Social Welfare Jobs

Our Local Organiser will be responsible for developing the foodbank’s capacity to organise and campaign for change. You will do this by building the skills and confidence of food bank clients, volunteers and staff and community members to campaign locally. Local Organisers build relationships with foodbank users to identify some of the issues driving poverty in the community and to bring people together to take action on those issues.

You will develop and lead a volunteer campaign team to create a campaign strategy and lead on the delivery of the strategy to win change, while developing leaders in your foodbank. This role is funded by Trussell as part of their Organising Programme, and you will be part of a network of Local Organisers around the UK doing this work. You will be the link between your foodbank and the Organising and Local Mobilisation team at Trussell, as we build a movement to end the need for food banks.

Ealing Foodbank is a small local charity in the London Borough of Ealing. The Christian faith underpins everything that Ealing Foodbank does and stands for as expressed in our Vision, Mission and Values statement. We provide 3 days worth of long life foods to Ealing families and individuals who are referred to our service. Those who use the foodbank also benefit from free advice, delivered onsite in our foodbank locations. We are part of the Trussell network, linked to other foodbanks all over the UK.

Could you use your strategic communications skills to inspire people to support Welsh communities to thrive?

As Head of Communications and Marketing for Community Foundation Wales, you'll help to build support and extend impact with two key audiences - philanthropists with the potential to give and local communities with the power to change lives. You'll shape how to best share stories and meaningfully connect with people to increase impact.

Salary: £40k per annum
Location: Hybrid, between home and Cardiff office (1-2 days per week)
Contract: Flexible, full time or reduced hours considered
Hours: 37 hours full time or reduced hours
Benefits: 25 days holiday (+bank and Christmas closure), additional long service leave, 5% contributory pension, monthly wellbeing days, cycle to work scheme
Culture: Small but mighty, caring, supportive and collaborative

About the organisation

For over 25 years, Community Foundation Wales has been supporting charities and communities across Wales with funding to strengthen local communities, giving over £45 million+ in grants so far. They work with supporters to reach people most in need and create positive change for Welsh communities.

There are over 42,000 community groups and charities in Wales, working to improve their communities and using their initiative to meet local needs. This vital work is often carried out on a shoestring budget or voluntary basis, so the focus is on finding these fantastic projects and helping to accomplish their aims and ambitions.

About the role

The Head of Communications and Marketing is a vital role that directly supports the organisation's impact and growth. With a small but mighty team, everyone's contribution matters. Communication is the engine that powers the organisation's work, connecting supporters to how they can help and raising the organisation's profile so that more people know how they can access support.

As the organisation comes into a new strategy setting phase, marcomms will play a big part in ambitious plans for the future. You'll need to be versatile and adaptable - switching between strategy and hands-on delivery - and leading high impact campaigns that drive people towards action and involvement. You'll provide leadership as part of the SMT with one direct report.

About you

You're capable of leading across a broad range of communications and marketing, including: strategic communications, content and media management, developing and managing brand.

To apply, we would love to see you demonstrating the following skills, experience and behaviours:

* Previous experience in a senior communications role, ideally in the charity sector.
* Working strategically to negotiate, influence and persuade at all levels.
* Rolling your sleeves up to get the job done.
* Planning, delivering and evaluating creative, high-impact campaigns.
* Telling compelling and engaging stories across a range of platforms, both traditional and digital.
* Solid grasp on social media and keeping up-to-date on what's new, using data-driven evaluation.
* Adept at copy writing and copy-editing for diverse audiences.
* People person, having a positive influence both internally and externally.

It would be highly desirable to see you showcasing hands-on skills in digital design (such as Canva), basic video editing skills (such as CapCut), e-newsletter platforms (such as Mailchimp). Or the technical capability to swiftly pick up any skills you may not already have.

Because the organisation works across Wales, Welsh language skills are always very much sought after.

If you're feeling the 'new year, new job' itch, please get in touch with a copy of your profile or CV to Amelia Lee at Charity People.

Deadline: 9am on Friday 31st January

Charity People actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion. We match charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the charities we work with.

Are you ready to make a real difference in people's lives by providing specialist debt, benefit, and money advice?

We are enhancing and increasing resource across this vital service to ensure that we continue to meet the needs of our beneficiaries.

As a Benefits, Debt and Money Advisor you will provide a comprehensive community-based debt advice service to beneficiaries who are experiencing difficulties. This includes offering legal guidance and tailored options through face-to-face, telephone, and email interactions. You will also work to maximise income by identifying benefit entitlements and encouraging the take-up of appropriate benefits. Additionally, you will deliver specialist-level welfare benefits casework, including preparing written submissions and representing beneficiaries at appeal tribunals.

The role is homebased with occasional travel required throughout Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. This includes travel to home visits and tribunal locations. In addition, travel to team meetings and training, usually in London, is required. We do cover travel expenses.

Living within the Dorset, Hampshire or the Isle of Wight area or in commutable distance is essential in being able to undertake this role.

This position is also subject to pre-employment checks including an Enhanced DBS check.

Why join us?
Our Benefits, Debt & Money Advice Service at the Royal British Legion is unique:

- Self-funded! We don’t bid for external funding, we are not subject to funding constraints or time limits, and we are not bound by external targets.
- Holistic! We are not limited to a specific amount of time per case, and we always want to support the whole person. We have our own services which support with areas such as drug and alcohol, homelessness, and dementia and importantly, we provide funding directly to pay off priority debts and insolvency fees.  Our services can change people’s lives. 
- Connected! We work from home as part of a strong regional & national team and manage our own diaries accordingly.
- Dynamic! We pride ourselves on our learning & development, constantly improving our expertise through training to ensure we are providing the best quality service to those we support.

