Support Work Jobs

About Us 

Hibiscus Initiatives is a passionate, women’s 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 Black and minoritised women in prison, in the community and in immigration removals centres.

Our holistic and trauma informed approach makes a real and lasting impact on women's lives. 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

We are particularly keen to attract talent from Black and minoritised communities and those with lived experience of immigration, the criminal justice systems, and/or gender-based violence.

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 an experienced Director of Operations to play a crucial role in guiding our driven and committed team as we shift our culture and infrastructure, upholding our vision, mission, principles, and values.

The post holder will work with colleagues to develop, implement and review Hibiscus’s strategy and plans, particularly as they impact our operating and finance models. They will be responsible for developing and monitoring the annual business plan, reporting progress and providing reliable structural, financial and people management. They will support the CEO in building and instilling a sense of unity and purpose into the work of the organisation, and represent the operational work to the Board. They will be responsible for the efficient running of operations and central functions, conducting risk assessments, monitoring performance and reviewing procedures, with a particular focus on overseeing the effective financial management of the organisation.

The successful candidate will be responsible for financial planning and producing financial budgets for the organisation, alongside monitoring projects from start to finish, preparing costings for funding applications, agreeing contracts and grant terms, monitoring deliverables and co-ordinating timely reporting. They will oversee the production of quarterly management accounts and yearly finance audits, and communicate the financial landscape of the organisation to the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and Board. The Director of Operations will play a key role in risk and compliance, with a focus on data, safeguarding, policies and procedures, and legal and statutory requirements. They will work to increase the effectiveness of our operations, whilst supporting and contributing to the fundraising efforts of the organisation. A key element of the role will be to work to integrate our workplace culture into HR processes and procedures, modelling a fair and open management approach that ensures trusted relationships are embedded throughout the organisation.

[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.]

Salary
£60,000 – £65,000* per annum

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

Team
Operations

Duration
Permanent 

Hours
Full-time (35 hours per week)

Location
Hibiscus’ main office in Islington, London, for between two and three days a week. Flexible working arrangements available for the remaining days.

Reporting to
CEO

About you

We are particularly keen to attract talent from Black and minoritised communities and those with lived experience of immigration, the criminal justice systems, and/or gender-based violence.

The successful candidate will have significant experience of strategic financial planning and managing organisational finances. The candidate will have a clear commitment to Hibiscus’ vision, mission and values, and a strong commitment to anti-racism. They will have a willingness to deepen their understanding of our work and show a commitment to personal growth.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate a strong understanding of safeguarding, health and safety, data protection, Charity Commission and Companies House requirements, alongside other major compliance areas. They will have highly effective communication and presentation skills, and will be confident liaising with Hibiscus’ teams, the board and a wide range of contractors and partners. This will include demonstrable skills around change management and a strong understanding of risk management. Experience of writing and contributing to fundraising bids is desirable, as is prior experience of the charity sector.

The successful candidate 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.

In this multifaceted role, you'll be responsible for both content creation and supporting unpaid Carers to become digitally connected. You will manage and create engaging content for our social media platforms and website as well as maintain the charity’s website, ensuring it stays updated, accessible, and reflective of our mission. 

You will conduct digital assessments for Carers to determine their needs—whether they require devices, internet access, or digital skills training and provide 1:1 support to help Carers navigate the digital world with confidence. 

Additionally, you will lead group training sessions on topics such as basic digital skills, using online services, and staying safe online. 

Director of Support, Information and Research

Location: Hybrid

Salary: £54,000 to £60,000 per annum (pro rata) depending on experience

Role Status: 28 to 35 hours per week

Closing Date: 5th December 2024

We are looking for a Director of Support, Information and Research to join our dedicated team. If you join us, you will oversee an exciting portfolio of work that touches each of our priorities to:

• Fight to defeat meningitis in the UK within a generation
• Reach out to everyone who needs help, support and information
• Be recognised as a centre of expertise for aftercare and support.

