Community Support Team Lead Jobs in Alton, Hampshire

As an organisation, we are unifying all of the professions and services involved in the delivery of MS care to create one influential voice and are building and delivering initiatives that will support meaningful service improvement.

As a member of the TMSFA team, you will be responsible for developing the external profile of TMSFA through the implementation of an engaging and impactful digital communications strategy, providing valuable insight into the work that TMSFA is doing and growing its audience.

With your strong background in IT, communication, marketing and website development, you will be pivotal in publicising events, publications and outcomes of TMSFA.

This role will also involve routine administrative office tasks, including the management of the database.

This is a new and exciting role that will be best suited to someone who is innovative, motivated, and agile in their approach to work. 

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Bank Retail Assistant

Team:  Retail

Salary range/pay band: £14.74 per hour

Reports to: Head of Volunteer Development and Retail

Direct reports: n/a

Hours: Ad hoc as required

Location:  Allocated shop

Introduction to Shooting Star Children’s Hospices

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices are a leading children’s hospice charity caring for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and their families. We support families across Surrey and Southwest London from diagnosis to end of life and throughout bereavement with a range of nursing, practical, emotional and medical care.

At the heart of the hospice are our dedicated clinical staffs. Their exceptional commitment and professionalism is commented on by so many of the supported children and their families. 

It costs £10.5 million a year to maintain our current level of care. Only 30% of that income comes from government funding via the NHS or local authorities, so we rely on our supporters’ generosity to keep the service running. We employ 175 staff, including 98 nursing and medical staff, providing hospice and community-based services to around 700 families.

Predominantly we work with families living in the Northwest and Southwest of London and Surrey, although will accept children outside these geographical areas if they do not have access to specialist palliative care support locally.  We have a reputation for delivering high quality care.  We have a CQC rating of ‘Outstanding’

 

Introduction

Retail and Volunteers Team: Our Retail and Volunteers Team manages our charity shops and volunteer programs, which play a crucial role in supporting our mission. They recruit, train, and coordinate volunteers to staff our shops and assist with various tasks, such as sorting donations and serving customers. Additionally, they oversee the operations of our retail outlets, ensuring that they are efficiently run to generate income for our hospices.

Part 1: Job Profile

a) Main purpose of  job

In the absence of the manager or assistant managers to lead a team of volunteers to maximise sales, deliver excellent customer service and ensure that the shop premises and assets are maintained to a high standard, according to legal requirements and Shooting Star Children’s Hospices (SSCH) policies and procedures. 

Decision Making Authority

The post holder will be required to make decisions on the quality, and suitability of donations before they are placed on sale. Depending on the length of the cover period they may be required to dress the windows. (They will follow price guidelines and existing display layout throughout the shop.)

The post holder will work with eCommerce Manager to decide if items would be suitable for selling at a higher price on eBay or through a promotional event and set these aside for the manager of the shop to deal with on their return.

The post holder will support with rostering of the team of volunteers where necessary and delegation of duties and jobs.

Essential and desirable skills and experience

 

Essential

• Experience in either retail or charity retail.

• Administrative/cash handling experience

• Experience of dealing with customers and maintaining a high level of customer service

• Car owner/driver

• Verbal and written communication skills

• IT skills

• Ability to motivate self and others

• Ability to work under pressure and deal with changing priorities

• Organisational and prioritising skills

Desirable

• Experience of managing a team of volunteers or staff.

b)Scope of job

The post holder for the duration of the absence of the manager or assistant manager will have control over rostering of the team of staff and volunteers, and delegation of duties and jobs.

1. Customer service

2. Processing and pricing of donations

3. Merchandising, display and promotion of stock and housekeeping

4. Sales and financial reporting

5. Coordination of volunteer team

Part 2: Main duties and key responsibilities

 

a) Customer Service – 25%

• Dealing with customer queries and complaints courteously and effectively

• Informing the Head of Volunteer Development and Retail of any serious incidents or complaints

• Ensure that any refunds are processed in line with SSCH refunds policy

• Ensure that the advertised trading hours of the shop are adhered to

• Ensure relevant documents are completed in the event of an incident/accident and reported accordingly

b) Processing donations – 25%

• Process all donations as soon as possible, prioritising Gift Aid and high value items

• Prepare and clean items appropriately for display

• Oversee the recycling and arranging of collections

• Promote Gift Aid is at all available opportunities

• Ensure that the ongoing need for donations is publicised

• Price and ticket all items according to pricing strategy for the shop and ensure that all pricing and ticketing complies with legislation

• Ensure that stock is properly managed and rotated in accordance with latest guidance

• Identify high value or specialist items that may need to be sold in another capacity

c) Merchandising, display and promotion of stock, maintenance of high standards throughout the shop – 20%

• Ensure that all merchandise is displayed attractively and that the window display is eye-catching

• Ensure that there are high standards of cleanliness and tidiness in all areas of the  shop

• Publicise promotions and special events

• Support and promote Corporate events as required

• Purchase consumables and stock items in a timely manner

d) Sales and financial reporting – 10%

• In the absence of the manager/assistant ensure that daily/weekly financial reports are submitted and that any discrepancies are investigated

• Keep the Head of Volunteer Development and Retail fully informed and updated regarding the performance of the shop and any issues which may impact this

• Ensure that the Manager/Assistant Manager and shop volunteer team are kept informed of the shop’s performance

• Ensure that the till procedures are always followed by volunteers

• Ensure that issues affecting trade are monitored and communicated

• Ensure trading standards regulations are complied with

• Ensure that all financial documentation is correctly completed and up to date and is sent to the finance team in a timely manner, highlighting any issues

• Ensure that purchases from the shop by staff and volunteers are processed according to SSCH policy and that the appropriate records kept

• Ensure that charity donations by cash/cheque/card are processed according to SSCH policy and procedure guide

e) Coordination of volunteer team – 20%

• Ensure that volunteers are fully briefed on shop priorities and performance

• When required roster the volunteer team to ensure maximum productivity

• Create a positive working environment in which equality and diversity are well-managed and volunteers can do their best

• Plan, delegate and allocate tasks to the team, offering support for the volunteer team as appropriate

f) Other duties

• The post holder will be able and willing to get to and work in a number of shops and be available across seven days per week.

• The post holder will be required to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service check

• The post holder must live within the area of work

g) Mandatory Criteria

1. Other duties

The post holder will be working in a developing environment and they will therefore be expected to undertake other appropriate duties as required for the effective operation of Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

 

2. Professional Codes of Conduct

The post holder will be required to respect professional codes of conduct and practice relevant to their role, as appropriate.

3. Health and Safety

Be responsible for health and safety in the area under their control and ensure that they are familiar with Shooting Star Children’s Hospices policy on health and safety at work.

4. Mandatory Training

The post holder will attend all mandatory training relevant to their role

5. Our values and behaviours

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is a leading children’s hospice charity for babies, children and young people with life –limiting conditions, and their families. We require that all of our staff share our common values and display behaviors that will enable us to achieve our goals. 

Professionalism – we will safeguard our families, each other and our organisation by working to ethical and professional standards at all times.

Respect – We will treat each other with the utmost respect.

Integrity – We will be open, honest and transparent in all that we do.

Diversity – We will respect individuality and ensure inclusion and fairness to all.

Excellence – We will strive for excellence in all that we do.