Come and be part of the leading Armed Forces charity, making a difference to the lives of those who have served to keep us safe and protect our way of life.

Here at RBL, we aim to support our people and their wellbeing, with a package including generous paid holiday allowance and pension scheme contributions, and a range of optional benefits and discounts.

For more detailed information about the role, please see our Vacancy Information Pack attached to our direct advert.

RBL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive organisation, reflecting the diversity of the armed forces community and of wider society. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and personal characteristics and aim to operate an inclusive recruitment process.

We may close this vacancy early if we believe we have enough strong applications to be able to successfully fill the role(s). Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

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.  

This is an exciting time to join the Housing First team, an innovative and supportive team offering open-ended, flexible, and intensive support to people who face multiple disadvantages.  Housing First is an evidenced based model of support that alleviates homeless for people for whom other models of support may not be able to reach.

Location: Based onsite in Crisis Skylight London, 50-52 Commercial St, E1 6LT, with outreach London-wide 

About the role 

As a Housing First Coach you will deliver high quality person-centred support, using psychologically and trauma informed approaches, in line with Housing First principles. You will take a bold approach to establishing open and trusting relationships with people who have had long histories of homelessness or in temporary/insecure accommodation, enabling them to access and sustain accommodation and empower them to exercise choice and control over their lives. The team is multi-disciplinary – Coaches, Peer Support Worker, Clinical Psychologist – which allows us to collaboratively formulate innovative approaches to support. The team operates across London, providing numerous opportunities to build impactful partnerships and contribute towards systems change.   

About you 

To be successful in this role you will be a self-starter, flexible and have experience of working collaboratively as part of a team and with internal and external partners.  You may have a background in housing/homelessness support, adult safeguarding, drug or alcohol recovery services or mental health and have significant experience of working within a multidisciplinary setting with the ability to create strong professional relationships and creative solutions.  You will have experience of working with people who have faced severe and multiple exclusion and who may have ‘complex needs’; with an understanding of the needs of people who have been homeless for long periods of time. You will be willing and able to provide practical assistance with moving into and maintaining a home – including direct help where necessary with tasks such as shopping, budgeting, cooking, and cleaning.  You will also have a knowledge of Housing First and Housing Led approaches and the ability to work within a psychologically informed approach.  

Please see the full Job Pack linked below, for a full list of requirements for this role. We realise that long lists of criteria can be daunting, and you may not want to apply for a role unless you feel 100% qualified. However, if you feel you have relevant examples to answer the screening questions, we encourage you to apply.

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)  

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 to 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. At least two members of staff score all applications.

Closing date: Sunday 16 February 2025 at 23:55    

Interviews will take place on Tuesday 25 February 2025 at Crisis Skylight London, 50-52 Commercial Street, E1 6LT     

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 

The Director of Communications and Advocacy is a key role within the Trust, overseeing all aspects of the Trust’s media, communications, campaigning, and public affairs work, ensuring that the profile of the Trust remains high and that we have influence and impact with decision-makers.

You will have a deep commitment to educational equality and social mobility, and a significant track record of leading an impactful communications, campaigning and public affairs function. Knowledge of education policy is desirable but not essential. You will bring strategic vision, evidence of managing stakeholder relationships at the highest level, and track record of delivering high-profile impact.

The Team

The role reports to the CEO, is part of the Trust’s senior leadership team and works alongside the Director of Research and Policy to lead the Research, Policy and Communications team. The role directly manages the Head of Communications and Public Affairs and the Marketing and Events Manager.

Main duties

Communications and Advocacy

• Leading all aspects of the media, communications, campaigning and public affairs work within the Trust
• Developing a strategic approach to communications, campaigning and public affairs to ensure the Trust further builds its high-profile presence and its influence with key policymakers, stakeholders and decision-makers
• Overseeing the Sutton Trust brand, ensuring that it is clear and consistent across all external channels
• Delivering high quality communications materials across digital, social and traditional media, ensuring that the Trust has a clear, distinctive and authoritative voice
• Securing high-profile media coverage and overseeing the Trust’s relationships with the media, building key contacts and supporting the CEO and other spokespeople as necessary
• Overseeing a compelling events programme, ensuring online and in-person events that position the Trust as a key convenor and thought leader
• Leading a high-performing digital comms function, with a strategic approach to expand reach and engagement
• Managing and leading on external relationships as needed, e.g., with other charities and organisations in our sector
• Proactively identifying public affairs opportunities and planning and overseeing related campaigns & events
• Managing risk and the Trust’s reputation through all external channels
• Working with the Development team to integrate fundraising messaging into our identity and wider comms including website, social media etc., including planning calls to action for relevant stakeholders
• Supporting and advising the Programmes team on communications to position the value of our programmes in the wider sector
• Working closely with the Director of Research and Policy to ensure the team operates effectively and in a joined-up manner, including direct line management, team meetings, pastoral support, appraisals and recruitment
• Working with the CEO and Director of Finance & Operations on the Trust's internal communications plan
• Working with the Director of Finance and Operations to oversee the Trust’s communications budget

