Health Care Assistant

Apply by: 07/01/2026

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HARP has a clear pathway for career progression, from Support Worker to Team Leader. Many of our staff have lived experience or started by volunteering with HARP. We also offer a range of central service roles, from HR to finance and fundraising. Whatever your passion, HARP may have something for you.

All employees are automatically enrolled in HARP’s non-contributory Death in Service scheme, where the benefit payable is up to 3x your annual salary.

We offer all staff an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) that provides 24/7 support. This includes access to a free well-being app for health, financial, and mental health assistance.

Blue Light Card provides those in the NHS, emergency services, social care sector and armed forces with discounts online and in-store. Blue Light Card also works with small and large companies across the UK to get involved in supporting the Blue Light community through offering our members discounts through Blue Light Card.

Staff are entitled to 33 days of annual leave including bank holidays, with an extra day awarded after 5 years of service (pro-rated for part-time employees).

If you are looking for a job where no two days are the same and you can really make a difference, HARP may be for you.

HARP offers a comprehensive programme of training and development to help you grow in your role. Many roles don’t require previous experience or qualifications—just compassion, kindness, and a willingness to learn and develop.

A GP in your pocket! Access 1:1 video consultations with a GP 24/7

All staff members are entitled to an additional day off to celebrate their birthday.

All staff can join our cycle to work scheme where you may be able to purchase a new tax free bike.

We are looking for people who bring a range of skills to the organisation to help us meet our mission.

HARP is Southend-on-Sea’s leading homelessness charity and every year we work with around 1,000 local people to help them overcome or avoid homelessness.

It is an exciting time to be joining HARP. The organisation has undergone significant change and growth over the past twelve months and we have ambitious plans for the future which will continue to transform lives.

We are looking for a compassionate and motivated Health Care Assistant to join our Health Equity Project. This role supports people who are homeless or experiencing multiple disadvantages to access healthcare and improve their overall wellbeing.

You will provide practical, hands-on support such as helping people attend appointments, complete forms, and navigate health services. Working closely with Health Navigators and wider teams, you will play a key role in reducing health inequalities and supporting people to build independence.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide person-centred, trauma-informed support across HARP sites and in the community
• Support individuals to access GP services, mental health support, substance misuse services, and other healthcare provision
• Help people attend appointments, understand health information, and follow care plans
• Work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners including health services and housing providers
• Maintain accurate records, case notes, and data using HARP systems
• Participate in outreach, multidisciplinary meetings, and service planning
• Promote safeguarding, confidentiality, and anti-oppressive practice at all times

About You

You will be empathetic, organised, and confident working with people who may be disengaged from traditional services. You’ll be able to build trust, work calmly in challenging situations, and manage a varied workload.

Essential experience includes:

• Supporting people affected by homelessness or complex needs
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• A trauma-informed, person-centred approach

Desirable: NVQ Level 2 in Health &…