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is committed to ensuring the welfare and safety of children and young people. All staff members are expected to adhere to our safeguarding policies and procedures. This includes undergoing appropriate training, following reporting protocols for any concerns related to child welfare, and promoting a safe and supportive environment for children and young people. Before commencing employment, successful candidates will be required to provide satisfactory references and undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Part 3: Person specification: Qualifications, experience and skill levels

 

a) Qualifications

Essential

• 5 GSCE’s A-C or equivalent including Maths and English

• Car driver/owner with full clean license

Desirable

• Retail or customer service qualification

b) Experience

Essential

• Experience in retail or charity retail either as a volunteer or employee.

• Administrative/cash handling experience

Desirable

• Experience of managing a team of volunteers or staff.

c) Knowledge and Skills

Essential

• Experience of dealing with customers and maintaining a high level of customer service

• Car owner/driver

• Verbal and written communication skills

• IT skills

• Ability to motivate self and others

• Ability to work under pressure and deal with changing priorities

• Organisational and prioritising skills

d) General attributes

Essential

• A self starter with the ability to work independently and take the initiative whilst knowing when to delegate jobs to others within the team

• Is organised and methodical and able to multi-task

• Works well in a team and on own initiative

• Is able to build good relationships with others

• Is flexible and willing to undertake varied responsibilities as part of a team

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Shooting Star Children’s Hospice is committed to inclusion and diversity in everything we do. We know that getting things right is critical for us to live our organisation’s values: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Excellence.

We are always trying to improve our way of working to be more inclusive and equal. Our vision is for Shooting Star Children’s Hospice to be a place where people of all backgrounds, groups and communities feel welcomed to work and volunteer.

REIMAGINING GOVERNMENT FOR A CHANGING WORLD

Governments today face unprecedented challenges. From responding to climate change and tackling
inequality to managing public health crises, they are under immense pressure to meet the growing
demands of their citizens while maintaining trust and staying relevant. Yet, many of the systems and
structures that underpin government operations are no longer fit for purpose in our rapidly changing world.
At CPI, we believe it’s time to reimagine government so that it works for everyone. We envision a future
where governments are not just responsive but also resilient, inclusive, and adaptive to the complexities
of modern society. To make this vision a reality, governments must evolve—and CPI is here to help them
on that journey.

We act as a learning partner, empowering changemakers within and around government to think
differently, embrace new approaches, and create lasting, positive change. Our work is built on two core
practices: sensemaking and action-learning.

THE WORK WE DO

At CPI, we help governments transform in order to best meet the challenges of the 21st century. To do this, we focus on three core objectives:

1. Inspiring leaders to act: We cultivate visionary, empathetic leaders who are driven by a commitment to the public good. By mobilizing leaders around shared goals, we empower them to drive meaningful change, particularly in communities that have historically been underserved.
2. Innovating systems and services: We help governments and partners rethink how public services are designed and delivered. By embracing innovation, we create systems that are not only capable of solving today’s challenges but
are resilient enough to adapt to future societal, technological, and environmental shifts.
3. Integrating across boundaries: Collaboration is key to creating long-lasting impact. We help our partners break down silos and foster cross-sector partnerships, connecting ideas and people across diverse ecosystems. By doing so, we enable government leaders to continuously learn from others, improve their services, and deliver better outcomes for citizens.

At CPI, we don’t just advocate for change—we model it. Our core values—Curiosity, Courage, Collaboration, Empathy, and Equity—are at the heart of everything we do. These values shape our work culture, our partnerships, and how we engage with the world. By living these values, we create an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to the positive
changes we want to see in government. Together, we believe that by reimagining government, we can build a future where public systems are not only more capable but also more equitable, responsive, and aligned with the needs of everyone they serve. Through partnership, learning, and experimentation, CPI is uniquely positioned to lead this charge and help shape
the future of government. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE CEO

1. Values – Shaping culture and people leadership

At CPI, we strive to “walk the talk.” Our ability to serve our partners effectively starts with living our values internally—creating a culture that encourages creativity, reimagining, and bold, generative work. To unlock truly innovative ideas and approaches with our partners, we must first embody the change we seek to bring about. This requires a values-based approach that not only challenges us but also inspires those we work with to think and act differently.

Our values are at the heart of everything we do:
Curiosity - We champion exploration and creativity.
Courage - We remain authentic and brave in our decisions and actions.
Collaboration - We share power and work together.
Empathy - We seek to understand others’ perspectives and experiences.
Equity - We challenge systemic barriers to foster inclusivity and opportunity.

Therefore, the CEO of CPI must:

• Model and steward our values: Lead with integrity, transparency, accountability, and humility. Ensure that every decision and action reflects CPI’s core values.
• Inspire a relational culture: Lead through authentic, people-centred leadership. Foster an environment of honest conversations, active listening, mutual support, and resilience. Show up with presence and patience, offering support when needed.
• Champion a culture of inclusivity: Foster an environment where everyone feels they belong by embedding inclusivity and equitable practices. Ensure power is shared, and all team members are valued and empowered to contribute their unique strengths.
• Nurture a learning culture: Promote continuous learning and reflection. Encourage experimentation, embrace failure as a learning opportunity, and challenge assumptions to strengthen the organization.

2. Vision– Re-imagining government through thought-leadership

The CEO will represent CPI’s vision for reimagining government, grounded in systems thinking and complexity theory. They will be an active thought leader driving the intellectual frontier forward. Through thought leadership—whether via podcasts, reports, conferences, or advocacy—the CEO will position CPI to attract partners, collaborators, and projects that align with our unique approach and capabilities. Beyond our project portfolio, the CEO will inspire and grow a broader movement of changemakers, expanding CPI’s influence and impact across sectors and geographies.

Therefore, we seek a CEO who will:

• Inspire big conversations and tell powerful stories: The CEO will reflect, imagine, and communicate boundary-pushing thought leadership that challenges teams and engages public and social sector leaders. By sharing the ideas, insights, and inspirations that emerge from CPI’s work through blogs, podcasts, conferences, and public speaking, the CEO will inspire external audiences and catalyze bold conversations. Through storytelling, the CEO will amplify CPI’s vision, challenging others to achieve greater impact and contributing to a global movement reimagining government across sectors and geographies.
• Support public service innovation and impact: Ensure CPI is designing creative programs with our partners that help civil servants excel as stewards of public resources
• Advocate for better governance: Promote policy and governance reforms that prioritise empathy, inclusivity, and trust, positioning CPI as a global thought leader in reimagining the role of government in society.
• Convene thought leaders: Recognising government reform is hard work and hugely complex, the CEO can leverage CPI networks to create meaningful spaces for shared learning and co- produced thought leadership.

3. Strategy- Positioning CPI, prioritising our focus areas, sequencing our organizational development

CPI’s approach starts with a shift in values and thinking before driving system change and service design. Our work spans thematic areas like democratic governance, climate change, AI, gender equity, public health, and more. We use diverse tools—from service design and challenge prizes to partnership- building and fund management. As CPI grows across regions like North America, Europe, and Asia, we need a leader who can balance visionary positioning with operational priorities.