Trust-wide

• Working with the CEO and senior leadership team to shape the strategy for the Trust and oversee its implementation
• Contributing to the senior leadership of the organisation, including updating senior leadership, and Trustees on media and communications, and consulting on key decisions
• Representing the Trust at internal and external events as required
• Undertaking or overseeing specific projects for the CEO
• Proactively contributing to discussions spanning the Trust’s work, including operations, development, research, policy, and communications
• Acting as a representative and ambassador of the Sutton Trust when interacting with external contacts and particularly (prospective) donors
• Engaging with fundraising and/or donor-related activities as required (e.g., contributing to funding proposals, reports or donor meetings)

Person Specification

We welcome applications from individuals who have demonstrable experience in:

• Extensive experience of public affairs and campaigning and communications work, including strategic communication campaigns and media work, ideally in education and social mobility
• Good political antennae, and an ability to position the Trust’s work for maximum impact with decision-makers, anticipating future trends
• A strong ability to translate research findings and policy proposals into appealing and engaging messages, particularly for the media
• Excellent written communication skills
• Good knowledge of digital communications strategies and best practice
• Line management/team leadership experience

We are also looking for an individual who:

• Can display commitment to the work and mission of the Trust
• Able to operate at both the strategic-level, and hands on with delivery
• Able to work in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple competing commitments
• Flexible, pragmatic and discreet – ability to fit into a small high performing team
• A strong network of relevant contacts
• Has knowledge and experience of the higher education and/or education sectors;
• Has excellent attention to detail;
• Has first-class interpersonal skills - a natural ambassador able to represent the Sutton Trust in a range of settings;
• Is eligible to work in the UK (see here for information about right to work)

Terms of Appointment

• Contract: Full-time, Permanent
• Salary: £77,000 - £90,000
• Working location: Minimum of 2 office days per week, but further flexibility may be required given the external-facing nature of the role
• Office location: The Sutton Trust, 9th Floor, Millbank Tower, 21-24 Millbank, London, SW1P 4QP. Our home working policy gives staff the option to work from home for up to 60% of the time, with approval from their line manager.
• Hours: The standard working hours are 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday and may also be required to attend events / meetings outside of their normal working hours during weekday evenings and occasionally at weekends. This role also shares primary responsibility for monitoring the out of hours media line with the Head of Communications and Public Affairs.
• DBS check may be required

To Apply

To apply, please upload your CV and cover letter, covering how your experience, skills and qualifications meet the requirements of this role. Please focus your response on the abilities and/or competencies giving evidence of your experience to date (maximum of 2 A4 sheets). The information you provide will be the basis for shortlisting.

Please note that your application should be submitted in one go - you can view the requirements by clicking on the link if you would like to prepare in advance.

Interviews

Applications should reach us by 23:59, Sunday 2nd February, with first round interviews held on Tuesday, 11th February, and second round interviews held on Thursday, 20th February. Both rounds will be held at our London offices.

Safeguarding statement

The Sutton Trust believes that a child, young person or vulnerable adult should never experience abuse of any kind. We all have a responsibility to promote the welfare of all children and young people and to keep them safe. Therefore all posts undergo a safer recruitment process, including but not limited to, disclosure of criminal records where necessary and eligibility to work in the UK. We have procedures in place to promote safeguarding and a safe culture at the Trust.

Contextual recruitment

The Trust is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity and that all applicants receive equal consideration for employment. We strongly encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those underrepresented at present at the Trust, to apply for this role. As such we particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities, Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ and from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds. We are committed to being an inclusive and welcoming place to work and know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the young people we support.

We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for disabled candidates throughout our recruitment process and during employment.

We also operate contextual recruitment at the Sutton Trust. Our application process gives you the option to include information about your background, such as whether you were eligible for free school meals, whether your parents went to university, or whether you attended a state school. For more examples and information on contextual recruitment, please see our website.

The Whiteley Homes Trust “the Trust” is a charity that manages Whiteley Village in Surrey. The purpose of the charity is to provide homes for older people of limited means from all over the country.  Founded over a hundred years ago in Walton on Thames, Surrey, the Village is located in 225 acres of beautiful grounds and is a very special place to live and work.

Established in 1917 the village has many Grade 2 listed buildings and provides housing for nearly 400 older people of limited means. There are 265 Almshouses and 51 extra care apartments and the Village also has a church, social and leisure club, shop and café.

We became a Registered Provider in 2024 and the Head of Housing will lead on the Trust’s strategic and operational delivery of our housing management services.

You will have a strong background in in housing management and will lead a small team to deliver an efficient, professional and cost-effective service with high levels of customer satisfaction.  You will understand the support needs of our residents whilst meeting regulatory requirements of the Regulator for Social Housing, the Care Quality Commission and upholding the standards set by the Almshouse Association.

Reporting to the Director of Operations, you will be responsible for all aspects of housing management including applications, allocations and lettings, income collection, managing antisocial behaviour and other breaches and supporting residents to manage their licences or tenancies. The position will be accountable for making business decisions that align to the Trust’s strategic goals, vision and objectives.

The role will have line management responsibility for the Housing Team and a close working relationship with the Head of Property, Head of Community Services and the Registered Manager of the Extra Care facility.

What will you be doing?

