Refugee Support Jobs in Europe

Right to Remain is looking for a skilled and proactive Finance and Operations Manager to join its small staff team in London. This is a new, critical, post for the organisation.

Job title: Finance and Operations Manager
Location: Right to Remain Office, Bethnal Green, London. Hybrid working could be arranged.
Salary: £42,000 (inclusive of London weighting) per annum FTE, pro-rated.
Hours: Part time 0.8 FTE (28 hours per week). 0.6 FTE (21 hours per week) could be considered, depending on experience.
Contract: A fixed term 12 month contract, 6 month probationary period. Possibility of contract extension subject to funding.
Reporting to: Director
Benefits: 36 days of annual leave per year, inclusive of statutory holidays; (pro-rata entitlement for 0.8 FTE / 28 hours is 28.8 days per year inclusive of statutory holidays); employer pension contribution of 5%.
Closing date for applications: 12:00 noon, Monday 27 January 2025.

We are a dynamic national migration justice organisation, working with hundreds of communities and groups across the UK. As a key anchor organisation within the migration justice movement, we uniquely combine public legal education that democratises knowledge, facilitates strategic convenings that harness radical solidarity with campaigning and community organising that builds power, further empowering people to establish their right to remain and collectively challenge injustices of the immigration and asylum system. Our vision is a world where everyone can exercise their right to remain where they need to be with dignity and humanity. Our values are agency, people power, mutual aid, solidarity, anti-racism and foregrounding people with experience.

The successful candidate will utilise their previous experience of managing finance, HR and office administration in small charities or non-profit making organisations to ensure Right to Remain operates smoothly and effectively. They will be working with the Director to improve, set up and embed a number of new office management systems. They need to be confident in stepping into this new, critical role for the organisation, working closely with the Director to help the organisation grow to implement its strategy. They will combine their excellent attention to detail with their skills in holistically and strategically supporting the organisation, working both independently and in close liaison with colleagues.

This is a part-time post based at our London office, offered either 0.8 or 0.6 FTE, depending on the successful candidate’s level of experience, skill sets and circumstances. Hybrid working could be arranged.

Please note that applicants must have a current legal right to work in the UK.

Da'aro Youth Project is looking for an experienced caseworker to join our small team based in Streatham Hill, London. The successful candidate will work alongside young refugees, asylum seekers and other young migrants who are at risk or in crisis to ensure that they can access their statutory rights and make progress in their personal development so that they can achieve their full potential. You will join our Casework Service which provides holistic casework, advice and practical support to young people aged 14 to 25 years, working closely with statutory and voluntary organisations to ensure that the immediate and longer-term needs of young people are met.

We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Project Coordinator to lead the Play, Learn and Thrive Project (PLTP). This role involves organising engaging activities for children, young people, and families, including workshops, language support sessions, and outdoor events. The ideal candidate will possess excellent organizational skills, a passion for community engagement, and the ability to inspire and support children and young people from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds.

Play, Learn and Thrive Project (PLTP) will offer a variety of activities for children and young people in Cardiff, including:

• Activity sessions for pre-school children (under 5 years): Focused on outdoor play, and access to community-based spaces and facilities.
• Family activity sessions and workshops: Interactive sessions on topics like digital safety, nutrition, health literacy, and local resources.
• English language support classes (ESOL) for young people: Focused on conversational skills and building confidence.
• Youth activity sessions: Providing social opportunities, skill-building, teamwork, and group activities for older children.
• Outdoor activities and day trips during school holidays: Fun, practical, and recreational outings within the local area.

The ESOL Tutor teaches, plans, delivers and assesses’ learners of English as a second language. The tutor is involved in curriculum development and part of an expanding ESOL Team and service at King’s Arms Project. Group classes are provided to resettled adults and run at Pre-Entry, Beginner, Elementary and Pre-Intermediate Levels at our teaching locations in Shefford and Bedford. There is potential for this role to be teaching one, two or three classes based on service need and candidate availability. 

You will be expected to hold a minimum TEFL/TESOL qualification and will have, or will develop, working knowledge of supporting and coaching adults learners through learning programmes.

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• To teach groups of adults using a variety of relevant methods and approaches to enable and support learning offering information, advice and guidance

• To work with the ESOL Team in the design and delivery of learning programmes to enable learners to achieve personal learning goals and national qualifications

• To provide initial and ongoing advice to prospective learners

• To undertake the necessary preparation, marking and reviewing activities relating to the learning programmes

• To undertake initial, diagnostic and ongoing assessment and review and record learner progress

• To monitor, evaluate and review programmes with learners and contribute to evaluation processes

• To maintain appropriate course file information and learner records

• To contribute to successful quality assurance by maintaining and forwarding timely accurate records within agreed timescales according to county processes

• To carry out risk assessments associated with the delivery of learning programmes

• To keep up to date with developments in the curriculum area, attend and participate in subject based curriculum groups and undertake personal and professional development and training

ADDITIONAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

● Maintain working practices that reflect the overall ethos and vision of KAP, including following our policies, procedures, and Code of Conduct. 

