Summary

An opportunity arose for a house manager to join our Cape Town team in Kenilworth. They will report to the Regional manager, and work as part of the Cape Town Personal Development team that supports U-turn’s champions on their journey out of homelessness.

This position

The House Manager (house parent) will oversee the day to day running of a house in Kenilworth, Cape Town providing affordable accommodation for up to 14 men enrolled on our Work Readiness Program. This position is ideal for an individual or couple (preferred) who are committed Christians, have experience of discipling people, and a heart for helping the poorest and most marginalized of our City. The role comes with accommodation and the successful candidate / couple is expected to live at the property.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes rehabilitation from substance abuse, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. This allows candidates to test and apply the training they’ve received. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Work-readiness programme

The work-readiness programme is tasked with providing work-based rehabilitation and skills development training that prepares clients for graduation into employment and reintegration into the community. One day per week, each client attends a training day where they access group therapy delivered by an interdisciplinary team, individual counselling and input using a specially designed curriculum. This cycle of learning and application follows a graded approach and continues for as long as needed (on average 18 months). Case-managers coordinate the entire intervention programme for the clients and work in close-collaboration with the worksite managers.

Key areas of responsibility

• Screen applicants and include current house residents in processing and accepting applicants into
  the house when space is available.
• Manage the day to day running of the property, ensuring it is well looked after and ensuring house rules are adhered to in a fair but consistent manner.
• Key point of contact for the residents including the provision of discipleship support, inducting new residents into the property, assisting with problem solving and conflict management where required.
• Oversee menu planning, meal prep and clearing up and ensuring there is sufficient food and consumables (e.g. cleaning products, toilet paper etc)
• Work closely with relevant U-turn staff including Case Managers and the Building and Logistics Manager.
• Develop and maintaining a good relationship with the neighbours and the community
• Oversee/run evening activities and coordinating volunteers who are coming in to support with activities and house operations (including screening, inducting and overseeing)
• Manage the House’s Petty Cash
• Ensue relevant data is captured in Salesforce in a timely manner

Attributes, skills and experience

• Experience working with homeless people (desirable)
• Experience in Christian discipleship (desirable)
• Computer literate – Word, Excel, Internet, Email (essential)
• Driver’s license (essential)
• Well-developed analysis and decision making skills
• Good, efficient communication and active listening skills
• Strong leadership and facilitation skills
• Excellence in time management & prioritization skills and able to instruct others in such skills
• A resourceful individual that takes initiative and is not easily flustered
• A problem solver who is open to change and innovation
• Willingness to learn and grow personally
• A heart for servant leadership with a sense of openness, honesty and willingness. An enthusiastic person who is devoted to South Africa and wants to use their skills and experience
  to make a meaningful difference

Next Steps

https://homeless.org.za/career-form Candidates interested in this position must submit a letter of motivation and CV: should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required attributes, skills and experience outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered.

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. We are looking for a Thrift Store Manager to join the Retail team. This is a full-time, onsite position and will initially be offered as a one-year contract.

This position – Retail with Purpose
There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-turn team
Thus allowing them to apply their professional retail skills in a development setting.
Reporting directly to the Retail Area Manager, the candidate will apply their retail skills to run our,
Thrift Store in Voortekker to grow sales and profitability. At the same time, the person will be managing a team of sales assistants who were formerly homeless and are currently on the U-turn work-rehabilitation programme.
The ideal candidate is happy to work in an organization with strong Christian
motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally) and is excellent at
customer service.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway to address their physical, spiritual, and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help people overcome homelessness, we operate a phased approach that includes addiction rehabilitation, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

Our graduates enter the open market employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Social Enterprises

Actual work experience largely takes place within our social enterprises. U-turn’s social enterprises comprise an extensive retail network connected to our Charity Stores as well as other companies owned by, or in partnership with, U-turn.

Key areas of responsibility

• Ensure all daily, weekly, and monthly operational tasks are completed and recorded using the Google Checklist, with full accountability.

