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Job description

Join Macs as a Project Worker for Upstream NI, a new schools-based initiative preventing youth homelessness before crisis hits. As an Upstream NI Schools-Based Project Worker, you will play a vital role in delivering an innovative, early intervention model aimed at preventing youth homelessness across schools in Northern Ireland. Working directly within educational settings, you will use a universal screening tool to identify young people who may be at risk of housing instability or crisis. You will provide person-centred, strengths-based support to young people and their families, helping to address underlying issues before they escalate. Collaborating closely with school staff, families, and external services, you will coordinate tailored interventions that promote wellbeing, resilience, and long-term housing security. This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of a pioneering approach inspired by international best practice and adapted to meet the specific needs of young people in Northern Ireland. Please see attached Job Description and Person specification for essential skills and knowledge required for the post and submit your CV via https://macsni.getgotjobs.co.uk/ Visit the MACS GETGOT portal to view Recruitment Guidance notes and Why Work for MACS with more information, or email hr@macsni.org if you have any further queries. Posts Available: Full Time, Fixed Term post (12 months with possibility of extension, subject to funding) Closing Date: Monday 2nd February 2026 at 9:30am. MACS is committed to equality of opportunity and to selection on merit and all offers of employment are subject to an Access NI Disclosure Check.

Responsibilities

• Deliver 1:1 support to young people identified through the screening tool as at risk of homelessness.
• Build trusted relationships with young people and their families to enable positive change.
• Develop and review personalised support plans based on individual needs and aspirations.
• Support young people to strengthen relationships at home, in school, and in their communities.
• Maintain accurate, strengths-based case notes to track progress and outcomes.
• Contribute to the design and facilitation of prevention workshops in schools.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Relevant Degree (e.g. Youth Work, Social Work, Education, Psychology) Or 2 years professional experience of working directly with vulnerable young people and/or families.
• Strong understanding of youth homelessness, mental health, trauma and the care system.
• Experience using strengths-based, trauma-informed or restorative approaches in practice.
• Excellent communication and active listening skills, including written record-keeping.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use is required to meet the requirements of the post in full.
• Experience presenting to groups or facilitating workshops.

Desirable Skills

• Experience working in or with schools or education settings.
• Experience in mediation or family-based interventions.

Further Information

Benefits: MACS Pension contribution of 4% of salary Up to 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays) Enhanced paid leave for Sick, Maternity and Carers leave Paid training days per year Flexible and remote working options available