Designated safeguarding officer jobs

We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly motivated Chief Executive to assume overall responsibility for the management of HMC. The purpose of this senior leadership role is to lead the organisation in fulfilling its purpose of supporting migrants in Hackney and the wider London community, ensuring they can access their rights and overcome injustices in the immigration and social welfare system.

As a Housing Options Officer, you will provide housing-related support, advice, and guidance to vulnerable young people aged 16-35 living in YMCA accommodation. You will work closely with residents to help them develop independent living skills, manage their tenancies, maximise their income, access education and employment opportunities, and move on to sustainable housing solutions. 

What you'll be doing

• Managing a caseload of young people and providing person-centred support.
• Completing assessments, support plans, and risk assessments.
• Supporting residents with budgeting, welfare benefits, tenancy sustainment, and life skills.
• Working with housing providers, local authorities, and support agencies to secure positive move-on outcomes.
• Managing rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, and resident welfare issues.
• Promoting safeguarding, wellbeing, and a psychologically informed environment (PIE).
• Acting as a shift lead when required and helping maintain a safe and supportive accommodation environment. 

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience supporting young people or vulnerable adults in a housing, support, youth work, or customer-facing environment.
• Understands the challenges facing young people experiencing homelessness.
• Has excellent communication, organisation, and relationship-building skills.
• Can work effectively with a range of internal and external partners.
• Is passionate about helping young people achieve positive futures.
• Can maintain professional boundaries while providing compassionate support.

Role overview 

Shine supports a community of over 15,000 members living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus, including 10,000 adults (25+).

You will be delivering high-quality support and creating opportunities for adults living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus and their carers, supporting Shine members to lead healthy, independent, and fulfilling lives by improving condition management and fostering connections within the Shine community. 

This role will focus on adults (25+), you will be primarily working within the Adult Services Team. However, there will be occasions when you will work across age groups to ensure the best outcomes for our members. 

The role is home-based and ideally you will live within an hour commute of London, within Essex, Kent or Sussex as you will be attending clinics in London and the Southeast as required. There would be occasional travel required across wider areas and nationally including attendance at events, conferences and meetings at our head office in Peterborough. 

The role is full time 35 hours per week, Monday - Friday with working core hours 9am-5pm with some flexibility to cover events evenings/weekends.

Key Responsibilities 

• Deliver innovative support across your region to improve health, social, and emotional outcomes for members. 

• Attend specialist clinics to engage with members and professionals. 

• Provide information, advice, and guidance to our adult members and carers, including hard-to-reach communities. 

• Support members to access benefits, services, and resources that promote financial stability, health, and independence. 

• Refer members to Shine’s Health team, internal specialists, or external agencies as appropriate. 

• Develop age-specific groups and peer support networks to reduce isolation and encourage social interaction. 

• Recruit and support Shine volunteers. 

• Contribute to regional and national events (face-to-face and virtual) based on member needs and interests. 

• Represent Shine at conferences, provide information, raise awareness among professionals, external organisations, and the public through presentations and training. 

• Promote Shine membership to individuals with relevant conditions. 

• Maintain accurate records using Shine’s CRM (Salesforce database). 

• Collaborate with colleagues across services, fundraising, marketing to identify opportunities for sustainability. 

• Maintain an up-to-date directory of contacts and share relevant information internally. 

• Undertake administrative tasks and other duties as required.

Other Core Requirements of Working for Shine 

• Ability to travel across designated areas. 

• Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to work outside core hours when required. 

• Ability to work from home and manage lone working effectively. 

• Self-motivated, with strong initiative and ability to work independently and as part of a dispersed team. 

• Full Enhanced DBS check, UK Right to Work and satisfactory references required. 

Benefits to working at Shine:

• Competitive salary: Review due April 2027 

• Regular working hours, and no shift work (some very occasional weekends or evenings) 

• 3% pension contribution 

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with additional discretionary leave between Christmas and New Year 

• Additional annual leave awarded for ‘long service’ 

• Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave 

• Broadband allowance for home-based roles 

• Life insurance after 12 months’ employment 

• Access to our Employee Support Programmeand Mental Health First Aiders 

• Support to learn and develop 

The Friendly Trust is a Wales-based registered charity providing specialist information, advice, and financial administration for disabled people and other vulnerable adults, and for families planning for the future of someone who may lack capacity. Our work is centred on the individual. We aim to protect people's rights, promote independence and ensure that financial arrangements support people to live the lives they choose.

Purpose of the Role

Trust Officers play a key role in delivering The Friendly Trust's services. 

The postholder will manage an allocated caseload, providing practical support, advice and financial administration to Service Users and their families. 

The role combines person-centred casework with welfare benefits, financial management, advocacy and multi-agency working. Trust Officers develop professional relationships with Service Users and use their knowledge, judgement and problem-solving skills to ensure that people's financial affairs are managed appropriately while promoting choice, independence and individual rights. 

Where a person may lack capacity to make a particular financial decision, the Trust Officer will ensure that their work reflects the principles and requirements of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and any other relevant legal authority under which The Friendly Trust is acting. 

Key Responsibilities

Service User Support and Casework 

• Manage an allocated caseload of Service Users, taking responsibility for progressing work and responding appropriately to changing circumstances. 

• Build and maintain positive, professional relationships with Service Users, recognising their individual wishes, communication needs, abilities and circumstances. 

