Innovation Officer Jobs

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.

We are excited to be seeking a talented and motivated individual to join Southampton Hospitals Charity as our Head of Grants and Programmes. This will be our first Head of Grants and Programme role and will provide the right candidate with a rare opportunity to implement and oversee the delivery of the Charity’s new £2.5 million dedicated grant programmes from pre to post award.

Covering four programmes (Patient Care, Research & Development, Clinical Innovation and Staff Education & Improvement), the post holder will be responsible for managing circa £2.5M of expenditure each year, ensuring they deliver impact for patients, staff and donors. 

This role will be key, as we launch our ambitious new strategy to grow our reach and impact, and this opportunity offers the right candidate the chance to implement new ways of working as part of the management team and leading a committed team. 

This role would also oversee the programmes delivered by the Charity, offering the opportunity to grow these areas of work and directly influence the impact on patients and difference we make. 

We are looking for a passionate individual with the drive to deliver this programme of work, but most important they will believe in the Charity’s mission and ensure that every aspect of our work supports its delivery. 

Main Responsibilities:

Grant Management & Compliance  

• Oversee the delivery of the charity’s dedicated grant programmes from pre to post award: Patient Care, Research & Development, Clinical Innovation and Staff Education & Improvement. The post holder will be responsible for circa £2.5M expenditure per annum ensuring they deliver impact for patients, staff and donors (grant values typically range from £2K to <£0.5M) 

• Oversee the management of the charity's current grant portfolio; ensuring grants are delivered on time and in accordance with internal processes 

• Ensure compliance with financial obligations (inc. payments, reconciliations and audits) and regulatory obligations (inc. data management, grant award contracts, procurement) 

• Ensure grant making processes reflects and champion current best practice

• Oversee the implementation and management of a Grants Advisory Committee 

Relationship & Stakeholder Management 

• Build relationships with key stakeholders within UHS, including senior health professionals, executive team members, partners and beneficiaries

• Act as primary liaison for the charity’s grant making responsibilities, ensuring alignment with charitable objectives and 2024-2027 strategic mission

• Provide support to Director of Operations and Resources and the Senior Leadership Team, fostering a collaborative approach to grant programme delivery in tandem with fundraising, communication and art programme goals 

• Represent the organisation at meetings, site visits, events and other external facing activities as required 

• Implement hybrid applicant and grantee support functions (e.g. webinars, Q&A events, promotional events, annual learning events) 

Strategic Planning & Funding Prioritisation  

• Lead the development of the charity’s grant-making function, working with internal and external stakeholders in identifying key funding priorities that align with the charity’s mission and future goals 

• Develop strategies for allocating resources effectively and the ongoing review of grant programmes (aiming for continual improvement) 

• Develop strategies for working in partnership with UHS for joint decision making, the effective management of capital awards and high value grant requests 

• Identify new grant opportunities and potential partnerships to diversify funding streams

• Maximise grant impact by contributing to the business planning process 

Evaluation, Reporting & Impact  

• Oversee processes for effective grant monitoring, reporting and analysis of grants portfolio 

• Develop and implement an evaluation framework for the charity’s grants programme, ensuring this is embedded and linked to organisation wide reporting mechanisms and measurable outcomes are achieved 

• Use data and insights to inform the continuous improvement of grant-making practices and programme development 

• Utilise information captured to promote grant programmes and support Fundraising and Communications Directorate

• Support the Impact and Evaluation Officer 

Programme Delivery Management  

• Develop a robust online grant management system

• Co-ordinate cross-functional activities and resources to enhance the delivery of grant programmes 

• Ensure the design and delivery of grant programmes underpins strategic objectives 

• Develop strategic engagement programmes

• Keep abreast of changing external trends 

• Manage any Charity-led programmes as required and ensure all programmes are appropriately managed and evaluated for impact and value for money. 

General 

• Support the line management and continuing professional development of the grants team. 