● Respect and support the whole KAP staff team, contractors, and volunteers.

● Take responsibility for your own workload and your own personal development.

● Actively participate in supervision sessions (1-2-1s, team meetings and annual reviews).

● Attend and actively participate in team meetings social activities, as well as all personal development meetings, including supervisions and mentor sessions.

● In addition to the duties set out in this job description the post holder may at times be required to undertake additional or other duties to meet the needs of King's Arms Project as agreed by the ESOL Team Leader.

We are a youth movement for young people with refugee experience to build community, become leaders and flourish in the place they call home.

There are thousands of displaced young people arriving in the UK every year. We believe in the unbounded potential of these individuals and are driven to help them thrive. 

Our activities include:

• Residential Programmes

• Leadership Training Programme

• Youth Hubs

RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising (70%)

• Support the CEO with writing creative and engaging applications and reports to Trusts and Foundations.

• Research and identify new prospects within Trusts and Foundations, and engage with potential and existing contacts by phone and email.

• Maintain the fundraising database and keep track of targets against organisational budget.

• Support on the planning and delivery of fundraising events and challenges that resonate with our supporters.

• Where the opportunity arises, develop new fundraising campaigns and asks to engage donors and new supporters.

• Create and maintain fundraising material and content, including cases for support, crib sheets, template reports, and supporting information as required.

Social media, communications & storytelling (30%)

• Working with the staff and volunteer team to deliver our regular social media activity, reflecting the impact of our work and engaging both new and existing supporters.

• Develop graphics, images and other assets as required.

• Follow the latest news and trends to identify and engage quickly with any opportunities to share our story or capture new ones.

• Build relationships with staff and volunteers to capture case studies that demonstrate the impact of our work.

• Responsible for collating and sending out newsletters.

• Convey our key messages succinctly and effectively.

• Develop passionate, emotive stories about our work that can be used to fundraise and report to key funding partners.

• Create copy and design for assets like flyers as and when required under the guidance of the CEO and Marketing & Communications Lead.

ABOUT YOU

• Proactive, enthusiastic and collaborative, with a can do/let’s get this done approach.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Experience of creative, outstanding storytelling with the ability to tailor messages to different audiences 

• Passionate about supporting refugees and people seeking asylum, and aligned with OSH’s values.

• Online/digital communications experience to engage both new and existing audiences, growing the number of beneficiaries, volunteers, and supporters

• Experience in managing social media, creating engaging content and engaging with others online 

• Experience of using design tools such as Canva

• Knowledge and understanding of the use of social media platforms including Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Bluesky and Facebook and social media management/scheduling tools like Hootsuite.

• IT literate, including Google Drive, Docs & Sheets, and knowledge of or willingness to learn about Wix and SEO

• Ability to work within a team as well as remotely

• Ability to visit our stakeholders and capture their stories

• A keen eye for detail and accuracy

• Excellent time-management skills are essential as the role requires managing day-to-day social media interactions and funding applications

• Experience of capturing and editing photo and video 

Mission of the role
To work in collaboration with the other Routes to Employment Project Manager to deliver
innovative pilot programmes based on our research findings from year one, culminating in a
7 year project proposal that has the potential to create systemic change for unemployment
of refugee women in London.
Structure and remuneration
● Days: 3 days per week (24 hours)
● Salary: £36,000 FTE, pro-rata to 3 days per week (yearly take home salary of
£21,600)
● Location: Two days in the office (Kennington), one day working from home. Our
current office days are Monday and Wednesday.
● Management: Managed by Head of Programmes
● Ideal start date: asap
● Holiday: 33 days pro rata (20 days across the year), plus end of year office closure
Key responsibilities
You will be responsible for leading this project alongside the other Project
Manager.
Delivery
● Collaborate with Routes to Employment Project Manager to design and deliver an
apprenticeship programme creating new pathways to work for refugee and asylum
seeking women in London, aiming to have women start apprenticeships in September
2025
● Collaborate with Routes to Employment Project Manager to design and pilot
additional support alongside the apprenticeship programme, based on the findings of
the research conducted in year one
● Create and manage a project management tool, setting realistic KPIs that will meet
the intended outcome of the project
● Build and manage partnerships with employers and other stakeholders as necessary
to deliver the pilot project
● Design and deliver employment support workshops for women interested in applying
for apprenticeships