You’ll be supported by three excellent managers responsible for Support, Information and Volunteering, as well as a capable and motivated team in our head office in Stroud and remotely across the UK. You’ll join a charity that puts people at the heart of all we do. The charity is warm and compassionate, and you’ll become part of ‘the Meningitis Now family’ – the people who comprise our staff, Trustees and a wonderful community of supporters, Ambassadors, volunteers and Patrons as well as those we support.

You will also be part of our 40th Anniversary celebrations and help us renew our organisation-wide Strategic Plan in 2026. You’ll be able to build on our many strengths whilst thinking strategically, innovatively and positively about the future.

We are looking for someone to work from our Head Office in Stroud (GL5 3TJ) for ideally a minimum of 2 days per week.

About the job

As Director of Support, Information and Research, you will lead, support and develop our team responsible for support, information, research and volunteering, as well as contribute to the public affairs work of Meningitis Now. Our aim is to realise Meningitis Now’s vision of a future where no-one loses their life to meningitis and where everyone affected gets the support they need to rebuild their lives.

You will be responsible for ensuring that our strategies, plans and activities are in-line with our values of being professional, inclusive, understanding and hopeful. You’ll achieve this by building on our many strengths as a centre of expertise for aftercare and support, a trusted source of information about meningitis, and as a funder of research. You’ll also contribute to Meningitis Now’s impactful and collaborative programme of public affairs.

You will also be looking to the future and seeking to understand the lived experience of people who have experienced meningitis. You will draw on best practice from other charities and other sectors, and work in partnership to expand our impact and to learn from others. You’ll ensure that all our activities are grounded by insight into the diverse needs our supporters, beneficiaries and target audiences.

Ready to apply?

Click apply now and you will be redirected to our website where you can download a comprehensive recruitment pack and complete your application by submitting a Cover Letter and CV.

Closing date for applications: 9am Thursday 5 December 2024

First stage interviews: Thursday 12 December 2024

Second stage interviews: Wednesday 18 December 2024

Note: Meningitis Now reserves the right to close this advert early or extend it depending on the number of sufficient applications received. If you are interested, please apply as soon as possible.

Job Title: Assistant Director – Core Business Functions

Salary:  £50,000.00 pa initially, moving to £52,000.00 on successful completion of 3

months probationary period.                                                   

Hours: 37.5 hours per week 

Benefits: Nest pension & Medicash wellbeing support  

Location: Northwest based, hybrid role, blend of home working & location based as required

POPS is a Charity, set up in 1988 by families who were supporting a loved one through a custodial sentence. Since that time, we have grown to employ over a hundred staff, across 16 geographical locations, predominantly in the Northwest of England, and has developed an excellent reputation locally and nationally  for the provision of quality services for families who engage with the Justice system. 

POPS’ core business team supports the delivery of services and have been influential in contributing to Justice policy both locally and nationally.  We are now looking to add to the Executive Team to contribute to the future proofing of the organisation to respond to new opportunities in a changing Justice landscape.

MISSION

To provide the support families identify they need and promote the changes required to enable children and families of those in the justice system to cope better and to thrive.

VALUES

• To be supportive and non-judgemental in our approach.
• To listen and act upon the experiences families share with us.
• To encourage active participation amongst the families we support.
• To value the benefits of robust partnerships.
• To acknowledge and embrace the principles of diversity and inclusion throughout the organisation

POPS values of diversity and inclusion. We welcome and encourage job applications from people from diverse backgrounds.  We particularly welcome applications from disabled and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates.

PURPOSE OF THE POST

The Assistant Director for POPS core business is pivotal to ensuring the efficient, effective and legally compliant management of POPS’ head office functions and organisational infrastructure. We are seeking for somebody to join our team, who is highly motivated, knowledgeable, resilient and analytical, who will play a major role in taking the pressure of day-to-day management of core business functions away from the Director, thereby allowing them to pursue a vital strategic and leadership role necessary for the organisations’ future growth.