• Key operational focus areas include:
• Oversee cash handling by established operating procedures.
• Daily review and management of Facebook ads: loading new ads, maintaining campaigns, and engaging with customers.
• Ensure DIK forms are updated and completed daily.
• Update turnovers and timesheets daily.
• Address items on the To-Do list promptly and efficiently.
• Staff Management & Team Development
• Directly manage U-turn Champions under the guidance of the Retail Area Manager,
• Support Staff, and Development Team.
• Provide daily oversight, coaching, and support to ensure high performance.
• Handle HR-related matters, including:
• Leave approvals
• Disciplinary processes in collaboration with the Area Manager and the Caseworker
• Payslip and payroll coordination
• Submit weekly feedback reports to the Caseworker.
• Maintain running notes on each Champion’s behavior and development.
• Store Leadership & Sales Performance
• Manage the U-turn Charity Store to achieve or exceed sales targets.
• Ensure alignment with sales goals while maintaining the organization’s values and mission.
• Stock & Inventory Management
• Ensure optimal stock levels are maintained.
• Keep transfer verification sheets up to date.
• Review weekly counts, on-hand figures, and sales data for accuracy and relevance.
• Complete monthly stocktakes to reconcile with POS data.
• Monitor shrinkage and implement effective loss prevention measures.
• Pricing & Discounting Oversight
• Ensure pricing of pre-loved goods aligns with the U-turn Pricing SOP.
• Use 90-day sales data to guide discounting decisions.
• Implement price markdowns and promotional strategies that are fair, transparent, and mission-aligned.
• Visual Merchandising & Promotions
• Prepare and maintain promotional materials and appealing in-store displays to enhance the customer experience.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and organization throughout the store.
• Customer Service & Engagement
• Deliver exceptional customer service; handle complaints and escalations efficiently.
• Promote participation in the U-turn Loyalty Programme.
• Ensure the store environment is welcoming, clean, and engaging.
• Mission Integration & Supportive Culture
• Lead daily team devotions rooted in Jesus, fostering a spiritually enriching workplace.
• Create and maintain a supportive, therapeutic environment for individuals in the U-turn Life Change Programme.
• Collaborate with Caseworkers and Support Staff to align the store’s operations with the broader goals of the Life Change Programme.
• Health, Safety & Security Compliance
• Enforce all relevant health, safety, and security protocols to protect staff, customers, and programme participants.
• Regularly review and update safety procedures as needed.
• Team Management & Empowerment
• Lead, support, and mentor a team that includes individuals with a history of homelessness.
• Foster a positive, inclusive work environment that encourages growth, goal setting, and skill development.
• Provide daily oversight, guidance, and training to help team members thrive in the labor market.
• Collaboration with Retail Managers
• Coordinate with retail store managers to manage new stock arrivals and fulfill store stock requirements.
• Distribute stock lists and verification sheets; maintain clear and consistent communication around all stock-related activities.
• Receiving & Dispatching Goods
• Oversee the receiving process for donations and deliveries, verifying contents against orders and invoices.
• Prepare outgoing stock by ensuring correct items are packed, labeled, and dispatched on schedule.
• Stock Management
• Monitor stock levels, including clothing, furniture, consignment goods, bric-a-brac, and purchased items.
• Perform regular inventory counts and stock takes.
• Maintain accurate records using tools like Facebook Marketplace and designated inventory sheets.
• Organize the warehouse floor and sorting rooms to optimize space usage and workflow.
• Order Fulfillment
• Locate stock items based on incoming orders and ensure accurate, secure packing and labeling for collection or delivery.
• Loading & Unloading
• Supervise the safe and efficient loading and unloading of goods from delivery vehicles.
• Enforce safety procedures to minimize the risk of injury or damage.
• Cleanliness & Safety
• Ensure the warehouse is kept clean, orderly, and safe at all times.
• Lead the team in daily cleaning routines, keeping aisles clear and maintaining hygiene standards.
• Help maintain compliance with safety regulations, especially in the handling and storage of hazardous items.
• Stock Control
• Conduct regular stock audits and investigate discrepancies or issues in inventory records.
• Internal Communication
• Coordinate effectively with all team members, including warehouse assistants, Champs, logistics managers, and drivers.
• Foster open communication to resolve issues and ensure smooth operations.
• Compliance with Protocols
• Follow all U-turn policies and procedures regarding stock handling, workplace safety, and equipment use.
• Ensure the team adheres to operational guidelines at all times.
• Customer Service
• Provide exceptional service when interacting with customers.
• Model professional, friendly, and helpful behavior, ensuring a positive experience for all visitors and clients.