Main Responsibilities

• Leading and developing the Housing team to ensure they provide an excellent service for residents.
• Ensure the Trust’s housing management systems and controls are effective and robust, and that the Trust is fully compliant with all Landlord obligations, relevant laws, regulations and quality standards of the Regulator of Social Housing, the Care Quality Commission and the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023.
• Line Manage the Housing team with responsibility for recruiting, training, motivating, performance management and absence management ensuring an efficient, professional, responsive and customer led service.
• Maximise the Trust’s income by effective management of arrears associated with licence agreements, maintenance charges, rents and service charges and to take appropriate action to recover debts incurred.
• Manage antisocial behaviour and other breaches in line with the Trust policy as well as taking a proactive approach to resolving neighbour disputes and anti-social behaviour.
• Work with the Head of Property to develop an effective void strategy that ensures properties are let to a good standard while minimising void times and costs.
• Record KPIs and report to the Leadership Team monthly and implement processes to ensure targets are met.
• Review and update Housing policies where required.
• Develop and maintain good working relationships with residents, managers, colleagues and external stakeholders.
• Investigate and respond to all Housing Services complaints within set timescales and proactively deal with issues prior to becoming a complaint.
• Work with the Head of Community Services to develop services to enhance the health and wellbeing of residents.
• Develop the use of the specialist IT system (Pyramid) to deliver robust housing and property management.
• Develop and manage the budgets for Housing Services, ensuring efficient allocation of resources while maintaining a high standard of service delivery.
• Work with colleagues to set service charge budgets to maintain affordability while effectively providing services.
• Ensure all annual maintenance charge, rent and service charge increases are communicated and implemented on time.
• Work with the Health and Safety adviser to ensure full completion of risk assessments, inspections and audits as required. Ensure any accidents, incidents or near misses are reported in line with the Trust’s policies and appropriate action taken.

General

• It is the duty of all employees to ensure that a safe working environment and safe working practices are maintained at all times.  It is also the responsibility of management team to ensure full compliance.
• Undertake any other duties which may be reasonably deemed to come within the scope of the post, relating to the activities of the department.
• Full compliance with all the Trust’s Policies and Procedures.
• To complete mandatory and job-related training as required.
• You will be responsible for the confidentiality, integrity and availability of all data which you have access to in the course of your work. You must not disclose any information of a confidential or sensitive nature about the Trust, any or our service users or any of our employees. There is an exception if you need to share this information as part of your job or if you are made to by law.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Experience & Knowledge

Required

• Proven experience (5+ years) in housing management at a Registered Provider
• Experience of meeting regulatory, statutory and legal requirements in housing management
• Experience of delivering a robust housing management service with high levels of customer satisfaction
• Strong understanding of the needs of elderly residents and a commitment to enhancing their quality of life
• Excellent leadership, organisational and interpersonal skills
• Line management experience including the management of poor performance
• Ability to manage budgets and resources effectively
• Demonstratable track record of meeting targets and key performance indicators
• Strong conflict resolution and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to build strong relationships with residents and their families, colleagues and external stakeholders
• A passion for creating a positive and inclusive community environment

Desirable

• Experience working with older people
• Experience of managing or working in an Almshouse, charity or volunteer-led organisation
• Understanding of the principles of CQC regulations in extra care housing

Personal skills/qualities

Required

• Delivering on commitments within agreed/appropriate timeframes
• Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team and be a role model for the values of the Trust
• Able to work under pressure and manage conflicting priorities
• Good organisation skills, flexible and self-driven to achieve
• Excellent written and verbal communication and the ability to adapt to a range of audiences
• Strong interpersonal and team-building skills
• Commitment to training and development
• Flexible and innovative approach to working
• Decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Strong general IT skills
• Honesty, reliability and trustworthiness.

Desirable

• A sense of humour

Qualifications

• CIH Level 5 qualification or the willingness to study for this

The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of its staff and older people. We expect all our staff to be aware of their responsibilities to protect staff and residents from abuse or harm. Successful applicants will be required to undertake a DBS check and to provide proof of their right to work in the UK.

The Whiteley Homes Trust “the Trust” is a charity that manages Whiteley Village in Surrey. The purpose of the charity is to provide homes for older people of limited means from all over the country.  Founded over a hundred years ago in Walton on Thames, Surrey, the Village is located in 225 acres of beautiful grounds and is a very special place to live and work.

Established in 1917 the village has many Grade 2 listed buildings and provides housing for nearly 400 older people of limited means. There are 265 Almshouses and 51 extra care apartments and the Village also has a church, social and leisure club, shop and café.  The Trust became a Registered Provider of Social Housing in 2024.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Volunteer Services Manager to join our team.  You will champion the already successful volunteer programme that supports older people to remain independent within our community for as long as possible. You will drive volunteer recruitment, retention and development and ensure that volunteer initiatives are well-managed, engaging and aligned with the Trust’s strategy and objectives.

As a creative and mindful leader, you will bring together the important elements of our history and the cutting edge of original thinking today. You will lead a volunteer programme which embeds choice and control for older people of limited means and supports the ambitions of our staff to be recognised as the best. You will lead on the design and delivery of a new Volunteer strategy as we move into a new era as a registered provider of social housing whilst maintaining status as an almshouse charity.

This is wide and varied role and you will have close working relationships with our Housing, Property and Estates, Community and Hospitality teams plus our residents. You will tailor the volunteer services to meet the identified needs of each team.  You will also nurture and develop relationships with corporate partners.

Whiteley Trust Core Values:       

We encourage all our staff to play their part in demonstrating our core values in their day-to-day work with colleagues and customers 

What you will be doing

You will:

· Develop a new creative and innovative strategy for volunteering in the Trust

· Recruit and maintain an active, diverse and visible volunteer workforce to support the paid functions of the charity.

· Undertake and review DBS risk assessments of volunteers.

· Conduct volunteer Induction sessions and deliver learning and development opportunities for the volunteers and their supervisors

· Develop, deliver, monitor and improve processes, control systems and work environments to meet quality requirements and contractual needs including KPI’s.

· Maintain accurate and up to date records and reports and provide written and verbal reports as required.

