Housing Responder

The role



The Housing Responder is a blended frontline role, combining proactive housing management with responsive support and concierge duties. The role ensures the safety, security, and wellbeing of companions within Emmaus North East’s Durham SHAP services, offering practical assistance, crisis intervention, and a welcoming, professional presence during night and weekend shifts.



This position requires strong communication and administrative skills, the ability to build trusting relationships with companions, and a commitment to maintaining high standards of care and professionalism within the Emmaus North East ethos.



Durham SHAP (Single Homeless Action Partnership) is a specialised service aimed at supporting those experiencing homelessness within the County Durham area. It focuses on providing tailored interventions that help people access safe accommodation, address underlying issues contributing to homelessness, and build pathways to independence. The project includes community homes and a number of disbursed properties with localities in Bishop Auckland and Spennymoor.



About the Single Homeless Accommodation Programme (SHAP)



Emmaus North East is proud to deliver the SHAP service, on behalf of Durham County Council (DCC). This innovative service responds to the pressing need for a holistic support model that provides a pathway of provision for individuals experiencing homelessness.



SHAP is designed to offer flexible, person-centred support alongside appropriate accommodation. Its ultimate goal is to guide individuals towards independent living. The service addresses gaps in existing provision, ensuring that those who might otherwise be left without suitable support can access the tailored assistance they need.



About Emmaus North East



Emmaus North East is a regional homelessness charity with a difference – offering more than just a bed for the night to individuals who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion.



As part of a network of Emmaus communities across the UK, Emmaus North East provides a stable home for as long as needed, meaningful work experience within our social enterprises, access to funded training, and a real opportunity for the people we support to rebuild their lives and regain independence.



In the North East, our Companions contribute to the community by working in our social enterprises. These include house clearances, stock collection, merchandising in our charity shops, running our community launderette, and creating bespoke items from recycled wood in our workshop.



At Emmaus North East, we believe in empowering our Companions by fostering autonomy and providing a transformative path to recovery. We welcome people from all walks of life, understanding that homelessness has many causes.



With our programme in County Durham, we are proud to extend our mission of creating lasting change and supporting individuals across the North East.



Application process



To apply please send your CV to our SHAP Team at: shap@emmausnortheast.org.uk.



If you would like an informal discussion about the role please email the above inbox.



Interview process



We will accept applications on a rolling basis, and interviews are scheduled for 26/03/2026 at One Trinity Green, Eldon Street, South Shields, NE33 1SA. It is our intention to conduct an initial virtual interview prior to invites to full interview on 26/03/2026.

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