Somerset Council
Rough Sleeping Outreach/In Reach Officer
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Salary: Grade 12 ranging from £28,598 to £32,061 per annum
Closing Date: 20/08/2026
This is an opportunity to make a real and lasting difference to the lives of people experiencing rough sleeping. As a Rough Sleeping Officer, you will work on the frontline, providing compassionate, practical support to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. Through outreach, assessment, and partnership working, you will help individuals move towards safer, more stable housing and improved wellbeing across Somerset.
Role Summary
The Rough Sleeping Officer plays a vital role in Somerset Council’s work to reduce rough sleeping. Reporting to the Senior Operational Manager for Rough Sleeping and Homelessness, the role focuses on outreach engagement, needs assessment, and the delivery of personalised support. Working closely with statutory and non-statutory partners, the postholder supports individuals sleeping rough to access housing, health, and support services, advocating on their behalf and helping to coordinate effective, joined-up responses to homelessness.
What you'll do - Key Responsibilities
- Carry out regular outreach activity to identify and engage people sleeping rough
- Assess individual needs and develop personalised support plans
- Provide direct support and advocacy to help people access housing, healthcare, and essential services
- Work collaboratively with statutory and non-statutory services, housing providers, and support agencies
- Monitor and review support plans, adjusting interventions as required
- Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of engagement and outcomes
- Participate in multi-agency meetings and case conferences
- Contribute to raising awareness of rough sleeping issues within the community
- Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, policies, and procedures
- Provide regular progress reports to the Senior Operational Manager
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What We’re Looking For – Knowledge, Experience and Skills
Essential
Knowledge
- Understanding of homelessness and rough sleeping issues, including housing legislation, policies, and local support services
- Familiarity with safeguarding practices, data protection, and confidentiality requirements
- Knowledge of mental health and substance misuse issues
Experience
- Experience working with vulnerable people, particularly those experiencing homelessness
- Experience developing and reviewing support plans through outreach and engagement work
- Experience of multi-agency working and partnership collaboration
- Experience maintaining accurate records and documentation
Skills and Qualifications
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport
- Good organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Proficiency in using IT systems and databases
- Relevant qualification in social work, housing, or a related field
- Training in safeguarding and child protection
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Desirable
- Previous experience in a similar role
- Certification in Mental Health First Aid
- Qualification in substance misuse support
- Training in conflict resolution or de-escalation techniques
- Professional membership with a relevant body
Any Additional Information
- 28 days’ annual leave (additional to bank holidays).
- Full time role – 37 hours
- This role may involve working with confidential information and supporting statutory or time-critical processes. Some flexibility may be required to meet service demands, in line with Somerset Council’s working arrangements.
- Regretfully, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for VISA sponsorship.
Job Description: TR0121 Rough Sleeping Officer.pdf
For an informal chat about the role, you can contact Kyleigh Callow, Service Manager - Rough Sleeping via email at kyleigh.callow@somerset.gov.uk
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