• Ensure content and material is in line with Directorate of Fundraising and Communications for marketing, publications, website and social media responsibilities 

• Support the wider work of the organisation, contributing to All Staff events/meetings as required 

• Support the Director of Operations and Resources in the preparation of necessary Trustee reports, annual reports and impact reports 

• Support EDI journey

Person Specification: 

Knowledge and experience 

• Substantial experience in grants management, within a relevant not-for-profit setting (e.g. healthcare charity). Post holder must be proficient with pre and post award responsibilities including assessment. 

• Demonstrable track record of contributing to organisational strategy 

• Demonstrable track record of utilising grants management systems

• Demonstrable track record of budget management 

• Proven ability in managing impact measurement of charitable programmes

• Proven ability in Committee Management 

Skills, abilities, and behaviours 

• Strong attention to detail 

• Financially proficient 

• IT proficient 

• Excellent problem solver 

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders 

• Strong strategic thinking with excellent leadership skills and experience in managing and developing others. 

• A passion for the charity’s mission and a commitment to delivering high-impact programmes that enhances patient care 

This post will deliver policy outputs across the Young Lives programme, with a strong focus on laying the foundations for a new Young Lives ResearchHub on Climate Change and Environmental Shocks. The delivery of high-quality impactful policy outputs is central to the success of Young Lives as an innovative international longitudinal study, including supporting new fundraising opportunities.

The post holder will report directly to the Young Lives Deputy Director, and will work closely with the Young Lives Director, Senior Researchers and Head of Communications based in Oxford. S/he will also collaborate closely with researchers and policy leads in each of the four Young Lives study countries.

At ODID we embrace and cherish our differences, and endeavour to be considerate and welcoming of all. You are most welcome at ODID, without the need to hide any part of who you are. We acknowledge societal inequalities and how these affect us, and those around us, personally and professionally. We hold an Athena Swan bronze award in recognition of our efforts to introduce organisational and cultural changes which promote equality, cherish diversity and create a better working environment for all. We are also taking active steps to promote race equality and reduce the risk of bias and discrimination. We work together to enrich, fortify and grow our community and dedicate our combined efforts to teaching and research to increase our impact and influence in development debates at the national and global level. We encourage all eligible candidates to apply for our vacancies and join us in pursuing our goals.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to laying the foundations for a new Young Lives (YL) Research Hub on Climate Change and Environmental Shocks.
• Support the Deputy Director to deliver the YL Policy Influencing Strategy and key research-to-policy outputs across the YL programme, including key messages, policy briefs, impact case studies, blogs and other policy focused materials relating to YL research themes. Key themes include education and skills, employment, health & wellbeing and family lives, with a specific focus on the crosscutting impacts of climate change and environmental shocks, poverty and inequalities.
• Track and analyse international and national policy debates, with a specific focus on the impact of poverty, inequalities and climate change on young people in low- and middle-income (LMICs) countries, including the disproportionate effects on girls and women.
• Proactively engage and build relationships with key international policy stakeholders working on the impacts of poverty, inequalities and climate change in LMICs, including policy influencers and practitioners (e.g. governments, donors and civil society), research-to-policy networks and researchers.
• Work closely with the Deputy Director and YL Country Directors to identify opportunities to influence policy debates both internationally and in the four study countries and provide technical support in developing research-to-policy engagement plans.
• Work closely with the YL Head of Communications to ensure research findings and related policy implications are effectively disseminated for maximum impact, including through website and social media, webinars, conferences, policy events and meetings to encourage the maximum uptake and impact of Young Lives evidence. Represent Young Lives at external events and meetings where necessary.
• Provide support to the Young Lives Director and Deputy Director in the development of fundraising proposals and submission of grant applications to generate future Young Lives research income. 