• Provide clear and accessible information, advice and practical support to Service Users, carers and family members on matters including welfare benefits, financial management, trusts and related issues. 

• Support Service Users to understand and participate in decisions about their finances wherever possible. 

• Promote choice, independence and control while ensuring that appropriate safeguards are maintained. 

• Meet with and visit Service Users and their families as required, including home visits and meetings with other professionals. 

• Identify concerns affecting a Service User's financial or wider wellbeing and take appropriate action, including raising safeguarding concerns where necessary. 

Welfare Benefits 

• Support Service Users to identify and access welfare benefits to which they may be entitled. 

• Assist with benefit claims, reviews and related correspondence. 

• Liaise with the Department for Work and Pensions, local authorities and other relevant organisations. 

• Identify apparent errors, underpayments or adverse benefit decisions and take appropriate action to resolve or challenge them. 

• Maintain and develop an appropriate working knowledge of the welfare benefits system relevant to the Trust's Service Users. 

Financial Administration and Appointeeship 

• Manage Service Users' day-to-day financial affairs where The Friendly Trust has been authorised to do so. 

• Act on behalf of The Friendly Trust in carrying out its responsibilities as a DWP Corporate Appointee where applicable. 

• Ensure that benefits and other income received on behalf of Service Users are used appropriately and in their interests. 

• Work with Service Users to create, implement and regularly review individual money plans and budgets. 

• Monitor income, expenditure, account balances and financial commitments. 

• Arrange payments and other financial transactions in accordance with organisational procedures and the authority under which The Friendly Trust is acting. 

• Identify and respond appropriately to changes in a Service User's financial circumstances. 

• Take reasonable steps to protect Service Users from financial abuse, exploitation and avoidable financial loss. 

• Ensure that financial decisions are properly authorised, recorded and capable of being accounted for. 

Mental Capacity and Decision-Making 

• Apply the principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 in relevant aspects of their work. 

• Recognise that capacity is decision-specific and should not be assumed solely because of a person's disability, diagnosis or circumstances. 

• Support Service Users to make their own decisions wherever they are able to do so. 

• Where a person lacks capacity for a particular financial decision, ensure that actions are taken in accordance with the appropriate legal authority and best-interests requirements. 

• Maintain clear records of significant decisions and the reasons for them. 

• Seek guidance from managers where a decision raises significant legal, financial, safeguarding or ethical concerns. 

Record Keeping and Compliance 

• Maintain accurate, clear, up-to-date and timely case records. 

• Use The Friendly Trust's case management and financial recording systems, including CasparGov, to record actions, decisions, financial information and outcomes. 

• Ensure that records meet organisational, legal, regulatory and UK GDPR requirements. 

• Handle personal and financial information securely and maintain appropriate confidentiality. 

• Work in accordance with relevant legislation, guidance, policies and procedures, including the Mental Capacity Act 2005, safeguarding requirements and, where applicable, Court of Protection guidance. 

Communication and Partnership Working 

• Communicate clearly, sensitively and professionally with Service Users, families, carers and professionals. 

• Adapt communication to reflect an individual's needs and level of understanding. 

• Prepare professional correspondence, including letters, emails, case records and reports. 

• Liaise effectively with organisations including the DWP, local authorities, health and social care professionals, housing providers, banks and other financial organisations. 

• Attend meetings concerning Service Users where appropriate and contribute relevant financial information and professional observations. 

• Advocate appropriately for Service Users where financial, benefit or related matters require resolution. 

Team Working 

• Work collaboratively with Trust Officers, administrative staff, managers and other colleagues. 

• Participate in the office duty rota, responding to telephone and face-to-face enquiries during designated duty sessions. 

• Provide reasonable cover for colleagues during periods of absence. 

• Share relevant knowledge and contribute positively to team discussions and problem-solving. 

• Participate in regular supervision, team meetings and organisational activities. 

Organisational Contribution and Development 

• Represent The Friendly Trust professionally when dealing with Service Users, families, external organisations and members of the public. 

• Participate in training and continuing professional development relevant to the role. 

• Maintain and develop knowledge relevant to their work, including welfare benefits, mental capacity, safeguarding and financial administration. 

• Contribute to the development and improvement of organisational policies, procedures and services. 

• Support The Friendly Trust's commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, safeguarding and environmental sustainability. 

• Undertake other duties reasonably required by the Team Manager which are consistent with the nature and level of responsibility of the role.

Hybrid working

Following successful completion of probation, Trust Officers are able to work on a flexible hybrid basis, subject to the requirements of the service. 

Trust Officers are normally required to attend the Cardiff office for 2 x  two-hour duty sessions each week. 

Outside these duty sessions, staff have considerable flexibility regarding where they work, subject to Service User visits, meetings, training, team requirements and other operational needs. 

Person Specification

The Friendly Trust recognises that this is a specialist role and that candidates may bring relevant skills and experience from a variety of backgrounds. 

We do not expect every successful applicant to have detailed experience of every aspect of the role before joining us. Training, supervision and opportunities to develop specialist knowledge will be provided. 

Candidates should therefore consider how their transferable experience, knowledge, skills and values relate to the criteria below. 

Essential

Experience 

• Relevant experience of working with or supporting people in social care, welfare benefits, advocacy, housing, financial inclusion, community services or another related setting. 