Experience and Skills

• Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
• Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting (desirable)
• Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
• Well-developed interpersonal skills
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
• A collaborative team player – concerned with the team’s success as well as individualmperformance
• Ability to motivate, coach, and develope people. Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

• Passion for U-turn’s mission and values.
• Strong leadership with a collaborative mindset./li>
• Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

• If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability support and practicing recovery behaviour
• If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
• Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online application form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. IF YOU HAVE NOT HEARD FROM US WITHIN 4 WEEKS, PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR APPLICATION UNSUCCESSFUL

Summary

U-turn is looking for a senior occupational therapist to set up the third phase of their intervention model, assisting homeless individuals to leave the streets and gain independence. The programme consists of a supporter work component, with an accompanying therapeutic and personal development component. This is a pioneering position and will require the OT’s role to change over time as the team grows. Starting date 1 September, location Bosman Street, Pretoria.

This position:
Initially the full case-load of 14 clients will be managed by the OT, with the therapeutic support of a counsellor. The position will require the OT to develop a contingent of case-workers to take over certain case-management functions, while continuing to provide therapeutic oversight and growing the interdisciplinary team to include a social worker and others as the need dictates and the funding allows. One of the key functions of the OT is to ensure that the supported work programme prepares individuals for long-term employment options after graduation. This ranges from open labour market or self-employment to sheltered employment with grant support.
This is an ideal position for someone passionate about setting up effective interventions, keen to combine their faith with their clinical practice, and see the value and potential in people, regardless of their circumstances.

Background
U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.
To help homeless people overcome homelessness, we operate a phased approach that includes rehabilitation from substance abuse, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. This allows candidates to test and apply the training they’ve received. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.
The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an above 85% long-term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Service Centres
U-turns Service Centres provide services to people living on the streets, to prepare them for and to support them on a journey of change. This includes providing food and clothing, therapeutic and development-based interventions, and recovery support for those struggling with substance abuse. The ultimate aim of the Service Centre is to prepare individuals to participate in our work-based rehabilitation programme.

Work-readiness programme
The work-readiness programme is tasked with providing work-based rehabilitation and skills development training that prepares clients for graduation into employment and reintegration into the community. One day per week, each client attends a training day where they access group therapy delivered by an interdisciplinary team, individual counselling and input using a specially designed curriculum. This cycle of learning and application follows a graded approach and continues for as long as needed (on average 18 months). Case-managers coordinate the entire intervention programme for the clients and work in close-collaboration with the worksite managers.

Transitional Accommodation
Due to the nature of our long term interventions we run transitional accommodation in the form of group homes where clients accessing our Work-readiness program can move into when leaving homeless shelters. These homes are managed by a house-manager that along with service centre staff, works-site managers and therapeutic staff forms the client-facing team assisting the clients along the full Life Change journey.

Key areas of responsibility

• Lead, grow, develop and manage the interdisciplinary personal development team
• Provide clinical oversight to the work-sites, joining in recruitment and providing training to all new work-site staff members in effective supported employment practices.
• Screen and assess referred clients and manage the onboarding process
• Develop treatment plans according to each individual’s needs, providing OT specific interventions (including vocational rehab) and referring relevant aspects to the rest of the team (Counsellor and later social worker)
• Set up referral networks to supplementary services not provided by the team (i.e. medical and/or acute mental health, etc.)
• Implement the group and individual therapy according to the Personal Development Programme.
• Oversee initial case management of all clients on the programme
• Grow a case-management team by providing training and supervision to prospective case managers along with the counsellor
• Develop relationships with the local universities and supervise student placements
• Use and contribute to existing planning and record-keeping systems to ensure continuous improvement of your areas of responsibility.

Experience and Skills

• Qualified occupational therapist with updated registration with HPCSA
• Experience in managing and/or setting up an intervention programme
• Basic understanding of addiction and recovery required
• Experience working in the field of addiction is beneficial
• Experience in Vocational Rehabilitation is recommended
• Experience in management and/or supervision
• Drivers license

Personal attributes

• Passion for U-turn’s mission and values.
• Strong leadership with a collaborative mindset.
• Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Empathetic individual that can maintain emotional boundaries and maintain healthy, supportive relationships with extremely marginalised and disenfranchised individuals
• Creative individual with strong problem-solving skills

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

• If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability
  support and practicing recovery behaviour
• If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
• Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply online at https://homeless.org.za/career-form The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required knowledge skills set outlined above. Please note that applications without a letter of motivation will not be considered. IF YOU HAVE NOT HEARD FROM US WITHIN 4 WEEKS, PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR APPLICATION UNSUCCESSFUL

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. We are looking for an addiction counsellor to join our operations in Northern Suburbs Cape Town. Initially, they will be assisting with the in-house primary recovery programme as part of U-turn’s second phase intervention programme, as well as providing individual and group therapy as part of the 3rd phase intervention programme. Starting date: October . This is a full-time onsite position and will initially be offered as a one-year contract.