Selection Criteria 

Essential selection criteria 

• Education to Degree level in a relevant subject (e.g. social or public policy, development studies, sociology, anthropology, or economics).
• Substantial experience in a policy analysis/advocacy role within the international development arena, including experience of developing and implementing policy influencing and engagement strategies.
• Proven track record of contributing to high-quality policy-related publications, including policy briefs and blogs. Significant experience of using research evidence to engage with policy and practice.
• Broad knowledge of relevant international policy and practice debates including the cross-cutting impacts of climate change, poverty and inequalities on young people in LMICs.
• Excellent analytical skills, able to synthesise and distil key messages from a wide range of technical academic research and policy reports.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills. Ability to write quickly for publication, tailor communications to different audiences for maximum user access and impact, and experience of presenting at external events and high-profile meetings.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills. Ability to work collaboratively within a large team as well as independently, to prioritise tasks, to manage multiple demands and to work to deadlines. 

Desirable selection criteria

• Experience of writing fundraising proposals.
• Experience of working in a multidisciplinary, multi-national research team and contributing ideas for new research projects.
• Willingness to undertake overseas travel. 

Peer Support Development Officer – Greater London

 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 Greater London, 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 or around Greater London and willing to work initially across London Boroughs. This role may 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 and Interview details are:

Closing date: 1 November 2024 12:00 pm

Interviews: Week Commencing 4 November

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.

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 and Interview details are:

Closing date: 1 November 2024 12:00 pm

Interviews: Week Commencing 4 November

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. 

Senior Peer Support Development Officer – North West

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 or around Greater Manchester, and willing to travel across the North West of England who possesses the drive, passion, and skills to:

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

· Supervise a small team of Peer Support Development Officers

· Demonstrate the energy and enthusiasm required to inspire yourself and your team 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 delivery of safe and effective support services for the kinship community.

· Maintain current Peer Support Groups, 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.

In the role of Senior Peer Support Officer, you will be instrumental in ensuring the delivery of a high-quality, consistent, and sustainable peer support service that has a significant impact on the lives of kinship carers.

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 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.

You will be an inspirational and energetic team leader with experience in providing day-to-day line management and operational support for a small team.

We are ideally looking for candidates based in or around Greater Manchester but willing to work initially across the whole of the North West. This role may involve working to establish groups in West Yorkshire and into North Staffordshire.

A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes are essential, as this role may require travel across London and its periphery to reach areas in need of dedicated support.

Key responsibilities: 

Service delivery:

• In person (face-to-face) strategic outreach into local and regional communities including setting up and attending local engagement events.
• Work creatively to set up and develop new sustainable in peer support groups, attending up to six sessions in person (if needed) before transition to self-sufficiency.  Existing groups that are at risk, closed or need support will need replacing or rejuvenating to maintain DfE service level agreements across the team, in addition to new groups. 
• Recruit and retain support group leaders to develop their peer support groups.
• Deliver training to support group leaders (group roles and responsibilities, safeguarding, setting up, running and promoting a group).
• Develop strong boundaries and positive relationships with support group leaders – building resilience, empowerment and community.
• Support established groups in your area to access support group leader networks and training (this includes visiting groups in person) to build a peer community. 
• Help develop and deliver a service blueprint for sustainable peer support groups, thinking strategically about how to develop groups.
• You'll collaborate closely with the ‘Hub’ team to provide a joined up and positive user experience for kinship carers. This collaborative approach is key to our success and ensures that kinship carers receive the best possible support.
• 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.

Management and supervision: 

• Inspire, motivate and be responsible for day-to-day line management and supervising up to 4 staff members
• Oversee tactical development of new sustainable groups in your area and your team.
• Help set clear objectives to achieve targets and outcomes.
• Actively encourage personal development and learning.
• Increase efficiencies and impact across the team.
• Ensure good team induction processes and systems are in place.
• Role model Kinship values. 

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: 

• Experience of team leadership or line management and supervision of a small team and managing performance to deliver targets effectively.
• Proven experience in reaching and establishing strong relationships with hidden or underserved communities in person.
•  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 is evidenced through high-quality data collection. 
• Evidence of delivering training/support to volunteers,
• Strong facilitation skills and essential experience of peer support or user led groups with charity beneficiaries. 
• Understanding of safeguarding particularly around vulnerable families. 
• Excellent communication and engagement skills, with good attention to detail.
• Full driving licence and use of a car for work purposes.

 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 and Wales.