The post holder will be responsible for direct line management of POPS’ Finance Manager, HR Manager and Communications Officer, ensuring the respective departments provide effective contributions to support the operation of POPS as an organisation compliant with legislative and legal requirements.

In addition, the post holder will oversee POPS’ outsourced ICT function and manage all matters in relation to the physical maintenance of POPS’ head office building and the management of the tenanted space.

ACCOUNTABILITY:

POPS’ Director

RESPONSIBILITIES:

GENERAL

• Work productively alongside POPS Assistant Director for Operations and Business Development to ensure the success and future growth of the organisation 
• Develop national, regional and local alliances and partnerships to enable POPS to fulfil its Mission and strategic plans
• Seek out the use of innovative business models and systems.
• Work with departmental managers to develop action plans and ensure that appropriate targets are set, monitored and achieved.
• Ensure that the Director and Board of Trustees are provided with an oversight of activity, effectiveness and development of all core business functions 
• Produce and present internal and external reports to meet designated deadlines
• Produce Business Continuity and  Risk Management plans
• Attend and report to POPS’ quarterly Trustee meetings.
• Support bid writing and commissioning processes where required.
• Attend and host internal and external meetings when required.
• Responsibility for the management and overseeing physical maintenance of POPS’ Head Office Building, Rochdale Road Manchester
• Oversee the tenancy of the ground floor space of POPS’ Head Office building 
• Oversee outsourced provision of POPS’ ICT functions
• Ensure POPS retains and develops appropriate kyte marks and quality assurance certifications. E.g. Cyber Essentials Plus
• Create a learning and knowledge culture across the organisation to inform future and transformational change.
• Create and contribute to a culture of valuing others and innovation
• Uphold POPS’ values

FINANCE

• Directly line manager POPS’ Finance manager
• Oversee the financial administrative function of POPS’ finance department ensuring legal and organisational compliance, including liaison with POPS’ external auditors.
• Ensure all financial transactions of the organisation meet the requirements of commissioners, creditors and suppliers
•  Coordinate the preparation of the annual budget, monitor monthly management accounts and review project activity against agreed budgets
• Take a leading role in supporting future commissioning, working with POPS’ finance manager to produce relevant financial information

HUMAN RESOUCES

• Directly Line manage POPS’ HR Manager
• Overseas all administrative HR functions, including staff recruitment, management,  training and development
• Ensure compliance with employment Law legislation and processes
• Ensure effective management of people through supportive performance management.
• Implement practices to ensure equality and diversity across staffing teams and service delivery  
• Ensure the implementation and development of POPS’ Policies and Procedures

COMMUNICATIONS

• Directly Line Manage POPS’ Communications Officer
• Contribute to the development of POPS’ Communications Strategy
• Ensure POPS’ branding and messaging is consistent and meets with the  aims of POPS’ strategy and organisational ethos 
• To take a leading role in the development and production of all communications materials, including publicity, reports and web site

Are you passionate about social justice and have a heart for young people?

You’re in the right place.

Citizen Church, launched in 2020, and is a Church in Wales church with three campuses in South Wales, and part of the Holy Trinity Brompton network.

Citizen’s vision is to play its part in the evangelisation of the nation, the revitalisation of the church and the transformation of society. Their mission is to break the stereotypes of church, to breach loneliness, to bring people home and to build the kingdom in Cardiff, Wales and beyond. Citizen has partnered with Resurgo to deliver the Spear programme in the heart of South Wales.

They are looking for a new Assistant Coach, to work alongside the Centre Manager, as part of the team at Citizen Church to deliver the Spear Programme, equipping and empowering unemployed 16–24 year olds to overcome barriers to employment and turn their lives around by moving into sustainable work or further education.

­

The important stuff 

Salary: £21,500 p.a. pro rata for part-time role (£10,750) 

Hours: Part time, 2.5 days per week, between 9.30am – 5.30pm, Tuesday – Thursday (with some flexibility and occasional evening or weekend work for events such as Spear Celebrations)

Location: Citizen Church, Cardiff

Closing date: Friday 13th December, 9am (We are interviewing on a rolling basis and might close the application early if we find the right candidate)

Application: Please click 'Quick Apply' to submit your application for this role.