● Support employers participating in the pilot to create refugee friendly workplaces
● Respond to ongoing changes of the project design, based on continued learning as
the pilot is delivered
● Manage project budget and timelines in effective manner for the desired outcomes of
the project
● Recruit, manage and support any volunteers, freelancers or delivery partners
necessary for the delivery of the pilot project
● Respond to feedback and design input from participants of the pilot, and the Routes
Lived Experience Leadership Group
Research
● Ongoingly document learnings from the pilot, to fuel further research and research
questions
● Bring proposals for research approaches that are trauma-informed, relevant to those
with lived experience of the UK asylum system and supportive of project outcomes
● Write articles for the Routes blog to share ongoing learnings from the project
● Design creative methods to share the knowledge gained from ongoing delivery with
sector partners and businesses, to ensure the impact of the project is widespread
● Attend events and workshops relevant to the topic of refugee employment and
support for refugee women in London
● Contribute to the creation of a 7 year delivery proposal, based on the learnings from
the pilot
Contribution to team and whole organisation
● Participate in team wide meetings, trainings, and activities
● Be invested in personal and team learning
● Follow organisational-wide safeguarding policies

At Better Story, we are dedicated to raising funds and shining a light on organisations that are making a real impact in the world. From those who provide vital support to refugees, to those who empower individuals to transform their lives, and those who are driving positive change in their local communities, we stand behind causes that truly matter.

An essential part of our sustained growth is the recruitment of a Trusts and Foundations Fundraising Consultant. Could that be you?

As a Trusts and Foundations Fundraising Consultant, you will play a crucial role in serving our clients by:

• Understanding their work in detail and collecting the necessary information to write compelling cases for support and applications.
• Leading communications with the clients you support.
• Researching suitable trust funds and foundations
• Creating a strategic plan for submitting applications.
• Writing inspiring applications that get results and make a real difference to the organisations we support.

Please see the full job description that is attached. 

Further Details

• Full Time = 35hrs a week 
• Salary: £26,250 (rising to £27,500 in April '25) + Pension contribution + home working allowance + IT equipment.
• Location: Fully remote. With optional meetings in Bristol, UK
• Annual Leave: 35 days per year including Bank Holidays

 Please submit a CV and tailored covering letter. We'll be interviewing as and when suitable candidates apply.

We look forward to hearing from you. 

About Us

Hibiscus Initiatives is a passionate, women-centred organisation, delivering high impact advocacy and advice services for more than 35 years to those at the intersection of the criminal justice and immigration systems. As an organisation, we have distinct expertise in working with marginalised migrant women in prison and in the community, and with detainees from all genders in immigration removals centres.

Our holistic and trauma informed approach makes a real and lasting impact on women's lives - particularly those who have experienced prisons, international and community resettlement and trafficking. 

We aim to make a difference within the criminal justice and immigration systems too by working with women and amplifying their own voices so their experience is recognised by those making policy decisions.

Hibiscus adopts anti-racist; anti-oppression, and feminist principles and believes in the importance of nurturing a diverse team who can embody these principles. 

We are committed to the wellbeing and development of our staff. We provide regular training and other learning opportunities and offer wellbeing classes and activities, clinical supervision, an Employee Assistance Program and other benefits to support staff wellbeing.

[This post is restricted to women only as a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9 paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010]

About the Role

We are now recruiting for a dedicated Through-the-Gate Project Worker to join our Criminal Justice and Detention Services team. This role will provide specialist support to migrant women being released from prison or detention into the London area and beyond.

The Through-the-Gate Project Worker will act as the main point of contact for referrals for women being released from prison or immigration removal centres. The role will involve managing a caseload of up to 15 migrant women who are in contact with the criminal justice system and / or under immigration restrictions, helping them to prepare for release and supporting them to resettle in the community afterwards.

The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and maintaining effective working relationships with statutory, partner and other voluntary organisations to maximise provision of support for women being released from prison/detention. The post-holder will also work as part of Hibiscus’ Safe Homes for Migrant Women project team, to improve provision of safe and secure housing for Black and minoritised migrant women.

[Please note: Successful candidates will need to have been resident in the UK for a minimum of 3 years to ensure the clearance process is authorised. The post holder will be subject to checks by the Disclosure and Barring Service and HMPPS security vetting]

Salary 
£26,500 - £31,000*

*Starting salary negotiable up to the mid-point of the band, depending on experience

Team
Criminal Justice and Detention Services

Duration
Fixed term contract to March 2026 (with potential to extend)  

Hours
Full-time (35 hours per week)

Location
Hibiscus Head Office, London with frequent travel to and work from prisons and detention centres

About You

We are particularly keen to attract talent from Black and minoritised communities and those with lived experience of immigration and/or the criminal justice system.

