QPCO intervention officers are outreach workers who support community members struggling to access the services they are entitled to. This may be due to language or cultural barriers, stigma or discrimination, or simply a lack of knowledge or confidence.
While the majority of individuals and families supported by intervention officers come from Bedford’s most deprived wards, they will assist anyone in the area who needs help.
In their first 18 months in post, our Intervention Officers have helped people access a wide range of services, including housing, benefits, translation services, immigration and asylum support, social care, physical and mental health services, education, food banks, crisis support, and voluntary sector organisations offering targeted help. They take a holistic approach, building trust with individuals and communities to address the root causes of issues and achieve positive outcomes.
The work of our Intervention Officers often involves signposting and making referrals to other organisations, but it goes a step further. They ensure clients can actually access these services—by, for example, accompanying them to meetings or providing interpreters—thereby removing the barriers that often prevent vulnerable and isolated individuals from getting the help they need. Intervention officers are also authorised to issue food bank and similar vouchers, working with volunteers to ensure they are collected and delivered to those in need.
Please email us at admin@qpco.org.uk to request a referral form.
This project is currently funded by The Harpur Trust, The national Lottery and Bedfordshire Luton and Community Foundation.