· Networking both internally and externally, raising the profile of the Trust and volunteering

· Identify opportunities for growth within volunteering

· Be a point of contact for all volunteers, supporting the managers in the relevant areas with their supervision and ensuring regular reviews are carried out.

· Maintain existing relationships and support growth of corporate volunteer contributions to the charity.

General

• It is the duty of all employees to ensure that a safe working environment and safe working practices are maintained at all times.  It is also the responsibility of management team to ensure full compliance.

· Undertake any other duties which may be reasonably deemed to come within the scope of the post, relating to the activities of the department

• Ensures full compliance with all the Trust’s Policies and Procedures

· To complete mandatory and job-related training as required

· You will be responsible for the confidentiality, integrity and availability of all data which you have access to in the course of your work. You must not disclose any information of a confidential or sensitive nature about the Trust, any or our service users or any of our employees. There is an exception if you need to share this information as part of your job or if you are made to by law.

· Flexibility is required including occasional weekend and evening work.

What you will need

· Experience of recruiting, working with and supporting volunteers

· A strong ability to lead by example

· Experience of working collaboratively through sharing skills and talents

· Effective outgoing team player

· IT skills

· Passion drive and skills to succeed

· Flexible attitude to work

· Be proactive when identifying problems and developing solutions

· Good Communicator

· A self-starter with excellent people skills and problem-solving skills

• Ability to meet and set own deadlines
• Effective supervisory skills
• Resilience
• Ability to manage complex and demanding projects

Additional Requirements

Required

Preferred

Skills & Knowledge

Excellent  interpersonal skills and the ability to build strong relationships with volunteers, residents, colleagues and external stakeholders

Demonstratable track record of meeting targets and key performance indicators

Strong conflict resolution and problem-solving abilities

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage and inspire volunteers.

Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.

Ability to work collaboratively within a team and independently when required.

Good knowledge of Microsoft Office, Outlook, Word and Excel.

Sufficient numeracy and literacy to work well in the office environment

The ability to work with databases and maintain accurate records

Basic understanding of legislation about confidentiality, equality, diversity and inclusion, Safeguarding, Health and Safety and risk management

Processing DBS checks and references

Experience

Minimum 3 years experience in coordinating volunteer programmes, with a focus on recruitment, engagement, and retention.

Experience of managing corporate volunteering opportunities

Experience of working with older people

Experience working in the charitable sector

Qualifications

English and Maths GCSE minimum Grade 4 or equivalent

Qualification in Volunteer Management or willingness to undertake this

Other information

WHT is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of its staff and older people. We expect all our staff to be aware of their responsibilities to protect staff and residents from abuse or harm. Successful applicants will be required to undertake a DBS check and to provide proof of their right to work in the UK.

Note: No Role profile can cover every issue that may arise within the duties of the post at various times. The post holder will be expected to carry out any other duties from time to time that are broadly consistent with those in this document.

Mind BLMK works across our communities to support positive mental health and wellbeing. Working closely with a range of partners, we offer a number of activities from our wellbeing centres and local venues to make a difference to the mental health and wellbeing of people in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes, and our aim is to make sure that no-one has to face a mental health problem alone.

Crisis Recovery Worker
Post no: 627
Salary: £24,088 per annum (£7,975.08 actual)
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 12.25 hours per week, 5:00pm to 23:00pm 2 days per week (across 7 day rota)
Location: Milton Keynes

Could you support individuals to deescalate crisis and improve mental health and wellbeing, through focussed 1:1s and structured crisis interventions?

About our Crisis Cafés

Our Crisis Cafes offer a safe, welcoming and non-judgmental environment outside of normal working hours for those who feel in mental distress or crisis.

About the Role

The role will involve assessing needs and offering one to one support to service users to enable them to begin the process of improving their mental health and wellbeing and to providing clarity on services and pathways available in the area. The role will be part of a larger Crisis Café team made up of Crisis Recovery Workers, Crisis Peer Support Workers, Team Leaders and volunteers.

Service Delivery

• Deliver crisis focussed 1:1s and ensure outcomes which supports individuals experiencing a mental health crisis in Houghton Regis & Central Bedfordshire, in line with Mind BLMK’s agreed crisis service and requirements as well as contract requirements.
• Assessing need and suitability for the service in line with the access to services process, and undertaking 1:1s.
• Contribute to maintaining an effective volunteer workforce for the service in line with Mind BLMK’s HR policies, procedures and guidance (workload planning and support).
• Carry out Cash Handling, Health and Safety and Data Collection responsibilities as directed by the Team Leader in line with Mind BLMK’s policies, procedures, requirements and guidance.

Entitlements/benefits:

• 25 days (pro rata) Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays (pro rata)
• Auto-enrolment NEST pension scheme (employer contributes 3%, employee contributes 5%)
• Optional Health Plan
• Discounts available through Blue Light Card & Tickets for Good
• In-house and external Learning and Development as appropriate for the role.
• Flexible Working On request (in line with Mind BLMK policy on Right to Request Flexible Working)

If you have a passion for working in mental health and possess the required skills, we would love to hear from you.

Closedown: 5pm on Wednesday 22 January 2025
Interviews: TBC
Please note: We reserve the right to close this advert early if enough suitable applicants apply. 
Start date: ASAP

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

Mind BLMK has been committed to the Mindful Employer charter and the Disability Confident Employer Scheme since 2008.

Please note: Mind BLMK follows Safer Recruitment practices and we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Therefore all our roles are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

No agencies please.