Download the application pack below for more information.

Personal qualities we’re looking for

• An active Christian, able to personally represent the values and beliefs of Resurgo and Citizen Church
• A commitment to grow and learn spiritually and as a Christian leader, and a desire to learn and understand coaching techniques
• Passion for social justice and for working as part of the church to transform communities, especially supporting young people in employment or education
• High emotional intelligence, a sense of humour and fun!
• Confident communication and interpersonal skills, both over telephone and face to face; particularly a confidence in group facilitation
• An ambitious and self-motivated individual with the ability to prioritise workload, exercise initiative and work well under pressure.

Key Responsibilities

Spear Programme

• Lead group sessions of up to 10 young people, using coaching skills to transform their mindsets, and to maximise their potential in stepping into the world of work
• Prepare and deliver coaching sessions on a weekly basis and find creative ways of developing ongoing relationships with Spear Trainees. This includes running application workshops with past Trainees as well as maintaining records and reporting on statistics.

Relationship management

• Build and manage relationships with a variety of stakeholders, including referrers, local businesses, and other organisations
• You will support with job fairs, mock interview days and welcoming external visitors to the centre

Church Community

• The Spear Coach is directly employed by Citizen Church, meaning you are part of a vibrant church staff team and submerged in an exciting faith community
• Help to raise the profile of the Spear programme within Citizen Church and build a network of supporters and volunteers from the congregation
• Other ad hoc church responsibilities from time to time.

Job Title: Navigator

Location: Solent (Hybrid) – Home based with regular travel. The postholder will be required to meet veterans and professional partners face to face within the designated region and therefore must be based in the area. 

Contract:Two years fixed term

Salary: £32,208 per annum full time

Hours: 37.5 hours full time

The Poppy Factory’s team is growing! Now is the time to join our dynamic team in this unique opportunity for a hybrid role, based from home with regular travel across the local area. You will enjoy the flexibility of working remotely from your home, allowing you to efficiently manage your tasks and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Whether it's meeting clients, collaborating with team members, or attending partner meetings, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in a range of diverse environments. This is the ideal opportunity to build and foster relationships across the region to ensure maximum support for the Veterans we work with. 

If you're a self-driven individual eager to make a meaningful impact while exploring new horizons, this role is tailor-made for you!

At the Poppy Factory, we help armed forces veterans to find meaningful and sustainable employment after service. This often means overcoming a longstanding health condition or injury, and other barriers to employment such as addiction & homelessness. Our aim is to empower veterans, help them to recognise their unique skills and give them the confidence and skills to move forwards in their career.

As a Navigator, you will be assisting veterans who are furthest from employment to engage in meaningful activity as they look to gradually progress back towards work. Based at your home, with regular travel, including some overnight stays at our Richmond offices. The Navigator is a non-clinical role focused on supporting Veterans with mental or physical health conditions. The role aims to support them to overcome various factors impacting their lives, to achieve improved well-being and reduced social isolation. Clients of the service may present with issues around housing, accessing relevant health care services, substance misuse, education and training, financial concerns, and benefits, amongst others. 

What do we need from you?

• Empathetic and effective communicator. You will be comfortable building rapport and trust with people from a diverse range of backgrounds.

• A collaborative mindset. You will enjoy working as part of a team with colleagues based across the UK who support each other in what can sometimes be a challenging role. you will work closely with many other organisations for the benefit of the veterans you are supporting.

• Motivation and commitment. It takes hard work, tenacity, and time to help people reach their goals. You will sometimes be helping people in challenging circumstances who need intensive support to move forwards.

• Adaptability. This is hugely varied role, and no two days are the same. You will need to balance competing priorities or quickly shift focus depending on the needs of the people you are supporting.

Why should you apply?

• A chance to give back to our armed forces and make a positive and lasting impact to the lives of veterans and their families.

• Competitive salary and benefits package including generous holiday and pension contributions.