Therefore, we need a CEO who can:

• Cultivate our strategy: Building on existing strengths, develop a long-term strategy for the organization that delivers on its mission and for its partners, while harnessing the full range of capabilities within the team. CPI has a regionally federated structure, with authority appropriately devolved to trusted leaders across the organization. The CEO will play a critical role in uniting these efforts by identifying CPI’s core strengths and focus areas and clearly articulating strategic priorities for both the short and long term. At the same time, the CEO must ensure that CPI remains agile and responsive to emerging opportunities for growth and impact.
• Communicate CPI’s identity: Clarify and strengthen CPI’s identity. Ensure that our work, though complex, is communicated boldly and clearly to raise our profile. Our recent re-brand is part of this, but our next CEO will help craft a bolder, sharper presentation of who we are and how we serve.
• Global perspective and leadership: Continue to build a truly global organization, with a presence across multiple regions. While much of our team, work, and revenue are currently concentrated in the United States, we are committed to maintaining and expanding our international presence. The next CEO must have a global outlook, be comfortable working across different cultures, and actively support CPI’s vision of remaining a diverse and internationally balanced organization. It will be crucial for the CEO to lead efforts to rebalance our organizational focus, ensuring that we continue to strengthen CPI’s work across the world.
• Strengthen our operational core: Build a cohesive and high-functioning foundation across Finance, People & Culture, and Communications. The next CEO will ensure that CPI remains adaptive and entrepreneurial while developing the robust infrastructure needed for sustainable growth. This includes strengthening key operational systems to support CPI’s long-term success without compromising its innovative spirit. The CEO will maintain a strong overview of the financial health and funding forecast for CPI.
• Partner with the Board: Maintain a strong, collaborative relationship with CPI’s Board of Directors, including regular updates on progress and co-creating strategies for future growth. Support the identification and onboarding of new Board members who bring diverse perspectives and are committed to CPI’s mission and values.

4. Partnerships – expanding and deepening our collaborations Collaboration is at the heart of CPI’s work. The CEO will be a bridge-builder across sectors, geographies, and themes, growing the community of those re-imagining government.

Therefore, we expect our next CEO to:

• Steward our partnership with BCG: With our branding recently shifting from “a BCG Foundation” to “founded by BCG,” we have a unique opportunity to further maximize the benefits of our heritage and deepen our partnership with BCG. As valued learning partners and collaborators, BCG has been a steadfast supporter and proud champion of CPI. While CPI operates independently, this exceptional partnership allows us to both benefit from and contribute to BCG’s expertise, creating mutual value and enhancing our collective impact.
• Foster our strategic relationships: Strengthen and deepen relationships with governments, foundations, corporates, and changemakers. Use these collaborations to extend CPI’s impact and mutual learning.
• Network and build partnerships: Act as an ambassador for CPI, catalyzing new partnerships and co-designing innovative solutions.
• Fundraise: Although we primarily operate under a contract-based business model, our recent rebranding presents a unique opportunity to expand our ambitions and elevate our funding strategy. The next CEO will have the chance to attract larger and more innovative funding partners who share our vision and ambition, enabling us to secure core funding that strengthens CPI’s long-term impact and reach.

EXPERIENCE WE SEEK IN OUR NEXT CEO

CPI is deeply rooted in our values. Our next CEO must not only embody Curiosity, Courage, Collaboration, Empathy, and Equity but also share their personal journey of growth and continuous learning as they strive to live these values. Leading by example, they will inspire others to embrace the same principles.

As a vision-led organization, CPI requires a leader who is already thinking expansively about the future of public institutions. The ideal candidate will be a thought leader—speaking, writing, and advocating for bold, creative solutions that deliver maximum impact from public services.

CPI operates at the intersection of sectors, so our CEO must bring credibility, humility, and learning from a diverse career. Ideally, they will have experience in government, not-for-profit leadership, and commercial sectors, providing a well-rounded perspective that enhances CPI’s unique positioning. CPI has enjoyed a truly remarkable founding decade and is now entering a pivotal phase of growth and maturity. We are beyond the start-up stage but still evolving, and we seek a leader who has successfully guided organizations through similar transitions. The ideal candidate will have a track record of strategic transformation, having helped previous organizations reach their full potential during key stages of development.

We are not a generic consultancy; we are systems-thinkers versed in complexity theory, and in particular, applied to the unique challenges of government and the wider public sector. The CEO will likely have immersed themselves in these disciplines, bringing a nuanced understanding of how to navigate complexity and apply systems thinking to large-scale challenges. Our CEO must be comfortable also sitting with uncertainty and ambiguity, letting solutions be emergent and co-created in a relational context, embracing experimentation’s iterative process.

CPI is an innovative and entrepreneurial organization. We need a leader who has thrived in such
settings, made bold decisions, taken calculated risks, learned from failures, and remains a progressive
thinker in areas such as organizational design, new management practices, creative financing, and
unconventional partnerships. As an increasingly international organization, we seek a leader who is passionate about cross-cultural leadership, managing a dispersed team, and bringing a wealth of experience, networks, and insights
from working across multiple regions.

REMUNERATION

At CPI, we are committed to aligning our compensation framework with the principles of fairness, equity, and transparency. We benchmark salaries using national, country-specific data and aim to offer compensation between the 50th and 75th percentiles for all staff roles. Additionally, we maintain a 5-to-1 ratio between the most senior and junior staff, ensuring that our compensation structure remains equitable across the organization.

For the CEO role, a competitive salary will be offered in line with local benchmarking for the country where the CEO is based. As a reference, in our two largest offices, the salary range for a UK-based CEO is £170,000-200,000, and for a US-based CEO, the range is $275,000-310,000. Beyond base salary, we take a holistic approach to compensation, offering a benefits package designed to support work-life balance. This includes a generous package and leave entitlement, comprehensive health care, and flexible working arrangements. CPI’s CEO would preferably be based in the US (East Coast) or Western Europe, but we are open to discussing other locations in an exceptional circumstance. Travel will be an important part of the role, with consideration given to climate impact and effective use of time and resources. Travel will include visits to team meetings, attending key global forums, client meetings, and events that showcase CPI’s vision and inspire the re-imagination of government.

We are looking for a part time Information & Advocacy Community Support Worker in Scotland.  You will be home based living in the North of Scotland.

You will ensure that service users (children and adults) and their families, receive high quality support, from the point of diagnosis and throughout their journey, and will assist them to access funding, equipment and care and support that they are entitled to. You will join a team that makes a real difference to the lives of the people living with muscle-wasting conditions, and their families, in Scotland. The role will be primarily home based, but there will also be a requirement to attend outpatient clinics within the region, attend home visits where appropriate and to support responding to queries through the helpline and information inbox. Some travel will be required to attend meetings and events outside of Scotland. You will work with both statutory and voluntary organisations, clinicians, and health and social care professionals to ensure that people living with muscle wasting conditions get the care and support they need to live well and independently.

Please download the job description to see full role responsibilities.

About us:

Muscular Dystrophy UK (MDUK) is the charity for the 110,000 people living with muscle-wasting conditions in the UK.  We bring together people affected by more than 60 rare and very rare progressive muscle-weakening and wasting conditions.  We provide vital information, advice, resources and support for people with these conditions, their families and the professionals who work with them. Our care, information and advocacy service coordinate our support for families, providing advice and practical support to enable individuals to access the services, benefits and equipment they are entitled to. As part of our support, we also connect individuals with others affected by these rare conditions through our peer support networks.

