It jobs

Family Support Worker

£23,000 pa + benefits (including 25 days annual leave, company car and pension)

Central & South London

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity is going through an exciting time where we are growing!

About the role:

We are is looking to appoint a Family Support Worker to deliver a high-quality family support service as part of our London and South East Care Team.

Reporting to the Family Support Manager out of our London and South East team base and working in partnership with health, education and social care professionals, you will take responsibility for providing needs-led emotional, social and practical support to families where a child/young person has a life threatening or terminal illness.

Having worked in a stressful and emotional environment you will have a genuine interest in building supportive relationships and helping people; and having provided bereavement support to families, you understand processes of grief, loss, and change - and how best to help others deal with its impact.

What we’re looking for:

· An experienced child health, education or social care professional - applications will be particularly welcome from those who have worked in a community environment and those with a recognised qualification in education, health or social care.

· A warm, inclusive approach to achieving goals quickly and correctly.

· Practiced in child protection, information sharing and the rules around data protection - you lead by example, drawing on your own professional experience and working within established guidelines.

· Practical and people-oriented - you will thrive working at a fast pace whilst maintaining accuracy and be a confident user of IT (including MSOffice)

· A persuasive and open communicator, you will work collaboratively with your team and volunteers to ensure delivery of a high-quality service and support fundraising colleagues by writing case studies and family updates

· A practical knowledge of diversity issues affecting children, young people, and their families – aware that being responsive to others needs and concerns, is essential.

What we offer:

We have a range of fantastic benefits that we offer our employees, this includes.

· Flexible working hours to balance home and working life

· 25 days of annual leave plus public holidays – rising to 26 days after 1 year, 27 days after 5 years and 30 days after 11 years, with an additional 5 years to use in your 10th or 20th year of service (pro rata for part time)

· Employee Assistance Programme with access to remote GP, counselling, physiotherapy, resources to support your mental health and financial wellbeing, as well as a 24/7 helpline via Help@Hand

· Company car for front line care posts

· Access to the Blue Light Card Scheme, and other rewards and discounts

· Bike to work, season ticket loan and payroll giving schemes, as well as a recommend a friend recruitment bonus

· Family friendly policies, focused on employee wellbeing, and an active cross-organisational wellbeing group running a number of initiatives throughout the year

· Pension scheme where we contribute 5% of your salary and you contribute at least 3%

· The option to buy/sell annual leave, as well as additional leave for your birthday, wedding/civil ceremony and an extra half day off for Christmas shopping

· Robust training and development programmes to support your learning and growth

We have a range of fantastic benefits that we offer our employees. If you’d like to find out more about these benefits and working with us, please visit our website.

We also have a fantastic learning and development programme - the Anne Harris skills development programme - in which we aim to provide a high level of training and development opportunities for all staff, so you are able to perform to the best of your ability, achieve individual and team objectives aligned to Rainbow Trusts strategic plan, supporting staff to be the best they can be, and feel a valued member of a high performing organisation.

Our Family Support Workers are given the opportunity to complete a number of diverse training courses in their first 12 months, including but not limited to: Mental Health First Aid, Makaton, counselling skills, and Introduction to Play.

The programme aims to provide a building block for you to individually tailor your own learning and development needs, with all family support workers having a foundation level of skills within their first year.

About us:

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity enables families who have a child with a life-threatening or terminal illness to make the most of their time together, providing expert practical and emotional support where they need, it for as long as it is needed. For families living with childhood illness, time is everything. Right now, there are too many families coping alone with no support, no time to think, no time to make memories and no time for each other. We believe that no family should go through this alone, so we are here to change that.

How to apply:

To apply please visit our website via the link and apply online.

Interviews will take place via Teams or in person with a date to be confirmed. We will only contact those applicants who have been successful.

There will be a requirement for flexible working and a full current driver’s licence to accommodate the team and family need. An enhanced DBS disclosure will be required for this post.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all employees to share this commitment.

Rainbow Trust is an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds. We are a Best Companies One-Star rated organisation.

Job Title: Hackney Paid Peer Supporter

Salary: £25,207 FTE (£15,124,20 pro-rata)

Hours per week: 21 hours 

Contract: Fixed Term contract until 31st March 2026

Location: Homerton Hospital, Hackney Borough Based

Benefits: NCT membership with access to exclusive benefits, pension  scheme, 30 days annual leave plus 8 bank and public holiday.

About us

NCT is a charity with a clear mission: to support people as they become parents, through pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood.

With a 65-year history of transformative change, we are a vibrant community of volunteers, practitioners, peer supporters, members and advocates. We are the largest parenting charity in the country and over the decades we’ve supported millions of people on their unique journey into parenthood. 

While many know us for our antenatal classes, we also do much more. We campaign on issues that matter to parents, provide infant feeding support, and run thousands of free community events and activities led by our amazing volunteers. We also support families facing challenges like social isolation, feeding difficulties, and poor mental health. We offer support in communities, in hospitals and online. 

NCT is committed to social justice and equity. We are dedicated to being an anti-racist charity and believe that inclusion is everyone's responsibility. Being there for every parent requires bold action to challenge inequalities. By creating inclusive spaces and services that are built on collaboration and trust, we welcome and celebrate diversity and strive to meet the needs of the pregnant women, new parents, families and communities that we serve.

As the world changes and new challenges are thrown up for parents, our charity must change too. Join us now and be part of this journey, and ensure that every parent feels connected, confident and safe. 

About the role

Our Hackney Parent Support project is commissioned by Hackney Council, to offer infant feeding support across the region in both community and hospital settings and parenting courses for families throughout the Hackney region. The support is delivered by staff and volunteer peer supporters.

We are seeking a capable Peer Supporter who will support parents at Homerton Hospital and at various community settings in Hackney. This role will mainly be based between Homerton hospital and out in the community (expenses will be reimbursed).

You will be responsible for offering infant feeding support for parents within Homerton Hospital and the community. Some of the key responsibilities of the role include:

• Providing breastfeeding support to families on the wards at Homerton hospital and community settings within Hackney.
• Support in delivering inductions for volunteer peer supporters.
• To report any concerns or additional support needs of women to the NCT management team and/or Infant Feeding Lead for referral onto partner agencies as appropriate. 
• To attend regular supervision/support sessions.
• Having a good working knowledge and understanding of the local demographics in the Hackney area and ensuring all support is accessible and inclusive.
• Ensure that data collection and feedback is collected in a timely manner in an inclusive way.

You must have good communication skills and be able to build relationships and create a rapport with a wide range of people easily. This is a large project and covers multiple locations so you must be able to confidently prioritise your own work, be highly organised and able to work independently.

Being able to make decisions and respond appropriately to our staff, peer supporters and parents and other external stakeholders is essential, alongside good IT skills– including Outlook, Word and Excel – and you must have good attention to detail.
 
It is essential for this post that you undertake the training to become an NCT Breastfeeding Peer Supporter. This requires experience of giving breast milk. The training can be undertaken within your working hours.

The role is 21 hours per week which will be predominantly Monday to Friday within the working day, however, will include occasional evening and weekends. This role is mainly based at Homerton Hospital and at community settings across Hackney.

About you

• Are you willing to undertake our Peer Supporter training? (Requires experience in giving breast milk)
• Can you work at pace and juggle a number of different priorities?
• Are you passionate about supporting families to reach their parenting and feeding goals and contribute to their positive wellbeing?
• Do you want to join an amazing Charity that supports parents across the UK?
• Would you like to be part of an amazing team of passionate staff?

What we offer

We are taking positive action to increase diversity throughout our organisation, at all levels, and to nurture a culture of inclusion for all our people and the parents and families that we support.

We are committed to zero discrimination both internally and externally regardless of visible or invisible difference such as sex, sexual orientation, age, race, ethnicity, disability, impairment, learning difference or long-term condition, religion or belief, gender identity, economic class, marital/civil partnership, family status including single parents, socio-economic background and pregnancy and maternity. We provide reasonable adjustments and are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. 

We welcome and actively encourage applications from all candidates including those from under-represented groups within NCT such as individuals from Black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQI+ people and people with a disability. 

The welfare and safety of individuals is at the heart of everything that we do. NCT is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. 

Closing date: 24th April 2025 at 23:59

Interviews: Week beginning 27th April 2025

Job Description

Job Title: Training and Development Officer

Location: Home-based, covering the South

Salary: £26,000 (pro-rata), you’d get £15,600 (gross)

Hours: 29.6 hours to be worked flexibly over 4 days

Contract: fixed-term to end of March 2028, Term Time Only

About us:

Learning through Landscapes is the UK’s leading school grounds charity, dedicated to enhancing outdoor learning and play for all. Our vision is a society where the benefits of regular time outdoors are valued and appreciated, and outdoor learning, play and connection with nature is recognised as a fundamental part of education, at every stage, for every child and young person.

We have unrivalled expertise based on three decades of experience, practical action and research. With offices in England and Scotland and staff based across the UK, our team and our accredited network of outdoor learning experts have the capacity to work nationally and internationally. Click HERE for more information.

What you’ll be doing:

As a Training and Development Officer, you will be working directly with teachers and other education staff supporting their journeys in taking curriculum learning and play outside and to utilise their school grounds. You will deliver LtL’s training and projects within diverse communities across a significant geographical area. This role is part of our exciting new climate change education initiative. It is essential that you are able and willing to travel the Southwest and throughout the UK, including overnight. For more details of the role see the Key Responsibilities document.

What you’ll need:

· Experience of delivering projects with diverse communities

· Experience of training and advising educational staff in primary or secondary schools.

· Experience of delivering outdoor nature-based and curriculum linked learning activities

· A passion for nature

· Experience of producing written materials; educational resources, reports, and similar project related communications

· Competent IT skills (particularly Microsoft Office, Teams and Outlook)

· Excellent planning and organisational skills with the ability to manage and deliver a varied workload

· Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to find creative solutions

· Good interpersonal skills

· An understanding of the role safeguarding plays in education

· Ability to work from home or suitable office-type venue

If you don’t have all of the above but feel it could be the role for you, talk to us!

What we offer:

· Flexible working

· Holiday, 28 days + bank holidays + a “birthday gift” day

· Laptop, phone and all travel & subsistence expenses

· Family & carer friendly policies

· Annual training package including: LtL Professional Accreditation in Outdoor Learning and Play, LtL Climate School 180 Network Training package

· Sick pay

· Pension scheme – 5% employer contribution

· Subsidised Christmas meal

· A supportive and welcoming team of colleagues, including our 20+ Delivery Team members.

We’re an equal opportunities employer. All suitable applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

We are actively seeking to increase diversity within our workforce and are committed to recruiting the best people on the objective basis of their skills, ability and experience. We offer a guaranteed interview to eligible applicants who choose to opt-in to the scheme and can demonstrate that they have at least 6 out of the 11 from the “what you need” list. To be eligible to apply via the Guaranteed Interview Scheme, you must be from an ethnic minority. Please state clearly in your covering letter if you are applying under the Guaranteed Interview Scheme.

We are happy to support with any reasonable adjustments that are needed within the recruitment process.

If you would like an informal chat about the role, please contact the HR Manager, Sarah Knott - see website for contact details.

To apply: Please send the following by email to our recruitment email - see website

· Your CV

· A covering letter explaining in no more than one side of A4, your interest in the role and the skills and knowledge you have that make you an ideal candidate

· Contact details (including email address and phone number) of two referees, one of whom should be your most recent employer.

The recruitment process:

The deadline for applications is 9 am on Monday 12h May 2025.

If you have not heard from us by 5 pm on Tuesday 13th May 2025, you have not been shortlisted.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview (either via TEAMS or at a venue in the South - TBC) on Tuesday 20th May 2025.

Candidates will be informed of the outcome of the interviews by Thursday 22nd May 2025.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Caseworker to join the Eastern Police Investigation Team team, working 37.5 hours a week.

Do you want to make a difference every day? Do you want to contribute to change & improvement for those who need it?

Do you have resilience & adaptability? Can you work effectively with a focus on customer service and care?

If yes, then we'd love to hear from you…

What we offer:

At Victim Support we believe in attracting & retaining the best people and offer a competitive rewards & benefits package including:

• Flexible working options including hybrid working
• 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays, rising to 33 days plus Bank Holidays
• An extra day off for your birthday & options to buy or sell annual leave
• Pension with 5% employer contribution
• Enhanced sick pay allowances, maternity & paternity payments
• High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment & leisure discounts
• Access to our financial wellbeing hub & salary deducted finance
• Employee assistance programme & wellbeing support
• Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes
• Cycle to work scheme & season ticket loans
• Ongoing training & support with opportunities for career development & progression

About the role:

This role is based in Portsmouth, operating as a hybrid working model with three days in the office, and two working from home. All travel costs to and from appointments from your office base will be reimbursed.

As a Caseworker you will be:

• Effectively manage a caseload of self-referrals or referred service users.
• Ensure each victim receives an individually appropriate tailored support and information service.
• Undertake risk and needs assessments to address the specific needs of the client.
• Provide information and advocacy.
• Identify barriers to individuals accessing our services and determine solutions.
• To work alongside a team of staff to reflect the diverse community and the needs of victims.
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships and promote effective communication between staff and stakeholders.
• Maintain accurate and confidential case records.

You will need:

• Understanding of the impact of crime on victims.
• Effective verbal and written communication.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering services.
• Using generic IT applications competently.
• Understanding of practical application of equal opportunities and diversity and inclusivity.
• Ability to balance competing needs and priorities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Maintain professional boundaries.
• Knowledge and understanding of the requirement for confidentiality and safe working practices, maintaining records in accordance with the Data Protection Act.

This role involves regular travel and due to the location, a driving license and access to a vehicle is considered an essential requirement. If you are unable to drive because of a disability please indicate this in your application in your personal statement so we can explore the feasibility of alternative arrangements.

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.

About Us:

Victim Support (VS) is an independent charity providing a range of specialist services to people who have been affected by crime across England and Wales. We work towards a world where there are fewer victims but who have stronger rights, better support and a real influence in the Criminal Justice System. Everyone at VS is driven by our Vision Ambitions and Values to play their part in making a difference for those who experience crime and traumatic events. Working for VS gives you the opportunity to play a key role in a national charity providing high quality services to victims and witnesses and being a vital force for change.

Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.

Victim Support strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
As part of our commitment to the Race at Work Charter we particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.

If you have a disability, a learning difficulty such as dyslexia or a medical condition which you believe may affect your performance during any aspect of our selection process, we'll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform at your best.

How to apply:

To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria.

We look forward to hearing from you.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date.

If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.

Job Title: Fostering Recruitment Officer

Salary: £26,854 per annum (increasing to £29,838 in 18 months) + £750 Homeworking Allowance per annum

Contract: Permanent Role

Location: Homebased - North East but must be willing and able to travel throughout the Yorkshire and North East region.

As a ‘not for profit’ organisation, TACT puts the needs of our children and carers first and look to appoint individuals who are as passionate about fostering as we are. We are a homeworking organisation, and we pride ourselves on our flexible working opportunities, available from day one, an extensive wellbeing programme and our benefits package, all curated to nurture a healthy work life balance for all our employees so they can give an excellent service to our carers and the young people and children we care for.

As a foster care charity, TACT invests all surplus income into services, staff, carers, and child development. This means that we have been able to invest unique projects like TACT Connect, our unique and ground-breaking scheme for TACT care experienced young people and adults,  as well as our expanding Education and Health services. All our activities are built on our commitment to becoming a fully trauma informed organisation, in line with our key values and ethos.

In 2024 TACT became one of the top 5 charities to work for in the UK, placing 5th in the UK Best Companies Work For survey results , and a top 25 mid-sized company to work with across the whole of the UK.   97% of our people feel proud to work with TACT and think that TACT cares about their wellbeing, while 92% of our people would say they “ love working for TACT”.

This is an exciting opportunity to join TACT in the new role of Fostering Recruitment Officer as they grow their presence in the North East. The Fostering Recruitment Officer will drive recruitment of Foster Carers across the area, innovating engagement and participation alongside the Fostering Recruitment Manager, in collaboration with the whole team.

If you want to be valued as a professional, be appreciated at work and contribute to better outcomes for the children and young people connected with TACT,  apply now.  

Overall Duties of the Fostering Recruitment Officer will include:

• Working collaboratively across relevant teams to progress enquiry management
• Support community recruitment activity to create a consistent pipeline of carer applicants
• Facilitating a smooth application and assessment process for potential carers
• Undertaking essential administrative tasks relating to record keeping, creation of data for analysis, evidence for measuring objectives
• Creatively contribute to innovation and improvement of strategies and local activities
• Maintaining an understanding of regulations and requirements for provision of foster care services

 TACT offer an excellent employee benefits package including:

• 31 days paid holiday plus 8 annual bank holidays.
• Progression to salary target rate upon completion of 18 months service.
• 45p per mile for business travel.
• Flexible working arrangements (including compressed hours, flexibility around core hours, volunteer days policy).
• Family friendly policies.
• Homeworking ‘bundle’ including annual allowance, IT equipment and a loan for home office set up.
• Help@Hand Employee Assistance Programme (including CBT counselling, 24/7 remote GP appointments, physiotherapy, mental health support and second opinions on serious diagnosis).
• An hour a week of live, expert led activities through the Annual Employee wellbeing Programme.
• Menopause Policy and free Menopause Clinician Appointments.
• Stakeholder Pension Scheme (salary sacrifice).
• Fantastic learning and development opportunities for all roles.

The Fostering Recruitment Officer must be based within the North East and be willing to travel throughout the Yorkshire and North East region to visit potential new foster carers, attend face-to-face team meetings at least once a month and on other occasions for training and team wellbeing events.

An Enhanced DBS clearance is required for this role and will be processed by TACT on your behalf.

Closing Date: Thursday, 24th April 2025

• Interview Date: Wednesday, 7th May 2025 (via Microsoft Teams)

Safeguarding is everyone’s business and TACT believes that only the people with the right skills and values should work in social work.  As part of TACT’s commitment to safeguarding, we properly examine the skills, experience, qualifications, and values of potential staff in relation to our work with vulnerable young children.  We use rigorous and consistent recruitment approaches to help safeguard TACT’s young people.  All our staff are expected to work in line with TACT’s safeguarding policies.

We reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than advertised if the volume of applications is excessive, you are therefore advised to apply at your earliest convenience.

TACT does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies, nor the fees associated with them.

Do your best work, for the right reasons.

We’re looking for a Procurement Apprentice with a passion for and an interest in building a professional career in procurement to join our team which supports teachers and improves outcomes for pupils across the UK.

Oak is a fully remote, mission-driven organisation offering high levels of flexibility, autonomy, and purpose. We’re a national not-for-profit working in partnership with teachers to create the highest-quality, sequenced curriculum and lesson resources for pupils across all subjects and age groups.

Our culture has been independently recognised through:

• Flexa verified (93% overall score, including 95% for working hours and 97% for role modelling)

• Escape the City's Top 1% Employers – based on anonymous colleague reviews of culture, development, and impact

�� About the Role

You’ll join our Operations Team, which consists of colleagues providing expertise and support in procurement, finance, HR, IT & Data Security, legal compliance and wider operational support to this ambitious and mission-driven remote organisation

This is a hands-on role with plenty of scope for growth and development, alongside completing a formal apprenticeship in procurement which will give you a professional recognised qualification.

�� What You’ll Be Doing

• Support the drafting of procurement contracts using defined templates and processes, guiding Oak colleagues where needed in line with our Procurement Handbook, and ensuring documentation is clear, accurate and complete.

• Track and assist in maintaining the procurement pipeline, monitoring contract timelines and end dates across suppliers, contractors and freelancers, and prompting renewal or procurement activity as required.

• Provide basic advice and guidance to colleagues on procurement processes and policies to ensure compliance, including supporting due diligence checks for suppliers and contractors and assisting with compliance monitoring and the ‘close down’ of a contract. 

• Actively participate in the Procurement Level 4 Apprenticeship, including attending training sessions, completing assessments/exams, and applying/sharing learning in day-to-day responsibilities.

• Work in cross-functional and product-oriented squads with colleagues from across the organisation, as required

• As a member of the Oak Team, you will contribute to the wider success and culture of the organisation and support and role model our five values: create the right environment, be a great colleague, own your role but work for the team, make things happen, and keep getting better.

• Responsible As a member of the Oak Team, you will contribute to the wider success and culture of the organisation and support and role model our five values: create the right environment, be a great colleague, own your role but work for the team, make things happen, and keep getting better.

• Work in cross-functional and product-oriented squads with colleagues from across the organisation, as required.

�� What We’re Looking For

• Prior experience of at least two years in an administrative or office-based role, with confidence using digital tools and remote working platforms (e.g. Google Workspace, Slack).

• Twelve months of previous commercial/procurement experience, for example, supporting supply management, ordering, purchasing or contract management.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to listen actively and explain processes clearly to others.

• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate records and data integrity.

• Familiarity with databases, document management systems, or other tools used to manage contracts or records — training will be provided on our internal systems (e.g. Juro/In-Tend).

• A demonstrable interest in procurement and a commitment to developing professional knowledge in this area.

�� Our Benefits

• 25 days annual leave, plus one extra day for each year of service (up to 28)

• Additional Oak closure days over Christmas/New Year

• 11% employer pension contribution (with no minimum employee contribution)

• A 36-hour working week, with half-days on Fridays or every other Friday off

• Fully remote working — we’ll support your home set-up and offer coworking options if preferred

• Termly in-person offsites to collaborate, connect, and have fun

• A culture that genuinely supports flexibility, autonomy, and trust

�� Inclusion and Belonging

We believe diverse teams build better products. We warmly welcome applicants from all backgrounds, particularly those who are underrepresented in the tech and education sectors.

We use the Applied recruitment platform to help reduce bias in our hiring process. 

�� Key Info

• Location: Remote, but you must be based in the UK with the legal right to work here

• Sponsorship: Unfortunately, we’re unable to offer visa sponsorship at this time

• Closing date: We’ll be reviewing applications as they come in and may close the role early

If this sounds like the kind of role and team where you could do your life’s best work, we’d love to hear from you.

Job Title: Service Manager

Location: Derby
Salary: £39,444 per annum
Contract type: Full time, Permanent

Hours: 37.5 hours per week with a requirement to particiapte in the out of hours on-call on a rota basis

We are recruiting for a Service Manager who is passionate about supporting survivors who are impacted by domestic abuse and other gender-based crimes. This is a multifaceted, fast paced, and exciting role where you will join our team in Derby to lead on the delivery and development of high-quality refuge and outreach services for survivors of domestic abuse and other gender-based crimes. 

The post holder will provide line management and high-quality support to the direct reports in line with Refuge’s policies and procedures. This will include providing supervision on complex and high-risk cases, overseeing operational emergencies, and ensuring high standards of casework. The Service Manager will lead on the delivery of the multiagency aspect of work, working jointly with the Refuge teams and wider stakeholders to deliver best services to the survivors. 

Candidates must have proven experience of providing direct emotional and practical support to vulnerable people, managing, and motivating staff, managing casework as well as working within multiagency setting.  In addition, you must have an excellent knowledge of domestic abuse and other gender-based violence and its impact on survivors.  You will have knowledge of relevant Criminal and Civil law legislation, as well as Housing and Health and Safety legislation.

As part of this role, you will be required to participate in an out-of-hours on call rota. Please note that this is an on-site role. 

This post is restricted to women due to the nature of the role. The Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies.

Closing Date: 09:00am 12 May 2025

Interview Date: 19 and 20 May 2025

Refuge is the UK’s largest provider of specialist services, and we are proud to be a leader in our field and an employer of choice, with leading edge systems for supervision, quality management and development. 

Refuge offers a variety of exciting opportunities to learn, develop and grow in your career. We recognise the value everyone brings to the organisation to achieve our aims and are dedicated to developing and rewarding our staff. More details of our benefits can be found in Job Information Pack.

Job Title: Fostering Recruitment Manager

Salary: £44,756 per annum (increasing to £49,729 in 18 months) + £750 per annum Homeworking Allowance

Hours & Contract: 35 Hours per week - Permanent Role

Location: Homebased within reasonable travelling distance of Bath, Bristol, Nth Somerset, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire

As a ‘not for profit’ organisation, TACT puts the needs of our children and carers first and look to appoint individuals who are as passionate about fostering as we are. We are a homeworking organisation, and we pride ourselves on our flexible working opportunities, available from day one, an extensive wellbeing programme and our benefits package, all curated to nurture a healthy work life balance for all our employees so they can give an excellent service to our carers and the young people and children we care for.

As a foster care charity, TACT invests all surplus income into services, staff, carers, and child development. This means that we have been able to invest unique projects like TACT Connect, our unique and ground-breaking scheme for TACT care experienced young people and adults,  as well as our expanding Education and Health services. All our activities are built on our commitment to becoming a fully trauma informed organisation, in line with our key values and ethos.

In 2024 TACT became one of the top 5 charities to work for in the UK, placing 5th in the UK Best Companies Work For survey results , and a top 25 mid-sized company to work with across the whole of the UK.   97% of our people feel proud to work with TACT and think that TACT cares about their wellbeing, while 92% of our people would say they “ love working for TACT”.

This is an exciting opportunity to join TACT as a Fostering Recruitment Manager as we invest in recruiting new foster families. We believe in a relational, trauma-informed approach to recruitment, combining targeted local marketing and relationship-building with the support of a centralised Recruitment Development Manager dedicated to continuous improvement.

If you want to be valued as a professional, be appreciated at work and contribute to better outcomes for the children and young people connected with TACT apply now.

 Overall Duties of the Fostering Recruitment Manager will include:

• Managing local recruitment in line with the local recruitment strategy
• Making decisions on suitability of enquirers to proceed to application.
• Working proactively to meet and exceed enquiry response times, ensuring all enquiries are progressed efficiently within set timescales.   
• Increasing TACT’s presence in the targeted local area’s by leading on recruitment events
• Collaborating with local foster carers to support and organise recruitment activities.
• Management and oversight of new foster carer enquiries, including undertaking Initial Home Visits of prospective foster carers.
• Leading Skills to Foster training groups and facilitate applicants’ completion of pre-approval L&D to ensure they are well prepared for the fostering role
• Supervising and managing the Fostering Recruitment Officer and / or Assessing Social Worker/s.
• Supervising, quality assurance and making complex decisions in relation to assessments to ensure completion within timescales and to the standards required.
• Writing and producing management and performance information to improve recruitment practices.

 TACT offer an excellent employee benefits package including:

• 31 days paid holiday plus 8 annual bank holidays.
• Progression to salary target rate upon completion of 18 months service.
• 45p per mile for business travel.
• Flexible working arrangements (including compressed hours, flexibility around core hours, volunteer days policy).
• Family friendly policies.
• Homeworking ‘bundle’ including annual allowance, IT equipment and a loan for home office set up.
• Help@Hand Employee Assistance Programme (including CBT counselling, 24/7 remote GP appointments, physiotherapy, mental health support and second opinions on serious diagnosis).
• An hour a week of live, expert led activities through the Annual Employee wellbeing Programme.
• Menopause Policy and free Menopause Clinician Appointments.
• Stakeholder Pension Scheme (salary sacrifice).
• Tailored continuous professional development opportunities for all roles.

The Fostering Recruitment Manager will be located in the area and travel across the TACT SOUTHWEST region will be required. The successful candidate will also be required to travel to face-to-face meetings at least once a month and on other occasions for training and team wellbeing events.

An Enhanced DBS clearance is required for this role and will be processed by TACT on your behalf.

Closing Date: Midnight on Monday 5th May 2025

Interview Date: Friday 9th May 2025 (via Microsoft Teams)

Safeguarding is everyone’s business and TACT believes that only the people with the right skills and values should work in social work.  As part of TACT’s commitment to safeguarding, we properly examine the skills, experience, qualifications, and values of potential staff in relation to our work with vulnerable young children.  We use rigorous and consistent recruitment approaches to help safeguard TACT’s young people.  All our staff are expected to work in line with TACT’s safeguarding policies.

We reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than advertised if the volume of applications is excessive, you are therefore advised to apply at your earliest convenience.

TACT does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies, nor the fees associated with them.

Are you passionate about making a difference in local communities? Do you enjoy working with volunteers and would you like to support people affected by Motor Neurone Disease (MND)?

As a Community Support Coordinator, you will play a key role in delivering and integrating our Community Support Volunteer service. You'll work closely with volunteers, health and social care professionals, and local partners to ensure people living with and affected by MND receive high-quality, accessible, and inclusive support.

Key Responsibilities:

As a Community Support Co-ordinator, you will:

• Lead a team of Community Support Volunteers, recruiting, supporting, and developing them to provide a high-quality service.
• Ensure that support is needs-led, inclusive, and enables personal choice and control.
• Offer guidance to volunteers handling complex care and support issues.
• Respond to enquiries and referrals, providing relevant information and signposting to appropriate services.
• Build strong relationships with care centres, networks, and local partners to integrate community support effectively.
• Support and develop volunteer branches and groups, ensuring they meet local needs and follow organisational policies.
• Identify gaps in care and support services and contribute to plans for improvement.
• Promote collaboration between volunteers, professionals, and people affected by MND to enhance service delivery.
• Facilitate learning and networking opportunities for volunteers.
• Support fundraising and awareness activities alongside colleagues.
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to service development.

About You:

In this role as a Community Support Co-ordinator, you will need experience in managing and supporting volunteers and an understanding of care and support services. You will be committed to delivering inclusive and person-centred support.

We're looking for someone with:

• Experience leading, managing, or coordinating volunteers, ideally in a not-for-profit setting.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• The ability to assess and respond to support needs in a person-centred way.
• Knowledge of care and support services across different sectors.
• Experience working with individuals at risk of harm and their families.
• An understanding of safeguarding and risk management.
• The ability to build and maintain relationships with individuals and partner organisations.
• A commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusive practices.
• The ability to prioritise tasks, plan effectively, and make autonomous decisions.
• Proficiency in using IT systems and applications.
• Flexibility to work outside standard hours when required.
• A full driving licence.

About Us:

Our vision is a world free from MND. Our mission is to improve care and support for people with MND, their families and carers. We fund and promote research that leads to new understanding and treatments and brings us closer to a cure for MND. The Association also campaigns and raises awareness so the needs of people with MND, and everyone who cares for them, are recognised, and addressed by wider society.

What We Offer:

• 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays.
• Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies.
• 24/7 GP access via phone and video.
• Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines.
• Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave).
• Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping.
• Enhanced pension scheme.
• Opportunities for training and personal development.
• Hybrid working.

The full job description is available in the candidate pack.

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders.

As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.

How to apply:

Please submit a CV and supporting statement. Your supporting statement should be no longer than one side of A4 and demonstrate how you meet the following areas of the role.

• Experience of leading, managing and/or coordinating self-managed groups of volunteers, ideally in a not-for-profit setting.
• Skills to identify, assess, and respond to support needs through a person-centred approach.
• Demonstrable understanding and delivery of care and support services in the statutory, private and/or voluntary sectors including value and challenges of volunteering.

Important Information:

• We may close applications early if we receive a high volume, so early submissions are encouraged.
• If you require sponsorship for this role, please clearly indicate this in your application.
• Depending on the role, a DBS check may be required.
• If you need reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us for support.
• We are happy to consider alternative application formats for those who find the online form challenging.

This is a home-based role covering North and East London. If you're ready to make a meaningful impact as a Community Support Coordinator and work with a supportive team, we'd love to hear from you!

We have an exciting opportunity for an IDVA to join the Lancashire team based at Preston covering the West Lancashire area working 37.5 hours a week. Part time hours will also be considered.

Do you want to make a difference every day? Do you want to contribute to change & improvement for those who need it?

Do you have resilience & adaptability? Can you work effectively with a focus on customer service and care?

If yes, then we'd love to hear from you…

What we offer:

At Victim Support we believe in attracting & retaining the best people and offer a competitive rewards & benefits package including:

• Flexible working options including hybrid working
• 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays, rising to 33 days plus Bank Holidays
• An extra day off for your Birthday
• Pension with 5% employer contribution
• Enhanced sick pay allowances, maternity & paternity payments
• High Street, retail, holiday, entertainment & leisure discounts
• Access to our financial wellbeing hub & salary deducted finance
• Employee assistance programme & wellbeing support
• Ongoing training & support with opportunities for career development & progression

About the role:

This role is based at our office in Preston covering the West Lancashire area, once you have completed training & probation period you can apply for hybrid working, all travel costs to and from appointments from your office base will be reimbursed.

As an IDVA you will be:

• Focusing on victims at high risk of harm & will provide a pro-active, short to medium term crisis intervention service through individual safety planning, advocacy, emotional and practical support.
• Supporting victims face to face or by telephone to access services to keep themselves & family safe.
• Developing individual safety plans to meet client's needs as identified in the needs & risk assessment.
• Providing advocacy, emotional and practical support and information to victims including legal & civil options, housing, health & finance as well as support through the criminal justice system.
• Participating in multi agency meetings providing the voice of the client & ensuring actions are followed up.

You will need to:

• Have a good understanding of domestic abuse & the impact on victims and their children
• Understand risk assessment, safety planning & risk management for victims and their children
• Have knowledge of Safeguarding issues, and the legal responsibilities surrounding these issues
• Have theoretical, practical and procedural knowledge of civil and criminal justice remedies for victims and their children.
• Have experience of working within a multi-agency and legislative framework.
• Have experience of managing a complex caseload, able to prioritise to deal with competing demands.
• Have strong crisis management skills and the ability to deal with stressful and difficult situations.
• Have excellent communication, negotiation and advisory skills, both written and verbal.
• Demonstrate the ability to use IT applications competently including, Microsoft Word, Excel etc. and Case Management systems in order to keep accurate records and monitoring your performance.

This role involves regular travel and due to the location, a driving license and access to a vehicle is considered an essential requirement.

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.

About Us:

Victim Support (VS) is an independent charity providing a range of specialist services to people who have been affected by crime across England and Wales. We work towards a world where there are fewer victims but who have stronger rights, better support and a real influence in the Criminal Justice System. Everyone at VS is driven by our Vision Ambitions and Values to play their part in making a difference for those who experience crime and traumatic events. Working for VS gives you the opportunity to play a key role in a national charity providing high quality services to victims and witnesses and being a vital force for change.
Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.

Victim Support strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.

As part of our commitment to the Race at Work Charter we particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role

If you have a disability, a learning difficulty such as dyslexia or a medical condition which you believe may affect your performance during any aspect of our selection process, we'll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform at your best.

How to apply:

To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria.
We look forward to hearing from you.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date.

If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.

SafeDeposits is Scotland’s leading tenancy deposit protection scheme and dispute resolution provider. As a not-for-profit, SafeDeposits donates surpluses generated to its charity, the SafeDeposits Scotland Charitable Trust (“the Trust”). The Trust aims to improve standards in Scotland’s private rented sector by promoting education, training and best practice.

In addition to its grant-giving, the Trust is developing an ambitious research programme designed to inform future policy making and debate. This includes two new national representative surveys: “The Voice of the Tenant (Scotland)” and “The Voice of the Landlord (Scotland)”.

SafeDeposits and the Trust are part of the TDS [The Dispute Service Ltd] Group; a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee that operates equivalent deposit protection services across the UK and delivers a range of initiatives to raise standards in the private rented sector. 

We have a new opportunity within our Policy, Research and Strategy team to join them as a Research and Programme Officer.

This is a full-time, permanent position ideally based within commuting distance of our Glasgow office. However, we are open to considering home-based candidates from other areas of Scotland, depending on their skills and experience.

The purpose of this role is to deliver and support the expansion of SafeDeposits research programme. The successful candidate will work on qualitative and quantitative research projects and ensure findings are disseminated effectively. Our priority is to recruit an individual with the requisite research skills and experience. Where required, appropriate training and support will be provided for the aspects of the role involving coordination of the grant-giving programme. The role offers a unique opportunity for a researcher to not only contribute to the evidence base, but to also work with TDS and SafeDeposits colleagues to commission evidence-based solutions for positive change.

Some of the key responsibilities include:

• Working with external contractors to deliver the Voice of the Tenant (Scotland) and Voice of the Landlord (Scotland) surveys.
• Conduct, analyse, and report on qualitative and quantitative research projects.
• Lead research collaborations with other organizations and stakeholders.
• Develop content, including blogs and social media posts, to share research findings in collaboration with marketing.
• Represent SafeDeposits Scotland Charitable Trust at internal and external events, including presentations and public speaking.
• Assess and monitor grant applications in collaboration with an external contractor.

To be considered for this opportunity you must:

• Have a degree in a relevant field
• Have a minimum of 3 years’ experience in research, social policy, or a similar role (or equivalent postgraduate study).
• Be proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Have strong working knowledge of Excel for statistical analysis and reporting.
• Demonstrate an understanding of data validity and credibility.
• Be able to demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication, with the ability to tailor messages to different audiences.

TDS offers a plethora of benefits inclusive of:

• 33 days holiday inc bank holidays
• BUPA Private healthcare
• BUPA Wellbeing cash plan
• Pension Scheme
• Additional day off for your birthday
• Plus many more!

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letting outlining how your skills and experience match the person specification.

TDS is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in our workforce and to be truly representative of all sections of society and our customers.

Special Olympics GB is a charity dedicated to providing year-round training and competition for
children and adults with intellectual disabilities. We are much more than just a sports organisation – we are a movement that breaks down barriers, fosters inclusion, and changes lives. With over 10,000 athletes, 6000 volunteers, and 100+ accredited clubs across England, Scotland, and Wales, we are committed to creating opportunities for everyone to thrive through sport.

Our athletes are at the heart of everything we do – they are inspirational, courageous, passionate, and insightful, embodying the core values of Special Olympics GB every single day. This is your opportunity to be part of something truly special and contribute to an organisation that creates real impact at a grassroots level.

About the Roles

• Hours: 35 hours per week (full-time) – flexible options negotiable
• Salary: £25,000 - £28,000 per annum
• Location: Home-based with regular travel
• Contract: 2 years with possible extension dependent on funding
• Benefits: Flexible working, generous Time Off in Lieu policy, annual CPD/training investment, employer’s pension scheme, 25 days annual leave + bank holidays + birthday leave, employee health scheme, and opportunities to attend exciting, inclusivity-driven events.

As part of our small yet ambitious and agile team, you will work closely with the Head of Network, our Accredited Clubs/Programmes, and Volunteers to drive grassroots development, build community engagement, and enhance opportunities for athletes.

Who We’re Looking For

We want to hear from you if you are:

• Passionate about inclusion and making a difference in people’s lives
• A great communicator who enjoys working with volunteers, athletes, and families incommunities
• Adaptable, agile and proactive, with the ability to troubleshoot and solve problems effectively
• Dedicated to personal growth and career development
• Driven by values that promote social change through sport

The Opportunity of a Lifetime

This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to be part of a global movement that empowers individuals, builds confidence, and fosters lifelong friendships. The journey is great, but the rewards are even greater. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of something truly life-changing.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV (2 pages)and a cover letter (1-2 pages) detailing:

• Why Special Olympics GB? Why do you want to join us now, and why are you the right person for the role?
• What impact do you hope to make in the role? How do you see yourself contributing to Special Olympics GB and the role you are applying for?
• Why should we choose you? Highlight your skills, knowledge, experience, and determination that make you the best fit.

Please tailor your application to the role—generic or combined applications will not be considered.

Key Dates

•  Application deadline: Sunday 27th April 2025, 9pm
•  Interview Stages: Stage 1 – week beginning 19th May 2025, Stage 2 week beginning 2nd June 2025
•  Final decision: Week beginning 9th June 2025

We are committed to equality and diversity and encourage all candidates who meet the job role requirements to apply. Please note that applicants will need to provide evidence of their right to live and work in the UK and will be required to undertake a DBS check .

We will only contact candidates selected for interviews.
No agency contact, please.
For job role specifics, please see the Job Descriptions.

Be part of a movement that changes lives. Apply today!

Programme Manager

c. £45,000-£47,500 (full time) dependent upon experience.

The role is offered on a 0.6 – 1.0 FTE basis (21.6 – 36 hours per week) worked over 3/5 days.

The Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases (GACD) is a partnership of the world's biggest public research funding agencies. The Associate Members have come together to promote research collaboration and to fund research programmes to address the prevention or treatment of chronic non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and mental health issues. GACD specifically focuses on research which will provide essential evidence on the most effective ways to prevent or manage disease in poorly resourced settings in low- and middle-income countries and to improve health equity in underserved indigenous populations. 

Reporting to the CEO, the Programme Manager will be responsible for coordination of activities between the Associate Members and lead on the delivery of GACD joint research funding calls in global implementation science on non-communicable diseases.

How to apply

Provide an up-to-date CV which includes your contact details, education and vocational qualifications, membership of professional bodies, career history and explanation of any breaks in your employment history. 

Provide a brief supporting statement setting out why you are the right candidate for this role making reference to the job description and the person specification. The case that you make and the way that it is presented will form a key part of the shortlisting process. 

Confirm that you can provide evidence of a ‘right to work’ in the UK.

The role is offered as full or part-time.

Closing date: 13:00 BST on Tuesday 22 April 2025
Interview dates: w/c 28 April 2025

To download a copy of the recruitment information pack and how to apply please click apply now.

We’re not just talking about change — we’ve lived it.

We’re looking for a Fundraising Officer to help power our pre-treatment work.

Location: Woolwich Service Users Project (WSUP), Woolwich, SE18 6BJ 
Salary: £30,000 per annum, pro-rata  
Hours: Minimum 24 hours per week  
Contract: Part-time, fixed-term (with potential for extension) 
Reporting to: CEO 
Closing date: 28th April 2025 

About Woolwich Service Users Project (WSUP) 
WSUP is a grassroots charity providing holistic support to individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, addiction, and mental health challenges in Woolwich and Greenwich. With a focus on lived experience and implementation of trauma-informed practice, we offer a range of essential services, from haircuts and healthcare screenings to wellbeing activities and community advocacy. 

In recognition of our work, WSUP won the Best of Royal Greenwich Business Award 2024 in the Health and Wellbeing category, highlighting our commitment to tackling health inequalities and improving community wellbeing. 

We are seeking a Fundraising Officer to help us grow our income from trusts, foundations, corporate donors, and individual giving.

Fundraising Officer - Job Description 

Key Responsibilities 

1. Fundraising & income generation  

• Trusts & grants: Research, write, and submit compelling funding applications to trusts, foundations, and grant-making bodies to secure new and repeat funding. 

• Corporate & individual giving: Work alongside Business Relations Manager to develop relationships with corporate sponsors and individual donors, creating engagement opportunities. 

• Donor stewardship: Manage and nurture relationships with funders, ensuring timely reporting and impact updates. 

• Donor stewardship: Provide timely and effective follow-up communications with supporters, ensuring they feel valued and engaged. 

• Fundraising strategy: Support the development and implementation of WSUP’s fundraising strategy, identifying new opportunities for income growth. 

• Event fundraising: Assist in planning and delivering fundraising events to engage supporters and raise unrestricted funds. 

• Financial oversight: Work with the CEO to develop fundraising budgets and ensure accurate income tracking. 

• Financial oversight: Process cash and cheque donations for Community & Events income, including ensuring this income is processed and recorded accurately on our database which may include batch uploads. 

• Campaigns & appeals: Develop and implement online fundraising campaigns, such as Winter Appeal or emergency appeals. 

• Storytelling & impact reporting: Work with guests (with their consent) to share real-life stories that showcase WSUP’s work. 

Person Specification 

Essential skills & experience 

• Fundraising knowledge: Understanding of trust, foundation, and corporate fundraising, with experience writing successful grant applications. 

• Communication skills: Strong written and verbal communication, with the ability to craft compelling proposals and reports. 

• Relationship management: Ability to build relationships with funders, donors, and stakeholders at various levels. 

• Organisational skills: Ability to prioritise workload, meet deadlines, and manage multiple projects simultaneously. 

• Social media: Experience using social media for fundraising and engagement, with an understanding of digital marketing principles. 

• IT proficiency: Strong skills in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), databases, and social media scheduling tools. 

• Financial literacy: Ability to create fundraising budgets and financial reports. 

Desirable skills & experience 

• Experience in a small charity setting, ideally within the homelessness or health-related sector, understanding the challenges and opportunities of grassroots fundraising. 

• Knowledge of fundraising legislation, including Gift Aid and GDPR compliance. 

• Experience organising donor engagement events or corporate sponsorship opportunities. 

• Proven ability to use videos and infographics to enhance fundraising campaigns. 

• Experience with volunteer management or coordinating fundraising volunteers. 

Personal attributes 

• Passionate about social justice and WSUP’s mission to support people in crisis. 

• Self-motivated and able to work independently, with a proactive and creative approach. 

• Adaptable and willing to take on a variety of tasks in a small but dynamic team. 

• Resilient and resourceful, with a problem-solving mindset. 

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment where flexibility is key. 

What we offer 

• The opportunity to make a real impact in a grassroots charity supporting local communities. 

• Flexible working arrangements (some remote work possible). 

• Professional development and training opportunities. 

• A supportive and inclusive team culture, with a strong emphasis on lived experience and trauma-informed practice.

How to apply 

To apply, please use Quick Apply and add your CV and a cover letter of no more than two A4 pages outlining your suitability for the role (in response to person specification).

WSUP is committed to being an inclusive and equal opportunities employer. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, and we particularly encourage individuals with lived experience of social exclusion to apply. 

The role is subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check at the appropriate level, proof of the right to work in the UK, and receipt of two satisfactory references.