The successful candidate will have significant experience working directly with women affected by the criminal justice system, the immigration system, or violence against women and girls. Experience working in a prison or detention setting would be an advantage.

They will be able to demonstrate trauma-informed, gender-responsive practice and maintain clear boundaries with clients; managing challenging behaviour with empathy. The successful candidate will have experience of working in partnership with statutory and non-statutory organisations, and proven ability to engage and influence a range of stakeholders.

They will demonstrate a commitment to Hibiscus's ethos aims and objectives, including having an intersectional and anti-racist approach to the work and a comprehensive understanding of one of more of Hibiscus’ key work areas; criminal justice, immigration and migrants’ rights, racial justice, and/or VAWG and gender justice.

This is an important strategic role within our organisation. You will lead and manage the Somerset Diverse Communities (SDC) team in CCS which works with ethically diverse communities in Somerset. Together with your team, you will listen to community needs, promote suitable responses and convene individuals and organisations to seek community based solutions, supporting communities to thrive together.

You will work with the Head of Programmes, Community Leaders, our Commissioners, partner organisations and wider stakeholders to ensure that the Somerset Diverse Communities programme delivers our strategic goals and that we are collaborating effectively with statutory and community based partners, including the wider VCFSE sector.

You will be a key member of the Programmes Team, and will work with our Senior Programmes Manager and the Village Agent Programme Manager to ensure that all of our community development work is well integrated; and we are making the most of opportunities, internal and external that will help to improve quality of life for individuals and communities in Somerset.

You'll be helping us Thrive Together

• You will help groups representing and working with diverse communities to thrive, enabling people of all backgrounds to have fulfilling lives in Somerset.
• Be accountable for the delivery of a high-quality programme of work in Somerset, promoting a learning culture, and driving growth through role modelling.
• Manage all operational employees within the SDC team to deliver programme and strategic goals.
• To support your team to practice continuous professional and personal development.
• Utilise high levels of emotional intelligence and strong communication skills internally and externally to ensure the delivery of a high-quality programme of work.
• Demonstrate active leadership skills and support your team to resolve challenges and respond to opportunities.

You'll be helping us Enable Change

• Ensure that the impact of SDC work is demonstrated and articulated to internal and external audiences, including contributions to fundraising and advocacy campaigns and materials and representing the service to external audiences.
• Look for opportunities to innovate and work with internal and external colleagues to develop new programmes of work to meet community need; implementing and evaluating pilot projects and, if successful, embedding them within the central service.
• Analyse performance data to evaluate service design, developing new or improved processes and procedures to ensure we are effective, efficient and focused on community outcomes.
• Drive community development through SDC work, supporting the team to identify gaps and implement sustainable community solutions whilst identifying and mitigating risk.
• Take responsibility for collating reports internally for the Senior Leadership Team and Trustees and externally for funders as required.
• Work with the Data & Insights Manager to contribute to the development of quality assurance systems.
• Manage SDC’s day-to-day operations and its resources in accordance with CCS policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and good practice in all aspects of the charity’s work.
• Keep abreast of national, regional, and local policy that impacts on our work to bring a wider perspective, and ensure our work is well informed.

You'll be helping us Build Connections

• Build and maintain positive working relationships with our partners, collaborators and stakeholders, including police, commissioners, public sector officers and organisational representatives across a range of sectors and organisations.
• Show generous leadership and actively promote CCS values at all times.
• Attend relevant partnership and operational meetings for SDC activities.
• When appropriate, represent CCS externally at events and meetings locally, regionally and nationally.

The European Network on Statelessness (ENS) is seeking a Legal Officer (10-month fixed-term contract with potential for extension) to play a key role in enabling us to fulfil our mission to break the cycle of statelessness in Europe and realise everyone’s right to a nationality. There is a possibility of extension beyond the initial contract term, subject to funding availability.

ENS is a civil society alliance of over 180 members in 41 countries. We are dedicated to raising awareness about statelessness, supporting legal and policy development, and building civil society’s capacity to act. At the heart of our work lies the understanding that stateless people and their communities should be leaders of change.

This is a great opportunity to help us deliver our new Strategic Plan working at the forefront of one of the most pressing human rights issues. The successful candidate will support our law and policy development work and help galvanise change across the region to end statelessness in Europe.