• A welcoming and empowering culture, with regular opportunities for team building throughout the year.

• Variety in the role, a mix of travelling in your area, home working and occasional visits to the historic Poppy Factory in Richmond, London

• The opportunity to develop your region and build relationships with employers and other support services that best meet the needs of the people you’re supporting.

• Be part of an iconic charity with a 100-year history

For further information, including the full job description for the role, please refer to the candidate pack.

How to apply

To apply for this position please send your CV and a covering letter clearly outlining how you meet the essential criteria in the person specification as set out in the candidate pack and submit via the online application process. Please address your covering letter to Jim Maskell, Partnership and Development Manager.

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Jim Maskell.

The closing date for applications will be 1 December 2024. Please note, we are unable to accept late or incomplete applications.

Interviews will be held via video call on 6 December 2024.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to equality, valuing diversity and promoting inclusion within our workforce, including the volunteers who give their time to us.  We work to maintain an environment where the needs and aspirations of all employees are met, irrespective of characteristics protected under the legislative framework of the Equality Act 2010. We expect everyone to understand and accept their personal responsibility to recognise and value differences and the unique contributions that people make to the way we deliver our work. As an equal opportunities employer our commitment is to take positive measures to recruit people from underrepresented groups, and we actively encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds.

As a Disability Confident employer, we offer a guaranteed interview for any job applicant with a disability who meets the essential criteria for the role. Please indicate in your covering letter if you wish to be considered under this scheme. We are also happy to discuss reasonable adjustments to the application or interview process to accommodate disabled candidates. 

Additionally, we offer a guaranteed interview to veterans of the UK armed forces or members of the Reservist forces who meet the essential role criteria. Please make it clear in your application if you wish to be considered on this basis. Please note, to be eligible for consideration under this scheme your application must demonstrate that you meet the essential role criteria as set out in the person specification.

About The Poppy Factory

The Poppy Factory aims to be an exemplar employer. We recognise the impact that working with a challenging cohort can have on our staff, which is why we prioritise work/life balance and support mechanisms including training, supervision and EAP provision.

The Poppy Factory provides competitive terms and conditions of employment, including:

• Opportunity for home-based/hybrid and flexible working
• 28 days’ basic annual leave per year (including a day in lieu of Armistice Day, and 3 days’ Christmas closure), rising to 32 days with long service, plus bank holidays
• Double-matched pension contributions up to 10% employer contribution

The Role: The successful candidate will be working with adults in a residential setting delivering assessments, group sessions and one-to-one therapy to those admitted to the service. The post holder will offer an intensive, abstinent-based programme with high levels of group therapy and a strong emphasis on aftercare support. The role will include facilitating specialist psycho-educational groups, 12 step, relapse prevention therapeutic groups and individual counselling sessions.

You will work closely with our Supported Housing team and be required to participate in regular team meetings. You will also be required to liaise with external agencies and work creatively to provide the most appropriate treatment plans for clients with complex needs. You may be required to cover occasional evening Aftercare groups.

Main Responsibilities

• Undertake assessments of people entering the service through various referral sources.
• Develop, facilitate, and review a group work programme that meets the needs of our clients. These might include dual diagnosis, trauma, cross-addiction, criminal justice issues and various types of substance use.
• Provide a holistic package of care to individuals which meets their needs and includes working with colleagues across other teams to help residents with diversionary activities, employment, training, and education.
• Work with the Supported Housing team to ensure residents are safe, secure, and maintain their tenancies and are prepared to move onto independent living.
• Provide a range of one-to-one interventions that might include MI, person-centered care, CBT, DBT and trauma work.
• Manage a caseload of individuals with a wide spectrum of needs.
• Assist residents to understand the effects and benefits of any medication prescribed for them and the importance of complying with treatment regimes. This might include liaising with pharmacists, doctors, and psychiatrists for monitoring purposes.
• Provide psychoeducation to raise awareness and understanding of substances and their effects.
• Provide onward referral and liaison with wrap-around support within SCT to enable our residents to achieve social integration and personal development.