• Experience of working with disabled people, vulnerable adults, carers or people requiring additional support. 

• Experience of managing competing tasks, responsibilities or a caseload/workload with an appropriate degree of independence. 

• Experience of maintaining accurate records and handling confidential information. 

Skills and abilities 

• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to establish positive professional relationships with people from a wide range of backgrounds. 

• Ability to communicate clearly and sensitively, both verbally and in writing. 

• Ability to explain potentially complex information in an accessible way. 

• Strong organisational and time-management skills. 

• Ability to prioritise work and respond appropriately when circumstances change. 

• Confidence working with figures and financial information, including budgets, income and expenditure. 

• Good problem-solving skills and the ability to exercise sound judgement. 

• Ability to work independently while recognising when advice, guidance or management involvement is required. 

• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and with external professionals. 

• Competent IT skills, including the ability to use Microsoft Office and learn case management and financial recording systems. 

• Level 2 qualification, or equivalent competence, in literacy and numeracy. 

Values and approach 

• A commitment to treating Service Users with dignity and respect. 

• An understanding of the importance of promoting choice, independence and individual rights. 

• An empathetic and non-judgemental approach. 

• Ability to maintain appropriate professional boundaries. 

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. 

• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality, safeguarding and accurate record keeping. 

Other requirements 

• Full driving licence and access to a car for work purposes. 

• Ability and willingness to undertake Service User visits and attend meetings as required. 

• Ability to attend the Cardiff office as required, including participation in the office duty rota. 

Desirable 

The following would be advantageous but are not required in every successful candidate: 

• Knowledge or practical experience of the welfare benefits system. 

• Knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and its practical application. 

• Experience of financial administration, budgeting or managing money on behalf of another person. 

• Experience of DWP appointeeship. 

• Experience of advocacy or rights-based work. 

• Knowledge or experience of Court of Protection Deputyship, Lasting Powers of Attorney or other arrangements for managing another person's financial affairs. 

• Experience of working with people with learning disabilities, mental health needs, cognitive impairment or communication difficulties. 

• Experience of working with families and carers. 

• Experience of multi-agency working across health, social care, housing, benefits or other public services. 

• Experience of safeguarding adults. 

• Knowledge of CasparGov or comparable case management/financial administration software. 

• A relevant qualification in social work, health, social care, welfare rights, advocacy, finance or another related discipline. 

What We Offer

· A supportive, values‑driven working environment.

· Annual leave entitlement of 29 days plus bank holidays

· 6% employer contribution, with a minimum 2% employee contribution

· Opportunities for training and professional development.

· Flexible and hybrid working options (subject to service needs and probation).

· Employee wellbeing support.

Appointment and pre‑employment checks

• All offers of employment are subject to the receipt of satisfactory references. Two references will be requested, one of which should be from a current or most recent employer.
• You will need to demonstrate that you have a right to work in the UK.
• The successful candidate will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, due to the nature of the role and contact with vulnerable adults.
• Having a criminal record will not automatically prevent appointment. Any disclosures will be considered fairly, confidentially, and proportionately, in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the DBS Code of Practice.

30 hours per week (term-time only) / £34,475 per annum, pro rata / permanent / working days to be discussed at interview (role may be considered for job share between two counsellors)

YMCA DownsLink Group is the leading charity for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. We offer safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice.

We believe that every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside them to make that happen.

We are here for children and young people, many of whom face multiple challenges and need our support.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections – guide us in all our actions.

YMCA Dialogue is a BACP Accredited service, providing counselling services in schools since 1994. Dialogue has built an excellent reputation with schools, colleges, professionals and commissioners and the service has developed and expanded over the years, now operating across Brighton & Hove, East Sussex and West Sussex.

We are recruiting for qualified counsellor or therapist with experience of working with secondary school children to join our team and deliver our service at The Forest School in Horsham, West Sussex.

We are seeking candidates who are passionate about making a difference to lives of the children they work with. You will provide an ethical, professional counselling service at The Forest School and will establish good professional working relationships with key school staff.

This will include discussion of referrals, managing a session timetable within the school day and agreeing a process for students coming to and from sessions.

You will be required to undertake assessments with parents/carers and counselling sessions with children, complete all associated admin and attend regular clinical supervision and line management meetings.

Key responsibilities

• Run a suitable appointment system flexible to the needs of the school, offering students appropriate assessments and counselling appointments.
• Manage the tight time boundaries of the role and the often complex and varied workload.
• Liaise with school staff over referrals, waiting lists and appointments.
• Carry out initial clinical and risk assessments and establish appropriate referral pathways with other services where appropriate. Continually assess risk throughout each student’s counselling.
• Follow YMCA Dialogue safeguarding procedures; to know who the School’s Designated Safeguarding Officer/s is and how to contact them when a safeguarding concern arises.
• Work at all times within the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions.
• Maintain individual membership of the BACP and to become a Registered Member (or other professional body such as HCPC).
• You will establish good professional working relationships with key school staff.

Qualifications, knowledge, and experience

You will have a genuine interest in working with children and young people of primary and secondary school age, together with experience of building effective therapeutic relationships. You will bring a professional, flexible approach, excellent interpersonal and time management skills, and ideally have experience of counselling children and young people using creative therapeutic approaches. Experience of working within a school setting would be advantageous.

