Access and outreach support worker jobs in watford, hertfordshire

Do you want to support people with mental health issues in a moment of crisis?

Are you calm, non-judgemental and able to work effectively with people experiencing distress?

If you can embody our values of Hope, Courage, Togetherness, and Responsiveness, and want to help others build resilience and manage their wellbeing, we’d love to hear from you.

Job title: Flourish Team Leader
Reference Number: 279
Salary scale: £30,000 - £32,000 per annum
Contracted hours: 37.5 hours per week
Contract length: Permanent
Working base: Negotiable, Herts Mind Wellbeing Centre closest to home
Reports to: Services Manager, Complex Needs and Community

About the Service

This is an exciting and reasonably new project, ‘Flourish’ – Mental Health for Refugees in Hertfordshire, which is a highly flexible and responsive outreach service developed to meet the needs of refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine & other refugees in Hertfordshire. The aim of the service will be to support refugees in the community with multiple needs who have mental health support as a primary need.

The countywide holistic service also provides emotional wellbeing support for families who are hosting refugees.

The Flourish Team Leader plays a significant role in the co-ordination and running of the Flourish service. This role is key to the development and support of the team and the wider organisation.

Service Objectives

• To provide advice, information, onward referral and holistic support to clients with mental ill health.
• Support to build social networks and reduce isolation whilst settling into the Hertfordshire community this includes building a sustainable and empowering peer support network and building confidence and self-esteem.
• To ensure that the safety and wellbeing of the client is monitored and reviewed regularly.
• To remain a source of independent support for all clients.
• Embed a person centred and solution focused approach in all aspects of the role.
• To work in a trauma informed way including awareness of the 6 principles of trauma informed practice, putting the clients emotional and practical needs at the forefront of this work.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the Services Manager with effective running of the Flourish service.
• Mange a caseload of up to 3 clients
• Provide advice, information, onward referral and holistic support to clients who are experiencing mental ill health or need support with their mental wellbeing.
• Line manage staff and where necessary volunteers.
• Maintain and enhance service delivery standards and effectiveness.
• Lead a team of Flourish Outreach Workers. Ensuring the team are using databases and outcome tools as required to report for the project.
• Promoting the service, increasing visibility and being responsive to changing needs.
• Provide practical and emotional support to encourage service users to develop their independence within their local community.
• Monitor outcomes and evaluate the service. Produce quarterly reports.
• Ensure that the safety and wellbeing of service users using the service is monitored and reviewed regularly.
• To remain a source of independent support for all clients.
• Embed a person centred and recovery orientated approach in all aspects of the roles and responsibilities.
• Oversee Flourish peer support groups in hotels and the community
• Overseeing and coordinating Flourish Together Events for Separated Migrant Children and Young People.
• Become level 3 trained in Safeguarding

We offer:

• Annual leave entitlement of 25 days per year pro rata, rising in increments to a max. of 29 days after 5 years employment (plus 8 days Bank Holidays)
• An additional day of leave each year for your birthday following completion of probation period.
• Ongoing training relevant to your role.
• An Employee Assistance Programme.
• Eligibility for blue light card.
• Health cover (after 6 months employment) – compensation payment for Optical, Dental, Chiropody and Therapy Treatments.

Being able to drive and having access to your own vehicle (or equivalent) is essential for this role.

Closing date for receipt of application: Ongoing until role is filled.
Interviews: Held on a rolling basis. 
Please note: we reserve the right to close the post once we have reached maximum applications or filled the role.

Interested? 

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position. 

Equal Opportunities 
We welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, colour, religion, belief, or sexual orientation. In addition, during the various stages of recruitment, specific measures can be taken to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.

Hertfordshire Mind Network is committed to the Disability Confident and Mindful Employer charters. We actively recruit staff who have a lived experience of mental ill health. We recognise and value the unique combination of skills, knowledge and perspective that employing people with a lived experience, at all levels across the organisation, brings. We create an environment where the sharing of experiences and vulnerabilities to support others and create positive change is welcomed and work towards breaking down the ‘them’ and ‘us’ culture. The organisation is committed to nurturing peer relationships that allow all staff to thrive.

No agencies please.

Do you want to support people with mental health issues in a moment of crisis? Are you calm, non-judgmental and able to work effectively with people experiencing distress?

Can you demonstrate our values of Hope, Courage, Togetherness, and Responsiveness and want to be part of our mission to create opportunities for individuals to make choices, find their own solutions, build resilience and manage their whole life and wellbeing?

If the answer to all of these is yes, we want to hear from you.