We are looking for someone with a legal background and good understanding of statelessness and related human rights issues and standards. They will be able to demonstrate an aptitude to successfully perform the various facets of the role, including legal research and analysis, litigation, and legal advocacy. They will be highly articulate in English (other languages are an asset) with excellent attention to detail, and strong IT, organisational, and interpersonal skills. They will contribute positively to our dynamic organisational ethos, and demonstrate a flexible ‘can do’ approach, fitting well into a fast-moving and demanding environment with an international dimension.

The role represents an exciting opportunity for candidates with the requisite aptitude, flexibility, and ambition, as well as a strong commitment to working with diverse communities across Europe to address statelessness.

We provide a friendly and welcoming team environment. This includes flexible working arrangements and opportunities for learning and professional development.

We particularly welcome applications from stateless (or formerly stateless) individuals, and people from a migrant, refugee, or minority background. If you require support with your application, please get in touch to discuss this further with us.

ENS is committed to Safer Recruitment and all appointments are subject to satisfactory references and pre-employment checks as required in line with our Safeguarding Policy. ENS has a flexible working policy and is open to considering the role being undertaken on a part-time basis. Please specify your preferred work hours when applying. We will be happy to discuss flexible working options at the interview stage.

Please note that all applicants must have an existing right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we are unable to sponsor visa applications for this post.

Employee benefits include:

• 25 days annual holiday (with an additional day for each completed year of service up to 5 days)
• 5% employer pension contribution
• enhanced family-friendly policies
• enhanced sick leave and sick pay
• an employee assistance programme
• ENS operates a hybrid working model with staff working partly from home and partly from the office. The postholder would usually be required to work in the office a minimum of one day per week during their probation period and a minimum number of days per month to be agreed with their Line Manager thereafter.

If you would like to discuss any aspects of the role, please contact ENS Head of Policy & Advocacy, Nina Murray - contact details in the role description document.

The Housing Advice Practitioner will by providing tailored advice and guidance through mainly remote online or phone support, as well as in person housing advice at a weekly housing advice surgery in the community. The role will include advocacy, coordination with legal services, workshops, and ensuring sustained support for families. 

This new Information and Advice Support Service is established to a) provide a light touch swift response service for less complex housing issues; and b) develop mechanisms for the early identification of emerging housing problems. 

About the role  

We are looking for an experienced, motivated and compassionate support worker to deliver housing advice and practical support to individuals and families. This role involves responding to enquiries, conducting housing surgeries, and running workshops to empower clients with the knowledge and skills to address their housing-related issues. The successful candidate will work with clients to identify their needs and offer tailored solutions to help them achieve sustainable housing outcomes. In this role, you will be working in partnership with community organisations and the council to coordinate tailored support for each client to address their housing issues. The objective of the programme is to provide advice and support to clients who have problems related to their housing and to improve wellbeing and awareness of tenancy rights and housing polices.

About you  

You will have experience of working with individuals with complex needs. You will be an enthusiastic person who has empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental approach to working with clients and who thrives when working independently with a passion to support change. You will have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, knowledge of housing policies and tenants' rights, experience of delivering holistic support, be a solution-minded thinker, have a good understanding of strength-based approaches and be able work committing to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of work. To work as part of a team and independently, the roles require you to think creatively and use the resources around you effectively.  

About Kineara  

Kineara is a unique community interest company and Charity that supports people in poverty across London who facing barriers to housing, employment and education. We break down barriers, provide holistic support for families, vulnerable adults, and school pupils, and deliver intensive one-to-one interventions to those in need of extra help through challenging times. We use holistic, trauma-informed methods, partnership working and a flexible, non-judgemental approach that puts the needs of those we work with first.   

Da'aro Youth Project is looking for a Freelance Mentoring and Activities Assistant to join our dynamic team. In this part-time role, you'll assist with the Mentoring and Activity leads, and support the administrative needs of the two roles. From helping with social media content to managing logistics for youth clubs and trips, this role is perfect for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and is dedicated to empowering young refugees and asylum seekers. If you’re ready to make a difference and gain valuable experience in a rewarding field, we’d love to hear from you!

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. In 2024 we embarked on our new 10-year strategy for ending homelessness. We know it is not inevitable. We know together we can end it. 

It is an exciting and important time to be joining us at Crisis. We work with thousands of people across England, Scotland, and Wales so they can leave homelessness behind for good. We have recently adapted the way our services work to maximise our impact in ending homelessness.

Title: Senior Practitioner Psychologist (internally this role is known as Senior Skylight Psychologist) 

Qualifications: You must be a Practitioner Psychologist qualified for at least 18 months and registered with the HCPC

Hours: Part-time and full-time opportunities available, Monday to Friday. We understand prospective candidates may want to take on this role alongside other commitments. Therefore, we are very open to considering a range of part-time working arrangements in line with Crisis’ Flexible Working Policy. Please let us know what working arrangements you are looking for when completing the application form.