Benefits:

We appreciate the range of skills and experience our staff have to offer. In return for your enthusiasm and commitment we commit to actively developing and supporting you. We also offer a range of benefits including pension, life assurance, cycle scheme, health cash plan, financial wellbeing and an employee assistance programme.

Location: Home based in the North of Scotland. 

Please note: you will need your own car and be able to drive for this role.

*Unfortunately, due to resource capacity, we will only contact candidates that are shortlisted for interview. Therefore if you do not hear from us within 2 weeks of the closing date please note your application has been unsuccessful.

**Please note interviews may be held on a rolling basis (via Microsoft Teams) so early application is advisable

Full-time (or 0.8), based from home, with on-site activity that requires regular UK-wide travel. NDTi are happy to talk about flexible working.

About NDTi

NDTi has been working with communities, government, health, and social care professionals for over 30 years to ensure that people with disabilities of all ages are given choice and control over their own lives.

Our organisation exists to make change happen by celebrating what’s possible, supporting changemakers and building self-determination. Our work always focuses on wider life outcomes. We want disabled and older people to enjoy the same life course and opportunities as everyone else – education, paid work, a place of their own, fulfilling personal relationships and a chance to contribute to their communities.

Purpose of the role

As a member of the research and evaluation team, the Evaluation and Learning Lead is responsible for the development, co-ordination, delivery and impact of NDTi’s commissioned, grant and trust funded evaluation and learning work. The post holder will manage and deliver a portfolio of evaluation and learning projects and will contribute to wider programme activities as required.

The person NDTi appoint to this important role will:

• develop, lead and deliver evaluation and learning projects and act as liaison for staff and associates involved in delivery of NDTi’s evaluation work.
• identify and share learning and insights generated by our work, showcasing the team’s innovative approaches, partnerships and achievements.
• design and develop evaluation and learning methodologies and materials, maintaining a consistent and high-quality approach to R&E work across NDTi.
• maintain a steady pipeline of opportunities, negotiating, securing and project managing a range of evaluation and learning contracts.
• ensure that our evaluation and learning work is co-produced with a range of stakeholders, including people with lived experience.
• establish and maintain diverse networks, generating new contacts and work opportunities for yourself and others in NDTi.
• ensure that NDTi’s evaluation and learning work is impactful and influential.

Key activities

Delivering evaluation and learning projects

Day to day, the Evaluation and Learning Lead will project manage and deliver a portfolio of evaluation and learning projects ensuring that each is delivered on time, within budget and to the expected high standard.

Securing and managing contracts

• develop and invest time in nurturing diverse contacts, partnerships and relationships to ensure that NDTi’s evaluation and learning work has a significant and positive profile, influencing attitudes, and changing policy and practice in order to make society more inclusive.
• identify opportunities for, and lead on, the development of proposals and tenders to ensure delivery of NDTi’s mission.

Organisational and other responsibilities

• represent NDTi nationally, regionally, and locally in various networks and forums.
• ensure NDTi is presented as a values-driven, innovative and high-quality organisation that is up to date with policy and practice and delivers effectively.
• work proactively with colleagues and teams across NDTi.​

Success in the role

The person NDTi appoints to this role will:

live our values:

NDTi is built around our desire to improve the rights and lives of those who are often excluded from the opportunities in work, community, and life that many take for granted. You will share our values around rights and equalities, enable people with lived experience to be part of our work, and ensure that work is focused on really making a difference in people’s lives.

be innovative:

Bringing in new work through proposals, bids and grant applications is key to this role. The postholder will bring their expertise and connections to build the NDTi portfolio of work around ageing and older people so that it has a range of projects of different types, and clearly moves towards our strategic ambitions.

have external influence and impact:

We exist to create change and build evidence. You will be able to gather evidence, work with people and partners, and deliver work which influences positive change and has a tangible impact.

be organised:

The role will involve managing multiple projects and project teams and managing your own workload. Successful postholders will be able to work with a diverse and changing workload.

be flexible:

Understanding and accommodating of changing priorities and being supportive of other team members commitments and capacity challenges.

work well within a team:

The evaluation and learning lead will work as part of the R&E Team. They are expected to contribute to the development of the team and its work.

build partnerships:

Relationships are key, and the person who is great in this role will bring and build connections and generate positive working relationships across sectors that enables collaboration with a wide range of people from different backgrounds and perspectives.

Person specification

Essential (e) and desirable (d) personal attributes and core competencies for this role.

Work experience & qualifications

• At least four years of experience of delivering leading edge practice in relation to evaluation and learning activities (e)
• Minimum of two years’ experience of undertaking fieldwork on evaluation and learning projects in a related field including quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis
• Demonstrable ability and experience of successfully tendering and applying for funding, developing and sustaining a viable pipeline of future opportunities (e)
• Experience of managing numerous and complex projects of varying size and length for different clients (e)
• Educated to degree level or with equivalent gained through professional experience and achievements (e)
• Values and behaviours
• You will share our commitment, values and belief in NDTi’s mission (e)
• You will demonstrate, understand and apply our workplace values of driving inclusion, being reliable, open and honest, acting with humanity, and being curious and commit to work and act in ways that positively reinforce NDTi’s values and behaviours framework at all times (e)
• You will challenge behaviours and attitudes that serve against NDTi’s values and inclusive culture (e)
• You may have personal experience of health or social services or being a family carer for someone, that you can bring to your role with NDTi (e)

​For more information please refer to the attached.

Earlier this year, we launched our new Regional Clinical Lead roles across England. We are now recruiting 2 more Regional Clinical Leads to join the Excellence Network and lead their regional network in the South West and East of England.

Last month, the Excellence Network moved to a new regional model in England and introduced the 7 newly-formed Parkinson’s Excellence Network (PEN) regions in England, with the boundaries aligned to the 7 NHS England regions. Click here to read more about the new model. 

The regional model in the devolved nations remains the same: there are 3 regions in Scotland, 2 in Wales and 1 region in Northern Ireland.

To help us deliver this new regional model, we are gradually recruiting the consultancy services of Regional Clinical Leads in each of the 7 regions in England. So far, we have appointed 2 Regional Clinical Leads in the North West of England and in the North East and Yorkshire.

We currently have vacancies in the following regions in England:

• South West
• East of England

Who can apply?

Any UK-based healthcare professional, working in Parkinson’s or with an interest and expertise in the condition, with exceptional interpersonal and influencing skills. Healthcare professionals living with Parkinson’s are also encouraged to apply.

You’ll have a good understanding of the landscape of health and social care delivery, education and workforce development to support the strategic aims and objectives of Parkinson’s UK.

Time commitment: 0.5 days per week (1 programmed activity) to be worked flexibly across the month.

Remuneration: monthly rate based on skills and experience.

Term of consultancy services: 3 years from date of appointment, with an option to extend for a further 3 years. You can then re-apply for the role if you wish.

View the full role description on our website.

How to apply

For further details about the role, please email us.

Your application will be by a CV and a detailed supporting statement to show how you match what we’re looking for, as outlined in the role description above. Please state the geographical area you’re based in when you apply.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a 1-hour virtual interview.

Closing date for applications: midnight on Sunday 17 November.

About Voice 21 

Voice 21 is the national oracy education charity. We exist to empower every child to use their voice for success in school and life. Our work transforms learning and life chances through talk by increasing access to a high-quality oracy education for those that need it most. Follow the links to find out more about why oracy is so vital and the impact Voice 21 has. 