Crisis Cafe Coordinator
Reference: 273
Responsible to: Crisis Cafe Team Leader
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £25,000 - £27,764 per annum, pro rata
Hours: Part time (22.5 or 30 hours per week)
Working Base(s): Stevenage Crisis Café
Work pattern: A full-time pattern will be a 7-day flexible rota, working 17:30 - 01:30.

This role is managing a shift delivering emotional support to those in mental health crisis, face to face and over the telephone through our helpline.

About the Service

Our Nightlight Service (Cafés, Helpline, 24/7 Crisis House and Daylight provision) is proud to provide urgent support, crisis intervention and emotional support to people experiencing a mental health crisis in Hertfordshire as an alternative to statutory pathways.

We provide support to adults across Hertfordshire 7 days a week, 365 days a year through our helpline, crisis centres, crisis cafes and a weekend Crisis House. We aim to provide a safe space for people in crisis to talk and feel supported, be listened to without judgement, access relevant support with problem solving and facilitate access to external services when necessary. As a member of our team you will work closely with service users in crisis by using a person-centred approach as to ensure that each individual is supported with dignity and respect. By honouring the individual experience of each service user, we are able to respect their autonomy as well as encourage and facilitate positive steps towards management of crisis and recovery.

The objectives of Hertfordshire Mind Network’s (HMN) Nightlight Mental Health Crisis Services are:

• To improve the mental wellbeing of people experiencing mental health crisis in Hertfordshire.
• To increase early access to help for people experiencing mental health crisis in Hertfordshire, by providing a clear and effective pathway to services provided by Herts Mind Network and other third sector and statutory providers.
• To contribute to an improvement in individual mental wellbeing.
• To remain a source of independent support for all clients.
• To provide an alternative pathway to people in distress and crisis to support better outcomes and reduce the demand on statutory crisis services and emergency services.
• At the Crisis Cafes we promote and enable people to access support in a way that suits them, whether that’s through talking to someone or simply by providing a safe space to have time alone or engage with trained staff.

About the Role

Alongside other Crisis Cafe Coordinators, you will be a key member of the Crisis team, providing effective operational leadership delivering the Nightlight Mental Health Crisis Café and Helpline Service. You will be ensuring the delivery and development of quality crisis support services and instilling Hertfordshire Mind Network’s values throughout the provision. You will provide management support to Crisis Café and Helpline Mental Health Support Workers and volunteers and support the Crisis Café Team Leader in ensuring practice within the service is safe, effective and person centred.

We offer:

• Annual leave entitlement of 25 days per year pro rata, rising in increments to a max. of 29 days after 5 years employment (plus 8 days Bank Holidays)
• An additional day of leave each year for your birthday following completion of probation period.
• Ongoing training relevant to your role.
• An Employee Assistance Programme.
• Health cover (after 6 months employment) – compensation payment for Optical, Dental, Chiropody and Therapy Treatments.

Closing date for applications is 25th April 2025.
Interviews will be held week commencing 12th May 2025.
Please note: We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if sufficient applications are received so would encourage early applications.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, colour, religion, belief, or sexual orientation. In addition, during the various stages of recruitment, specific measures can be taken to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.

Hertfordshire Mind Network is committed to the Disability Confident and Mindful Employer charters. We actively recruit staff who have a lived experience of mental ill health. We recognise and value the unique combination of skills, knowledge and perspective that employing people with a lived experience, at all levels across the organisation, brings. We create an environment where the sharing of experiences and vulnerabilities to support others and create positive change is welcomed and work towards breaking down the ‘them’ and ‘us’ culture. The organisation is committed to nurturing peer relationships that allow all staff to thrive.

No agencies please.

INDIVIDUAL GIVING AND EVENTS FUNDRAISER

OASIS HUB WATERLOO

32 hours per week (negotiable)

Two-year Fixed Term Contract

£26,737 per annum (Including London Weighting) £33,422 for 1 FTE

We are looking for a person with:

· Great character, chemistry and competency.

· Recent and proven experience in raising funds from individuals and events.

· Progressive and successful fundraising experience and approaches.

· First class team spirit and cohesion.

Is this you? Great – read on.

Oasis Hub Waterloo co-develops and co-delivers a wide range of integrated community services including a community centre, primary and secondary Academies, adult and further education opportunities, early years support, a Foodbank, advice services, a community farm, and well developed and diverse programmes for young people.

Purpose of job

This new role will lead on individual giving and events fundraising for Oasis Hub Waterloo with a focus on securing funds for Lambeth & Croydon Foodbank and our associated advice services. This will include developing our awareness and capacity to gain income from high-net-worth individuals, events and legacies.

To apply please email your CV (max of two pages) and a Supporting Statement.

