SHRA Social Work Internship Programme – Apply now!

Internship Details

🏷️ Social Work / Community Development Internship
💼 Internship
🏢 Office-based / Community-focused
⏱️ 24-month contract
💰 Stipend: R11,175 per month
📅 Closing Date: 30 January 2026
📍 Imizi Housing Head Office – Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Company Overview

The Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA) is a South African public entity responsible for regulating and promoting the social housing sector. SHRA ensures that affordable, well-managed rental housing is developed and maintained for low- to middle-income households, particularly in urban areas. The authority oversees compliance, provides funding support, and strengthens the capacity of social housing institutions to deliver sustainable human settlements.

Job Overview

The Social Work / Community Development Internship is part of SHRA’s Graduate Internship Programme, providing unemployed young graduates (under 35) with practical experience in community support and social housing services. Interns will engage directly with residents, develop care plans, support community initiatives, and gain hands-on exposure to social work and community development practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments to identify residents’ social, emotional, and economic needs

• Develop individualised care plans and intervention strategies

• Provide ongoing case management and support for residents facing challenges

• Maintain detailed records and provide regular feedback to the Community Development Manager

• Build relationships with residents to promote engagement and participation

• Collaborate with local community organizations, service providers, and agencies to enhance resources

• Organize and facilitate community events, workshops, and support groups

• Respond to crisis situations promptly, providing emotional support and linking residents to resources

• Work with emergency services and stakeholders to address urgent or systemic community needs

• Support policy advocacy and initiatives for affordable housing and improved community services

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or Social Sciences (Community Development)

Skills & Competencies:

• Knowledge of housing issues, social services, and community resources

• Excellent communication, administrative, interpersonal, and organizational skills

• Empathy and cultural competence

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team

• Strong problem-solving and crisis intervention skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Experience:

• No prior work experience required; relevant volunteer work or community projects advantageous

CV Tips

• Highlight academic achievements and any practical experience in social work or community projects

• Include relevant volunteer or outreach work

• Clearly indicate the position applied for and location

• Keep CV concise (2–3 pages), professional, and error-free

• Attach certified copies of ID, qualifications, proof of residence, and the completed SHRA application form

• Avoid including photos or unrelated personal information

Benefits of Joining SHRA

• Hands-on experience in social work, community development, and housing services

• Exposure to public sector operations and social housing initiatives

• Opportunity to develop case management, reporting, and community engagement skills

• Structured 24-month internship with mentorship and guidance

• Career pathways within the social housing sector

Company Policy

SHRA is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all qualified South African citizens to apply. Recruitment decisions are based on merit and compliance with public sector regulations. Interns are expected to adhere to SHRA policies, ethical standards, and confidentiality requirements. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted; if no response is received within 60 days of the closing date, consider the application unsuccessful.