This position

This person will run processes and skills groups as well as see individual clients with a range of intervention needs. Diagnosis range from substance dependency, personality disorders, depression and anxiety disorders to trauma processing and debriefing. The successful candidate will need experience in addiction treatment and will benefit from having experience in CBT and DBT training. Clients will be in a strong clinical case-magnet structure with either an Occupational Therapist or training case-workers, and where indicative, will be referred to the counsellor for additional intervention as and when needed.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes rehabilitation from substance abuse, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. This allows candidates to test and apply the training they’ve received. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Service Centres

U-turn’s Service Centres provide services to people living on the streets in order to prepare them for and to support them on a journey of change. This includes providing food and clothing (and in some cases access to a shower and a bed for the night), therapeutic and development based interventions, and recovery support for those struggling with substance abuse. The ultimate aim of the Service Centre is to prepare individuals to participate in our work-based rehabilitation programme.

Work-readiness programme

The work-readiness programme is tasked with providing work-based rehabilitation and skills development training that prepares clients for graduation into employment and reintegration into the community. One day per week, each client attends a training day where they access group therapy delivered by an interdisciplinary team, individual counselling and input using a specially designed curriculum. This cycle of learning and application follows a graded approach and continues for as long as needed (on average 18 months). Case-managers coordinate the entire intervention programme for the clients and work in close-collaboration with the worksite managers.

Transitional Accommodation

Due to the nature of our long term interventions we run transitional accommodation in the form of group homes where clients accessing our Work-readiness program can move into when leaving homeless shelters. These homes are managed by a house-manager that along with service centre staff, works-site managers and therapeutic staff forms the client-facing team assisting the clients along the full Life Change journey.

Key areas of responsibility

• Counselling Caseload – Provide counselling support and intervention for up to 16 clients per week, as referred by case workers and PDT Line Manager
• Crisis Management – Crisis intervention, e.g. resolving conflict, as needed
• Coordinate Events – Assist PDT Line Manager to coordinate and deliver Work-Readiness client team-building and other training events (including training staff on a needs basis)
• Data Capturing – Complete required data capturing, including service deliveries, client notes and progress reports
• Group Facilitation – Facilitate recovery groups (or any other groups as needed), as directed by the PDT Line Manager
• Knowledge Management – Use and Contribute to existing planning & record keeping systems to ensure continuous improvement of your areas of responsibility
• Programme Development – Contribute to program development
• Relapse/Recovery Intervention – Provide recovery focused counselling intervention to clients from the North PDT site who have relapsed. This includes helping the client work through the emergency recovery plan, as well as attending panels in respect of those individuals. Also assist the PDT Line Manager with providing specific intervention in order to prevent relapses

Experience and Skills

• Relevant counselling certification (the following certification will be considered: HPCSA, Relevant ACCSA certification)
• Registration with relevant counselling boards (BAPSA, HPCSA, etc.)
• At least 3 years experience of working in the field of addiction
• Experience working with clients with a variety of diagnosis’

Personal attributes

• Passion for U-turn’s mission and values.
• Strong Communication skills with a collaborative mindset.
• Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

• If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability support and practicing recovery behaviour
• If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
• Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply online at https://homeless.org.za/career-form The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required knowledge skills set outlined above. Please note that applications without a letter of motivation will not be considered. IF YOU HAVE NOT HEARD FROM US WITHIN 4 WEEKS, PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR APPLICATION UNSUCCESSFUL

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. We are looking for a Retail Area Manager to join Retail team in Cape Town from 01 November 2025. This is a full-time position and will initially be offered as a one-year contract.

