community stakeholders for referrals.
• Advocate on behalf of clients to protect rights and voices in systems.
• Organise and lead outreach initiatives and workshops to raise awareness.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records per policies and data protection rules.
• Monitor client progress and provide ongoing support for positive outcomes.

Skills

Empathy

Communication

Crisis intervention

Case management

Advocacy

Independent working

Education

Tertiary qualification in Social Work or related field

Knowledge of welfare systems and referral pathways

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading organization dedicated to fostering resilient communities, is seeking a highly motivated and compassionate Community Support Specialist to join their dynamic team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This is an exciting opportunity for an individual passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable populations. You will play a pivotal role in connecting individuals and families with essential social services, advocating for their needs, and facilitating their journey towards greater independence and well-being. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of the local social landscape and a genuine commitment to empowering those facing challenges. This role requires a blend of empathy, strong communication skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving within the community setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive needs assessments for individuals and families seeking support, identifying barriers and developing tailored action plans.
• Facilitate access to a range of social services, including housing assistance, healthcare, educational programs, and employment opportunities.
• Provide direct emotional support and counseling to clients, fostering a safe and trusting environment.
• Collaborate with local government agencies, NGOs, and community stakeholders to build and maintain strong referral networks.
• Advocate on behalf of clients to ensure their rights are protected and their voices are heard within relevant systems.
• Organize and lead community outreach initiatives and workshops to raise awareness about available resources and promote social inclusion.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records in compliance with organizational policies and data protection regulations.
• Monitor client progress and provide ongoing support to ensure sustained positive outcomes.

Requirements

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Community Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of proven experience in a community-facing role, preferably within the Western Cape region.
• In-depth knowledge of social welfare systems, available resources, and referral pathways in Mossel Bay and surrounding areas.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse client groups.
• Strong problem-solving and crisis intervention capabilities.
• Proficiency in case management and maintaining detailed client documentation.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team, often under pressure.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the local community.
• Understanding of cultural sensitivities and ethical considerations in social work practice.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package and a supportive work environment. You will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful work that directly impacts community well-being. Professional development and training opportunities will be provided to enhance your skills and career progression. Join a team that is passionate about creating positive social change in Mossel Bay and contribute to a more inclusive and supportive society.