Your Supporting Statement (max of two A4 pages) must share specific and relevant examples demonstrating how your qualities and experience will enable us to increase our income generation through individual giving and events.

Inspire and impress us!

Return your CV and Supporting Statement by Midday on Monday 5th May 2025

Face to face Interviews will take place in London Waterloo on the Monday 12th May 2025

If you want an informal chat about this role, please visit the Oasis Charity Jobs Website. 

As part of the package, Oasis offers:

· Flexible working where possible with family friendly policies

· A non-contributory pension scheme, currently offering 7% employer contribution

· A generous holiday allowance, starting at 25 days per year (plus 8 Bank Holidays)

We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and minority and underrepresented groups.

Oasis is committed to making a difference to the lives of the communities it works in, and as such you must show a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the values and behaviours which flow from the Oasis ethos. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children/young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to undergo appropriate checks, including enhanced DBS checks. 

The successful candidate must have the right to work in the UK.

Oasis supports Equal Opportunities. Registered Charity No. 1163889

About Us

Our vision is for every child and young person to be safe, loved and happy, to achieve their potential and have a bright future.

St Christopher's is a leading charity for children and young people. We are proud of our history of providing fostering, children's homes and innovative leaving care services across the UK & Isle of Man.  We have a passionate commitment to our young people, placing them at the centre of everything we do.  We provide positive life experiences for young people who are unable to sustain a placement in their parental or foster home.

We are an equal-opportunity employer keen to develop an inclusive workforce where people feel they belong.We hope to attract applications from under- represented groups, including people from different cultures, nationalities, socioeconomic backgrounds, ages, disabilities, religions, faith, sex, orientation, childcare responsibilities, and gender-diverse identities.

St Christopher’s Academy

At St Christopher`s we can provide more than just a care job. We can offer you a career where you can develop your skills and knowledge while making a difference to young people’s lives.

When you join St Christopher’s, we will set you up in your career with a tailored development plan. Whether you want to move across to a different service, become a Manager or just explore further your current role, we will support you to map out your career trajectory and help you achieve your professional ambitions. If you want to learn more about St Christopher’s Academy, please click here

We are proud that 84% of all our Team Leaders, Deputies and Managers are internal promotions.

About the role

As an Experienced Practitioner, you will provide direct support and care for our young people who have complex emotional and mental health difficulties (such as trauma and loss) and can struggle to regulate their emotions.

Working within a therapeutic framework, you will develop a direct programme of work aimed at developing authentic relationships with our children and young people (aged 12 – 17 years old), you will also have responsibility for making sure our residents are safe, providing support, liaison with other professionals and completion of support documents to record information.

If applying for the Waking Night role, you will have the additional support of an on-call manager should there be any emergencies. Further to this, you will be involved in monthly team meetings and receive monthly supervision.

Applicants should have

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or equivalent (i.e. Level 3 Diploma Children and Young People Workforce with the children's social care pathway) or be willing to achieve the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare within 2 years as per Children’s Homes Regulations 2015 (England).
• Minimum of 1 years’ experience working and supporting children and Young People to achieve their full potential.
• Genuine commitment to working with and supporting children and Young People to achieve their full potential; with the ability to build and promote trusted relationships while maintaining professional boundaries.
• An understanding of the issues facing children and Young People and a basic understanding of safeguarding Regulations and Procedures.
• The ability to cope effectively with challenging behaviour.
• Good communication and team working skills.
• Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends and bank holidays.
• Commitment to undertake any mandatory training (outside of working hours) and continuous learning to ensure a high level of service.
• Creativity, enthusiasm and energy to inspire and encourage young people to achieve their goals.

What you should expect from us

• Salary: £28,912 per annum. Overtime / bank holidays paid time-and-a-half and 2 weekends off per month.
• A friendly working environment, a fun, open and honest culture.
• 25 days holiday rising to 27 days after 3 years’ service, plus Bank Holidays, pro-rata.
• Industry leading training programme including access to level 3 qualifications, children’s right and participation, CSE, empowerment, mental health and social pedagogy.
• Contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity and company sick scheme.
• UK Life Assurance (Death in service) to the value of 3 times your annual salary.
• BUPA employee assistance programme, offering counselling, financial advice and legal support.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Bluelight card; discount shopping scheme at hundreds of retailers across the UK.
• Discretionary funded training programs.
• Employee awards based on performance and length of service.
• Fantastic opportunities to develop your career within our range of services.

Recruitment Process

At St Christopher’s we are committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people in our care. During the recruitment process you will be expected to complete an online application form to ensure we capture essential information to meet legislation, best practice and vetting requirements.

