Why You Should Work With SPEAR

1. The ability to change the lives of some of the most marginalised people in our society

SPEAR strives to change for the better the lives of those who experience homelessness, or those at risk of homelessness.  We provide services with the simple aim that every single person we work with finds and keeps a home.  Working for SPEAR gives you (whatever your role is) the tools to truly change the lives of the people we work with – and to see the results of your input.

2. SPEAR’s reputation

SPEAR has an excellent reputation for providing services that truly make a difference to some of the most marginalised people in our society.  You will be working alongside experienced professionals who understand the inputs needed to bring about such positive change.  We attempt to unlock the potential in everyone we work with and will encourage you to do so too.

We have been appointed to the National Advisory Committee of our sector’s umbrella body and in 2011 we were finalists in the Institute of Directors (London and South East) Chairman’s Award.

3. SPEAR’s commitment to staff

SPEAR is committed to developing the skills and abilities of the people we work with. Training and personal development ideas are regularly discussed in supervision sessions. We encourage staff to undertake formal or accredited training. Following a satisfactory probationary period we will happily explore supporting you in this area.

We also like our staff to share their interests or hidden talents with our clients and encourage staff to hold a session at the hostel, sharing their skills in cookery for example. This results in new skills for our clients, a better understanding of clients for our staff, and a lot of fun for everyone!

4. Terms and conditions

SPEAR offers competitive salaries that are comparable – and often better – than other agencies in our sector. All staff start with 26 days holiday per year and this rises up to 31 with length of service.  We offer maternity and paternity leave (as well as other leave) beyond the statutory minimum, to ensure that you maintain a good work-life balance. Staff are offered a 6% non-contributory pension, access to a Childcare Voucher scheme, and an allowance for work-related travel.  All staff have access to free, confidential counselling (up to six sessions per year) as well as the opportunity for flexible working hours to fit around caring responsibilities and your circumstances.

5. The People

In our annual staff satisfaction survey, we ask staff what the best thing about working for SPEAR is. Nearly all of them say each other!  We pride ourselves on developing a culture in which staff meet regularly and communication is free across the organisation.  We have a monthly team meeting which all staff attend (and contribute to) as well regular social activities.  We offer an induction which ensures that new staff tour all the other services and meet the majority of people within the organisation.  We also regularly bring both staff and service users together to make decisions which affect the services we offer.  Working for SPEAR you truly are part of the team.