Dawn Smith

Dedicated professional with extensive experience supporting vulnerable young people across a range of settings, including those facing homelessness, exploitation, and mental health challenges. Skilled in safeguarding, multi-agency working, and delivering trauma-informed support to promote independence and positive outcomes. Alongside my professional work, I have a long-standing passion for the festival community, regularly attending events across the UK and Europe since the age of 18.

This has given me a strong understanding of festival environments and culture. I am committed to remaining part of this community while using my skills and experience to support safe, inclusive, and positive experiences for all attendees.

Leaving Care PA (Children's Services) - Manchester City Council - Manchester

(2017-09)

• Build and maintain strong, trusting relationships with care-experienced young people aged 16–25, supporting them to transition successfully into independent adulthood
• Complete holistic assessments and co-produce Pathway Plans, regularly reviewing progress to ensure young people achieve positive outcomes and reduce risk
• Provide practical and emotional support across key areas including accommodation, education, employment, health, and financial stability
• Fulfil statutory duties, including maintaining regular and meaningful contact with young people and completing visits in line with local and national guidance
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency professionals to coordinate support, share information appropriately, and advocate for young people's rights and entitlements
• Identify, assess, and manage safeguarding and risk concerns, including homelessness, exploitation, and mental health, taking timely and appropriate action
• Support young people to access services and opportunities, promoting independence, resilience, and positive engagement in their communities
• Monitor and review progress against agreed goals, adapting plans in response to changing needs and circumstances
• Advocate for young people, ensuring their voice, wishes, and aspirations remain central to all planning and decision-making
• Maintain accurate, high-quality, audit-ready records in line with organisational and statutory requirements

Accommodation Support Worker - Casicare (Hazel Court)

(2016-10 - 2017-09)

• Provide practical and emotional support to vulnerable individuals to help them maintain safe and stable accommodation
• Assist with tenancy management, life skills development, and access to education, employment, and community services
• Work collaboratively with partner agencies to address housing needs, reduce risk, and promote independence while safeguarding individuals

Project Support Worker - Children's Society

(2014-09 - 2017-10)

• Delivered targeted support across multiple projects, including homelessness prevention and the Missing from Home Team, working to reduce risk and improve outcomes for vulnerable young people
• Collected and analysed data to inform service delivery, contributing to quality improvement and service development
• Completed a review of Return Home Interviews, identifying key themes and supporting improvements in practice and response for young people

BA Honours - Youth and Community Work

ILM Level 3 - Leadership and Management

NOCN - Homeless Prevention