Applicants will ideally already be on the DBS Update Service; if this is not the case St Christopher's will carry out a DBS (police) check prior to starting.

First Stage Interview – Tuesdays & Thursdays throughout April & May 2025

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview at our Head Office

Second Stage

Successful candidates will then attend the second stage interview at the home they have applied for.

We advise you to apply as soon as possible as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Please note:

• This post has a minimum age restriction of 21 year for roles working directly with children and young people in our residential and supported accommodation Homes in line with the Equality Act ‘occupational requirement’.
• It is illegal to apply for any role that involves working with children and young people under the age of 18, if you know you are barred from working with children.
• all shortlisted candidates invited to interview will be asked to submit a Self-Declaration and Disclosure form which will need to be returned prior to an interview being booked.

Seeking a purposeful career change? Start on your transformative journey with the On Purpose Associate Programme, offering a unique opportunity for mid-career professionals to transition into impactful work. This paid, year-long leadership programme is designed for those ready to pivot their professional journey towards creating a regenerative, equitable and just future.

Key info:

• Based in London, UK

• Full-time (4.5 days at placement & one half day training weekly)

• £27,010 per annum salary 

• Programme dates: October 2025 - September 2026 (49 weeks)

About On Purpose:

On Purpose is tackling the greatest challenge of our time: transforming our economy from profit to purpose. Our leadership programmes develop people who will play their part in this transformation.

Together, we learn to see a different future and take action towards realising it in the organisations we work in. Our programmes seed a vibrant community who care, inspire, challenge and support one another as we make this transformation a reality.

Programme summary:

• Two 6 month placements:

Through work placements with leading purpose-driven organisations, you'll gain hands-on experience tackling pressing social and environmental issues. Some of our current partners include Better Society Capital, Save the Children, BAFTA and Sustainable Ventures.

• Expert-led learning:

Our intensive Learning & Development programme involves weekly in-person sessions led by experts from across sectors. This blend of professional training and academic rigour equips you with the skills, knowledge and mindset to lead organisational and systemic change. 

• 1-2-1 mentoring & coaching:

Receive support through fortnightly mentoring sessions and quarterly executive coaching, fostering both your personal and professional growth.

• Join a supportive, impactful community:

You’ll be part of a tight-knit cohort of 20 Associates, participating in training sessions every Friday afternoon together. You’ll also join the wider On Purpose community, connecting with a global, influential network of impact-driven professionals offering life-long inspiration, collaboration and opportunities.

Benefits:

• Earn while you learn: On Purpose stands out by offering a paid learning and training opportunity, saving you significant costs compared to paying for other leadership programmes or MBAs, all the while offering extensive learning and development.

• Develop your ability to make an impact: Equip yourself with the skills and insights needed to drive meaningful change. You’ll join nearly 1000 purpose-driven alumni who are leading transformative change worldwide in all parts of the system, with 92% currently working in the impact sector.

• Unlock purpose-driven career opportunities: Our Associates have moved into a whole range of sustainability jobs and social impact roles, ranging from CEOs of social enterprises to leadership positions within traditional companies driving change from within. We have a former music label business owner now the CEO of Hubbub, a former Consultant now Director of Impact at B Lab UK and a former civil servant now Climate Lead at Ellen MacArthur Foundation. 

• Standard UK holiday allowance

• A 3-day residential (all expenses paid)

Who we’re looking for:

This programme is ideal for:

• Individuals seeking a career change into the environment and social impact sector.

• Individuals already in the impact sector who want to develop new skills, have the opportunity to work in more commercial organisations, or to join an engaged network of people who share your values and are working toward the same goal. 

Specific sector or industry experience is not important. We’re looking for talented people from diverse industries who have a determination to bring their skills and experience to purpose-driven projects and to driving systemic change. We seek ambitious individuals with:

• A minimum of three years full-time professional experience

• The right to work in the UK for the full duration of the programme

• Fluency in English 

• Office environment experience 

• Skills in project management, stakeholder engagement, adaptability, interpersonal communication, problem-solving, quantitative analysis and strategic thinking.

• Excitement and commitment towards building a career that helps transform our economy from profit to purpose.

Diversity and Inclusion:

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences and those who are often under-represented in the impact sector, including but not limited to individuals with disabilities and those from diverse ethnic, gender identities, sexualities, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds.

How to apply:

• Read our Associate Programme brochure for more information.

• Register your interest via our website to receive a link to your online application form.

• Closing date for applications: Monday 19 May, 9:00 am (BST).

• Interviews will be held in mid-late June.