Homeless Health Link Manager (Full-Time, Fixed-term to March 2026)
Twickenham, Greater London
37.5 Hours per week

About Us

We are SPEAR, a charity dedicated to helping homeless people in South and West London find secure accommodation and work towards a positive future. For 30 years, we’ve worked tirelessly to support homeless people to recover from their personal issues and break down the barriers that they face. We recognise that homelessness is much more than just a housing issue, so we provide a range of accommodation and support services to help people reach their full potential.

We’re now looking for a Homeless Health Link Manager to join our team on a full-time, fixed-term contract to March 2026.

The Benefits

– Salary of £39,287 per annum
– 34 days’ holiday (inclusive of bank holidays) increasing with length of service
– Pension scheme
– Access to a free Employee Assistance Programme
– A range of benefits including cycle to work scheme and staff wellbeing sessions
– Refer a friend bonus scheme

This is a superb opportunity for an individual with drive, focus and a desire to work with our outstanding charity to help us to combat homelessness.

You’ll discover a passionate, supportive environment where the entire team is working toward the same goals and is dedicated to making positive change and producing great results.

The Role

This role will be responsible for delivering high-quality services offered by the Homeless Health Link Service, focusing on engaging homeless clients, including rough sleepers, in a range of primary care, mental health, and substance misuse services. This post is required to undertake high-quality case work and assessments of individuals with complex needs, including challenging mental and physical health needs.

The role will be responsible for processing referrals into the service from a range of sources across the boroughs and act as an entry point into the service and work closely and proactively with local authorities, statutory and non statutory Health and housing services to improve pathways for homeless clients accessing physical and mental health services.

This role will be responsible for the strategic promotion of the services across the boroughs, engaging with a range of supported housing and homelessness service providers to source referrals into the services. The role will also be responsible for the liaison and communication of case management across any providers engaged with the service.

This service is for single homeless people who have slept rough or at risk of sleeping rough across SPEAR’s boroughs of operation.

Role Profile

 

Role: Head of Services

Term: Permanent

Salary: 34 – 36k

Responsible to: CEO

Pension: 6% employer contribution

Health: Cash Plan Health Scheme and Health & Wellbeing Assistance Programme

Hours: 30 - 37.5 (flexible)

Annual Leave: 29 days & 8 bank holidays

Key aspects of the role

· Provide day to day support and line management to the management team

· Develop the management team ensuring consistency in staffing across community & accommodation

· Support the management team to work together and support each other on a day to day basis

· Embed a culture of high standards of performance across teams

· Maintain excellent relationships with commissioners and partners ensuring services are compliant with all areas of contract requirements.

· Embed Pdap values and culture in all aspects of service delivery.

· Deputise for the CEO in her absence when required.

· Take part in the management back up on call rota.

Delivering Quality Services

· Work with the quality lead and the management team to review and analyse service level data, identifying good practice and areas for improvement. Produce high quality reports for commissioners, SLT and the Board of Trustees.

· Support the continuous development of staff and managers and celebrate success.

· Promote and embed a culture of equality, diversity & inclusion across all aspects of employment and service delivery.

· Work as part of Pdap senior leadership team to ensure services are delivered to a high standard and adequately resourced.

· Ensure Managers adhere to agreed budgets related to their service.

· Assist in setting annual budgets for Pdap, ensuring that all resources, assets, and monies are always properly accounted for.

· Participate in the recruitment, selection, and deployment of the staff team and ensure that Pdap values are integral to this process.

· Support the management team to develop their teams including development of performance improvement plans where required.

· To oversee Pdap case management systems ensuring they are fit for purpose.

· Embed safeguarding policies and procedures throughout service delivery ensuring all staff are confident in managing safeguarding concerns.

· Ensure Health and Safety compliance is maintained in all areas of legislation and law and good practice requirements across services.

· Work with our external HR consultants where required ensuring we adhere to employment law and best practice.

· Keep up to date with new developments, research and innovation incorporating these into service provision.

Working in Partnership

· To promote Pdap ethos and values across the organisation and in external partnerships.

· To liaise with other agencies on behalf of Pdap and represent the wider complexities of those experiencing domestic abuse.

· To represent Pdap at a strategic level including attendance at meetings, attending advisory groups with a view to influencing how stakeholders improve their response to domestic abuse.

· To develop and maintain good positive working relationships and referral pathways with relevant agencies and professionals in relation to domestic abuse services.

· Alongside the management team deliver training, presentations and awareness raising to external partners & community audiences.

 

 

Promoting EDI and accessibility

· Ensure that the views of Pdap’s clients, those with lived experience of domestic abuse and stakeholders are at the core of all our work and to take full account of these in the development of new services.

· Contribute to regular review and updating of equality action plans identifying areas we can further improve.

· Champion equality and diversity principles in practice.

· Actively and appropriately challenge all forms of discrimination.

· Proactively promote equality and diversity in all work with clients, ensuring fair access to services for all.

· Ensure effective implementation of Pdap’s Equality and Diversity policies and ensure integration of an equalities and human rights agenda in all areas of work.

 

It is essential to the development of Pdap service delivery that the post holder is able to respond flexibly to changes in the requirements of this post.  This job description is therefore a guide and not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities the post holder may have over time.