Essential:

• Counselling or psychotherapy qualification at Level 4 minimum; Level 6 or above is desirable – along with two years’ or 450+ hours post qualifying experience in face-to-face individual counselling or therapy with young people (preferred), including experience of working with risk-related issues as a qualified counsellor.
• You will already have a sound understanding of child protection and vulnerable adult safeguarding issues, policies, and procedures.
• You will already have proven experience in safeguarding children and young people, responding to, managing, and referring safeguarding issues.
• You will already have a BACP Membership; BACP Registered or Accredited. Or other professional body e.g. HCPC.

CLOSING DATE: Monday 31 August 2026 at midnight. 

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. 

Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third-party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity checks.

7.5 hours per week (term-time only) / £34,475 per annum, pro rata / permanent /working day is currently Tuesday 0830 - 1630 (with unpaid 30-minute break), other days can be considered and discussed at interview

YMCA DownsLink Group is the leading charity for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. We offer safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice.

We believe that every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside them to make that happen.

We are here for children and young people, many of whom face multiple challenges and need our support.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections – guide us in all our actions.

YMCA Dialogue is a BACP Accredited service, providing counselling services in schools since 1994. Dialogue has built an excellent reputation with schools, colleges, professionals and commissioners and the service has developed and expanded over the years, now operating across Brighton & Hove, East Sussex and West Sussex.

We are recruiting for qualified counsellor or therapist to join our team and deliver our service at Felpham Community College in Felpham, Bognor Regis. You will be working with a range of clients within the Dialogue Thresholds and working to a 6-8 session model. You will be working alongside another experienced Dialogue School Counsellor and working closely with the Student Services Pastoral team at the college.

We are seeking candidates who are passionate about making a difference to lives of the children they work with. You will provide an ethical, professional counselling service at Felpham Community College and will establish good professional working relationships with key school staff.

This will include discussion of referrals, managing a session timetable within the school day and agreeing a process for students coming to and from sessions.

You will be required to undertake assessments with parents/carers and counselling sessions with children, complete all associated admin and attend regular clinical supervision and line management meetings.

Key responsibilities

• Run a suitable appointment system flexible to the needs of the school, offering students appropriate assessments and counselling appointments.
• Manage the tight time boundaries of the role and the often complex and varied workload.
• Liaise with school staff over referrals, waiting lists and appointments.
• Carry out initial clinical and risk assessments and establish appropriate referral pathways with other services where appropriate. Continually assess risk throughout each student’s counselling.
• Follow YMCA Dialogue safeguarding procedures; to know who the School’s Designated Safeguarding Officer/s is and how to contact them when a safeguarding concern arises.
• Work at all times within the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions.
• Maintain individual membership of the BACP and to become a Registered Member (or other professional body such as HCPC).
• You will establish good professional working relationships with key school staff.

Qualifications, knowledge, and experience

You will have a genuine interest in working with children and young people of primary and secondary school age, together with experience of building effective therapeutic relationships. You will bring a professional, flexible approach, excellent interpersonal and time management skills, and ideally have experience of counselling children and young people using creative therapeutic approaches. Experience of working within a school setting would be advantageous.

Essential:

• Counselling or psychotherapy qualification at Level 4 minimum; Level 6 or above is desirable – along with two years’ post qualifying experience in face-to-face individual counselling or therapy with young people (preferred), including experience of working with risk-related issues as a qualified counsellor.
• You will already have a sound understanding of child protection and vulnerable adult safeguarding issues, policies, and procedures.
• You will already have proven experience in safeguarding children and young people, responding to, managing, and referring safeguarding issues.
• You will already have a BACP Membership; BACP Registered or Accredited. Or other professional body e.g. HCPC.

CLOSING DATE: Wednesday 12 August 2026 at midnight. 

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. 

Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third-party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity check.

WHO WE ARE

We are Zarach, the children’s bed charity, and we’re on a mission to end child bed poverty, helping children get a good night's sleep, and the chance to thrive at school. 

In our nearly eight years as a registered charity, we’ve captured the hearts and attention of many individuals, community groups, businesses and funders who want to support us on our mission. We’ve also been given an incredible media platform from which we have raised awareness of child bed poverty at local, regional and national levels. This support and awareness has seen us deliver over 17,000 bed bundles to children to date!! 

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Zarach is well established in West Yorkshire and Doncaster. We are now continuing to grow across the Yorkshire region, with a launch in Hull, Bridlington and Goole in the coming months.  We are looking to recruit two Family Engagement Officers to join our dedicated Yorkshire team.  We are recruiting for two separate positions across the region.

One role focuses on maintaining and supporting our successful, established service in West Yorkshire. 

The second offers a unique opportunity to play a key part in the growth and development of our vital service as we expand into the East Riding. 

As our ideal candidate you will be happy to travel in and around Yorkshire, and be able to travel regularly to meet with the team and to conduct home visits across the region. You will also need to be able to attend our Leeds Warehouse, or other areas when required.

You will be someone who has good experience of the broad range of day-to-day case management, working with external partners, volunteer support, and administrative activities that working in a dynamic charity brings, and someone who enjoys the busyness and variety of this.

Alongside your family support and engagement-related skills and experience, we’ll be looking to see that you have a genuine care for our mission and, as such, are self-motivated to do a great job and be a values-led member of our team.