· Drive and have access to a vehicle.

· 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.

· Good standard of written and spoken English.

· Permission to work in the UK.

· Able to remain focused on the primary task of establishing new peer support groups, ensuring that more kinship carers have access to high-quality peer support.

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:  1st Interview Week Commencing 4 November

2nd Interview Week Commencing 11 November

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. 

Location: Contracted to our Peterborough office with the flexibility for hybrid working
Salary: £29,000 - £34,000 depending on experience
Hours: Full time 37.5 hours per week
Contract type: Permanent
Benefits: We want all our employees to feel valued and engaged and are committed to offering a positive working culture along with a good work-life balance. As well as ensuring they pay their employees fairly, they offer the following benefits: Flexible working, Generous annual leave, Private Medical Insurance, including dental and optical, Pension Scheme, Sick Pay, Death in Service, Employee Assistance Programme, Bike Loan Scheme, Cycle2Work Scheme, Eyecare, Discount Portal.

Closing date: Sunday 10 November 2024. We may extend the advert for up to 1 week, but please apply as soon as possible.
Interviews will be held in Peterborough on Tuesday 26 November 2024
 
No agencies please

Be a part of an energetic and vibrant team who are driven by the desire to improve the lives of people living with kidney disease. Our vision is the day when everyone lives free from kidney disease. 
 
We are looking for an experienced communications/PR professional to be responsible for the charity’s PR function, helping raise our profile so more people understand the urgency and impact of our work.
 
You will have experience working in a similar role, perhaps as a communications, press or PR officer. Perhaps you are looking to take the next step up in your PR career, or you are looking for a new challenge and a great team to work with – this is an exciting time to join our established, but growing charity.
 
You will have a proven track record of securing coverage by building great relationships with media and creating press releases and other journalist-ready material that grabs the eye, conveys key messages and supports strategic objectives. 
 
You will be familiar with press office processes and have the capability to seize opportunities, proactively create them and know how to help manage reputational risk.
 
Able to create great organic content, you will be a skilled writer, communicator, and team player, with a logical approach and the ability to work to tight deadlines. You will be an excellent collaborator, with the skills and sensitivity to support patients, families, researchers, senior staff and trustees in media interviews.
 
Charity experience is a definite plus but enthusiasm and the ability to adapt will also go a long way. You may know a lot about kidney disease, but even if you don’t, you’ll have the passion and commitment to learn all about it and the desire to make a difference to the millions that live with it day in, day out. 
 
If you are interested in the position, please complete the online application form and submit together with your CV.
 
We are committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone and encourage applications from all sections of the community.
 
About Kidney Research UK:

Kidney Research UK is the leading charity in the UK focused on funding research into the prevention, treatment and management of kidney disease. Our vision is the day when everyone lives free from kidney disease and for more than 60 years the research, we fund has been making an impact. But kidney disease is increasing as are the factors contributing to it, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity, making our work more essential than ever.

At Kidney Research UK we work with clinicians and scientists across the UK, funding and facilitating research into all areas of kidney disease. We collaborate with partners across the public, private and third sectors to prevent kidney disease and drive innovation to transform treatments.

Over the last ten years we have invested more than £65 million into research. We lobby governments and decision makers to change policy and practice to ensure that the estimated 7.2 million people living with all stages of kidney disease in the UK have access to the most effective care and treatment, and to make kidney disease a priority.

Most importantly, we also work closely with patients, ensuring their voice is heard and is at the centre of everything we do, from deciding which research to invest in to how we plan our priorities and our work across the charity.

Those patient contributions are vital, always helping us and our partners to understand what life is like with kidney disease, always ensuring we see the patient behind the treatment and always reminding us that behind every statistic and every number is a person – the patients and the carers who inspire our mission and push us forward to make a difference and change the future of kidney disease.

You may have experience in the following: Public Relations Officer, Communications Officer, Media Relations Manager, Press Officer, PR Coordinator, External Communications Specialist, PR and Media Manager, Communications and Engagement Officer, PR Consultant, Charity Communications Executive, Charity, Charities, Third Sector, Not for Profit, NFP, etc.