 

 

 

Person Specification

Skills & Experience

Essential/Desirable

At least 2 years experience in a senior management role with responsibility for the line management of front line staff

Essential

Ability to identify areas of development for staff and support them to improve their practice

Essential

Experience managing and working to organisational budgets

Essential

Experience working in Domestic abuse or aligned sector such as substance misuse, housing, mental health, social care etc

Essential

Experience of working in the third sector

Desirable

Experience managing multiple contracts

Essential

Ability to work independently and within a team, to plan and manage a complex workload, meet deadlines, problem-solve and respond to unplanned demands

Essential

Ability to analyse data to identify gaps, and actions and write high quality reports and action plans

Essential

Proven track record translating strategy into operational delivery

Essential

Experiencing identifying funding opportunities, bid writing and fundraising

Desirable

Be able to demonstrate excellent literacy and IT skills, including Databases, Word, Outlook and Excel.

Essential

Experience & confidence delivering presentations/ training and talks to wide range of audiences

Essential

Knowledge

Essential/Desirable

Excellent understanding of the principles of Management and leadership theory

Essential

Sound understanding of domestic abuse and VAWG

Essential

Knowledge of charity governance and financial management

Desirable

Excellent understanding of contract compliance and implementation of such in service delivery

Essential

Understanding of commissioned and non-commissioned service delivery contracts

Essential

Excellent understanding of quality assurance

Essential

Commitment to working in partnership and building strong relationships with stakeholders

Essential

Excellent understanding of and commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

Essential

Please note that our closing date is 10th February 2025 we are holding interviews on week beginning 17th February 2025. 

About Women in Prison

Women in Prison is a national, women-led, feminist organisation.  We deliver front line support to women harmed by the criminal justice system, through our work in prisons, in the community and ‘through the prison gate’ as they resettle back into their communities. We also campaign for systems change that addresses the root causes of offending, reduces the harmful impact of prison, and creates workable, community-based alternatives to imprisonment.

Job Purpose: 

Women in Prison’s South London Women’s Hubs provide support and advocacy to women at different points of the criminal justice system – whether they are at risk of offending, serving a community sentence, or in custody and leaving prison. The primary purpose of this role is to work with women in custody, including on remand, preparing them for, and connecting them with vital community support services on, release.

Key Responsibility Areas 

1. Provide high-quality, trauma-responsive advocacy support both in prison and the community, to women on remand in HMP Bronzefield, HMP Downview and HMP Send. 

2. Development and maintenance of professional relations in prison and the community.

3. Ensure clear, timely and effective communication and record keeping.

4. Proactively seek to develop your personal and professional practice, and contribute to wider organisational development.

5. Contribute to building a feminist leadership culture and positive working environment for Women in Prison.

Turn2us is a national charity tackling poverty and the structural causes of financial insecurity. We work with people who have current or recent experience of financial hardship and partners to provide people in financial crisis with the means and agency to get back on their feet, build resilience, move forward with their lives and thrive.

As an equal opportunities employer, we are committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging and the value people from different backgrounds bring to a team. If, like us, you believe everyone has the right to have enough to live on, and you are ambitious about eradicating poverty, join us and build your career with a charity dedicated to ensuring dignity and equity for all.

Our vision is that everyone in the UK has financial security so they can thrive.

Our purpose is to offer support to those of us facing financial shocks and together challenge the systems and perceptions that cause financial insecurity.

As Director of Impact, Digital & Data, you will work with colleagues at all levels and with our Board, leading on data maturity, providing insights, fostering a culture of innovation through our theory of change and influencing strategic decision making to ensure we deliver the greatest impact. Along with our Head of Insights & Impact and Head of Digital & Design, you will push the boundaries of our use of data and AI across the organisation, using analytics and automation to design better tailored products and deliver greater impact for people facing financial uncertainty. You will also seek out cross-sector partnerships with other values-led organisations so that we can use our insights to develop a deeper understanding of both national and local trends related to financial insecurity, enabling us to create lasting, system-wide change together.

This is a rare role in our sector, and a fantastic opportunity to make a lasting difference, helping to lead an organisation that achieves real impact for people facing financial insecurity and is determined to change the system that affects so many of us.

About You

We are looking for experienced leaders with deep knowledge and expertise in the areas of digital innovation (including the adoption of AI), data & insights and strategy development. We are not necessarily looking for someone with direct experience across all these areas, and while knowledge of issues relating to financial insecurity is useful, we are also not looking for someone with a particular CV or sector background. We know that Turn2us will benefit from leaders with new perspectives and ways of thinking, so we’re actively encouraging broad interest from impactful leaders who bring transferable skills from a wide range of backgrounds. But an ability and curiosity to learn is key, as is the confidence to acknowledge the things that you don’t know.

This role requires persuasive leadership and exceptional relationship building skills within a matrix environment, and so a good level of emotional intelligence is important. You will be at your most comfortable working collaboratively and selflessly as part of a Leadership Team and able to embed yourself and your team across an organisation’s work in a way that is viewed as supportive and constructive rather than over stepping.

This is a genuinely exciting and critical role: for our staff, our partners, and most importantly, the people for whom our organisation exists. We are always eager to receive approaches from people with lived experience of financial insecurity. If you can demonstrate a clear commitment to our values and ethos, and a deep personal commitment to our vision, we’d love to hear from you.

To download a full copy of the candidate brief and learn more about the role, please click the ‘Apply’ button, where you will be redirected to the website of our recruitment partner, Tall Roots. Applications should include a CV and covering letter that provides responses to five questions (detailed on Tall Roots' website and in the candidate pack). If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please email Mark Crowley or Annie Regan-Tighe at Tall Roots.