Home Based within Essex or Hertfordshire

Closing date: Tuesday 6th May

Phone Interviews: W/C 28th April & W/C 5th May

Panel interviews: Tuesday 13th or Wednesday 14th May

Today, 12 children and young people will be diagnosed with cancer. We’ll stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.

Change lives in a life-changing career

When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it’s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain.

The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. That’s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer. We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.

We challenge the systems and policies that surround children and young people, we highlight gaps and campaign for change. Because we know what a better future could look like. And we know what we need to do to make that future a reality. We need to push harder, reach further and work smarter. And we need the right people on our team to help us get there. People like you.

About the role

We’re looking for a Fundraising Engagement Manager with great personality and team ethic to join our Regional Fundraising team.

This is a role of variety, opportunity and innovation, and we are looking for someone who embraces change and constantly strives to achieve more.

You will maximise income for Young Live vs Cancer by coaching our supporters to reach their goals, whilst seeking out new fundraising opportunities for your geographical area. This role sits within the ‘Regional Engagement’ team and we need someone with natural customer service skills who wants to deliver a legendary experience to all of their supporters. Your team of supporters will range from volunteers and individuals, to groups and local corporates.

We are lucky enough to have some of our most committed supporters in the area, but there is still so much opportunity to grow support across the counties. You will have an incredible opportunity to build relationships with not only those who have been supported by the charity, but our incredible services team members who support children and young people treated out of University College Hospital and Great Ormond Street hospital.

Candidates should live within Essex & Hertfordshire, in one of the following postcodes: Essex: CM; CO1-9; CO11-16; IG (except IG11); RM & SS and Hertfordshire: AL1-10; CM21-23; EN6-8; EN10-11; HP1-4; SG1-14 & WD.

Candidates who live outside of these areas should highlight an intention to relocate to the area in their covering letter for their application to be considered 

This role is subject to a criminal record check. In the event of a successful application a basic record check will be completed.

What will I be doing?

No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your ‘day to day’ isn’t easy. Here are some of the main things you’ll be doing, but you’ll find more details in our Role Details document.

• To plan, monitor and report on your budgeted income with a constant eye on contingency planning to ensure annual targets are achieved
• To steward our most committed supporters and deliver legendary supporter experience
• To be a key, valued member of your regional team and UK wide team.
• To identify, cultivate and secure partnerships and donations within your area
• To work with your local service team/s to build and maintain strong and effective working relationships
• To be the first point of contact for service user families, to offer opportunities to them and their networks to engage with the wider charity as they would like I.e. fundraising, volunteering, sharing their story

What do I need? 

• A proven track record of delivering amazing customer experiences
• Experience of relationship management in either a charity or corporate setting
• Ability to work within a financial target-based setting, and experience of reaching/exceeding set targets
• Demonstrable experience of winning new business
• Experience of managing own workload
• Proven ability to manage/complete projects
• Able to ‘make the ask’ for support and to influence/negotiate
• Have a full UK driving licence and access to a car (including business insurance)
• Have a sufficient Broadband connection

Diverse perspectives and unique skillsets are at the heart of Young Lives vs Cancer. If you're passionate about making a positive impact and eager to learn, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet the criteria and person specification fully. Your potential is what matters most to us, and we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment to help you develop.

The key skills we’re looking for in this role are:

• Natural storyteller
• Strong prioritisation skills
• Great communicator
• Great at spotting opportunities
• Influencing/Negotiating
• Compassion
• Integrity
• Team player

What will I gain?

For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you’ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here’s how we do it:

• Flexible working: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage
• Wellbeing days: four days a year to do what works for you – from catching up on training to going for a walk
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Great family/caring leave entitlements
• Enhanced pension
• Access to our employee savings scheme

To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation – or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don’t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it.

We’re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren’t there yet, and we’re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more.

We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. CVs can be uploaded, but we won't be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to fully complete the work history sections of the online application form for us to be able to assess you quickly, fairly and objectively.

Recruitment process

We will be shortlisting applications on a rolling basis. We will hold informal telephone interviews w/c 28th April and w/c 5th May and if invited  to panel interview, these will take place on 13th or 14th May.

Accessibility

We’re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible.Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.

To arrange an informal chat, please contact Alex O'Connell.

#ShowTheSalary #NonGraduatesWelcome

The Youth Endowment Fund

Senior Change Manager, Education 

Reports to: Head of Change for Education 

Salary: £51,300 per annum, depending on experience  

Location: Central London or Hybrid*(see below) 

Contract: (2-year fixed term – potential to extend)

Closing date for applications: Tuesday 29th April 2025 at 12pm

Interview dates: Week commencing 12th May 2025

About the Youth Endowment Fund 

We’re here to prevent children and young people becoming involved in violence. We do this by finding out what works and building a movement to put this knowledge into practice.