REF-217 485

Senior research officer

Location: Contracted to our Peterborough office with the flexibility for hybrid working
Salary: £30,000 - £33,000 depending on experience
Hours: Full time 37.5 hours per week
Benefits: We want all our employees to feel valued and engaged and are committed to offering a positive working culture along with a good work-life balance. As well as ensuring they pay their employees fairly, they offer the following benefits: Flexible working, Generous annual leave, Private Medical Insurance, including dental and optical, Pension Scheme, Sick Pay, Death in Service, Employee Assistance Programme, Bike Loan Scheme, Cycle2Work Scheme, Eyecare, Discount Portal.

Closing date: Sunday 17 November 2024

Interviews will be held week commencing 25 November 2024, face to face in our Peterborough office

No agencies please

Be a part of an energetic and vibrant team who are driven by the desire to improve the lives of people living with kidney disease. Our vision is the day when everyone lives free from kidney disease.

We are looking for a confident individual with experience in a research funding organisation and a scientific background. This is a new role to ensure the charity effectively delivers its grants programme.

You will be familiar with grant funding processes and have proven experience of working with a grants database. You will have excellent administration skills and exceptional attention to detail, which will enable you to assist with all aspects of pre and post award grant management.

Your strong time management skills will enable you to work independently, manage multiple priorities across the team, be able to work under pressure and deliver to tight deadlines.

You will have experience of supporting strategic projects and an understanding of the practical issues and challenges associated with delivery. A highly organised individual with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, you will demonstrate a proven ability to collaborate effectively with a range of internal teams and external stakeholders.

With a passion for research, you’ll be driven by our mission to make a difference to the millions of people at risk of or living with kidney disease.

If you are interested in the position, please complete the online application form and submit together with your CV.

We are committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone and encourage applications from all sections of the community.

About Kidney Research UK:

Kidney Research UK is the leading charity in the UK focused on funding research into the prevention, treatment and management of kidney disease. Our vision is the day when everyone lives free from kidney disease and for more than 60 years the research, we fund has been making an impact. But kidney disease is increasing as are the factors contributing to it, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity, making our work more essential than ever.

At Kidney Research UK we work with clinicians and scientists across the UK, funding and facilitating research into all areas of kidney disease. We collaborate with partners across the public, private and third sectors to prevent kidney disease and drive innovation to transform treatments.

Over the last ten years we have invested more than £65 million into research. We lobby governments and decision makers to change policy and practice to ensure that the estimated 7.2 million people living with all stages of kidney disease in the UK have access to the most effective care and treatment, and to make kidney disease a priority.

Most importantly, we also work closely with patients, ensuring their voice is heard and is at the centre of everything we do, from deciding which research to invest in to how we plan our priorities and our work across the charity.

Those patient contributions are vital, always helping us and our partners to understand what life is like with kidney disease, always ensuring we see the patient behind the treatment and always reminding us that behind every statistic and every number is a person – the patients and the carers who inspire our mission and push us forward to make a difference and change the future of kidney disease.

You may have experience in the following: Research Manager, Research Coordinator, Grants Manager, Research Funding Manager, Programme Manager, Scientific Officer, Research Administrator, Project Manager, Research Engagement Manager, Grants Coordinator, Research Officer, Academic Liaison Officer, Medical Research Manager, Research Strategy Coordinator, Research Portfolio Administrator, Charity, Charities, Third Sector, Not for Profit, NFP, etc.

REF-217 552

Job Title: Senior Fundraising Officer (Retention and Mid-level)

Location: London/Hybrid

Salary: £40,064.15 per annum

Weekly Hours: 35

Reference: YMC1054991

YMCA England & Wales is looking for a Senior Fundraising Officer to join our dynamic Public Fundraising Team. If you are you passionate about making a difference in young people's lives while driving impactful fundraising initiatives then you could be instrumental in growing income streams, developing supporter engagement, and ensuring a steady and reliable flow of donations year after year.