Your opportunity 

Tackle a vital challenge, with great people. Voice 21 exists to transform childrens’ learning and life chances through talk and we are aiming to be working with 2,000 schools a year by 2025. To reach this goal we recruit great people and give them real responsibility, training and support. 

Output focused culture, with flexible working opportunities. We have an agile and flexible approach – our team can work when and wherever works best to deliver the requirements of their role. For staff working at home, we support them to create a workspace and provide technology that enables them to work effectively. 

Real development opportunities. We believe in supporting people to develop the skills they need to be excellent – whether this means funding external training, finding a mentor to support them or giving them the time to learn from others in the organisations through our regular CPD sessions. We also offer paid study leave for team members taking part in formal studies outside of work. 

Great benefits. 33 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays) and additional Christmas closure period. Holiday entitlement increases linked to length of service, 5% employer contribution to pension, interest-free season ticket, cycle and technology loans, employee assistance scheme. 

Remuneration. Our pay is band and spine point approach where there is up to 7 years progression available (depending on starting point)

Your purpose

To facilitate the Voice 21 approach in Voice 21 Oracy Schools through leading professional development and school improvement programmes, and by designing and delivering high impact learning experiences and materials for teachers and school leaders. 

Your responsibilities

Quality programme delivery

• Lead high quality professional development and school improvement programmes in our Pathway programmes and Open Learning for groups of teachers. These may be delivered in person, online or in school. 

• Deliver transformative consultancy support, working with teachers and school leaders to design and implement bespoke improvement plans for their oracy provision, including through in school and online consultancy support, and one-to-one advice.

• Build credibility and purposeful relationships with programme participants, both at programme days and touchpoints, and on an on-going basis to drive impact in our schools.

• Be responsible for participant learning and experience on your programmes, upholding high standards for all elements such as preparation, adapting to participant needs, content and rigour, on-going interactions and support, and participant feedback.

Learning content & programme development

• Proactively share insights and learning from the programmes you deliver, proposing and shaping solutions to enable Voice 21 to continually improve its programme offer.

• Apply and share expertise through varied outputs such as teaching materials, online learning content, resources, written or video outputs. Proactively identify and respond to opportunities or gaps and fulfil briefs or commissions. 

• Contribute to the continual improvement of Voice 21’s programmes, through development and review cycles, based on first-hand learning from our schools, content expertise, programme insights and external research and evidence. 

Team and organisational contribution

• Act as an ambassador for Voice 21’s national oracy expertise, communicating the value and impact of our approach at conferences, events and through publications.

• Embody and communicate oracy teaching and learning expertise within the organisation, acting as a resource for the wider team and making contributions to organisational priorities, projects, campaigns and events, outputs and publications etc. 

• Continually and proactively develop your own and others’ expertise in Voice 21’s approach to a high quality oracy education, and use this to leverage impact for our schools through tangible learning outputs.

• Identify and carry out other tasks commensurate to the level and spirit of the role as required.

Your experience

• You are an excellent teacher (primary or secondary).

• You are passionate about teaching and learning, and the role of talk in learning. You have used talk to support learning in your classroom.

• You have experience leading whole-school change and inspiring teachers to embrace new approaches and ideas.

• You have a knowledge of a range of speaking and listening techniques and contexts for oracy, these could include: debate, dialogic teaching, storytelling, public speaking or communication and language development. 

• You are a strong communicator both when working in a small team and when facilitating learning for large groups of adults. 

• You are flexible, can think on your feet and can bring your own experiences to the work we do.

• You are highly-organised, look for solutions and can prioritise and manage a varied workload. 

• You are willing to travel nationally on a frequent basis (2-3 days a week) during term time; this will include regular overnight stays.  

• You are enthusiastic, willing to learn and feel you would be energised by our mission. If you do not fully meet all the above criteria, but are happy to work towards developing into the role, we would be happy to consider your application.

Application Details:

We are particularly interested to hear from applicants who live in the Midlands. Please send your most recent CV and a document answering the questions below:

• Tell us why you want to work at Voice 21. What is it about us and our mission that excites you? (Max. 400 words)

• Making direct reference to the job description, please tell us the three main reasons why you would make an excellent Programme Lead (Max. 400 words).

• Tell us about something you have achieved recently that you are proud of? (Max 200 words)

Closing date: Monday 11th November 

Interview date: w/c 18th November 

Start date: December/January 2025 

Terms: Permanent, subject to successful probation review at 3 months.

Contract: This is a full time post, but we would welcome applications from those looking for 0.8 FTE. 

Location: Home-based with frequent national travel, including overnight stays, to work with schools and attend meetings. Applicants must hold a valid UK driving licence and have access to a car they can use for work. 

Valuing every voice

Voice 21 believes that every voice should be heard and valued. We are committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and do not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership.

We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join Voice 21.

At Family Action we support people through change, challenge or crisis. It’s what we’ve done for over 150 years. We protect children, support young people and adults and offer direct, practical help to families and communities. 

We see first-hand the power of family to shape lives, for better or worse, so we speak up for the importance of family in national and local policymaking, amplify family voices and represent the changing needs of families in the UK today. 

We are delighted to be delivering the National School Breakfast Programme. Family Action is committed to supporting child development, and we believe a healthy school breakfast, without barrier or stigma, can set up children to succeed and give them the very best chance to learn. Working with schools across the country, the post holder will make a vital contribution in ensuring thousands of children in disadvantaged areas have a healthy breakfast at the start of the school day.

As a School Breakfast Coordinator, you will be required to work directly with schools to recruit them to the programme, facilitate the successful set up of breakfast delivery in their schools and provide ongoing support and advice. A big part of this role will be to proactively contact schools to offer them a virtual meeting to support them to sustain and grow their breakfast provision. 

Main Responsibilities:

• Proactively contact schools to offer online meetings and support in the ongoing delivery of their breakfast provision. Offering advice and guidance to increase the number of children having breakfast each day
• Respond to school queries via a support desk either by phone or email in a timely manner. Escalating to colleagues within the service as appropriate.
• Share knowledge, ideas, feedback and evidence of good practice with schools to inspire and encourage improved delivery of the breakfast provision.
• Work closely with colleagues and partners supplying the service delivery, ensuring any issues relating to Food orders, deliveries or provision help are reported and action is taken immediately.

Main Requirements (for details check the job description and person specification):

• The successful candidate will preferably be educated to degree level or relevant professional qualification to level 3. Have experience of working in customer service environments or experience of being first point of contact and providing high quality support.
• Experience of working in an educational setting or in partnership with schools or other educational providers and knowledge of how schools operate.
• Experience working in a remote team with the ability to confidently build relationships with a range of professionals, stakeholders and services.
• Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills including the ability to engage a range of audiences virtually.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office with strong IT and administration skills and a high level of competency in the use of Salesforce or a similar CRM tool. 

Benefits: 

• an annual paid leave entitlement that commences at 25 working days, rising each April by one day, subject to a maximum of 30 working days plus bank holidays 
• up to 6% matched-pension contributions
• enhanced paid sick leave and paid family leave provisions
• eye care and winter flu jabs vouchers
• cycle to work scheme
• investing in your professional development with ongoing quality training and career development opportunities

We are forward looking, ambitious and committed to continuous improvement. We are a people focused, can-do organisation, which strives for excellence in all we do and operates with mutual respect.