Salary: Full-time salaries are as follows:

• 18 months to 4 years qualified - £53,755 (Regional), £57,755 (London) per annum FTE. 

• 5 to 7 years qualified - £56,454 (Regional), £60,454 (London) per annum FTE. 

• 8+ years qualified - £60,504 (Regional), £64,504 (London) per annum FTE. 

Please note if you are working part-time these salaries will be pro rata. Our salaries are fixed to counter inequity, and we do not negotiate at offer stage. 

Location: Crisis Skylight Brent, 1-2 Bank Buildings, High St, London, NW10 4LT. This is a mainly onsite role, so you can meet face-to-face with our members and team, but some homeworking is an option in line with Crisis’ Hybrid Working Policy.

About the role  

We are committed to ending the homelessness of more people using our direct services, including people with complex needs. To do this, we are seeking either full-time or part-time Practitioner Psychologists to join our fantastic team in locations around the UK.  

In this role, you will be supporting our diverse operation in Brent that includes the Skylight Service, the commissioned Single Homeless Prevention Service and The Single Homeless Refugee Service. You will also get involved in our outward facing place-based work that aim to shape better system responses to homelessness, working with colleagues from the Local Authority and NHS and the local community and voluntary service.

You will form part of the local Leadership team, supporting the implementation of Psychologically Informed Environments (PIEs).  You will support the delivery of our work to members by offering training and leading reflective practice for staff and providing direct services to members at times.

You will also be a part of a national psychology team made up of a Lead Clinical Psychologist, two Regional Lead Clinical Psychologists, and seven Practitioner Psychologists as well as one Assistant Psychologist and Trainee Clinical Psychologists on placements. 

At Crisis, we understand more and more Practitioner Psychologists are taking on multiple part-time opportunities within the NHS, private practice and the third sector as this has been the case with our own team. Crisis and our members have benefited from employing people with a variety of different work experience and we are therefore open to considering a range of part-time working arrangements. This an opportunity for you to work within an agile and progressive charity where you can influence psychologically informed ways of working to end homelessness for good.

You will join an extraordinary team of frontline lead workers with a focus on people facing homelessness who have survived a range of difficult and traumatic experiences.  

About you  

We are looking for people who are community focused and driven by our shared values. This role brings a real opportunity to be creative and flexible in our approach to working psychologically with people who face multiple disadvantages, and to support the staff teams via training and reflective practice.

There are opportunities to provide direct support as well as working extensively with local teams and other parts of the organisation to influence policy and practice developments. We are looking for someone with post qualification experience of working within complex systems and you may have direct experience of working with people who experience homelessness.

You will be excited by the prospect of working innovatively to deliver services locally alongside the Skylight team, as well linking in closely with the wider Psychology team to develop the service.  You will be committed towards social justice, and to being an advocate for those we work with and for breaking down the systemic barriers that exclude those who need most support.

We welcome informal conversations to learn more about the role with a member of our Practitioner Psychology Team, please email us and we will arrange a call. If you would like to visit the Skylight prior to applying that can also be arranged.

We believe diversity is a strength, and our aim is to make sure that Crisis truly reflects the communities we serve. We are actively working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can thrive and make their best contribution to our mission of ending homelessness for good. We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of homelessness, and people from all marginalised groups, communities, and backgrounds.  

Working at Crisis  

Our values, Bold, Impactful, Collaborative and Equitable, are at the heart of everything we do as we continue in our mission to end homelessness.

Our staff, members and volunteers are vital to getting the right government policies in place, providing breakthrough services, and building a supportive community. We’ll lead by example to nurture a positive and ambitious workplace guided by ending homelessness.

As a member of the team, you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including:  

• Interest free loans for travel season ticket, cycle to work, and deposit to secure a tenancy.  

• Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8.5%  

• 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata) which increases with service to 31 days and the option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave.

• Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental, and adoption pay. 

• Flexible working around the core hours 10am-4pm  

• Wellbeing Leave to be used flexibly.  

• And more! (Full list of benefits available on website)  

As a member of the Practitioner Psychology Team, you will have:

• Access to funds to support CPD as part of a wider commitment to ensure meeting HCPC standards. 

• Reimbursement of costs to join a professional body (e.g., ACP/BPS) 

• Bi-annual away day with the Team 

• Access to high quality clinical and professional supervision 

Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience, and career.  

When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.

How do I apply? 

Please click on the 'Apply for Job' button below. Our shortlisting process is anonymised as part of our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We do not ask for CVs, instead we ask you complete the work history section and answer the screening questions for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively.  When answering the screening questions please do be thorough, reflecting on your experience to date and using relevant examples. At least two members of staff score all applications.