About Us

YMCA England & Wales supports 83 local YMCAs, advocating for vulnerable young people by providing essential building blocks for a better life—like a safe home, guidance, friendship, and employment skills. We’re committed to ensuring fairness and opportunity for all, and through our collective voice, we influence national policy and media to improve the lives of young people across the country.

Fundraising at YMCA England & Wales has three pillars:

• Fundraising for distribution through initiatives such as our RoomSponsor programme
• Fundraise to support YMCAs and fund our policy, campaign and research work, that changes the lives of young people
• Help YMCAs fundraise themselves by providing assets, propositions and advice for local YMCA fundraisers

What You’ll Do

As our Senior Fundraising Officer, you’ll take the lead on several key fundraising initiatives, including:

Developing retention strategies: Engage with regular donors to uplift their contributions through multi-channel approaches (mail, email, phone). 

Strengthening relationships: Implement donor reactivation and communication programmes to keep supporters engaged and appreciated. 

Growing mid-level giving: Identify new high-value donor prospects, improve stewardship, and test innovative ways to grow income. 

Campaign management: Lead on end-to-end campaign activities, ensuring timelines, budgets, and performance metrics are met. 

Collaboration: Work closely with internal teams, external agencies, and suppliers to ensure successful fundraising campaigns and initiatives. 

Innovation & Growth: Stay on top of market trends and explore new ways to expand our direct marketing programme.

Who We’re Looking For

We’re seeking someone who is driven, creative, and highly organized. You’ll need experience in fundraising and campaign management, with a knack for building relationships and developing strategies that optimize income and donor engagement.

This role reports to the Senior Fundraising Manager (Retention & Roomsponsor Partnership) and works closely with a vibrant team, including the Senior Officer (Roomsponsor). You’ll also have the opportunity to collaborate with YMCAs across the country and directly impact the lives of young people.

If you're ready to take on a rewarding role in a supportive, purpose-driven environment, we’d love to hear from you!

Please apply today with cv and cover letter and help us continue to build a better future for young people across England & Wales.

Our recruitment process is anonymised and candidates' names are hidden. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those from disabled and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates. Safer recruitment is important to us and the successful applicant will be asked to provide two references. They will also be required to complete a safeguarding self-declaration, safeguarding training and undertake a DBS check.

Join Us as a Local Growth Officer for Buckinghamshire Scout County!

Location: Home Based within Buckinghamshire

Salary:  £31,716 per annum, Band, Level 3 + Mileage

Term: Fixed-Term Contract - 2 years

Working Hours: 35 hours per week (including evenings and some weekends)

About the team and role as a Local Growth Officer Role: 

Are you passionate about community development and youth engagement? We’re looking for a Local Growth Officer to help drive the expansion of Scouting opportunities in Buckinghamshire, supporting both new and existing sections.

As a Local Growth Officer, you will play a pivotal role in achieving the growth ambitions of Buckinghamshire's Scouts. Working closely with local volunteers, you’ll help to open new sections and collaborate with our Growth & Communities Team to ensure that Scouting thrives across the county.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact in a county known for its investment, growth, and strong potential for success. You’ll be joining a team of enthusiastic and supportive volunteers who are dedicated to expanding Scouting opportunities for young people.

 As the Local Growth Officer, Key Responsibilities:

• Support and work in partnership with lead volunteers within the County
• Open new Scouting provision and ensuring that Scouting is accessible to all
• Inspire and enable local Scouting volunteers to devise and apply
• To advise and support and encourage local Scouting volunteers
• Help identify, create, and design new tools and resources to support inclusive membership

Who we’re looking for as our Local Growth Officer:

• Ability to work effectively as part of a remote team.
• Excellent planning and organisational skills
• Confident public speaker and skilled at presenting ideas
• Experience of working with volunteer groups
• Experienced in community engagement
• Self-starter with the ability to work remotely.

Benefits:

We are an award-winning Charity of the Year (Charity Times Awards 2022) with over 400 employees across multiple locations across the country.