This position

There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-turn team as a Retail Area Manager in and around the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town, thus giving them the opportunity to apply their professional retail skills in a development setting.
Reporting directly to the Retail Operations Manager, the candidate will apply their retail skills to manage and oversee our retail stores in and around the northern suburbs of Cape Town and to grow sales and profitability.
The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organisation with strong Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally) and is excellent at customer service.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway to address their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes addiction rehabilitation, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

Our graduates enter the open market employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Key areas of responsibility

• Manage, train and support U-turn Retail Managers under the direction of Retail Operations Manager to run the retail aspect of the stores and in collaboration with the Personal Development team to ensure the shops successfully support and develop Champions on the U-turn Work Readiness programme
• Deal with high level customer complaints and queries
• Deal with HR queries across stores including Champion payslips, leave approval and disciplinaries.
• Ensure U-turn retail stores are professionally presented and run and following all operational procedures in order to meet monthly income targets.
• Ensure that monthly store audits and stocktakes are done to help strengthen overall operations
• Oversee and maintain a high standard across social media platforms – Facebook, whatsapp and tiktok, etc.
• Manage the Bizfo POS setup and training of all staff on how to use new parts of the POS. This is then followed up with training manuals.
• Use and contribute to existing planning & record keeping systems to ensure continuous improvement of your areas of responsibility
• Must have a love for working and dealing with second-hand goods. Experience in buying and selling goods would be most benefical .

Experience and Skills

• Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
• Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting (desirable)
• Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
• Well-developed interpersonal skills
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
• A collaborative team player – concerned with the team’s success as well as individualmperformance
• Ability to motivate, coach, and develope people
• Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

• Self-starter – high energy levels, able to self-direct their work to hit targets.
• Enthusiastic and confident
• Resourceful individual that is not easily flustered
• Trustworthy – works with integrity
• Good Listener – will challenge constructively and respond well to feedback
• Emotionally mature individual
• Problem solver who is open to change and able to take initiative
• Willingness to learn and grow personally
• Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

• If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability support and practicing recovery behaviour
• If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
• Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online application form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. IF YOU HAVE NOT HEARD FROM US WITHIN 4 WEEKS, PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR APPLICATION UNSUCCESSFUL

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. A new position has opened for an occupational therapist to join the U-turn team. The Occupational Therapist will head up the programme that covers the first 2 intervention phases of the full U-turn programme in Wynberg Cape Town. He/she will report directly to the centre manager and work under the clinical direction of the clinical manager in the area.
This position:
The Occupational Therapist is responsible for implementing the programmes and centre, preparing homeless individuals for referral to the work-readiness programme or alternative long-term residential programmes that support long-term reintegration outcomes. The role will require a thorough understanding of addiction and strong networking and problem-solving ability.

The OT will have the assistance of a Recovery Coach to help facilitate groups and peer-workers/programme staff to assist with service delivery. The OT’s role will be to set up the programme at the new centre, grading activities and ensuring the environment is conducive to development, train staff in relevant client- management principles, as well as providing the necessary group and individual intervention to see clients
successfully through the first stage of the U-turn programme.

Background
U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.
To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes rehabilitation from substance abuse, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. This allows candidates to test and apply the training they’ve received. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.
The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Service Centres
The work-readiness programme is tasked with providing work-based rehabilitation and skills development training that prepares clients for graduation into employment and reintegration into the community. One day per week, each client attends a training day where they access group therapy delivered by an interdisciplinary team, individual counselling and input using a specially designed curriculum. This cycle of learning and application follows a graded approach and continues for as long as needed (on average 18 months). Case-managers coordinate the entire intervention programme for the clients and work in close-collaboration with the worksite managers.

Work-readiness programme
The work-readiness programme is tasked with providing work-based rehabilitation and skills development training that prepares clients for graduation into employment and reintegration into the community. One day per week, each client attends a training day where they access group therapy delivered by an interdisciplinary team, individual counselling and input using a specially designed curriculum. This cycle of learning and application follows a graded approach and continues for as long as needed (on average 18 months). Case-managers coordinate the entire intervention programme for the clients and work in close-collaboration with the worksite managers.

Transitional Accommodation
Due to the nature of our long term interventions we run transitional accommodation in the form of group homes where clients accessing our Work-readiness program can move into when leaving homeless shelters. These homes are managed by a house-manager that along with service centre staff, works-site managers and therapeutic staff forms the client-facing team assisting the clients along the full Life Change journey.