Ideally, you’ll have experience of working with vulnerable families and managing volunteers in the charity sector, due to some of the specialties that come with this, such as safeguarding and partnership working. But charity experience is not essential if you can demonstrate an appetite and track record for continual learning and development across your working life to date.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Starting at £26,000 with progression up to £30,000 p/a (FTE)

• 28 Days, plus Bank Holidays.

• Healthcare Cash Plan

• Quarterly Staff Recognition Award

• A great working environment! One of our colleagues described us as- “Zarach is a wonderful place to work with the mission at the core of all that we do” 

To decide if you’d like to bring your skills and experience to bear in the pursuit of our mission, please have a look at the job description, our website and the coverage of us across social media. 

Please note that we may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. Therefore, we encourage you to submit your CV and cover letter as soon as possible.

WHO WE ARE

We are Zarach, the children’s bed charity, and we’re on a mission to end child bed poverty, helping children get a good night's sleep, and the chance to thrive at school. 

In our nearly eight years as a registered charity, we’ve captured the hearts and attention of many individuals, community groups, businesses and funders who want to support us on our mission. We’ve also been given an incredible media platform from which we have raised awareness of child bed poverty at local, regional and national levels. This support and awareness has seen us deliver over 18,000 bed bundles to children to date! 

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

As we continue to grow our service across the North West, we are looking to recruit a Family Engagement Officer to join our newly established North West team. This role offers a unique opportunity to play a key part in the growth and development of our vital service, particularly in the Merseyside area. The role is currently being offered at 21 hours per week (0.6 FTE) but has the potential to increase to full time with further development.

As our ideal candidate you will be based in the Merseyside area or within commuting distance, but be happy to travel in and around the wider North West area. You will be able to travel regularly to meet with the team and to conduct home visits across the region. You will also need to be able to attend our Leeds Warehouse or other areas when required.

You will be someone who has good experience of the broad range of day-to-day case management, working with external partners, volunteer support, and administrative activities that working in a dynamic charity brings, and someone who enjoys the busyness and variety of this.

Alongside your family support and engagement-related skills and experience, we’ll be looking to see that you have a genuine care for our mission and, as such, are self-motivated to do a great job and be a values-led member of our team.

Ideally, you’ll have experience of working with vulnerable families and managing volunteers in the charity sector, due to some of the specialties that come with this, such as safeguarding and partnership working. But charity experience is not essential if you can demonstrate an appetite and track record for continual learning and development across your working life to date.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Starting at £15,600 with progression up to £18,000 p/a (£26,000 to £30,000 FTE)

• 21 hours (0.6 FTE) worked across 3 or 4 days

• 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (pro rated for part time work) 

• Healthcare Cash Plan

• Quarterly Staff Recognition Award

• A great working environment! One of our colleagues described us as- “Zarach is a wonderful place to work with the mission at the core of all that we do” 

About the Foundation

STEPS Rehabilitation Foundation is a charitable foundation based in Sheffield, providing grants to people aged 16 and over following life-changing injuries and illnesses, enabling access to essential equipment, adaptations and support.

The Foundation supports individuals living within the designated grant area shown above.

Our Values

Compassion, empowerment and integrity are at the heart of our Foundation. We are dedicated to helping individuals rebuild their lives after life-changing injuries, who have no other funding options available to them.

Role Overview

The Chief Executive Officer will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Foundation and will report directly to the Chair and the Board of Trustees. The CEO will lead on planning and delivering fundraising, events, marketing, grant processes and future team development.

Marketing, graphic design and financial management support are available from within the STEPS team.

This is a remote working role, though applicants must be a commutable distance from Sheffield and happy to travel in and around the designated grant area when required.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and drive a compelling fundraising and income generation strategy, including exploring novel and commercial routes where appropriate.
• Be the public face and voice of the charity, ensuring messaging is on brand at all times, and securing appropriate media and other opportunities for publicity and raising awareness.
• Work with and listen to individuals and families who are beneficiaries of the Foundation, communicating their needs with clarity and credibility to funders and potential funders and donors.
• Establish a donor stewardship journey and ensure practice follows to meet donor needs.
• Develop and deliver fundraising methods, including but not limited to events, grants, legacies, regular giving and other appropriate methods of fundraising.
• Develop and deliver a social media and marketing plan.
• Develop and propose budgets, presenting to the Board for approval.
• Ensure any grants received are properly reported on and accounted for.
• Ensure data is collected in a way that is legally compliant and allows for impact reporting to funders and wider audiences.
• Work with the Trustees to ensure the Foundation is operating according to its Articles of Association and can demonstrate legal and regulatory compliance.
• Ensure the code of governance is embedded in all practice and seek to be compliant with the Fundraising Regulator.

Person Specification

Essential

• Able to work independently and show strong autonomy and accountability.
• Is a self-starter and can work independently.
• Fundraising experience.
• Marketing and social media skills, to include content creation and delivery for digital platforms.
• Budget setting and management experience.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• A strong track record of revenue generation, fundraising and building sustainable income.
• Strategic leadership, with the ability to contribute to strategic planning.
• Confidence in representing the Foundation externally.
• Experience of public speaking and partnership building.
• Able to work flexibly to meet the needs of the Foundation, with regular travel and in-person presence at events and meetings across the designated grant area, and from time to time further afield in the UK.

Desirable

• Evidence of leadership experience in the charity sector, ideally within a senior fundraising capacity.
• Experience of, directly or indirectly, working within the medico-legal sector.
• Event experience.