Job title: Programme Admissions Officer

Location: Hybrid work with 40% from Breaking Barriers’ office in London, Manchester or Birmingham

Salary: £25,000-£28,000 (London), £24,000-£27,000 (Manchester or Birmingham)

Hours: Full-time (37.5 hours per week), part-time considered

Overall purpose

The Programme Admissions Officer will be responsible for processing student applications, including conducting initial calls, checking eligibility and signposting where applicable. They would then flag new applicants with the relevant programme. This role is the gateway to accessing our services.

Key responsibilities 

We are a fast-growing charity that prides itself on its flexibility and responsiveness, and as a result your responsibilities may change, develop, and grow according to the needs and development of our programmes.

• Monitoring and processing new and incoming applications, which includes:
  • Conducting initial calls with new applicants to determine their individual pathway and eligibility for Breaking Barriers’ programmes
  • Prioritising students according to Breaking Barriers’ eligibility criteria and flagging with relevant programmes in order to support enrolments
  • Providing university and career guidance and advice
  • Providing learning plans for all professionals aiming to requalify
  • Providing guidance on the support they can access whilst on the waiting list for our programmes
  • Providing signposting for any students/clients needing additional support
  • Flagging any serious welfare concerns with line manager and/or the Safeguarding Team
• Ensuring all information is accurately recorded on Salesforce for new and existing Breaking Barriers’ clients
• Performing any Salesforce admin for the programmes as and when required
• Working with management to improve and enhance enrolment processes where necessary

To view the full job description and person specification, as well as details on our accessible recruitment process, please view the attached recruitment pack.

Other considerations

• As part of our safeguarding commitment to our clients, we carry out preemployment checks to ensure that successful applicants are suitable to work with adults at risk. These include basic DBS checks, obtaining references and verifying a candidate’s identity and right to work in the UK.
• Some travel between our different areas of operation (including London, Birmingham and Manchester) will be required. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required. Time off in lieu would be provided in this case.
• We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion or belief.

How to apply

If you are looking for a role where you can make a real difference, we want to hear from you. To apply, please submit a CV and statement (up to approximately 500 words/1 A4 page) outlining:

• Why you are interested in the role
• What skills you would bring to be successful in this role
• Any experience you would like to highlight
• Any reasonable adjustments you require for the interview process
• Disclosure of disabilities if you wish to do so (as a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role)

Please note that applications without a covering letter will not be considered.

Closing date for applications is 11:30pm on Saturday 15th February. Interviews will be held on a rolling basis so please apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

We belong to the Experts by Experience Employment Initiative, which advocates and supports organisations to employ more people from a refugee background. With this in mind, we particularly welcome applicants with experience of seeking asylum and/or a refugee background. 

If you are an expert by experience (a refugee or a migrant with direct, first-hand experience of issues and challenges of the UK asylum or immigration system), you can ask for an independent and confidential support for your job application from the Experts by Experience Employment Network. Please reach out to HR Manager Dani Meier for further details (we are unable to include email addresses in this advert, but you can find contact details on the final page of the attached recruitment pack).

Citizens Advice Kensington and Chelsea is seeking our next Chief Executive Officer to lead our dedicated team in delivering vital, community-driven services that empower residents and tackle life’s challenges.

Citizens Advice Kensington & Chelsea (CAK&C) is a vital local charity providing free, independent, and impartial advice to some of the most diverse and complex communities in the UK. We play a critical role in tackling poverty, reducing inequality, and supporting people to navigate issues that impact their lives, including housing, welfare benefits, employment, debt, and immigration.

With high demand for our services, particularly from those facing significant hardship and deprivation, CAK&C has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality advice and advocacy. We are well-established, with a committed and skilled team of staff and volunteers, strong relationships with funders and partners, and a solid foundation to build upon. This is an exciting time to join us as our new Chief Executive and help shape the next stage of our development.

The Role
We are looking for an experienced and forward-thinking leader preferably with experience of the advice sector who will bring the people leadership, strategic vision, financial acumen, and relationship-building skills to strengthen CAK&C’s position as a trusted and essential service in the borough. This is an opportunity to lead an organisation that is highly valued by its community and operating in a challenging external environment where demand for support continues to rise.

You will be responsible for providing hands-on operational leadership to set a clear plan and direction for CAK&C that includes the delivery of high-quality client focused advise and services, securing the income streams needed for long term stability and growth, and developing strong and collaborative partnerships across diverse stakeholders. You will be at the helm of a talented and dedicated team of advisors and volunteers, building a positive team spirit and environment that equips the team to deliver outstanding community service.

Key details
• Job Title: Chief Executive Officer – Citizens Advice Kensington & Chelsea
• Salary: £60,000 - £70,000, pro rata if part time
• Contract: Permanent, full or part-time role (with a minimum of 4 days per week)
• Location: Central London (the role is an on-site role with most time spent at Citizen’s Advice locations or in-and-around the community / with key partners)

As the successful candidate, you will demonstrate:
• Passion for impactful advice services that empower individuals.
• A commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive organisational culture that unites teams and aligns them with organisational goals.
• Leadership skills in managing growth, sustainability, and financial oversight.
• Experience in translating strategic vision into tangible outcomes with measurable impact and a track record of driving innovation to improve service delivery.
• Ability to develop innovative ideas and partnerships to meet community needs.
• Strong experience in building relationships with stakeholders and partners to achieve shared goals.
• Proven ability to enhance an organisation's profile through effective external communications.
• Resilience, adaptability, and strong communication skills.

If you would like to receive an Information Pack for this role with details on how to apply, please send an expression of interest and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile in confidence to our consultant, Jenny Hills via the apply button. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny at the above address with suitable times to speak.

Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 3rd February 2025

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.