• 28 days holiday and going up to 32 days after 2 years’ service plus additional days at Christmas
• Flexible working hours
• Work in a way that suits you, your role and your department
• Double matching pension up to 10% of gross salary
• Family Friendly employer with generous family leave
• Learning and Development/training opportunities via our internal learning hub

For more details about the Scouts and our great benefits:

Closing date for applications: 23:59pm Sunday 3rd November 2024.

Interviews will be held on Thursday 14th November at Braid Wood Camp Site, Chartridge, Chesham, HP5 2UU

 Click ‘Apply’ now to apply for this fantastic role!!!!!!

Strictly no agencies. 

The Scouts is an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. We offer flexible working arrangements to support diverse needs and lifestyles, ensuring that our teams can thrive both professionally and personally. We welcome and encourage applicants from all walks of life, believing that varied perspectives strengthen our innovation and community. Your unique experiences and ideas are essential to our success, and we look forward to hearing from all voices.

We are recruiting a General Advice Officer to support with the delivery of advice and welfare support to guests who access Sufra’s Food Bank, Community Kitchen and the Community Wellbeing Project. The General Advice Officer will support our guests on a range of areas including benefits, immigration, housing, wellbeing, money management and access to training and employment services. The post-holder will provide high quality welfare advice and guidance through weekly one-to-one advice sessions, undertake case work, work with partners to facilitate referrals, and provide support to advice volunteers.

The successful candidate must have at least two years’ experience delivering effective advice in a similar capacity, demonstrate empathy, an understanding of the issues facing vulnerable people, and have in-depth and up-to-date knowledge of welfare benefits with a strong focus on achieving tangible outcomes for our guests.

We understand that working in the charity sector can be both deeply rewarding and demanding, we provide comprehensive training and support so our team can expand their skills and take on new challenges. We are looking for an General Advice Officer who is passionate, reflective and ambitious about bringing about positive change for our guests. The right candidate should be empathetic and patient, skilled at problem-solving, highly organised and diligent.

This is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of our guests. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and life experiences, as we believe this diversity makes us better able to serve the diverse communities of Brent.

We are looking for an exceptionally committed individual who is willing to go the extra mile. If you are dedicated to bringing about positive change for some of the most marginalised communities in Brent through advice, we would love to hear from you!

We have an exciting opportunity for a Growth & Recruitment Officer to join our Growth and Communities Team.

Location: Home-based covering East and West Midlands

Salary:£31,716 per annum - Band E Level 3 + Car allowance

Term: Permanent

Working Hours: 35 hours per week – including some evenings and weekends

About the team and role as a Growth and Recruitment Officer Role: 

As a Growth and Recruitment Officer you will be pro-actively Support and work in partnership with District Commissioners and Group Scout Leaders.

Join our passionate, talented, and caring team dedicated to achieving amazing things. We’re looking for someone who can work collaboratively, engage with volunteers, and develop partnerships to help young people gain essential skills for life.

As part of our mission to grow local scouting, you'll play a key role in providing more opportunities for both new youth members and adult volunteers.

 As the Growth & Recruitment Officer, Key Responsibilities:

• Support and work in partnership with lead volunteers within the County
• Open new Scouting provision and ensuring that Scouting is accessible to all.
• Inspire and enable local Scouting volunteers to devise and apply
• Help identify, create and design new tools and resources to support inclusive membership growth
• To advise, support, and encourage local Scouting volunteers to engage with under-represented communities

Who we’re looking for as our Growth and Recruitment Officer:

• Ability to work effectively as part of a remote team.
• Excellent planning and organisational skills with the ability to manage and deliver a varied workload
• A skilled public speaker, able to present ideas and information
• Experience of working with volunteer groups
• Self-starter with the ability to work remotely
• Experience using digital platforms
• Experienced in community engagement

Benefits:

• We are an award-winning Charity of the Year (Charity Times Awards 2022) with over 400 employees across multiple locations across the country.
• 28 days holiday and going up to 32 days after 2 years’ service plus additional days at Christmas
• Flexible working hours
• Work in a way that suits you, your role and your department
• Double matching pension up to 10% of gross salary
• Family Friendly employer with generous family leave
• Learning and Development/training opportunities via our internal learning hub

For more details about the Scouts and our great benefits visit our website.