The Opportunity

This is a CEO role with scope to shape the next five years. You will work with a committed Board of Trustees and have the opportunity to develop a team. If you are motivated by growth, visibility and making a meaningful difference to the lives of those affected by life-changing injury or illness, you will find this a wonderful opportunity.

Role available for immediate start, depending on the successful candidate's notice period.

STEPS Rehabilitation Foundation is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of background.

AFRIL is recruiting for our next Casework Manager, following the advancement of the current post holder into another role within the organisation. We are looking for a hard working and dynamic person who can balance the operational demands of casework and managing frontline services, with excellent HR skills and a keen interest in policy and developing partnerships. This is an exciting and integral role within a supportive and dynamic team at AFRIL, which would be ideal for a highly experienced caseworker or solicitor seeking to gain leadership experience in a community led organisation.

The successful candidate will lead a team of 3 Caseworkers (as well as a team of volunteers) in the delivery of AQS casework in the areas of housing, asylum support, welfare benefits and community care, and the provision of Immigration Advice Authority Level 2 advice. The post holder will also hold key funder and partner relationships, oversee compliance, safeguarding and support the Executive Director with AFRIL's external policy work. 

The arts for mental health – peer support delivered creatively

Sound Minds is a user-led charity transforming lives through music, film and art. We are a thriving community bound together by creativity and a shared belief in mutual learning and peer support.

Main purposes of the job:

Sound Minds is recruiting a Head of Operations to join our team in Wandsworth.

The Head of Operations is a member of the senior leadership team at Sound Minds and leads the management and day-to-day operations of a vibrant community premises.

Sound Minds is in a period of review and consolidation, following growth of its programmes and having secured Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation status. The Head of Operations will further develop and implement robust systems to support this growth and the charity’s future aims.

The role leads on all operational, health and safety, premises, IT, systems, human resources, evaluation, and reporting activity. The Head of Operations manages the delivery of Sound Minds’ Peer Support service and will act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead. They deputise for the CEO as required.

They will assist the CEO on maintaining key relationships with external stakeholders and external communications.

Sound Minds is a creative place, and the Head of Operations will need a passion for organisation and administration.

Salary: £42,833 per annum(pro rata) & 3% contribution to pension

Hours: 28 hours per week

This fixed term contract ends on 16th June 2030 and is renewable depending on funding.

Strong IT skills are essential for this role. You will be required to have a DBS (criminal records check) and satisfactory written references before starting.

The full job description and application pack are available from Sound Minds’ website.

Closing date: 10:00am, Monday 7th September 2026

First interviews: Friday 18th September 2026

Main Purpose of the Role

The Duty Officer plays a key operational role in ensuring the smooth running of the Friendly Trust’s office duty function. The postholder will be the designated lead for Office Duty sessions, acting as the first point of contact for calls, visitors, and day-to-day operational queries.

The role also provides structured support to a Trust Officer managing a caseload of Service Users requiring lower levels of support, assisting with administrative casework, financial monitoring tasks, and maintaining accurate records.

This post bridges administrative and frontline service delivery functions, enabling Trust Officers to focus on complex casework while maintaining high standards of responsiveness and record keeping.

Key Responsibilities

1. Office Duty (Primary Function)

• Take responsibility for the delivery of Office Duty sessions in line with the Office Duty Procedure.
• Manage incoming telephone calls, enquiries, and visitors, ensuring all interactions are recorded accurately.
• Maintain and update the Office Duty diary, including:
  • Recording calls, visitors, and actions taken
  • Logging outstanding actions for follow-up
  • Ensuring continuity between sessions
• Use CasparGov to record duty activity promptly and accurately.

· Monitor planned and ad hoc cash collections, ensuring compliance with The Friendly Trust's policies and procedures, checking requirements, and promptly identifying and escalating any issues or discrepancies.

• Carry out cash tin checks and ensure appropriate balances for ongoing sessions.
• Liaise with the Duty Team Manager where queries require escalation.

2. Service User Support

· Support a designated Trust Officer in managing a caseload of Service Users requiring lower levels of support

• Assist with routine financial administration tasks such as:
  • Monitoring transactions and basic budgeting support
  • Preparing information for review by the Trust Officer
• Maintain accurate records of activity in line with organisational and legal requirements.
• Draft basic correspondence and follow up routine requests.

3. Administrative and Operational Support

• Provide administrative support aligned with organisational systems and processes.
• Assist with:
  • Data entry and maintaining records
  • Processing documentation and correspondence
  • Supporting internal reporting and statistics
• Contribute to efficient office systems and processes.
• Support meeting preparation or coordination where required.

4. Communication and Team Working

• Act as a professional first point of contact for Service Users, families, and external professionals.
• Work collaboratively with Trust Officers, Admin, and managers to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Escalate queries appropriately while maintaining ownership of routine enquiries.

5. Organisational Contribution

• Work in line with the Friendly Trust’s values, policies, and procedures.
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with GDPR and safeguarding requirements.
• Undertake other duties appropriate to the role.