Closing date: Sunday 19 January 2025 at 23:59

Interview date and location: Wednesday 12 February 2025 at Crisis Skylight Brent, 1-2 Bank Buildings, High St, London, NW10 4LT. 

Can I use Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology for my application? 

We strongly discourage applicants from using AI technology at any stage of the recruitment process. This is so we can run a fair, transparent process which gives all applicants an equitable chance of success. We want to hear about your own experience and perspectives in your application and if shortlisted, during the interview too. 

Accessibility  

We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please email our Talent Acquisition team to discuss how we can help.  

 
Registered Charity Numbers: E&W1082947, SC040094  

BACKGROUND

Over the past 90 years, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) has developed unparalleled expertise in responding to emergencies and helping uprooted communities to rebuild. Founded in 1933 at the request of Albert Einstein, the IRC offers lifesaving care and life-changing assistance to refugees forced to flee from war or disaster. The IRC is on the ground in more than 40 countries, providing emergency relief, relocating refugees and rebuilding lives in the wake of disaster. The IRC is committed to a culture of bold leadership, innovation in all aspects of our work, creative partnerships and, most crucially, accountability to those we serve. The IRC is a tireless advocate for the most vulnerable.

IRC-UK

IRC UK is part of the IRC global network, which has its global headquarters in New York. Our team in the UK works to raise profile, deliver policy and practice change, and increase funding to help restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Since 2021, IRC UK has also provided integration services directly to refugees in England, a programme that is rapidly growing. In Europe, the IRC also has offices in Berlin, Bonn, Brussels, Geneva and Stockholm.

EXTERNAL RELATIONS

The External Relations (ER) unit is comprised of four complementary functions: Private fundraising, Mobilization & Marketing, Policy & Advocacy and Operations & Analytics. To enable IRC to deliver our Strategy100 commitments, the ER unit established a bold new approach that enhances our ability to raise diverse and flexible funding aligned with IRC’s top priorities, while raising our profile and influence. The ER unit is international, with colleagues in more than 10 offices globally.

The Purpose of the Role

As Director of Communications, UK, you lead IRC UK’s core communications strategy with the objectives of growing our profile, influencing policy, driving income, and protecting our reputation. This is done by taking a strategic approach to generating effective messaging for cross-team use, creatively collaborating to produce cut-through external products across media and digital channels, and generating top tier media coverage in collaboration with communications, advocacy and fundraising colleagues globally. In this role you will be expected to use expert judgment to manage IRC UK’s reputation, as well as ensure media and digital outputs protect beneficiaries, staff and programming from harm.

The Director will report to the UK Executive Director and the Senior Director of Global Public Affairs. The Director will collaborate closely with the Senior Director for Digital Engagement, UK Advocacy Director, and the Director of UK Mass Markets to meet the organization’s strategic objectives surrounding profile, income and influence.

Scope and Authority

Authority:

· The role holder sets strategic direction for UK communications, with a focus on earned media, public advocacy and organic digital.

· The role oversees the UK comms operational budget, with access to the Global External Relations budget.

· The role has the authority to brief journalists with agreed messaging and act as spokesperson for the organisation.

· The Director will line manage the communications team and other positions when required.

· The role is a key member of the UK Senior Management Team, with collective responsibility for the leadership, culture and efficacy of IRC UK.

Key Working Relationships

· Reports to the UK Executive Director and Senior Director Global Public Affairs & Communications.

· Close collaboration with External Relations staff in the UK, US and globally, including Advocacy and Influence, Mass Markets, Fundraising, Awards Management, Digital Engagement, Entertainment Relations, Creative Studio, and Experiential Marketing.

· Works closely with key country directors, country programme staff and technical unit colleagues.

· Supports policy staff in the IRC President’s Office on key UK messages and policy initiatives involving the IRC President.

· Works closely with counterparts in NGOs and donors particularly FCDO and the DEC.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Strategic Direction

· Raise IRC UK's profile, income, influence and brand in the UK market by developing and delivering a 360 comprehensive communications strategy that reaches target audiences, attracts new supporters, and connects supporters with IRC clients.

· Partner with global external relations leadership to set Key Performance Indicators for achieving the strategy, and drive and monitor progress towards them with the support of your team.

· Contribute to the development and delivery of the UK Strategic Plan.

