Specialist Youth Worker

Specialist Youth Worker
Job description
Help young women and young mothers feel heard, recognise their strengths and build the future they want. This role combines group work, one-to-one support and outreach, with a focus on pregnant young women and young mothers.
It is an Occupational Requirement that applications for this post are open to women only, as permitted under Schedule 9, Part 1, or the Equality Act 2010. Enhanced DBS checks will be required.
Role details
Reports to: Project Manager, with oversight from the Chief Executive
Hours salary and contract: Part - Time 16 hours per week - Permanent— £28,725 - £32,034 pro rata (37 hours)
Location: Main Office Gladstone Terrace Gateshead
Working pattern: Monday to Friday - Occasional evening and weekend work, with time off in lieu in line with organisational arrangements
Term time only contracts available.
About us
At the Young Women’s Project, our message is simple: You Matter. Since 1992, we have worked alongside young women to build confidence, self-worth and opportunity in a safe and nurturing environment.
We are a women-led organisation supporting young women aged 11–19yrs, including young mothers. Our work is rooted in youth work and feminist values. We listen without judgement, respect young women’s choices and adapt support to their needs, including neurodivergence and the effects of trauma.
Your role
You will build trusting relationships and work alongside young women to agree goals, overcome barriers and access support. You will help create a welcoming space where they can develop confidence, connections and practical skills at their own pace.
Main responsibilities
Plan and deliver engaging group sessions and one-to-one support shaped by young women’s interests, needs and feedback.
Support wellbeing, healthy relationships, safety and future aspirations, including the experiences of pregnancy and parenting.
Help young women access health services, education, training and practical support. Work with partner agencies and advocate alongside them.
Follow safeguarding, confidentiality. Record and report concerns promptly, contribute to safety planning and maintain professional boundaries.
Keep accurate records and contribute to evaluation and reports that reflect young women’s progress and voices.
Take part in supervision, team meetings and training, and contribute to a supportive team culture.
Help promote YWP, following consent and privacy procedures, and undertake other reasonable duties appropriate to the role.
Person specification
Essential
Experience of working with young women or young people facing barriers or complex circumstances.
Experience of planning and delivering group work and providing one-to-one support.
The ability to build trust, listen without judgement and work with young women’s strengths and choices.
An understanding of pregnancy and young motherhood, with a willingness to develop your knowledge.
An understanding of safeguarding, confidentiality and professional boundaries.
A commitment to equality, anti-oppressive practice and youth work values.
The ability to adapt activities and communication to different needs, including neurodivergence.
Good organisation and record keeping, and the ability to work with colleagues and partner services.
A reflective approach to your work and the ability to undertake outreach and home visits safely.
Desirable
A relevant youth work, community work or related qualification, or relevant training and practical experience.
Experience of supporting young mothers or delivering work around wellbeing, healthy relationships or sexual health and other issue based topics.
Experience of involving young people in shaping and evaluating services.
Safeguarding
YWP is committed to safeguarding young women and children. Appointment is subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check appropriate to the role. All staff must follow our safeguarding procedures and take part in relevant training.
Closing Date - Wednesday 28th October 2026
Interviews - Friday 6th November 2026

To apply
Please send your CV and a cover letter telling us why you’d like to join the Young Women’s Project and how your skills and experience make you a good fit for the role to - admin@youngwomensproject.org.uk