To Apply:

· Download and submit a completed Application Form linked to the Family Action job advert

• Closing Date: Monday 11th November 2024

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:

We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process, and you will be asked whether you require any adjustments if shortlisted for interview. We also make reasonable adjustments on the job, where required.

We are committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion in all that we do and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Intersectionality is important to us and we particularly welcome applications from ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ candidates and disabled candidates because we are committed to increasing the representation of these groups at Family Action. We know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for families and children and strive for our workforce to be truly representative of the diverse communities we support. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role and will reimburse your travel cost if you attend an interview.

*Ordinarily Family Action appoints new starters at the starting point of the salary scale (with subsequent annual pay progression), unless you have experience that would justify appointment further up the salary scale or there are any other exceptional reasons

Having recently secured a strategic partnership with Sport England, this role will play a pivotal role in activating the research activities that are required to inform the Leadership Skills Foundation and the wider sector to empower a more diverse range of young people with opportunities to develop essential leadership and life skills, regardless of their background.

You will be a valued manager within the ‘Programme Delivery’ team and will work with other departments across the organization to support the development of future accessible and inclusive essential leadership programmes. With a key focus being on the needs, benefits and outcomes required among underserved and/or under-represented communities and individuals.

This role will require positive and proactive internal working relationships to be created with other teams and colleagues to support organisational objectives and goals.

In addition, the role will also be required to foster relationships with external stakeholders to shape the research that you will manage through your team.  This work will support the development of our programmes to engage thousands more young people and give them the essential leadership skills for them to believe, lead and succeed.

We’re looking for a confident, collaborative research manager that wants to make a positive social difference through research.  This role will inform the changes that are required within the organisation’s programmes and support the sector to give access to essential leadership skills development to under-served communities through breaking down barriers.

Role duties and responsibilities

1. Manage research and impact projects and activities, internally and externally, in support of our programme delivery strategic goals.
2. Develop and manage research proposals and methodologies to address strategic goals. 
3. Manage both primary and secondary research using a range of methodologies. 
4. Interpret and analyse research to derive meaningful insights and provide actionable recommendations.
5. Present research findings, into clear, actionable recommendations, and compelling presentations that facilitate informed decision making across all levels of the organisation. 
6. Identify and recommend new research and evaluation projects and approaches which address gaps in our current evidence base. 
7. Engage with the Leadership team and Head of Programme Delivery to understand the organisation’s research requirements and align with organisational goals.
8. Manage other researchers providing guidance and support in their professional development.
9. Contribute to the research project budgeting process, ensuring efficient use of resources. 
10. Scope and produce ‘Invitations to Tender’ for commissioned research and manage the commissioning process, ensuring that the proposed research meets required objectives. 
11. Manage commissioned research contracts, including monitoring progress, reviewing and editing reports. 
12. Foster collaborative internal relationships to drive a culture of research driven decisions throughout the organisation. 
13. Build and maintain relationships with external partners and funders and communicate key findings where required. 
14. Ensure all research activities comply with ethical standards. 
15. Maintain an awareness of new research developments across the sector and use this to inform planning and decision making.   

People Management Responsibilities

• Delivery Programme Research Executive (0.8)
• Working with other managers whose direct reports will support the delivery of programme goals and activities

Key Relationships

Internal

• Line Manager: Head of Programme Delivery
• Direct report: Delivery Programme Research Executive
• Departments: Innovation, Marketing and Communications
• Leadership Team including - Directors of: Innovation & Standards; Engagement; Finance and Operations, and Chief Executive.
• Finance Manager

External

• Strategic partners including organisations such as Sport England.
• National and regional network and research partners.
• Key local delivery centres

Skills, experience and knowledge

Required/essential:

• Educated to degree level in a subject with substantial statistical or research content.
• Proven experience of working in a relevant research role. 
• Experience of leading/managing a range of different research projects, using a range of both primary and secondary research methodologies to gather both qualitative and quantitative research. 
• Experience in designing and leading high quality research proposals and tenders.
• Demonstratable experience and evidence of aligning research projects and activities with strategic goals and informing organisational decision making.
• Experience of formulating research reports and making recommendations in a range of easy to read and innovative formats.   
• Proven track record of building and nurturing highly effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including senior colleagues and external funders or partners. 
• Effective communication skills with the ability to present information confidently to a diverse range of stakeholders, including leadership team, funders and external partners.
• Excellent project management skills and experience of leading research projects on time and on budget.  
• Strong organisation skills, ability to multi-task and work effectively in a busy team environment. 
• Able to deliver at pace ensuring efficiency.
• Excellent listening and recording skills to effectively evidence the findings of research. 
• Understanding of ethical standards and practices in research including potential issues.
• Complete and finish tasks independently and/or as part of a team. 
• Show competence with IT (including Microsoft Office). 

Desired:

• Line management experience
• Knowledge and understanding of the sector, including trends, challenges, and best practices
• Experience of researching on funded projects and meeting grant requirements.

 Personal qualities

• A confident, collaborative manager that wants to make a positive social difference.
• Pro-active with the ability to work on own initiative collaboratively and independently.
• Effective and confident communicator.
• Adaptable to operational requirements with an openness to give and receive constructive feedback as part of a growth mindset.
• A creative, problem solver with the ability to think critically and analyse a range data. 
• An ability to travel across the UK is required.

Earlier this year, we launched our new Regional Clinical Lead roles across England. We are now recruiting 2 more Regional Clinical Leads to join the Excellence Network and lead their regional network in the South West and East of England.

Last month, the Excellence Network moved to a new regional model in England and introduced the 7 newly-formed Parkinson’s Excellence Network (PEN) regions in England, with the boundaries aligned to the 7 NHS England regions. Click here to read more about the new model. 

The regional model in the devolved nations remains the same: there are 3 regions in Scotland, 2 in Wales and 1 region in Northern Ireland.

To help us deliver this new regional model, we are gradually recruiting the consultancy services of Regional Clinical Leads in each of the 7 regions in England. So far, we have appointed 2 Regional Clinical Leads in the North West of England and in the North East and Yorkshire.

We currently have vacancies in the following regions in England:

• South West
• East of England

Who can apply?

Any UK-based healthcare professional, working in Parkinson’s or with an interest and expertise in the condition, with exceptional interpersonal and influencing skills. Healthcare professionals living with Parkinson’s are also encouraged to apply.

You’ll have a good understanding of the landscape of health and social care delivery, education and workforce development to support the strategic aims and objectives of Parkinson’s UK.

Time commitment: 0.5 days per week (1 programmed activity) to be worked flexibly across the month.

Remuneration: monthly rate based on skills and experience.

Term of consultancy services: 3 years from date of appointment, with an option to extend for a further 3 years. You can then re-apply for the role if you wish.

View the full role description here.

How to apply

For further details about the role, please email us.

Your application will be by a CV and a detailed supporting statement to show how you match what we’re looking for, as outlined in the role description above. Please state the geographical area you’re based in when you apply.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a 1-hour virtual interview.

Closing date for applications: midnight on Sunday 17 November.

We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Training and Support Worker to lead and support The Mason Foundation’s future growth and development by providing and delivering training to a variety of audiences.  The role is home based - with requirement to travel (ideally, candidates will be located in the ‘South Central’ area of England, including Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Hampshire, and surrounding areas).  Hours - 30 -37.5 hours, available as a part-time or full-time position. 