Person Specification

Essential Skills and Experience

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly, professionally and sensitively with Service Users, family members, colleagues and external agencies.
• Strong interpersonal, telephone and customer service skills, with a friendly, approachable and professional manner.
• Proven administrative experience, with strong organisational skills and the ability to manage a varied workload effectively.
• Ability to prioritise tasks, work to deadlines, manage competing demands and respond positively to changing priorities.
• Excellent attention to detail, with the ability to maintain accurate records and manage information confidentially.
• Experience of data entry, maintaining electronic databases and record management systems.
• Competent user of Microsoft 365, including Outlook, Word, Excel and Teams, and confident using databases and other IT systems.
• Ability to work independently using initiative, as well as collaboratively within a team.
• Positive, flexible and proactive approach to work.
• Empathy, patience and the ability to work sensitively and respectfully with vulnerable people and individuals from a wide range of backgrounds.
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, professional standards, confidentiality and data protection requirements.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Experience working within the charity, voluntary, health or social care sectors.
• Experience of handling calls, front-line enquiries, reception duties or customer-facing services.
• Knowledge of issues affecting people with learning disabilities and their families.
• Knowledge of welfare benefits, financial administration or related support services.
• Experience of using case management, CRM or client record systems.
• Knowledge of CASPAR Gov or similar case management software.
• Experience of supporting the production of reports, statistics, monitoring information or management data.
• Experience of coordinating office systems, facilities or administrative processes.
• Basic financial administration experience, including invoice processing, cash handling and record keeping.
• Knowledge of information governance and records management practices.
• Good record of punctuality, reliability and attendance.

Personal Attributes

• Professional, trustworthy and dependable.
• Solution-focused, with a willingness to learn, develop and adapt.
• Able to maintain composure and professionalism when handling sensitive or challenging enquiries.
• Committed to supporting The Friendly Trust's mission, values and person-centred approach.
• Demonstrates sound judgement, discretion and a high level of integrity.

Charity and Staff Management

• Delegated responsibility for the day-to-day running of the charity, office administration, line management and supervision of the small staff team
• Liaison with HR support service, supported by the Chair and Treasurer
• Lead on digital development and liaison with external IT support service
• Lead on monitoring, evaluation and learning
• Lead on dealing with any concerns, complaints, or safeguarding issues, and act as the charity’s Designated Safeguarding Lead, supported by the Safeguarding Trustee and Chair
• Maintain the charity’s Risk Register

Strategic Development

• Operational implementation of the Board-led Strategic Plan including providing regular reports for trustees and members as required
• Develop and manage annual operational plans and reports, supported by the Trustees
• Working with the Client Representative Trustees, support clients (Disabled people with Assistance Dogs) to participate in the charity’s development
• Manage accreditation with Assistance Dogs International and standards

Promotion and Communications

• Promote the work of the charity positively and proactively, manage and ensure consistency of the charity brand across communications
• Liaison with Assistance Dogs International, Assistance Dogs UK (ADUK) and fellow member organisations, including attendance at ADUK meetings
• Maintain and develop key relationships, supported by relevant staff and trustees
• Manage communications with members (clients and trainers)

Finance and Fundraising

• Work with the Treasurer and relevant staff to support the management of annual budgets, financial reporting and monitoring
• Operational implementation of the Fundraising Strategy, working with relevant staff and trustees

Governance and Compliance

• Support the Board of Trustees to ensure high standards of governance and compliance with all legal requirements affecting the charity
• ·Support the development of new processes, procedures and policies, with regular monitoring and reviews
• Health and Safety lead, responsible for completing any RIDDOR paperwork as and when required

Location: Remote with regular travel to multiple locations (including Head Office in London)
Contract Type: Full-Time, Standard Contract
Reports to: Executive Headteacher
Responsible for: Curriculum Leads and Teaching Staff
Start Date: 4th January 2027 

Please note: Applicants who successfully pass the initial CV screening will be required to submit a full Equal Education Academy application form in line with KCSIE statutory guidance prior to formal shortlisting and interview.

Interview schedule: 

• Online interview (45mins) - Friday 28th August 2026.

• In-Person Assessment Day (London) - Friday 11th September 2026.

About Equal Education Academy (EEA)

Equal Education is excited to launch a new online academy for Key Stage 4 students, accredited under the DfE’s Online Education Accreditation Scheme (OEAS). We deliver high-quality alternative education tailored for learners facing barriers to education or with complex needs. This includes young people with SEND, SEMH needs, interrupted schooling, Children Looked After, and those requiring specialist or alternative provision.

Guided by our values of Belong, Empower and Aspire, we provide a safe, inclusive, and aspirational environment. We align with DfE guidance and aim to meet OEAS standards, ensuring that safeguarding, particularly online, is the foundation of our culture.

Purpose of the Role

The Head of Centre will provide strategic and operational leadership for Equal Education Academy, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, inclusive, and trauma-informed online provision. Serving as the Academy’s Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), the postholder will embed safeguarding, inclusion, and wellbeing into all organisational decision-making.

Key responsibilities include leading SEND and safeguarding strategy (including overseeing the Single Central Record)  delivering high-impact staff training, and driving rigorous quality assurance by monitoring and reviewing teaching and learning practices. 

Working collaboratively across the Academy and the wider Equal Education Limited group, the Head of Centre will serve as a vital operational bridge, facilitating seamless collaboration and synergy between Equal Education Academy and Equal Education Limited. Operating at the intersection of both entities, the post-holder is uniquely positioned to identify and leverage cross-group resources, optimising them to drive the growth and development of the Academy. By championing alignment across the ecosystem, this pivotal role ensures that the Academy’s functions, team, and strategic objectives are seamlessly integrated within the wider organisation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Quality of Education

• Support the Executive Headteacher in setting the Academy’s strategic direction and ensuring compliance with OEAS/DfE standards.