Key Tasks & Responsibilities

1 To hold a caseload of families who need early intervention support, providing those families with more intensive support including regular telephone calls, home visits, signposting and attending meetings and appointments with them

2 Provide information, advice and support to parents/carers of disabled children individually and in group sessions

3 Signpost parents/carers to appropriate services for their whole family provided by the statutory sector, voluntary sector and Umbrella

4 Supporting parents/carers to access and engage with services as appropriate

5 To work closely with other members of the family support team, ensuring a smooth handover of families as they finish the intensive support phase of their journey with Umbrella

6 Develop and maintain strong and effective working relationships with staff working with disabled children and their families employed by other local agencies

7 Develop a high level of knowledge of local services

8 Facilitate support groups across the area for our early intervention service, taking account of geographical and community issues

9 Supporting and directing volunteers to provide peer support and help with group activities

10 Collating and reporting on relevant statistical and other performance information

11 Working with parents/carers to continually improve the service. 

General Responsibilities

1 Manage and organise your own time and activities to ensure tasks are prioritised, and agreed deadlines are met

2 Assist with the marketing and promotion of the service

3 Work closely with Parent /Carer Forums and Information, Advice Support Services.

4 Take an active part in continuing to develop own knowledge and skills relevant to the job, attending training as required

5 Keep clear and comprehensive case notes

6 Maintain confidentiality

7 Support parents/carers and young people to express their views

8 Work with parents to identify and develop new ways of providing effective support to parents, including the use of ICT and social media

9 To contribute to Umbrella service reports and bulletins.

Other Requirements

In accordance with relevant legislation, to take all reasonable care of your health, safety, and welfare and that of other people and premises affected by your work

In discharging the duties and responsibilities set out in the job description to ensure compliance with Equal Opportunities policies and principles.

In order to achieve the objectives of Umbrella, the post holder will need to work flexibly, including out of hours

Citizens Advice Oxford is seeking a Benefits Adviser to join our supportive team. This role is intended to address the needs of our local residents, particularly those who may struggle to access advice through online, telephone, or email channels.

• Holiday: 28 days per annum pro-rata and bank holidays pro-rata
• Pension: 5% employer pension contribution.
• Location: Our offices at Wesley Memorial Hall in central Oxford, outreach locations and remote.
• Responsible to: Projects & New Projects Manager. 
• Closing date for applications: 2nd December 2024 at 9am. We may close applications early if a suitable candidate is found, so please apply promptly.

Key responsibilities:

This role is designed to meet the benefits advice needs of Oxford residents. The post holder will provide benefits advice including benefit checks, benefits applications, mandatory reconsiderations and appeals. Advice will be given by telephone/email, by appointment in person at our office, and to drop in clients at outreaches. A fully remote position may be considered for the right candidate.

We're looking for:

• Experience in benefits advice work, preferably with CA or similar agencies
• Sensitivity in working with a diverse range of clients
• Methodical and independent approach to work and case recording
• Excellent communication skills and empathy

Why join us?

As a Benefits Adviser, your work will directly impact the lives of our clients, helping them navigate challenging situations and find the solutions they need. Our staff get 28 days holiday per annum pro-rata, plus pro-rata bank holiday allowance, access to our Employee Assistance program, and a 5% employer pension contribution. You will get to work with our friendly and dynamic team, all committed to making a positive change in our community.

Apply now

If you are dedicated to making a positive difference, we would love to hear from you. We may close applications early if a suitable candidate is found, so apply now! 

You have an understanding of substance misuse and associated health and social issues and experience of working with young people in an addictions or social care setting.  All you need is the perfect environment to put your skills to great use. Welcome to Aquarius as an Outreach Practitioner.

Aquarius is part of Waythrough, a national group of charities highly experienced in providing specialist support services to individuals and families living with the effects of mental ill health, drug and alcohol use, gambling and domestic violence. We know that recovery can look and feel very different to each and every one of us. But we also know that if we provide the right support, at the right time, we can inspire recovery nationwide and that recovery is possible for everyone.