Key areas of responsibility

• Oversee the outcomes of the Change-readiness and Rehab Support programmes at the centre
• Plan daily activity groups for clients still living on the street (often still in active addiction) and train staff to facilitate groups effectively to create graded, meaningful engagement and increase motivation for change.
• Complete necessary referrals to adequate treatment centres (in and outpatient,s as well as mental health facilities) and accommodation options
• Case-manage enrolled clients, keeping them accountable to programme goals and outcomes and ensuring access to all necessary services and support in order to meet these outcomes
• Run Recovery skills groups as a supplement to the treatment clients receive at third-party programmes.
• Supervise the peer-interns’ work practices and train them on group facilitation, understanding addiction
• Create referral networks for accommodation, medical and mental health treatment
• Use and contribute to existing planning and record-keeping systems to ensure continuous improvement
  of your areas of responsibility.

Experience and Skills

• Qualified Occupational therapist with updated registration.
• Experience in the field of addiction and/or mental health treatment
• Driver’s license
• An individual with strong self-management and problem-solving

Personal attributes

• Passion for U-turn’s mission and values.
• Strong leadership with a collaborative mindset.
• Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

• If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability
  support and practicing recovery behaviour
• If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
• Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online application form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. IF YOU HAVE NOT HEARD FROM US WITHIN 4 WEEKS, PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR APPLICATION UNSUCCESSFUL

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. We are looking for a Thrift Shop Manager to join our Cape Town Team. They will be based at Canal Walk. They will report to the Retail Area Manager in their area.

This position – Retail with Purpose
There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-turn team as Thrift Store Manager thus giving them the opportunity to apply their professional retail skills in a development setting.

Reporting directly to the Retail Area Manager, the candidate will apply their retail skills to run our retails stores to grow sales and profitability. At the same time, the person will be managing a team of sales assistants who were formerly homeless and are currently on the U-turn work- rehabilitation programme.

The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organization with strong Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally) and is excellent at customer service. This is a full time position and will initially be offered as a one-year contract.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe in life after homelessness. We believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway that addresses their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

To help homeless people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes rehabilitation from substance abuse, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. This allows candidates to test and apply the training they’ve received.

Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can graduate and be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy. The programme is yielding wonderful results. Our candidates typically graduate into open market employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand the programme to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Social Enterprises

Actual work experience largely takes place within our social enterprises. U-turn’s social enterprises comprise an extensive retail network connected to our Charity Stores as well as other companies owned by, or in partnership with, U-turn.

Key areas of responsibility

• Manage a U-turn thrift store to meet sales targets, including motivating staff to do so.

• Provide excellent customer service, dealing effectively with complaints and queries, and encouraging customers to join the U-turn loyalty programme.
• Ensure cash and stock handling at the store is done as per instructions
• Preparing promotional materials and displays
• Ensure the store is a therapeutic space for those on the U-turn Life Change Programme.
• Provide training for and day to day management of store assistants, including task allocation, leave days, adherence to the disciplinary code, and supporting the unique growth journey of each person.
• Maintain, update, and enforce safety and security procedures.

Experience and Skills

• Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
• Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting (desirable)
• Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
• Well-developed interpersonal skills
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
• A collaborative team player – concerned with the team’s success as well as individualmperformance
• Ability to motivate, coach, and develope people. Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

• Resourceful individual that is not easily flustered
• Ability to self-motivate, and work with minimal supervision
• Collaborative team player, concerned with team success as well as individual performance
• Emotionally mature individual
• Problem solver who is open to change and able to take initiative
• Willingness to learn and grow personally.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

• If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability support and practicing recovery behaviour
• If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
• Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online application form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. IF YOU HAVE NOT HEARD FROM US WITHIN 4 WEEKS, PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR APPLICATION UNSUCCESSFUL

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. We are looking for a
Kitchen Cook to join the team at the new Service Centre in Linden from 1 November 2025. This
position will initially be 5 hours per day, with the option of extending to 8 hours as the need grows.

This position:
The cook will be responsible for cooking 3 meals per day for clients accessing the centre with a voucher and/or engaging in the activity groups. He/she will be responsible for managing the kitchen in all aspects including hygiene and health and safety requirements as well as stock management.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome
homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway to address their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society.

Social Enterprises

Actual work experience largely takes place within our social enterprises. U-turn’s social enterprises comprise an extensive retail network connected to our Charity Stores as well as other companies owned by, or in partnership with, U-turn.

To help people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes addiction rehabilitation, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy.

