Community Support Worker (Paarl Region)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 120,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a compassionate Community Support Worker for the Paarl, Western Cape area. You will engage with community members, assess needs, provide information and referrals, and help clients access essential services.

Strong empathy, communication, and advocacy skills are essential in this on-the-ground role. Responsibilities include outreach, assessing needs, guiding clients through healthcare, housing and welfare resources, and maintaining confidential records.

Qualifications

• Experience in social work, community development, counseling, or related support roles.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and listening skills.
• Knowledge of Western Cape social services and referral pathways.
• Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transport.
• Proficiency in MS Office or similar basic computer tools.

Responsibilities

• Conduct outreach to identify individuals and families in need of support services.
• Perform initial needs assessments and provide information, referrals, and guidance.
• Assist clients in navigating healthcare, housing, and social welfare systems.
• Provide emotional support and advocacy to empower clients.
• Build relationships with community members, organizations and service providers in Paarl.
• Organize and lead community workshops and information sessions.
• Maintain accurate, confidential client records and document outcomes.
• Collaborate with program staff to ensure seamless service delivery and follow-up.
• Report on community needs, trends, and intervention effectiveness.
• Represent the organization at community meetings and events.

Skills

Empathy

Active listening

Interpersonal communication

Resilience

Organizational skills

Driving

Tools

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dedicated non-profit organization focused on providing essential support services to vulnerable individuals and families, is seeking a compassionate and resourceful Community Support Worker for the **Paarl, Western Cape** area. This role involves direct engagement with community members, assessing needs, providing information and referrals, and facilitating access to various support programs. The successful candidate will be a key link between the community and our client's services, demonstrating empathy, understanding, and a commitment to improving lives. This is a crucial on-the-ground position requiring resilience, strong communication skills, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the community in **Paarl**.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct outreach activities to identify individuals and families in need of support services.
• Perform initial needs assessments and provide appropriate information, guidance, and referrals to available resources.
• Assist clients in navigating complex systems to access essential services such as healthcare, housing, and social welfare.
• Provide emotional support and advocacy for clients, empowering them to address their challenges.
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with community members, local organizations, and service providers in **Paarl**.
• Organize and facilitate community workshops and information sessions on relevant topics.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records, documenting interactions and outcomes.
• Collaborate with internal program staff to ensure seamless service delivery and follow-up.
• Report on community needs, trends, and the effectiveness of support interventions.
• Represent the organization at community meetings and events.

Requirements

• Experience in social work, community development, counseling, or a related support role, preferably within the **Charity & Voluntary** sector.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse and potentially vulnerable populations.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills.
• Strong understanding of social services, community resources, and referral pathways in the **Western Cape**.
• Ability to build trust and rapport with community members.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail for record-keeping.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications (MS Office).
• Empathetic, patient, and resilient demeanor.
• A passion for empowering individuals and strengthening communities.
• Must be able to work within the **Paarl** region and possess a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary and the profound reward of making a direct and positive impact on the lives of individuals and families in **Paarl**. You will be part of a supportive and dedicated team within a respected non-profit organization, with opportunities for professional development. Join our client and contribute to building a stronger, more resilient community in the **Western Cape**.