Closing date for applications: 23:59pm Sunday 3rd November 2024.

Interviews will be held on Tuesday 12th November 2024.

Click ‘Apply’ now to apply for this fantastic role!!!!!!

Strictly no agencies.

The Scouts is an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. We offer flexible working arrangements to support diverse needs and lifestyles, ensuring that our teams can thrive both professionally and personally. We welcome and encourage applicants from all walks of life, believing that varied perspectives strengthen our innovation and community. Your unique experiences and ideas are essential to our success, and we look forward to hearing from all voices.

Peer Support Development Officer – South East and M4 Corridor

Thank you for your interest in the above role.  This pack tells you more about Kinship, how we work, and details of the role and the people you will be working with. It also gives information on how to apply.

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 South East of England, 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 close or within easy reach of our priority development areas in the South East of England which include; Reading, Oxfordshire, West Berkshire, Slough and Hampshire but also able to travel to locations along the M4 corridor.

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 boundaries 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 license/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 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. 

Making The Leap is an innovative societal change charity that aims to make a big difference. From direct delivery, to advocacy and leadership, we refuse to stay in our lane and believe passionately that those we exist to serve have the right to be anything they want to be. To say that this is an exciting time for the organisation would be an understatement, as our incredible funders, donors, partners and supporters have given us the chance to move to the next level, and have further influence and delivery nationally.

The shared soul of the organisation is to be passionate about helping young people from less-advantaged backgrounds; build up other charities and community groups and want to partner with them or support them; want to work with businesses and organisations to get things done; and care deeply about addressing racial inequity.

The organisation has a number of strands: core Making The Leap; the UK Social Mobility Awards; the Social Mobility Podcast; Black Charity Leaders and The Social Mobility List.

Research Funding Officer (Research Impact)

Permanent

Salary: £28,000 - £30,000 per annum, plus benefits

Full time – 37.5 hours a week 

London N1

We're a hybrid working employer, meaning you're currently required to come into the office a minimum of 2 days per week, currently Tuesday and Wednesday or Thursday.

Closing date: 5pm, Friday 8th November 2024

Interviews: w/c 25th November 2024

Preventing cancer, saving lives

Ready to play a pivotal role in advancing cutting-edge cancer prevention research? Join us as a Research Funding Officer (Research Impact) and support innovative global studies on how diet, nutrition, physical activity and body size influence cancer prevention and survival.

We are seeking a Research Funding Officer (Research Impact) to work mainly on our Research Grant Programme. As part of our Research Funding team, you will support high quality and innovative research on the effects of diet, nutrition, physical activity, and body size on cancer prevention and survival, managing an international portfolio of projects and working closely with leading researchers around the world.

In addition to the Research Grant programme, you will have the opportunity to contribute to other Research Funding activities such as our Academy programme and work closely with colleagues across the Science department and with other departments such as PR & Editorial and Fundraising.

The Research Funding Officer (Research Impact) will work mainly on the post award phase (e.g. active monitoring of funded projects, liaison with our grant holders, supporting our Academy programme initiative and evaluation of the impact of our funded research).

You will have experience working in a fast-paced research environment, whether in academia or research administration/management. Strong writing, communication, and presentation skills are essential for engaging a diverse range of audiences. Additionally, you should possess a solid understanding of statistical analysis. A Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or Nutrition is required, while a Master’s degree is preferred but not essential. An interest in science communication and social media is also desirable.

Application Details:
If you are interested in this role/s and feel you possess the necessary requirements, please submit a current CV and covering letter (maximum 2 pages) by the closing date. Please indicate in your covering letter which position you are applying for. 

You must have current right to work in the UK. 

Please note: Your cover letter should highlight how your skills and experience will benefit WCRF International and equip you for the role.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are only able to provide feedback to shortlisted candidates. If you do not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.