In recent years violent crime has risen significantly. Homicides, assaults, robberies and offences involving weapons have all seen sustained growth. We have also seen large increases in violent crime involving children and young people. This is a tragedy. Every child captured in these numbers is an important member of our community and society has a duty to protect them.

The Youth Endowment Fund (YEF) is a charity with a £200m endowment and a mission that matters. We exist to prevent children becoming involved in violence. Our mission is to find what works and build a movement to put it into practice. A big part of the movement that we need to build is in the world of education. We need to inspire and connect with education leaders across England and Wales to spread what works and make our country safer for some of our most vulnerable children. We are looking for someone to lead on making this happen.

Key Responsibilities

We are making good progress building the evidence of what works within and around education to reduce violence, including launching our new Education, Children and Violence Guidance in May 2024 which provides school, college and alternative provision leaders with five evidence-based recommendations to help prevent children’s involvement in violence. We also have our Toolkit, annual Children, Violence and Vulnerability Report and new implementation resources due next year. But the big risk is that we publish these resources and nothing changes. That’s where you come in.

Your role is to help us ensure more senior education leaders within schools, colleges and alternative provision settings use our Guidance, toolkit, research and implementation tools to inform day to day operations and strategic decision making. This will involve:

• Developing great relationships and partnerships with executive and senior leaders in education, making connections and building credibility and trust with the sector.   
• Managing our new online digital self-assessment tool for sector leaders, driving awareness and engagement with education leaders and refining and optimising the system in collaboration with the software developers. 
• Synthesizing and analysing data from the self-assessment tool, using findings to produce value insights reports for YEF and the sector. 
• Creating implementation resources which respond to need and support education leaders to put evidence into practice. 
• Continuing to develop a strong understanding of education practice and policy across England and Wales. 
• Working out other effective ways to connect people with the evidence, then making those things happen, from regular virtual learning events to presentations. 

As a senior member of staff in the organisation you also: 

• Build a culture where it is natural to perform well and support colleagues brilliantly.
• Contribute to setting the strategy, delivering results and building and modelling the culture that we need to succeed.

You are this sort of person: 

• You are fascinated about change and are experienced in making it happen. You have outstanding analytical judgment alongside the emotional intelligence and experience needed to identify the right opportunities for change, then make them happen.
• You understand why people find change difficult. You come alive talking about how people make decisions and why they do the things they do. 
• You understand the education sector. You really understand how schools, colleges and/or Alternative Provision settings tick. You have experience of working with/supporting senior and executive education leaders to facilitate change and improvement that improves the lives of young people. You might have previous experience of supporting a school to reflect on and adopt evidence-based practice. 
• You are digital and data savvy. You have experience of working with data and systems to support evaluation, improvement and meaningful change.You have experience of translating complex information into plain writing and impactful visuals that everyone can understand.
• You have excellent project and time management skills and the ability to design and deliver high quality outputs such as reports and digital resources to a high standard.   
• You win people over. People tend to warm to you and respect you. You have built good relationships with very senior people and with very junior people. You are good at chairing meetings, connecting people and having good introductory meetings. You are comfortable talking to a government minister, a youth worker, a company CEO, a teacher and a 15-year-old student. Listening to people from all backgrounds matters to you.
• You have experience of developing resources which support schools/education settings. You understand and take a curious approach to learning about the needs of leaders from across the education spectrum. You are able to skilfully translate these insights into helpful resources and tools which support leaders to improve practice. 
• You learn fast but remain humble. You are very quick at getting your head around things. You like learning. You are very good at synthesising information. You know how much you don't know. You know that you can learn more. You know that it's easy to assume you know when you don't. You care more that good things happen than who gets the credit. You are a great and supportive team player. 
• You don't want your days to pass without making a difference. You want to play a significant part in reducing violence.
• You understand young people. You understand what the lives of vulnerable young people can be like, and you understand some of the organisations that work with them, ideally through first-hand experience.
• You are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. 

You must have this sort of experience 

• Delivering positive change within education: You have significant experience of working with education leaders to support the development and improvement or practice.
• Working as a senior leader within the education sector, preferably in a role/setting specifically working with young people who are vulnerable to or involved in violence.

While it’s not a criteria, we’re especially interested to hear from applicants who have lived experience of violence affecting children and young people. 

It’s also important to us that the people we hire do not discriminate. We believe in being inclusive and giving everyone an equal chance to succeed. Applications are welcome from all regardless of age, sex, gender identity, disability, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief, race, sexual orientation, transgender status or social economic background.