Right now, we’re looking for a self-motivated individual to join us at our Adult and Young People's Drug & Alcohol service in Birmingham.  

Your challenge? To provide advice, assessment, and brief interventions, and deliver group programmes, workshops and training courses. Practitioners work not only from Aquarius offices but also in schools, universities, arrest referral, hospital and youth settings and other outreach settings.

An energetic and confident self-starter, you have a qualification in health/social care, youth and community care (e.g. NVQ Level 3 or above, DipSW, Mental Health Nursing, Counselling, Addiction Studies).  Alternatively, we’ll consider candidates with experience of working in the substance misuse field with a commitment to complete NVQ Level 3 Health and Social Care. As well as good knowledge of alcohol/drug and health related issues, you're used to liaising with voluntary and statutory agencies and health professionals and comfortable engaging with clients in a variety of service delivery settings. What’s more, you have a flexible approach, a commitment to the principles of confidentiality and fulfil data requirements.

As this role involves travel to various settings within the community, a driving licence and access to a care is desirable.

This is a permanent, full-time role requiring the post-holder to work 37 hours a week.

We are committed to increasing our diversity and we would welcome applications from those with lived experience and/or anyone from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic group.

​This is a rolling recruitment process. Candidates will be interviewed as and when they are shortlisted.

Learning and development is important to us, and we are pleased to be able to offer a wide range of apprenticeships. We hire apprentices into specific roles as well as offering apprenticeships to the workforce. Anyone can apply to undertake an apprenticeship relevant to the role as long as they are in a permanent post and have successfully passed probation.

Aquarius was a subsidiary of Richmond Fellowship, with both organisations being part of Recovery Focus, a national group of charities highly experienced in providing specialist support services to individuals and families living with the effects of mental ill health, drug and alcohol use, gambling and domestic violence. On 1st June 2024 Richmond Fellowship merged with Humankind to form a single organisation that provides the joined-up mental health, housing and drug and alcohol support we’ve all known has been needed for decades. At the same time, Aquarius became a subsidiary of Humankind, with no impact to terms and conditions of employment. In October 2024, Humankind was renamed Waythrough to reflect the new organisation, of which Aquarius will remain a subsidiary.

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.

Peer Support Service Manager
Ref: 616
Salary: £27,500 per annum
Hours: 37.0 hours per week, Mon - Fri
Contract: Permanent
Working base: HQ, Flitwick
Area covered: Central Bedfordshire, Bedford and Milton Keynes.

Job Purpose

This role is an exciting opportunity to join, manage and support our Peer Support service which offers Peer Support group sessions in Central Bedfordshire, Bedford and Milton Keynes. This is a varied role where the post holder will be responsible for coordinating the day-to-day operations of the service and for the line management of Peer Support Coordinator, Peer Mentor Facilitator, Peer Support Workers and volunteers across BLMK.

The role will also involve the assessment and processing of new referrals and leading and supporting on more complex cases that may require intervention for suitability. The success candidate will work with the Lived Experience Operational Services Manager to ensure that the Peer Support service consistently provides quality support for service users and is managed effectively in line with KPI’s.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate a Peer Support service including peer support groups and mentoring across localities in Central Bedfordshire, Bedford Borough and Milton Keynes and ensure outcomes which supports individuals with mental health and wellbeing needs in line with Mind BLMK’s agreed Peer Support model and requirements as well as contract requirements.
• Carry out assessments on individuals’ suitability for Mind BLMK’s Peer Support service in line with the Access to Service procedure.
• Work with the Lived Experience Operational Services Manager to ensure regular involvement of service users, volunteers and staff on local service delivery, organisational matters and wider mental health strategies.
• Provide cover and support for Peer Support groups and mentor facilitator in line with service needs.
• Spend time regularly in each location, ensuring best practice is in place across all aspects of the service, from assessment & delivery to data input & reporting.
• Work with the Lived Experience Operational Services Manager to support a team who bring their Lived Experience of mental health to their roles, keeping an up to date understanding of working with and managing those with Lived Experience.
• Maintain an effective workforce for the service in line with Mind BLMK’s HR policies, procedures and guidance (recruitment, line management, workload planning, support and development of Peer Support Coordinator, Workers, Mentor Facilitator and volunteers).
• Provide the infrastructure Peer Support Workers need to deliver the support safely and confidently, including identifying and implementing opportunities for upskilling, progression and training.