• Monitor and review teaching and learning across the Academy, using lesson observations, work scrutiny, and data analysis to drive pedagogical improvement.

• Contribute to the Academy Improvement Plan and lead on inspection readiness and quality assurance activities.

• Lead on developing and implementing a program of CPD and training for new staff. Ensuring the team is aligned under the vision and values of the EE Academy.

• Facilitate operational synergy between Equal Education Academy and Equal Education Limited, leveraging group resources to optimise performance.

2. SEND Leadership (SENCO)

• Coordinate all SEND provision, ensuring the identification, assessment, and effective support of learners with complex needs.

• Oversee EHCP management, annual reviews, and the development of targeted Individual Learning Plans (ILPs).

• Oversee PEP management for Looked After Children

• Champion inclusive pedagogy, ensuring all staff adopt trauma-informed and adaptive teaching strategies.

• Manage multi-agency collaboration with families, local authorities, and external professionals to secure positive learner outcomes.

3. Safeguarding and Wellbeing (DSL)

• Serve as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), maintaining oversight of all safeguarding systems, referrals, and online safety protocols.

• Ensure policies remain compliant with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) and best practice.

• Promote a culture of vigilance, ensuring learner wellbeing, attendance, and emotional safety are central to all Academy functions.

• Lead on multi-agency safeguarding processes and provide expert advice to the leadership team.

4. Leadership & Staff Development

• Design and deliver high-impact staff training programs, specifically focusing on safeguarding, online pedagogy, SEND frameworks, and inclusive, trauma-informed practice.

• Lead staff appraisal, coaching, and professional development to ensure high standards of accountability and growth.

• Foster a collaborative, reflective culture, supporting recruitment, induction, and retention.

• Support learner engagement, attendance and successful transition pathways

• Contribute to self-evaluation and school improvement activities

5. Partnership Working, Influence and Professional Representation

• Build and maintain effective relationships with internal stakeholders to drive seamless integration between Equal Education Academy and the wider Equal Education Limited group.Work closely with the Executive Headteacher, Group CEO and relevant members of operational teams to ensure effective collaboration across the group. 

• Develop and sustain effective partnerships with families, schools, local authorities, virtual schools, and external agencies.

• Support policy development, implementation, and review.

• Represent Equal Education at professional meetings, conferences, and external forums.

• Undertake any other duties reasonably directed by the Headteacher or Executive Headteacher.

• Contribute to strategic planning and organisational development, effectively pitching ideas and challenging the status quo.

• Ability to constructively and professionally challenge colleagues and stakeholders at all levels, including leadership as necessary, in the interest of managing risk and developing a quality service offering.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

• National Award for SEN Coordination (NASENCO). 

• Significant (3 years minimum) senior leadership experience in a school, AP, SEND, or online setting within the last year. 

• Proven experience in designing and delivering whole-school staff training.

• Extensive (1 year minimum) experience as a DSL (safeguarding) and SENCO (SEND provision).

• Deep understanding of KCSIE, the SEND Code of Practice, and OEAS/DfE requirements.

• Experience in reviewing teaching and learning to drive quality improvement.

• Significant experience supporting children and young people with barriers to learning and/or emerging or complex needs, including those with SEND, SEMH needs, interrupted education, Children Looked After, and learners requiring specialist or alternative provision.

• Significant experience supporting learners with EHCPs and complex needs, while coordinating multi-agency support and collaborating effectively with local authorities, schools, and external agencies.

• Experience contributing to quality assurance, school improvement or inspection readiness activities. 

Skills and Attributes

• Strong strategic, operational and project management skills

  • Ability to manage complex projects in an organised manner, develop project plans with effective tracking (e.g. Project Initiation documents, gantt charts,   reporting on key metrics, meeting key milestones and working to budgets). 

  • Ability to lead projects and processes in a collaborative way, identifying and engaging key stakeholders to ensure efficiency and avoid duplication of work across a group business structure. 

  • Demonstrates a commercial mindset, with the ability to articulate business cases, work effectively with budgets and interpret information effectively. 

• Excellent communication: capable of building high-trust relationships with staff, families, and local authorities.

• Resilient, reflective and adaptable. A champion of inclusion: deep commitment to supporting vulnerable learners and EEA’s values.

• Strong organisational skills, data-literate and improvement-focused with the abilities to support and develop colleagues. 

• Analytical mindset, able to challenge own assumptions and adapt based on learnings.

• Up to date educational landscape knowledge and a desire to remain informed of sector shifts and updates.

General

The post-holder will be provided with the technology required to complete their role. Equal Education works exclusively on Apple devices using Google software.

Equal Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All colleagues are expected to share this commitment. The post is subject to Enhanced DBS clearance, right to work in the UK, and two satisfactory professional references (one from the last employer). 

Every young person we support is unique and our team isn’t any different. Our differences are our strength when it comes to providing a tailored, human approach to education. We are proud of our people and provide an environment where everyone can bring their most authentic self to work. 

Our recruitment practices are carried out in line with equal opportunities and all candidates will be reviewed fairly regardless of age, gender reassignment, sex, race, religion, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic.