Mental Health Support Worker Jobs in Scotland

Community Link Worker

Job Description

Salary: £23,000 pro-rata

Salary Band: 1.2

Contract: Fixed -Term (July 2027)

Directorate: National Services

Reports To: Senior Community Link Worker

Closing Date: 30th October 2024

There are four positions available for this vacancy:

Fort Augustus & Foyers: 21 hours

Isle of Skye: 21 hours (2)

Bonar Bridge: 6 hours

We also have one Senior Community Link Worker position available in Sutherland, 32 hours per week and £24,500 pro-rata

Change Mental Health is a leading national mental health charity providing unique support to people with severe and enduring mental ill health. With over 50 years’ experience across Scotland, we believe people affected by poor mental health and illness deserve the highest quality of support in the community and that every person has the right to be valued and to share in the opportunities, challenges, and joys of everyday life. 

The Community Link Worker service collaborates with selected GP surgeries, supporting adults over the age of 18 through social prescribing. Referrals are received from the GP to our Community Link Workers when there might be a concern caused by social factors, rather than a medical problem. The service focuses on improving health outcomes for people experiencing stressors in their lives due to social problems, which could lead to poor mental health.

As a Community Link Worker, you will work directly with people referred to the Community Link Worker Service from their GP Practice who require immediate or on-going emotional, practical or vocational support in order to deliver the best possible health outcomes. 

This post works directly with people using the service to develop and review personal support plans. You will work closely with other members of the Community Link Worker team, colleagues in Primary Care and representatives of community-based groups and organisations, to achieve outcomes as defined by your line manager. 

Within the Community Link Worker team there is a clear line management structure which supports and shapes the practice. The post will contribute to an environment where people can improve their health outcomes, establish improved connections in their communities, and enhance their quality of life.

Key Responsibilities:

·        Work as part of a team building positive working relationships

·        Work closely with colleagues in Primary Care

·        Coordinate and refer service users to resources in the local community and to statutory and non-statutory services as appropriate

·        In partnership with service users, design, implement, and review outcome focussed development plans to enable service users to achieve their identified goals

·        Employ a number of appropriate intervention strategies including positive communication skills

·        Ensure ongoing risk assessment is integral to my practice to ensure the wellbeing of service users

·        Utilise group work skills which bring people together in a safe environment 

·        Awareness of appropriate professional boundaries including confidentiality 

·        Understanding of the requirements of Health and Safety in the workplace and follow Change Mental Health policies 

·        Ensure that careful and ongoing review systems are in place and maintained

Essential Criteria:

·        Educated to SVQ level 2 or have relevant experience working in health and social care

·        Able to plan and prioritise workload

·        Professional self-awareness and able to seek support and advice from my line manager appropriately and participate in supervision and support meetings positively

·        Able to liaise confidently with statutory and non-statutory agencies

·        Empathetic

·        My personal and professional value base is consistent with the aims and objectives of Change Mental Health

·        Demonstrate genuine regard for service users and their families 

·        Have good I.T. skills and can produce accurate case notes 

·        I am enthusiastic to develop my knowledge and skills 

·        Full, clean, driving licence and access to a vehicle 

Desirable Criteria:

·        Experience of working with people affected by mental or physical health issues

·        Experience of community-development work

·        Experience of working in a SSSC Registered Service

·        A learning and development portfolio which evidences my skills and knowledge

General Duties 

·        Act in accordance with Data Protection legislation.  Ensure all records, personal, staff and client data are managed in line with Data Management and Information Governance policies

·        Comply with legal and regulatory requirements such as provisions set out in the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

·        As with all employees, workers and volunteers; to encourage people to join Change Mental Health as a member, donor or activist

·        To act in accordance with the charity’s Health & Safety and Safeguarding policies and to notify your line manager promptly if there are any concerns

·        To participate in regular supervision and appraisal and undertake any relevant training as appropriate to the role

·        To work in accordance with the charity’s national policies and local operating procedures and those of external regulators or professional bodies

This job profile and list of duties is not exhaustive and serves only to highlight the main requirements. The line manager may stipulate other reasonable requirements and projects commensurate with the general profile and grade of the post.

All successful candidates will require a PVG Membership. Please be aware that it is classed as an offence if you apply for this role and are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children or vulnerable adults.

The role of the Head of National Services is instrumental in ensuring that we provide innovative support to people affected by poor mental health and mental illness.

It will be responsible for working closely with our Policy and Communications Team around nationally funded projects by Scottish Government and will play a key role in the National Management Team of Change Mental Health. The role will work closely with the Director of Services to develop and work in partnership with a range of different stakeholders to increase the impact of our work and generate new opportunities for the organisation. 

This is an exciting new role for the organisation and would suit someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment, is committed to continuous service improvement and who excels in managing both operational and strategic relationships.

Key Responsibilities:

· Oversee the safe and efficient operational delivery practice and development of National Services, including our Advice and Support Service, Distress Brief Intervention services (DBI), Suicide Bereavement Services and other national projects 

· Lead, support and motivate your team to ensure high-quality and person-centred service delivery

· Provide strategic leadership for the services in your area and contribute to the strategic development of services nationally as a member of the National Management Team 

· Be an active member of the National Management Team and contribute to the implementation of Change Mental Health’s vision, mission, values and strategy 

Strategic planning and oversight 

· Provide strategic leadership for the services in your area and contribute to the strategic development of services nationally as a member of the National Management Team 

· Represent Change Mental Health appropriately at external meetings, including Programme Boards, round table events and Government meetings 

· Work closely with the Director of Services to implement and develop Change Mental Health’s services strategic vision 

· Scope and explore funding opportunities and support and develop funding applications and tender bids, as required, in partnership with the Fundraising Team and Tender Team 

· Plan, manage and implement change successfully

· Work with the Fundraising Team and Tender Team to develop an annual plan around fundraising, contracts and development of services

· Regularly source and organise opportunities to meet in person with key partners and stakeholders who can support and influence our work positively 

· Represent the organisation professionally when communicating with external stakeholders and protect and enhance the organisations reputation

· Develop an annual strategic plan for your area which clearly demonstrates how the operational work being delivered aligns with the organisation’s strategy 

· Communicate strategic messages and decisions with your team and competently manage and respond to questions and queries around these 

· Lead on all monitoring and reporting for your area of work, including setting and monitoring KPIs across all of your teams and projects 

Operational service delivery and development 

· Ensure National Services are delivered to the highest standard with high levels of satisfaction from the people we support 

· Responsible for overseeing the safe operational delivery of services in your area of work and managing quality assurance around these 

· Responsible for developing and maintaining safe working processes, procedures and practices in my area of work, including overseeing some services which may be registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FSA), Scottish National Standards for Information and Advice Providers (SNSIAP), Care Inspectorate or other regulatory bodies

· Oversee safe and inclusive recruitment practices in my area for both staff and volunteers 

· Responsible for overseeing the implementation of appropriate tools and systems within your team to assess, measure and monitor outcomes and impact of services

· Oversee and manage all contracts and service delivery to ensure the team delivers high quality and safe services, in line with our partners expected outcomes and expectations 

· Provide visible onsite leadership to our staff by being based at and regularly visiting Change Mental Health’s services/ offices 

· Support the operational delivery of services, including providing guidance and support for frontline staff, where required 

· Proactively seek opportunities to develop services in your area through networking and taking advantage of the local/ national landscape, to expand the scope and reach of Change Mental Health 

· Encourage and promote the voice of lived experience in the development of services and support in your area and across the organisation 

· Lead on supporting staff with safeguarding and adult protection concerns/ referrals in your area and give guidance, support and direction to colleagues as needed 

· Responsible for ensuring appropriate health and safety processes are in place and adhered to in your area, including risk assessments, lone working procedures, safeguarding and adult protection

· Have delegated responsibility to set, manage and monitor budgets for my area 

· Lead your team to establish person-centred development plans for those accessing Change Mental Health support which focuses on recovery and include various assessment models, including a robust approach to risk assessment 

· Produce reports and information as required by the Senior Leadership Team, funders or other stakeholders, as required 

Leadership 

· Lead on key specific themes of work/ projects as a member of the National Management Team

· Lead and support HR processes as a member of the National Management Team, including chairing and supporting disciplinaries, grievances and appeal hearings 

· Role model positive behaviours and communicate clearly key organisational messages to the wider team 

· Make decisions and give direction to your team which protect the interests of the organisation 

· Communicate effectively with other members of the National Management Team and provide appropriate challenge 

· Contribute to the development of best practice, quality and improvement within services 

· Lead on specific projects/ working groups as required

· Carry out any other duties that may reasonably be required in the light of the main purpose of the job 

Line management 

· Coach, support and provide constructive feedback to your team to ensure they are clear about what the organisation needs and expects from them in their role 

· Manage and oversee HR issues as they arise in the team, and seek advice from the HR Team as appropriate to mitigate organisational risk and ensure supportive working practices and an inclusive culture are in place 

· Communicate regularly with your team, in person, and be a visible member of NMT who listens to staff, provides clarity on decision-making and delivers key organisational messages 

· Build a positive and supportive culture within your teams which represents the values of Change Mental Health 

· Ensure that your team are keeping up-to-date records in the appropriate systems and ensure they are adhering to GDPR and other organisational processes and policies

· Provide regular, in person, support and supervision sessions to those you line manage

· Encourage, promote and facilitate reflective practice throughout your area of work 

· Plan and set objectives for your team members and monitor the progress of these to ensure staff are supported to achieve these 

· Build a positive, inclusive and high performing team culture and team dynamics by ensuring regular in person meetings and social events take place to support and encourage this 

Financial and line management responsibilities

· Set, manage and oversee local budgets in consultation with the Director of Services and Head of Finance 

· Ensure local value for money in delivering high-quality services

· Build relationships with stake holders to successfully facilitate budget conversations 

· Line manage staff, as required, to ensure the successful delivery of services across Scotland

Other

· Includes some evening and weekend working where required, time off in lieu will be given in accordance with Change Mental Health’s TOIL policy

· A satisfactory PVG will be required 

· Being part of an on-call rota to support staff, as and when required

General Duties  

· Act in accordance with Data Protection legislation.  Ensure all records, personal, staff and client data are managed in line with Data Management and Information Governance policies 

· Comply with legal and regulatory requirements such as provisions set out in the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 

· As with all employees, workers and volunteers; to encourage people to join Change Mental Health as a member, donor or activist 

· To act in accordance with the charity’s Health & Safety and Safeguarding policies and to notify your line manager promptly if there are any concerns 

· To participate in regular supervision and appraisal and undertake any relevant training as appropriate to the role 

· To work in accordance with the charity’s national policies and local operating procedures and those of external regulators or professional bodies 

This job profile and list of duties is not exhaustive and serves only to highlight the main requirements. The line manager may stipulate other reasonable requirements and projects commensurate with the general profile and grade of the post. 

Essential Criteria:

· Educated to a degree level or equivalent or have relevant experience of working in health and social care at a senior level 

· Hold the appropriate qualifications to be a Registered Manager with the Care Inspectorate, or a willingness to work towards obtaining the appropriate qualifications 

· Passionate about improving the outcomes for people affected by their mental health 

· Demonstratable experience of operationally leading, managing and developing services and line managing staff 

· Evidence of being able to use own initiative and make competent decisions using sound judgement 

· Evidence of problem solving effectively and supporting others to work through complex and difficult situations 

· Experience of successfully leading, managing and supporting a team, keeping them engaged and motivated 

· Ability to innovate, looking to constantly improve what we do and how we can clearly evidence our impact 

· Evidence of being a flexible and strong communicator who builds positive relationships, both internally and externally, and has advanced networking skills 

· Ability to work comfortably with the detail of strong operational service delivery and balancing this with working strategically 

· Evidence of being a reflective practitioner; being comfortable and open to receiving and acting on feedback to improve practice 

· Knowledge and experience of following safeguarding processes and procedures and guiding and supporting others with safeguarding and adult protection concerns

· IT literate, able to maintain and develop effective administration and information management systems 

· Excellent organisational skills, including the ability to manage a high-volume workload with deadlines and manage conflicting priorities 

· Willingness to travel throughout different parts of Scotland, including national office

· Commitment to Change Mental Health’s purpose and values, including equality and inclusion 

Successful applicants for this post will require a PVG Membership (this will be arranged by Change Mental Health during before you start your role). Please be aware that it is classed as an offence if you apply for this role and are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children or vulnerable adults.

Desirable Criteria

· Experience of managing national programmes of work

· Experience of managing Information and Advice services

This job profile and list of duties is not exhaustive and serves only to highlight the main requirements. The line manager may stipulate other reasonable requirements and projects commensurate with the general profile and grade of the post.

Benefits:  

· 24/7 access to an award-winning Employee Assistance Programme providing free legal, financial, and medical advice as well as support with life’s challenges.

· A 35-hour working week, enhanced sick pay & season ticket loan.

· A great work life balance with flexible and blended working environment.

· Access to purchase a Blue Light Discount Card

· Cycle to Work Scheme

· Enhanced sick pay and leave entitlements.

· Generous 37 days’ holiday.

· Paid Mental Wellbeing days.

· Professional development including funded opportunities.

Application Notes:

To apply please submit your CV and Cover Letter through the online BreatheHR portal.

Please note all applications must be received by midday on Friday 18th October. Interviews are due to be held on Thursday 31st October.

We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds.

If you consider yourself to have a disability, please inform us of any arrangements that we may make to the interview process.

We reserve the right to close this advert earlier or later than stated. Please don’t delay your application to avoid any disappointment.

About West Kent Mind

West Kent Mind enriches lives through better mental health by offering support to get well, stay well and thrive. We are an ambitious, award-winning organisation, and an enthusiastic member of the Mind federation. We value collaboration, partnership, creativity, and growth.

Engaging in projects with the potential to positively impact people's lives can be truly rewarding. Surrounded by individuals who provide support and motivation, personal growth and progress are encouraged, resulting in a feeling of achievement and satisfaction in the work accomplished. Teaming up with a group, committed to making that difference, can instil a sense of purpose and determination, inspiring individuals to excel and make valuable contributions to their community.

About the Programme

The Creative Minds Programme is a six-month initiative promoting mental health and well-being through creative activities like painting, music, writing, and more. Open to adults (over the age of 18) in West Kent, the programme offers inclusive, free sessions led by professional artists and supported by wellbeing workers. Participants need no prior experience, just enthusiasm and a desire to improve their mental health.

Key Objectives include boosting confidence, fostering connections, enhancing life skills, and increasing participants' ability to manage their mental health and support others.

Now in its second year, the programme aims to support 864 adults over three years, with a focus on those with mental health challenges or feelings of loneliness. In addition to creative workshops, the programme offers leadership training to select participants, empowering them to become "Creative Agents." These agents lead "Creative Places" to engage the wider public in community-based creative activities.

The programme is set to conclude in March 2026, with two more rounds of activities still to come.

About the role

Our Creative Minds programme, funded by the National Lottery, is designed to enhance mental health and wellbeing for adults in West Kent through engaging in creative activities. These 24-week programmes are held in various locations across West Kent and are conducted in collaboration with professional artists, local arts organisations, and our Creative Agents, supported by the West Kent Mind community wellbeing team.

The programme leverages creativity to support mental health and wellbeing.

We are seeking an Independent Evaluator to assess the effectiveness of the Creative Minds Programme, a three-year initiative supported by the National Lottery Community Fund.

Following a successful first year, the evaluator will use various methodologies to evaluate:

Effectiveness and how well the programme met its objectives and outcomes to include but not limited to:

• Impact: Short- and long-term effects on clients' mental health and well-being.
• Accessibility and Inclusivity: Measures taken to ensure activities are accessible to all.
• Collaborators: Engagement levels among staff, volunteers, artists, clients, and partners.
• Public Outcomes: Community engagement with programme results.
• Challenges and Lessons Learned: Identification of challenges and strategies used, with insights for future projects.

Methodology will include a mixed approach using surveys, interviews, observations, case studies, and data analysis, including metrics from the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (SWEMWBS).

Deliverables:

• Evaluation plan with data collection tools.
• Interim report (May 2025) with preliminary findings and adjustments.
• Final report (March 2026) detailing programme impact, challenges, and recommendations.
• Presentation of findings to the National Lottery Community Fund.

Who you are

All previous experience may be paid or voluntary, full or part-time, in the UK or overseas.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate the following:

· Proven experience in evaluating arts and health programmes or similar community-based initiatives.

· Strong knowledge and understanding of creativity, the arts, and mental health, either independently or in collaboration.

· Ability to conduct an inclusive evaluation process, working effectively with a diverse range of adults.

· Awareness of safeguarding practices.

Timeline

• Submission deadline: Close of business Wednesday 23 October 2024
• Interview date: Thursday 7 November 2024
• Evaluation plan: December 2024
• Interim report: May 2025
• Final report submission and presentation: March 2026

Terms and Conditions

Freelance Fee: An inclusive fee of £8000 (inc. VAT). The fee is inclusive of all expenses related to the successful candidate’s time, travel, data collection, analysis, and reporting.

Hours: The freelancer will allocate the time required to complete and fulfil this agreement. Visits to the programme to be discussed and scheduled with West Kent Mind Wellbeing and Creative Arts Programme Lead. 

Location: The freelancer will work remotely. Scheduled visits within West Kent are required for in session visits.

Equal opportunities
We provide equal opportunities and are committed to the principle of equality in accordance with legislative provisions. We expect the support of all contractors in implementing these policies.

Health and safety
All freelancers have a responsibility for their own health and safety and that of others when carrying out their duties and must help us to apply our general statement of health and safety policy.

Safeguarding Commitment

We believe that every adult regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, has the right to equal protection from abuse and/or neglect. Our policy outlines our commitments at West Kent Mind and informs personnel of their responsibilities in relation to adult safeguarding.

Our policy aims to prevent harm and reduce the risk of abuse or neglect to adults with care and support needs. All our personnel, in whatever setting, have a key role in preventing harm or abuse occurring and acting responsibly where concerns arise. When abuse or neglect does take place, it needs to be dealt with swiftly, effectively and in ways which are proportionate to the issues and where the adult in need of protection has a voice.

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) enhanced check will be required.

Confidentiality
All evaluation-related data, documents, and communications should be treated with utmost confidentiality and used solely for the purposes of this evaluation. It is therefore a requirement for the postholder to sign a West Kent Mind Confidentiality statement.

 Application process

Please find attached or on our website the job description and person specification for the role you are applying for. 

• Please send an evaluation proposal (no more than 2 sides of A4) plus your CV no later than close of business Wednesday 23 October 2024.
• Your proposal should outline your approach to evaluating this project and highlight any relevant experience evidencing how you meet the requirements with the role description.

Due to the volume of applications, we may not acknowledge your application; thank you for your understanding.

We invite you to complete an Equality & Diversity monitoring form on our website. This information is detached from your personal data and is processed anonymously.

We aim to hold interviews on 7 November 2024 and we will let shortlisted candidates know no later than 30 October 2024 if they are invited to interview.

As part of our recruitment process, some of the questions for candidates will be sent in advance of interview to allow candidates to consider their answers.

Please note: to apply for this role, you must be able to provide evidence that you have the right to live and work in the UK without restrictions. This evidence must allow you to carry out the role which you are applying for without visa sponsorship. West Kent Mind, unfortunately, are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role.

We look forward to receiving your application.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

· Two satisfactory references

· Proof of attainment of qualifications

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

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

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

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

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

Job Title: Perinatal Peer Support Manager for Dads and Non-Birthing Parents 

Salary: £27,000 FTE (Actual £21,600)

Hours per week: 28

Contract: Fixed Term until September 2025 (maybe extended based on funding)

Location: Home Based with occasional travel to Halton and St Helens

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

About us at NCT

Our vision is that everyone who becomes a parent feels confident, connected, and safe because we believe parents help build the foundations of the future. That's why NCT is the charity with a clear and singular mission – we support people as they become parents. Every year we support over 250,000 parents across the UK and Channel Islands on their unique journeys through pregnancy, birth, infant feeding, and early parenthood. ‘For Every Parent’ is our new five-year strategy that sets a clear direction for our charity to reach more people, do more to support new and expectant parents, and campaign with impact.

About the role

This role is a critical post in our ‘For Every Parent’ strategy with alignment to our ‘More parents, more impact’ and ‘Real lives, real change’ pillars. You will champion our nationally recognised ‘Parents in Mind’ programme our free at point of access perinatal mental health peer support programme, with a focus on Dads and non-birthing parents experiencing mild-moderate mental health difficulties. With a track record in managing projects, you will lead our Dads and non-birthing Parents programme and deliver a frontline volunteer-led community support service across Halton and St Helens. You will seek opportunities to share best practice and national collaboration amongst the sites helping to ensure that NCT is offering inclusive and accessible best practice. Most importantly, you will be working to continuously make a difference for the many families in East Sussex who struggle with emotional well-being, anxiety or social isolation in pregnancy or the first two-years after childbirth.

What we are looking for:

· An excellent communicator with the ability to inspire, influence, motivate and engage others through collaborative communication.

· A passion for NCT's mission and supporting parents experiencing perinatal mental health challenges. 

· Project management experience including undertaking data collection, writing professional reports and community engagement

· Willingness and ability to travel across Halton and North West, sometimes at short notice.

Please see the attached job description for further information. 

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 for applications: 12pm Monday 14th October 2024 

Interviews: w/c 21st October online

We have a job vacancy for a Dementia Specialist to join Shine as the Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) / Dementia Coordinator. 

Shine has a membership of over 14,000 members living with Spina Bifida and/or Hydrocephalus and associated conditions and over 6,500 associated members.

In the last year we have seen a 25% increase in members who are living with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. There are currently just over 600 members with NPH, plus their carers registered, but we are expecting this to continue to rise as awareness and diagnosis of the condition grows. 

We are looking for an experienced, skilled, organised and dedicated new staff member to join Shine’s Services team to develop and lead our new NPH service. 

Purpose of Job

To be the Dementia specialist for Shine.

To provide the foundations for improved health, social and emotional outcomes for adults living with NPH/Dementia and to support their families/carers. 

Shine will offer you:

• A competitive salary

• 35 hour working week

• 25 days annual leave plus additional discretionary leave between Christmas and New Year

• Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave

• Additional annual leave due to length of service

• Defined contribution pension

• Life Assurance cover

• Support to learn and develop

Please see the full Job Description and Person Specification and Introduction to the NPH Coordinator Role below and on our website.

If you would like to have a chat about the role in more detail or have any questions, please give us a call and ask to speak to our CEO, Kate Steele.

Shine is a Disability Confident employer and will offer guaranteed interviews if a disabled applicant meets the minimum criteria for the job. 

To apply please submit your CV and supporting statement, which should outline your interest and explain how you meet the role criteria.

*Please note applications without a supporting statement will not be accepted* 

Closing date: 11pm Wednesday 16th October 2024 

Interviews:  Tuesday 29th October 2024 at our Head office in Peterborough

Please note: we reserve the right to interview suitable candidates before the closing date, therefore we encourage applications as soon as possible. 

We have an exciting opportunity for an established and highly motivated Director of Finance to join our Senior Leadership Team, and who will be responsible for providing financial leadership, control and planning for the organisation.

Victim Support is the leading charity in England and Wales that supports people affected by crime and traumatic incidents. We provide personalised support to help people manage after crime and feel safer through a combination of dedicated specialist services as well as on-line support. We also ensure victims know their rights and we campaign to make them stronger.

Each year we offer information and support to almost 800,000 people and 153,000 received tailored support from our dedicated, skilled support workers and volunteers, Independent Domestic Abuse advisors and Independent Sexual Violence advisors. We are a truly independent organisation that delivers our services both through local teams embedded in the communities in which they live and work, as well as nationally through services such as the National Homicide Service, our 24/7 Support line, our live chat service and our on-line self-help platform, My Support Space.

This year we celebrate our 50th anniversary. As we look ahead to the future, we will continue to deliver the highest quality services to those that need them. We will give victims a voice and a platform to create change and reform in a deeply broken criminal justice system. We will listen, adapt and improve, giving victims options and flexibility in how they access our support, reflecting the changing ways we all live our lives.

In order to achieve our vision we need a highly capable Director of Finance to build and improve on our high-performing finance function and to drive forward operational excellence.

Reporting directly into the CEO, you will be responsible for developing and implementing our financial strategy, long-term financial planning, and developing commercial strategies to maximise income and operating contribution. You will also have responsibility of cash management, risk management and governance. You will be the Senior Information Risk Owner (SIRO) for the organisation and will lead on Property and Procurement.

This is a varied and exciting role which will provide you with the opportunity of leading a well-established team of professionals, reporting on the financial performance of the organisation together with providing analysis, advice and support to facilitate decision making to deliver sound financial management.

You will be a qualified accountant, and will need to demonstrate:

· Proven experience in a leadership role;

· Experience at Board level and ability to work in collaboration with Trustees and colleagues;

· Understanding and experience of strategic risk management, finance audit and internal controls

You will be a confident, energetic and engaging individual with an enquiring mind and passion for excellence and innovation in pursuit of sustainable growth and excellent service delivery. You will have excellent communication skills and confidence to operate at the highest levels. A commitment to Victim Support’s purpose, vision, values and ethos is essential. This is an excellent opportunity for somebody who wants to make a difference. 

If you believe you have the skills and qualities to provide the exceptional leadership we are seeking, we very much look forward to hearing from you.

We are strongly committed to increasing the diversity of our organisation and welcome applications from all sectors and backgrounds.

Recruitment timetable:

Application deadline: Sunday  13th October

Shortlisting: approx. Wednesday 16th October

First stage interviews:                    w/c 21st October

Second stage interviews:               2/c 4th November

To apply, please send your CV and supporting statement via the link by Sunday 13th October

 For an informal conversation about the role please contact our exclusive recruitment partner, Rosemary Pini of Allen Lane via the agency website.

Contract:  Permanent, full time 

Salary:  £35,550 - £45,000 per annum 

Location:  Home-based within Burford or Rolleston area with travel to our Blue Cross sites 

Closing date:  24 October 2024 

Interview date:  4 & 5 November 2024 

Second interviews:  13 November 2024 

Are you passionate about horse welfare and ready to lead a team dedicated to improving the lives of horses across the UK? We are seeking a Rehoming Operations Manager – Horse Care & Welfare Specialist to join our mission at Blue Cross, driving the development of our essential horse services within our integrated rehoming network. 

More about the role

As a Rehoming Operations Manager, you will provide direct line management and leadership to our Centre Managers, fostering a culture of performance improvement, development, and empowerment. Your hands-on approach will ensure that quality and standards of pet care are upheld across both on-site and off-site services through regular site visits and data assessment. By identifying potential issues and implementing effective solutions, you’ll drive the highest standards of care for our horses. 

In this dynamic role, you’ll drive continuous improvement in the throughput and turnaround of horses in our centres while maximising service quality and efficiency. You will facilitate the development of horse-centred care and exceptional customer service, working collaboratively with other Rehoming Operations Managers to enhance our foster and home-to-home services. Your innovative mindset will be crucial in implementing exciting new rehoming opportunities that align with our strategic goals. 

This is a full-time position, working 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday. As the role involves frequent travel, candidates must live within a one-hour commute of either our Burford or Rolleston-on-Dove sites, and be able to travel to other sites as needed.

If you're excited to learn more about this role, take a look at the attached job description and addendum! The addendum highlights the additional duties and experience required for the Operations Manager role which has the specific focus on Horse Care & Welfare Specialist responsibilities part of the role. 

About you

We’re looking for a dynamic, innovative leader who’s as passionate about driving results as they are about animal welfare. You’ll have a sharp business mind and exceptional interpersonal skills, making you adept at connecting with team members at all levels. As a natural leader, you’ll inspire and guide a diverse team across multiple locations, empowering them to reach their full potential through effective coaching and management. 

Your ability to drive performance improvements will be second nature, and you’ll know how to address challenges head-on, ensuring swift and positive outcomes. With strong analytical skills, you’ll approach problems with a clear, methodical mindset, delivering tangible improvements in both operations and team performance. 

Knowledge, skills, and experience  

• Significant and varied experience of practical horse management 
• Horse management / welfare qualifications (BHS stages 4 / Pony club A test / Degree or relevant equivalent experience) 
• Significant experience in leading and coaching small and large teams 
• Significant operational leadership experience gained in an animal welfare or care environment 
• Proven experience in leading teams to drive performance improvements and service development 
• Demonstrable experience of leading teams to deliver high standards of customer experience  
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence teams at all levels 
• Current full manual driving licence 
• The ability to demonstrate, understand and apply our Blue Cross values  

Although not essential, it would be great if you also had: 

• Media experience and public speaking skills 

How to apply  

Click the apply button below and complete the online application process before the closing date on 24 October 2024. Our recruitment process will consist of two parts with a competency-based interview on either 4th or 5th November. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to a second stage assessment centre approach on 13th November 2024. 

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive an overwhelming response.  

Blue Cross benefits   

Our people are the most important part of delivering our purpose. If it were not for their amazing efforts and commitment, we would not be able to make the difference that we do today.  

In return, Blue Cross wants to ensure we provide you with the best working environment we can. We want you to be happy working for us and will do everything we can to make sure you are.  

Our generous benefits package includes:  

• Full time equivalent of 38 days holiday rising to 43 with service (including Bank Holidays)  
• Programmes for physical and mental wellbeing support  
• Free access to GP via MetLife- 24/7 GP services, private prescriptions and more for you and your family   
• Free physiotherapy advice and face to face intervention  
• Health cash plan  
• Unlimited access to an employee assistance programme  
• Pension scheme with enhanced employer contribution   
• Professional fees paid with Continuing Professional Development and personal development support.  
• Life assurance   
• 20% discount on Pet Plan pet insurance   
• Enhanced family friendly policies   
• Recognition scheme   
• Annual volunteer days  
• Charity worker discounts across a variety of retailers 

To read more about the benefits Blue Cross has to offer, please visit the 'why work for us' page on our website.

This is a new role, and an exciting time to join our well-regarded and high performing team.

We are looking for someone who:

• has a good understanding of human rights in the UK, including the practical reality of everyday rights and the potential for these rights to provide real-world protections for people and communities experiencing inequality and injustice;
• has a good understanding of the experiences, strengths and needs of communities across South West England, particularly Black and minoritised communities;
• is experienced in working collaboratively with civil society organisations and activists on programmes for change. 
• is an excellent project manager and a positive, can-do team player who relishes a challenge. 

You will be based in or within easy reach of Bristol and have an existing right to work in the UK. 

We are committed to supporting professional development, and flexible working.