Our graduates enter the open market employment and show an above 85% long term success rate! We are actively working to expand to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Key areas of responsibility

• Manage the kitchen and food stock according health and safety regulations
• Cook 3 meals per day
• Supervise clients and/or volunteers performing duties as part of food preparation
• Keep a stock inventory and ensure minicam waste of stock
• As the need arises, assist what development work with a specific group of clients attending under the therapeutic oversight of the OT.
• Use and contribute to existing planning and record keeping systems to ensure continuous improvement of your areas of responsibility..

Experience and Skills

• The ability to cook nutritious meals and work creatively and ingeniously with all kinds of donations
• Experience with and passion for working with homeless individuals
• Experience in managing a kitchen, delegating and supervising tasks
• An emotionally mature individual who is not easily flustered.

Personal attributes

• Passion for U-turn’s mission and values.
• Strong leadership with a collaborative mindset.
• Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

• If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability support and practicing recovery behaviour
• If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
• Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online application form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. IF YOU HAVE NOT HEARD FROM US WITHIN 4 WEEKS, PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR APPLICATION UNSUCCESSFUL

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. We are looking for a Tygerberg Shop and Warehouse Manager to join the Retail team. This is a full-time onsite position and will initially be offered as a one-year contract.

This position:
There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-turn team. Thus allowing them to apply their professional retail skills in a development setting. Reporting directly to the Retail Area Manager, the candidate will apply their retail skills to run our, Retail store in Woodstock West to grow sales and profitability. At the same time, the person will be managing a team of sales assistants who were formerly homeless and are currently on the U-turn work-rehabilitation programme. The ideal candidate is happy to work in an organization with strong Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e., to work developmentally), and is excellent at customer service.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway to address their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society. To help people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes addiction rehabilitation, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy. Our graduates enter the open market employment and show an above 90% long term success rate. We are actively working to expand to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Social Enterprises

Actual work experience largely takes place within our social enterprises. U-turn’s social enterprises comprise an extensive retail network connected to our Charity Stores as well as other companies owned by, or in partnership with, U-turn.

Key areas of responsibility

1. Operational Management

• Ensure all daily, weekly, and monthly operational tasks are completed and recorded using the Google Checklist, with full accountability.
• Key operational focus areas include:
• Oversee cash handling in accordance with established operating procedures.
• Daily review and management of Facebook ads: loading new ads, maintaining campaigns, and engaging with customers.
• Ensure DIK forms are updated and completed daily.
• Update turnovers and timesheets daily.
• Address items on the To-Do list promptly and efficiently.
• Maintain running notes on each Champion’s behavior and development.

2. Staff Management and Team Development

• Directly manage U-turn Champions under the guidance of the Retail Area Manager, Support Staff, and Development Team.
• Provide daily oversight, coaching, and support to ensure high performance.
• Handle HR-related matters, including:
• Leave approvals
• Disciplinary processes in collaboration with the Area Manager and Caseworker
• Payslip and payroll coordination
• Submit weekly feedback reports to the Caseworker.

3. Staff Management and Team Development

• Manage the U-turn Charity Store to achieve or exceed sales targets.
• Ensure alignment with sales goals while maintaining the organization’s values and mission.

4. Stock and Inventory Management

• • • • Ensure optimal stock levels are maintained.
      • Keep transfer verification sheets up to date.
      • Review weekly counts, on-hand figures, and sales data for accuracy and relevance.
      • Complete monthly stocktakes to reconcile with POS data.
      • Monitor shrinkage and implement effective loss prevention measures.

5. Pricing and Discounting Oversight

• • • • Ensure pricing of pre-loved goods aligns with the U-turn Pricing SOP.
      • Use 90-day sales data to guide discounting decisions.
      • Implement price markdowns and promotional strategies that are fair, transparent, and mission-aligned.

6. Visual Merchandising and Promotions

• • • •  Prepare and maintain promotional materials and appealing in-store displays to enhance the customer experience.
      • Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and organization throughout the store

7. Customer Service & Engagement

• • • • Deliver exceptional customer service; handle complaints and escalations efficiently.
      • Promote participation in the U-turn Loyalty Programme.
      • Ensure the store environment is welcoming, clean, and engaging. 

