Move On Coach

The initial months of a new tenancy can be daunting for clients. Through our team of Move On Coaches, our aim is to empower clients to be able to navigate and overcome challenges that can arise during their settling in period.

As a Move On Coach, you will play a key role in enabling clients to sustain their tenancies long-term and reduce their risk of re-entering the cycle of homelessness.

How you will make an impact
As a Move On Coach you will:

• Mentor clients during the first three months of their tenancy, promoting their physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.
• Assist clients with setting up utilities and provide information on payment and upkeep.
• Assist clients with locating local amenities and support services (e.g. healthcare, transport, job centre, library, shop).
• Where necessary, support clients to complete application forms e.g. benefit claims, job applications.
• Liaise with staff regarding client need to allow for the necessary follow up support.

We’re with you every step of the way
As a Simon Community NI volunteer, you will receive excellent ongoing support from a supervisor, our Volunteering Manager, and existing volunteers. Before beginning your volunteering, you will receive a full induction and comprehensive training, ensuring you feel a valuable member of the team from the start.

In addition to this you will also have the opportunity to:

• Be part of a team dedicated to ending homelessness.
• Enhance your CV by using and developing your interpersonal and communication skills.
• Receive out of pocket expenses as outlined in our Volunteer Expenses Policy.

The skills and personality we are looking for

• Motivation to support individuals who are experiencing homelessness;
• Able to work with people who may present with complex needs with sensitivity and respect;
• An empathetic and non-judgemental outlook;
• Able to work in a team but also able to think on your feet;
• Able to encourage client-participation and involvement in activities;
• Good communication and timekeeping skills.

Your commitment
One session per week (2 hours), for three months.

We would also ask that you commit to the following:

• Demonstrate Simon Community NI values of being non-judgmental and client-led.
• Willingness to attend supervision and training to develop you further in your volunteer role.
• Operate within all relevant Simon Community NI policies and guidelines, including safeguarding, health and safety, equal opportunities, and confidentiality.

Essential checks we will need to complete with you
Before you begin volunteering with us, we will process some routine pre-volunteering checks. These will include an Enhanced Access NI check (free for all volunteers).
You will also be asked to provide two satisfactory references. Please note that we cannot accept references from family members, or partners.

Ready to apply?
Please ensure you complete all sections of your application form, giving as much detail as you can.
After you submit your application, we will contact you with information on the next steps.  If you experience any problems with your application, please contact us.
We look forward to receiving your application.