Byker Bridge House was set up in 1995 to provide a centrally located service that can offer emergency bed spaces to adults facing homelessness across the city. The building has since been redeveloped to provide 31 short-term beds, staffed 24-hours a day by a team of specialist housing and support workers.
People who come to Byker Bridge House tend to be at a crisis point and are referred to us from services such as prison, probation or hospital via Newcastle City Council’s Housing Advice Centre. Residents are often experiencing complex issues relating to drug and alcohol abuse, mental health issues and anti-social behaviour. Byker Bridge House exists to provide people with safety and security with a roof over their heads and access to food and drink, warmth and rest.
As a Homelessness Project Worker, you’ll play a really important role in supporting residents to move towards independence. Helping to develop vital life skills such as keeping their rooms and the building safe and clean as well as supporting residents to keep up with their payments and manage their finances.
Some experience of working with vulnerable people may be useful, but what’s really important is having true empathy, great communication skills and the ability to listen and respond in a way that works for the individual you’re supporting. It’s a challenging role, but an incredibly rewarding one.