Through our programmes we reduce inequalities, empower communities, and drive meaningful, sustainable change.The Mason Foundation delivers people centred services, projects and training, through its specialist wellbeing and employment programmes including:

· The Mason Mile – supporting inclusive, community led starting point physical activity centred around ‘1 Mile’

· Propel - supporting young people with learning disabilities, into meaningful and sustainable employment.

· Bespoke Community Impact Projects – supporting and empowering communities to co-develop and deliver impactful and meaningful change.

As the Training and Support Worker, you will play a pivotal part in the development of our programmes and training, through sharing partner insight, understanding the latest evidence and landscape of workplace inclusivity and keeping abreast of other providers in this space. You will be required to travel regularly to deliver face to face training within the community, education settings and workplaces.   

You will have a track record of working within learning, development, community engagement or similar, ideally with experience of supporting communities with additional needs.

You will be a strong, passionate, and inspiring facilitator, driven to deliver impactful training. You will be a skilled communicator, confident in using a variety of methods to engage and empower others from a broad range of backgrounds and settings.

You will be a team player and understand the need to work seamlessly in collaboration with multiple agencies including local authority, corporate and third sector partners, to help ensure high quality delivery of our services, to our communities.

The Training and Support Worker will need to embrace a ‘make it happen’ working environment, with constant dedication and a passion for making a difference as part of a committed charity, supporting disadvantaged communities.

In return, you get to work for a great, growing charity with like-minded people with a competitive salary.

All offers of employment are conditional upon you signing the contract of employment and:

· Two satisfactory references

· Proof of attainment of qualifications

· Evidence of your right to work in the United Kingdom; and

· If applicable, satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Proposed Week of Interview: w/c 18th November 2024

The Mason Foundation is an equal opportunities employer and proud to be a Disability Confident Leader. We positively encourage applications from candidates regardless of sex, race or ethnicity, nationality, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, or belief, marital or civil partnership status, parental or carer status, education, socioeconomic background, pregnancy or maternity, or any other characteristic protected under equality legislation. 

We are especially keen to encourage and welcome applications from people currently under-represented within the organisation, these include but are not limited to those from the LGBT+ community, people with disabilities, and candidates who are Black or People of Colour. Those with disabilities meeting the minimum requirements for the post will be shortlisted and reasonable adjustments will be made to ensure they are not disadvantaged during the interview process.

We are looking for a Climate Action Manager to join the Community Impact team. The role will collaborate widely across BITC and externally, to challenge and support business to accelerate a just transition to a net zero, resilient future where people and nature thrive. The Climate Action Manager will plan, design, and deliver collaborative projects, tools & resources,  as well as communications activities to support businesses and communities to accelerate a just transition to net zero.

The Climate Action Manager will work across both our business transformation and community climate fund projects, so having both business facing and community facing experience of delivering sustainability projects would be advantageous.

The successful candidate will have a good understanding of the role of business in delivering a just transition to net zero as well as experience of managing projects, delivering written content, facilitating workshops, and identifying trends and emerging issues. The full list of responsibilities and criteria can be found in the job description and person specification.

Salary in line with the BITC job framework, professional level 4 – manager – minimum of £33,120 national and £36,225 London office based

Closing date: 17 November 2024 

Interview date: 27 November 2024

Team Leader- Stand Alone   

Wokingham 

£27,136 rising to £30,152 per annum 

Full Time, Permanent 

Are you looking for a challenging and rewarding role where you are able to empower people every day to develop their skills and achieve their potential? Do you enjoy working in an environment where every day is different to the next?  Then this could be the role for you.

The role 

Our client is looking for a Team Leader to join them to manage a team of recovery staff that work with their young people leaving care.  

Helping to maintain a welcoming, safe environment for their young people, you will carry out quality checks on their support records to ensure organisational standards are upheld.  

You will support your team to achieve their potential through regular staff supervision and you will ensure your staff are supporting young people in areas such as substance use, health and wellbeing, life skills, money management and managing their tenancies.  

You’ll work with external partners to maximise the opportunities available to young people so that they can resettle in the community and you’ll undertake Health & Safety checks ensuring information is recorded accurately on internal systems in accordance with Health and Safety regulations . 

About you 

You will love supporting others and helping them to progress and achieve their goals. Your positive attitude towards your work and your team will help to contribute to a great working environment.  You will have a calm and personable manner and be able to handle potentially difficult situations.  

You’ll have: 

• Clear verbal and written English and great communication skills 

• Basic IT and keyboard skills  

• Polite, assertive manner 

• Passion for working in a client/customer facing role 

• Have an interest and genuine concern for homelessness and related issues 

• Experience of working in a residential or institutional or similar 

• Knowledge of voluntary and statutory agencies  

They reserve the right to close their adverts early if a successful candidate is found, so please submit your application as soon as possible.

Staff benefits, support and development 

Staff benefits include: 

• Pension with life cover 

• Generous holiday allowance 

• Extra mile awards for outstanding work 

• Work offers including discounted shopping vouchers, days out and holidays 

• Cycle to work scheme 

• Confidential employee assistance programme including access to counselling 

• Employee voice – their Staff Council 

• Recruitment referral scheme 

They support and develop our staff by providing: 

• A comprehensive induction and training programme 

• Management training 

• Trauma-informed care training 

• Specialist training, coaching and development opportunities linked to personal development plans 

• Access to accredited qualifications 

• Mental Health First Aid training and provision 

• Access to counselling psychologists via their Psychology Service 

About Them 

They offer support to people who are homeless, vulnerable or at risk of becoming homeless and need help rebuilding their lives for a brighter future. Their services include safe, flexible and reliable client led housing and support with a focus on reducing homelessness, improving health and wellbeing and building on individual’s skills and resilience to break the cycle of homelessness, poverty and exclusion. 

They work in partnership with multiple agencies and authorities to deliver support and accommodation needs across Berkshire, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton. 

They’re committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workforce that embodies their values and promotes a tolerant and respectful environment where everyone can feel empowered to succeed. 

They welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and will support with any reasonable adjustments needed during the recruitment process. 

Peer Support Development Officer – Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire

 About Kinship:

Kinship is the leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We offer kinship carers financial, legal, practical and emotional support and understanding from the moment they need it, for as long as they need it. Our expert advice, information and guidance helps with complicated and stressful decisions that so many kinship families have to make. We are always there to support them through challenging times and celebrate the good. 

Kinship carers are strong and determined. Together, they are powerful. We help them build communities of support and action by connecting families locally and across England and Wales. 

We are at the heart of kinship networks, partnering with and influencing service providers, local and national government and other organisations. We give everything we have to fight for each family and their rights, changing society until every kinship family is recognised, valued and supported. 

Kinship care often begins in crisis. A child has parents who are unable to care for them, for whatever reason. It can be frightening, confusing and heart-breaking.

Instinctively, a loved one steps in – a grandparent, brother, sister, aunt, uncle or family friend. They are now a kinship carer, bringing up the children they love. There is often no chance to prepare. Plans may be pushed aside. Relationships, jobs and savings are frequently sacrificed.

It is life changing and challenging raising children who have been hurt or neglected, but kinship carers do it anyway because they put the children first.