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: Wednesday 26th November 2024 
Interview date: 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.

Hope and Vision Communities is a small charity providing supported, move-on accommodation for people who have successfully completed residential rehabilitation.  We have a Christian ethos, where everyone can be loved and accepted with a sense of belonging, with the hope and opportunity of a new life.  We are growing to expand who we can help to other geographical areas.  

We are looking for a Finance Officer to work closely with our management team to assist, develop and manage the Charity Finances to support the team across all its operations. If you are excited by this opportunity and helping us and being a crucial support for Hope and Vision Communities to take us to the next stage in our growth, we would love to hear from you.  

In return we will give you support to succeed, a great group of people to work with and the chance to make a real difference to the people we support. 

The programme Manager (maternity cover) will play an important role in supporting the implementation of Good Neighbours UK (GNUK)’s strategy and ensuring that projects led by GNUK and implemented by field countries are managed effectively and efficiently. They will also play in important role in designing new projects. 

Excellent writing and verbal communications skills are critical for this role. Key to its success is the ability to develop and maintain good relationships with funders, partner organisations and other Good Neighbors alliance members.

This is a full-time fixed term maternity cover role for 8 months starting in January 2025. We will consider applications from individuals interested in a freelance contract.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities

Project management

• Support GNUK’s fundraising team to prepare funding proposals for UK and overseas projects.

o Undertake field/needs assessments for projects.

o Ensure programmes and finance teams in implementing partners are working together to develop budgets and logframes in a timely manner for funding proposals and advise on multi-project cost effective strategies to cover country budgets.

o Manage due diligence and MoUs with implementing partners

• Manage the implementation and monitoring of overseas projects ensuring project activity plans and risk registers are in place, monitor activity progress, review field country financial and narrative reports, and track key milestone information.

• Ensure compliance with internal finance, accounting, procurement policies and procedures.

• Support and build the capacity building of field country grants and programmes staff in all aspects of project cycle management.

• Liaise with external organisations (NGOs, community groups, researchers and consultants) to deliver GNUK’s projects.

• Monitor project budgets and expenditure.

• Prepare periodic narrative and financial reports for GNUK and donors.

• Undertake periodic field visits for purpose of monitoring projects.

• Ensure project exit plans are in place and closure of projects in keeping with donors contracts.

Programme development:

• Contribute to the development of GNUK’s mid to long term strategy, 3-year business plan and annual work plans.

• Participate in GNUK’s annual budget development process.

• Support the implementation and monitoring of GNUK’s programme activities.

• Keep up to date on external changes to the economic, social and political context in the UK that could impact GNUK’s work.

• Support the organisational risk management process.

• Support the rollout of GNUK’s marketing/communications strategy.

• Liaise with GPC on project implementation and programming requests

• Prepare periodic reports for GPC and donors.

Safeguarding

• Ensure the role of Safeguarding focal point for GNUK

• Prepare GNUK’s annual safeguarding reports

• Support GN field countries and GNUK partners to develop and put in place safeguarding policies and procedures.

• Oversee the adoption and application of GNUK’s safeguarding policy in projects.

• Promote and adhere to all GNUK’s policies, procedures.

Are you passionate about inspiring the next generation to get cycling? The Bikeability Trust has an exciting opportunity for a Helpdesk Support Administrator to help support the Bikeability industry with enquiries relating to the Trust’s digitised systems. 

We are looking for a proactive, highly-organised individual with excellent customer service skills to join our friendly, working remote team in the UK. Note we cannot accept applicants for remote working outside of the UK.