All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from underrepresented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well. 

Hybrid Working 

The office is based in Central London. Those living in and around London are expected to be in the office a minimum of 2 days per week. If you live outside of London and work remotely, you’ll be expected to work from the London office 2 days per month. 

To Apply 

Please click on the "Apply for this" button and submit your CV, your completed monitoring form and ensure your covering letter answers the following three questions below. Please submit your application by Tuesday 29th April at 12pm

Application Questions 

1. How have you successfully supported education leaders to improve their practice or leadership? Please be specific about the scale and context of your experience working with senior leaders in education settings. 
2. Describe your experience using data and digital tools to gather insights, inform decisions, and drive improvement in education. What data did you use, how did you present it, and what impact did it have? 
3. What personal and professional experiences shape your understanding of the education sector and its role in preventing youth violence? 

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at the interview stage. 

Interview Process 

This will be a one stage interview process. Interviews will take place the week of 12th May 2025 

Please Note: We do not sponsor work permits and you will be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK. 

Benefits Include 

• £1,000 professional development budget annually 
• 28 days holiday plus Bank Holidays 
• Four half days for volunteering activities 
• Employee Assistance Programme – 24hr phone line for free confidential support 
• Volunteering days - 4 half days per year 
• Death in service - 4 times annual salary 
• Flexible hours. Core office hours 10am – 4pm 
• Financial support including travel and hardship loans 
• Employer contributed pension of 5%. 

Your Data 

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful, and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

Background: 

Amna means safe in Arabic - representing the core of our work - supporting communities and frontline workers to bring non-clinical mental health support to every person affected by war, conflict and displacement. At Amna, our core values of respect, understanding, curiosity and connection guide everything we do. Our mission is to build community capacity for healing. Our vision is a world where refugees can determine their future unbounded by the impacts of conflict and displacement. 

We partner with local organisations and institutions working with displaced communities to set up psychosocial healing services in which individuals and groups can discover and connect to practices that promote their healing and wellbeing. We invest in and train people within these organisations to provide this support, and we help partners build psychosocial interventions in collaboration with refugee communities – all with a values-based, trauma-sensitive and identity-informed approach.

Our partnerships are not limited. We connect partners through our global healing network of peer organisations to exchange learnings and enhance their practices as the network strives to support forcibly displaced communities around the world. 

Safeguarding: 

The role-holder will have experience working according to ethical and good practice safeguarding principles. They will be expected to adhere to and promote Amna’s Safeguarding Policies as they will be involved and responsible for programmes working with children and vulnerable groups in different settings. 

How Will you Make a Difference?  

The Executive Assistant (EA) will provide high-level administrative support to Amna’s CEO, Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and Board of Trustees. This includes administrative help such as managing calendars, drafting communications and briefings, planning, and organising meetings, inbox support, travel, office administration and personal assistance. It also includes working on and managing special projects including research, data analysis, preparation for public speaking, writing and research. 

This dynamic and creative position requires the ability to anticipate needs, think critically, and offer solutions to problems with a high level of professionalism and confidentiality. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills including strong written and verbal skills, the ability to work with little supervision, and manage simultaneous priorities within the leadership team.

The role holder will report to the CEO. 

Key areas of responsibilities: 

CEO/SLT Support 

• Work closely with the CEO to keep them well informed of upcoming commitments and responsibilities, following up appropriately. Act as a "barometer", staying attuned to the internal and external environment and keeping the CEO updated on relevant issues. 

• Anticipate the needs of the CEO and SLT in advance of meetings, conferences, and public appearances. 

• Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external constituencies on all matters pertaining to the CEO and SLT team, including those of a highly confidential or critical nature. 

• Liaise between the CEO and SLT to ensure regular communications and smooth decision-making. 

• Provide sophisticated calendar management for Amna’s CEO and the SLT. Prioritize inquiries and requests while troubleshooting conflicts and exercising tact; make judgements and recommendations to ensure smooth day-to-day engagements. 

• Prioritize and determine appropriate course of action, referral, or response, exercising judgement to reflect CEO’s and SLT members style and Amna’s values and policies. 

• Work with the Senior Leadership Team to coordinate the CEO’s outreach activities. Follow up on contacts made by the CEO to cultivate ongoing relationships. 

• Writing and managing documentation and data sets for the CEO and SLT as needed, including briefing papers, correspondence and talking points. 

• Leading and managing special projects including research for Amna’s, CEO’s and SLT’s contribution to future books, podcasts and articles. 

• Maintain an organized filing system for documents, records, and correspondence related to the CEO, SLT and board. 