We know how hard life can be for kinship carers, but we have seen the amazing things they are capable of, with someone by their side. With the right support, children raised in kinship families can flourish. 

That is why we support, connect and campaign – to keep kinship families stronger by keeping them together.

About the Team

The Peer Support and Community team at Kinship is dedicated to enhancing the lives of kinship carers across England and Wales by delivering the first national peer support service. With a focus on building and sustaining networks of peer support groups, the team aims to empower kinship carers through access to resources, training, and development opportunities.

By fostering connections within local, regional, and national ecosystems, the team plays a vital role in ensuring that every kinship carer has access to a supportive community.

As part of our commitment to growth and impact, the team develops innovative approaches to peer support, creating an inclusive environment where kinship carers can share experiences and access essential services. We prioritize collaboration across various departments, ensuring that support group leaders receive high-quality advice and training, facilitating their sustainability and effectiveness. This integrated approach also includes alignment with national and local campaigning efforts to further engage and support the kinship carer community.

In line with our strategic focus on cultivating a vibrant Kinship Community of over 10,000 carers, the team leads initiatives aimed at enhancing community connection and empowering kinship families. By developing a robust model of community engagement that encompasses both in-person and digital services, the team aims to amplify the voices of kinship carers, enabling them to effect meaningful change in their lives and communities.

 About the role

This role is community-based and focuses on engaging kinship carers, bringing them together to form Peer Support Groups, and supporting them to achieve independence at which point they will receive ongoing support from our national Hub.

You will do this by working with local authorities, schools, other charities and community groups. Arranging information events such as coffee mornings to engage kinship carers. You’ll create a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive community for kinship carers, building belonging, resilience, and empowerment.

Funded by the Department of Education, the National Peer Support Service is a game-changing service that creates a sustainable and life-changing legacy. It builds on Kinship’s 10 years of experience in developing peer support groups and two years of delivering a national service that has set up 145 new groups.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking an individual located in easy reach of Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire, who possesses the drive, passion, and skills to:

· Develop new Peer Support Groups across a diverse range of communities

· Demonstrate the energy and enthusiasm required to achieve key targets and objectives

· Work collaboratively within the Peer Support and Community Team, as well as throughout the broader organisation, to ensure the development of safe and effective support services for the kinship community.

· Maintain current Peer Support Group levels, taking the lead from the national Hub.

· Maintain accurate records that are used to populate reports, identify learning and share key insights across Kinship that allow the organisation to continuously improve our services and products.

You should have experience in developing and maintaining meaningful relationships with various community-based stakeholders such as local authorities, health services, schools, charities, and kinship carers. You will need to understand the key success factors involved in establishing and developing new in-person groups in areas of high need, as well as how to support existing groups in their journey towards sustainability.

As a practical thinker, you will work creatively to identify stakeholders and assets in areas of high need. You will build local connections and bring together kinship carers across the region, empowering them to build resilient and robust peer support communities.

You will be confident in building relationships that generate referrals from external stakeholders and in contacting kinship carers directly to secure engagement with local coffee mornings, community, and training events that will help kick-start a thriving peer support group.

As you establish new groups, you will provide support and training to help them lead their groups effectively, and develop their group culture, resilience, and skills to function independently while offering reassurance and support to empower them.

We are ideally looking for candidates based in easy reach of Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire. Key development areas for this post will initially include; Oldham, Bury, Tameside, Doncaster, York and the East Riding of Yorkshire. You may be required to support the development of groups in North Lincolnshire. This role may also involve work to establish groups on the periphery of this area that currently have no dedicated Development staff.

An essential requirement of the role is to be a driver with access to a vehicle for work purposes.

Key responsibilities: 

Service delivery:

• In-person (face-to-face) strategic outreach into local communities including setting up and attending local engagement events.
• Set up and develop sustainable in person peer support groups, initially attending and leading sessions in person before transition to self-sufficiency. 
• Working with existing groups that are at risk, closed or need support that need replacing or rejuvenating to maintain DfE service level agreement, in addition to new groups. Targets are subject to change and are not fixed. 
• Recruit and retain support group leaders to develop their peer support groups.
• Assist with the delivery of training to support group leaders and groups to become self-sufficient.
• Develop strong boundaried and positive relationships with support group leaders – building resilience, empowerment and community.
• Support established groups (including independent) in your area to access support group leader networks and training (this includes visiting groups in person) to build a peer community. 
• Follow (and where appropriate support further development off) the service blueprint to develop sustainable peer support groups.
• Collaborate with the Peer Support Hub team to provide a joined-up and positive user experience for kinship carers.
• Manage special interest groups and regional online groups as required, transitioning to ‘Hub’ team for sustainability and work with partners. 

Service quality, development and data management:

• Accurately record all recruitment, contact information and volunteer case management in Salesforce in line with service framework and data protection requirements.
• Ensure accurate data entry in Salesforce to support service performance, evaluation and learning.
• Provide regular reports to ensure targets and SLA are met for the service.
• Support continuous development and improvement of the service (new systems and processes) as required.
   

Team culture:

• Act in the best interest of Kinship and the families we support.
• Maintain and contribute up to date understanding of kinship care.
• Deliver effective administration with attention to detail and keeping to deadlines.
• Identify and contribute to appropriate case studies to demonstrate the impact of Kinship services and contribute to policy and campaigns work.
• Actively contribute to delivering and evidencing a high performing service.
• Take responsibility for your ongoing continued professional development.
• Work in line with the Kinship values.

 Knowledge, abilities, skills and experience (person spec):

 Essential:

· Proven experience in reaching and establishing strong relationships with hidden or underserved communities in person.

· Significant experience developing peer support communities.

· Proven experience of recruiting, managing, training and supporting volunteers in community settings with an emphasis on understanding and working with vulnerable volunteers.

· Proven experience of ensuring outcomes and impacts of services are evidenced through high-quality data collection.

· Evidence of developing and delivering training/support to volunteers, based on the needs of service users (in this case kinship carers).

· Strong facilitation skills and essential experience of peer support or user-led groups with charity beneficiaries.

· Proven experience of using a customer relationship management system effectively (we use Salesforce).

· In-depth understanding of safeguarding particularly around vulnerable families.

· Excellent communication and engagement skills, with good attention to detail.

Desirable:

· Lived experience of kinship care.

· Understanding of children’s social care.

· Digital community building (Facebook / WhatsApp etc).

· Full, clean driving licence/own car.

General characteristics and attributes:

· Flexible and willing to travel for work across England.

· Commitment to the values, aims and objectives of Kinship.

· A real commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion within your role and a respectful approach to working with people from a range of backgrounds.

· Excellent written and spoken English.

· Permission to work in the UK.

Equality Diversity and Inclusion 

Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion.  We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams.  We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work. We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us. 

Candidate Application Information

Please refer to the Job Description for this role to check that you meet the criteria necessary for the job. Closing date and interview details:

Closing date: 1 November 2024 12:00 pm

Interviews: Week Commencing 4 November 2024

We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the stated deadline.

We will guarantee interviews to any candidates with experience of kinship care (either of being in kinship care or of being a kinship carer) who demonstrate they meet the essential skills and experience outlined.

Please tell us if there are any reasonable adjustments, we can make to assist you in your application. If you have a disability, which you would like us to consider, please tell us about this when you apply.  Please let us know if we can help and remember that you can request information in large print or in a different format.