Team Management & Stakeholder engagement

· Manage a team of communications professionals, setting objectives, portfolio scope, and partnering on professional development opportunities

· Drive creative insights and strategic thinking within the UK comms team and influence / maximize policy, advocacy and fundraising outputs and results

· Lead strategic communications planning to maximize opportunities of partnering with income and influence objectives and outputs

· Ensure the UK Communications Team are clear on systems, processes and organization to drive efficiency and team productivity

· Review team performance quarterly and present on results to global stakeholders

· As a member of the UK Senior Management Team (UK SMT) support the UK Executive Director in the creation and delivery of IRC UK strategies and priorities, foster cohesion and collaboration among UK based departments, representing the needs and objectives of the team in the UK SMT and UK office.

Execution: Driving IRC profile, influence and income; and protecting the reputation of the IRC

· Work alongside global communications colleagues, Policy & Advocacy colleagues and UK Fundraisers to develop appropriate messaging on key proactive and reactive issue areas across the scope of IRC’s work.

· Plan and identify key moments of opportunity for IRC UK Communications according to internal and external landscape and timetables.

· Ensure pro/reactive message accuracy and cut through calls to action that engage audiences for proactive campaigns and news cycle opportunities.

· Develop, commission and drive creative cut-through tactics and products, from revealing IRC research and analysis to emergency media briefings.

· Secure top tier media coverage of IRC’s work, solutions and innovation, balancing mentions with long-form/features and profiles.

· Influence and shape key media narratives around priority IRC UK policy issues.

· Oversee strategic media opportunities by commissioning, writing, editing and disseminating messaging for multi-channel use, press-releases, op-eds, statements and other content to secure coverage of the IRC in the UK across print, broadcast and online media.

· Work with global communications colleagues and country office staff to create strong, persuasive and impactful outputs, and to arrange interviews and media visits to frontline work.

· Act as a spokesperson for the organization in the media as needed.

· Liaise closely with Fundraising teams to collaborate on timely messaging, client-centered storytelling, digital outputs, and media coverage to bring in donations to the IRC during emergencies and other fundraising appeals.

· Manage the communications component and IRC UK’s relationship with the DEC and lead communications on DEC appeals.

· Use expert judgment to ensure the IRC is protected in the media and to develop and enact strategies to protect IRC’s reputation, as well as ensure media outputs protect beneficiaries, staff and programming from harm.

· Ensure coordinated and topical messaging across media outreach and digital channels.

· Establish close relationships with press counterparts within statutory donor organizations that lead to opportunities to promote IRC in the media.

· Leverage IRC’s President and CEO, and UK Executive Director to grow our profile in the UK, through proposing and implementing op-eds, interviews and other media activities.

· Support, prepare and coach staff, spokespeople and board members for media interviews and visits; and provide guidance across the organisation to dealing with media.

· Build expertise on current and potential issues in the humanitarian NGO arena via research and monitoring of national media and competitors and in liaison with global colleagues

· Work with the global media colleagues to ensure that IRC has a system for managing media enquiries at all times, as needed.

· Responsible for reporting to the IRCUK board, subcommittees and Executive Director on press activity, trends and upcoming opportunities.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential

Experience

· Track record in creating, driving and evaluating a 360-degree communications strategy that focuses on media, digital and enabling income.

· Experience leading and managing media and digital teams. 

· Experience navigating and influencing within large matrixed organizations.

· Extensive experience of developing key messages and implementing media strategies with an international, and ideally humanitarian, or development focus.

· Experience of conducting media relations and communications opportunities in developing countries and sensitive contexts.

· Experience of organising international media visits to projects in order to facilitate reporting on key issues.

· Substantial experience responding to reputational threats.

· Experience leading a digital communications team that delivers breakthrough digital content, client-centered storytelling and brings in new supporters.

· Experience/knowledge of tools for monitoring media coverage and digital results.

· Experience of dealing with media enquiries into crisis and sensitive issues.

· Experience of acting as a spokesperson for an organisation.

Skills and Knowledge

· Creative thinker who can identify opportunities and collaborate internally to produce external products that cut through media and digital and meet strategic IRC UK objectives.

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills: ability to communicate effectively with colleagues both in the UK and overseas and manage working relationships diplomatically.

· Excellent eye to detail and commitment to high speed and high quality writing and editing

· Strong organisational and time management skills: ability to prioritise team’s work, and multi-task in a fast-paced work setting.

· Good contacts with key UK journalists and media outlets, and knowledge and ability to develop relationships quickly.

· Excellent writing, editing and proofreading skills; adept at writing clean, engaging, jargon-free copy for a range of channels.

· Ability to represent IRC-UK and the wider IRC professionally and appropriately at all times.

· Knowledge/interest in international affairs, particularly of conflict and humanitarian crises and issues.

· Knowledge of key political debates in the UK around international development and aid.

· Flexibility as regards working hours, as the need arises.

· Willingness to travel occasionally to conflict areas.

· Fluency in English, spoken and written.