Admin and travel management 

• Maintain an organized filing system for documents, records, and correspondence related to the CEO, SLT and board. 

• Ensure compliance with organizational policies and procedures in all administrative functions 

• Assist in the preparation and execution of organizational events. 

• Research and propose the most efficient and cost-effective travel options, including flights, trains, and accommodations. 

• Secure necessary travel documents, such as visas, passports, well in advance. 

• Prepare detailed travel itineraries, including transportation, accommodation, meeting times, and addresses. 

• Book accommodations that suit the requirements of the trip, ensuring comfort and proximity to meeting venues. 

• Manage group bookings for team members traveling together to streamline costs and logistics. 

• Handle travel expense reports, ensuring compliance with Amna policies and timely reimbursement. 

• Occasional travel may be required.

Board support 

• Manage due diligence and onboarding processes for new Trustees, ensuring compliance and accurate record-keeping. 

• Organize tailored training sessions for Board members. 

• Maintain up-to-date records of Board members, including contact information, terms of service, and compliance documents. 

• Assist Board members with travel expense claims and ensure accurate processing. 

• Compile, organize, and distribute materials for Board meetings, including reports and presentations. 

• Edit and format Board papers to ensure consistency and professionalism. 

• Coordinate logistics for Board meetings, including scheduling, venue arrangements, and required technology or equipment. 

• Attend Board meetings to provide administrative support, take minutes, and document actions and decisions. Distribute minutes promptly and track follow-up actions. 

• Develop and implement comprehensive induction plans for new Trustees. 

• Facilitate introductions and provide orientation materials to integrate new Board members effectively. 

Governance and Compliance 

• Support the CEO and committee chairs in adhering to the organization’s governance framework. 

• Maintain a centralized, up-to-date register of governance documents for easy access by senior staff and Trustees. 

• Ensure the organization complies with GDPR regulations in relation to all Board activities. 

• Work with the CEO and Chair to ensure the Board is informed about safeguarding practices and remains accountable. 

• Support emerging governance practices and Trustee development in partnership with the CEO and Chair. 

• Plan and execute Trustees’ regulatory obligations, including registering them with appropriate bodies. 

  Qualifications and Experience:  

• Minimum of 4-7 years of progressively responsible and diversified administrative experience, experience as an Executive Assistant or similar role. 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including ability to effectively communicate with internal and external stakeholders. 

• Excellent research skills and experience in writing briefing papers 

• Exceptional organizational skills and impeccable attention to detail. 

• Ability to work both independently and to carry out assignments to completion within parameters of instructions given, prescribed routines, and standard accepted practices. 

• Expert proficiency with Microsoft Office and desktop publishing software; ability to design and edit graphic presentations and materials. 

• Able to maintain a high level of integrity and discretion in handling confidential information. 

• Demonstrable commitment to Amna values and mission. 

• Legal understanding or experience with the Charity Commission is preferred. 

• Non-profit board experience is preferred. 

Behaviors and Attributes:   

• Initiative & ownership: Proactively takes responsibility for tasks and follows through without needing direction.

• Anticipatory approach: Demonstrates the ability to think ahead, foresee potential challenges, and propose thoughtful solutions before issues arise.

• Decision-making skills: Exercises good judgment and makes informed, timely decisions within their scope of responsibility.

• Adaptability & resilience: Staying calm under pressure and adjusting to shifting priorities.

• Emotional intelligence: Strong interpersonal skills to navigate relationships and manage competing priorities diplomatically. 

• Active listening: Understanding the needs of the CEO, board, and SLT to anticipate requirements. 

• Confidentiality & discretion: Consistently handles sensitive and confidential information with the highest level of professionalism and trustworthiness. 

Work Location and Environment  

This role is a hybrid job opportunity, and open to applicants in London, UK. 

Amna offers a hybrid working environment to its employees allowing for a blend of remote and in-person work.  

Please note that the nature of working environment and hybrid schedule may be adjusted as per the organisation’s evolving needs.  

Remuneration Package  

Remuneration: 38,000 GBP per annum.   

At Amna we are committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering competitive compensation and benefit packages. We believe in rewarding talent and expertise at a level that corresponds with the local market conditions, ensuring that all our team members are fairly compensated for their skills and contributions.   

In compliance with international standards, Amna utilizes a global payroll provider to ensure seamless and efficient compensation processes for our diverse team. 

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion  

Amna is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.   

As an equal opportunity employer, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disabilities status.   

Applications are strongly encouraged from people with personal or family lived experience as refugees and displacement. 

Recruitment timeline: 

Written task: week of May 5th. 

Interviews: week of May 12th.

Only Shortlisted candidates will be contacted.