8. Mission Integration an Supportive Culture

• • • • Lead daily team devotions rooted in Jesus, fostering a spiritually enriching workplace.
      • Create and maintain a supportive, therapeutic environment for individuals in the U-turn Life Change Programme.
      • Collaborate with Caseworkers and Support Staff to align the store’s operations with the broader goals of the Life Change Programme.

9. Health, Safety and Security Compliance

• • • • Enforce all relevant health, safety, and security protocols to protect staff, customers, and programme participants.
      • Regularly review and update safety procedures as needed.

Experience and Skills

• Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
• Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting (desirable)
• Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
• Well-developed interpersonal skills
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
• A collaborative team player – concerned with the team’s success as well as individualmperformance
• Ability to motivate, coach, and develope people. Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

• Passion for U-turn’s mission and values.
• Strong leadership with a collaborative mindset.
• Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

• If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability support and practicing recovery behaviour
• If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
• Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online application form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. IF YOU HAVE NOT HEARD FROM US WITHIN 4 WEEKS, PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR APPLICATION UNSUCCESSFUL

Summary

U-turn is a leading organisation in developing pathways out of homelessness. We are looking for a Tygerberg Shop and Warehouse Manager to join the Retail team. This is a full-time onsite position and will initially be offered as a one-year contract.

This position:
There is an opportunity for a person with strong retail skills and experience to join the U-turn team thus allowing them to apply their professional retail skills in a development setting. Reporting directly to the Retail Area Manager, the candidate will apply their retail skills to run our,
Retail and Warehouse store in Tygerberg to grow sales and profitability. At the same time, the person will be managing a team of sales assistants who were formerly homeless and are currently on the U-turn work-rehabilitation programme. The ideal candidate is someone who is happy to work in an organization with strong Christian motivations, displays a passion to see people grow (i.e. to work developmentally) and is excellent at customer service.

Background

U-turn is a thriving non-profit that exists to equip homeless people with the skills to overcome homelessness. Founded in 1997, we believe that every homeless individual is intrinsically valuable and should have access to an effective pathway to address their physical, spiritual and emotional needs so they can leave the streets and become a long-term productive member of society. To help people overcome homelessness we operate a phased approach that includes addiction rehabilitation, counselling, life-skills training and sheltered work placement in one of our social enterprises. Through this process, the programme inculcates a healthy work ethic, furnishes modern job skills and gives 18-24 months of real work experience so that individuals can be gainfully employed in the modern South African economy. Our graduates enter the open market employment and show an above 90% long term success rate. We are actively working to expand to more locations in Cape Town and across South Africa.

Social Enterprises

Actual work experience largely takes place within our social enterprises. U-turn’s social enterprises comprise an extensive retail network connected to our Charity Stores as well as other companies owned by, or in partnership with, U-turn.

Key areas of responsibility

• Operational Management
• Staff Management & Team Development
• Store Leadership & Sales Performance
• Stock & Inventory Management
• Receiving & Dispatching Goods
• Order Fulfilment
• Pricing & Discounting Oversight
• Visual Merchandising & Promotions
• Customer Service & Engagement
• Mission Integration & Supportive Culture
• Cleanliness, Health, Safety & Security Compliance
• Collaboration with Retail Managers
• Internal Communication
• Compliance with Protocols

Experience and Skills

• Previous experience in the retail sector (essential)
• Experience as a duty manager/ assistant manager or a manager in a retail setting (desirable)
• Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
• Well-developed interpersonal skills
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to prioritise
• A collaborative team player – concerned with the team’s success as well as individualmperformance
• Ability to motivate, coach, and develop people. Commercial awareness

Personal attributes

• Passion for U-turn’s mission and values.
• Strong leadership with a collaborative mindset.
• Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Organisational Fit (where applicable)

• If in Recovery – actively engaged in own ongoing recovery, accessing accountability support and practicing recovery behaviour
• If employed as a Professional – affiliation with professional board, continued personal development and accessing supervision
• Gospel orientation – connected to a local fellowship of believers, reading the Bible and grounded in Gospel-motivated Social Action

Next Steps

Candidates interested in this position should apply using the online application form. You must include a CV and a letter of motivation as part of the application. The letter of motivation should be approximately 1 page in length and include information on why you would like to work at U-turn and how you fulfil the required skills and attitudes outlined above. Applications without a letter of motivation will NOT be considered. IF YOU HAVE NOT HEARD FROM US WITHIN 4 WEEKS, PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR APPLICATION UNSUCCESSFUL