Shelter House Matron/Patron

• Ensure the shelter operates safely, smoothly and respectfully on a day-to-day basis
• Maintain a structured and supportive residential environment
• Ensure residents understand and follow shelter routines and agreed house rules
• Coordinate daily household routines, including meals, cleaning, laundry, activities and general household organization
• Promote an environment in which residents feel safe, respected and treated with dignity
• Welcome new residents and orient them to the shelter, routines, house rules and available support
• Check regularly on residents’ general wellbeing and identify concerns requiring professional attention
• Support residents to maintain healthy daily routines
• Maintain a safe environment for all residents, with particular attention to children and residents who require additional protection
• Remain alert to safeguarding concerns, abuse, exploitation, bullying, harassment, self-neglect or other risks and immediately report them through established procedures
• Apply trauma-informed principles in all interactions with residents, responding to distress calmly and appropriately
• Avoid confrontational, punitive and judgemental approaches
• Maintain confidentiality and basic records

Qualifications & Experience:

• Diploma or certificate in Social Work, Community Development, Counselling, Childcare, Health/Social Care, Hospitality Management or a related field
• At least 3-5 years’ relevant experience in residential care, shelter, children’s home, safe house, community support or a similar environment
• Experience working with vulnerable individuals, survivors, children or women

Skills & Competencies:

• Understanding of safeguarding and child protection principles
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to manage household routines and multiple responsibilities
• Demonstrated emotional maturity, patience and sound judgement
• Ability to work collaboratively with professional teams
• Basic computer literacy and ability to maintain simple records