Child support officer jobs

This is a grant funded role, fixed term for two years, with the opportunity for conversion to a permanent role should funding allow.

Main Purpose of the Role:

To provide proactive, emotional, and practical support to families and individuals affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) across Scotland. The role will focus on early engagement, wellbeing assessment, community building, and delivery of workshops and events, while ensuring accurate tracking of support outcomes and data.  
 
The successful candidate will also lead on support for young people living with Duchenne during 2 key transition points (primary to secondary school stage and moving into adulthood). They will work closely with the England-based Transitions Coordinator to deliver a joined-up programme of support across the UK. 

Specific Tasks:

1. Proactive Family Support 

• Initiate contact with newly registered families within agreed timeframes (email within 3 working days, call within 7–10 working days) 

• Contact to be made to all registered Action Duchenne members, knows to us in Scotland, to ensure the current support offer is clear  

• Provide ongoing support tailored to individual needs, including emotional wellbeing, physical health, housing, financial security, self-esteem and respect, decision-making, social engagement, quality of life, and access to care 

• Use the Action Duchenne Assessment Form and Action Plan to identify and respond to areas of concern 

2. Transitions Support 

· Lead transition support across all nations, with a focus on Scotland, for children and young people facing key life changes, including: 

· Moving between educational settings such as primary to secondary 

· Transitioning from paediatric to adult health services 

· Changes in mobility and independence (e.g. transitioning to using powerchairs)

· You will lead, but expected to work collaboratively with the England-based Transition Coordinator to ensure consistency and continuity of support across the UK 

· Develop resources, guidance, and workshops to support families through transitions 

3. Wellbeing Tracking and Outcome Measurement 

· Administer wellbeing questionnaires and record scores across key domains (e.g. physical health, emotional wellbeing, financial security) 

· Collaborate with families to co-create action plans and track progress 

· Ensure all data is entered into CRM (E-Tapestry or similar) within the allotted timeframe, i.e. immediately after or during the call. 

4. Community Engagement and Event Delivery 

· Organise and deliver regional meetups (minimum one per quarter) 

· Facilitate support groups (virtual and in-person) for parents, young people, and extended family 

· Support delivery of workshops and events aligned with programme schedule (e.g. music, life skills, employability) 

5. Stakeholder Collaboration 

· Liaise with external organisations including NHS care advisors and clinics, local authorities, counselling services, and other charities 

· Represent Action Duchenne in Scotland and build relationships with local networks 

6. Administration and Reporting 

· Maintain accurate records of all interactions and support provided 

· Contribute to quarterly reporting on activity delivery, capacity utilisation, and family impact 

· Support development of CRM processes and service delivery improvements 

7. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): 

· New contact acknowledgement email: within 3 working days 

· New contact follow-up call: within 7–10 working days 

· Families contacted per week: 12–15 hours of direct contact 

· Regional meetups: 1 per quarter 

· Support groups delivered: 9–12 per year 

· CRM data entry: within 24 hours of interaction 

· Family outcomes tracked: via wellbeing questionnaire and action plan 

· Transition support delivered: tracked through engagement, resources, and feedback 

NB This is not an exhaustive list, the role holder will be asked to carry out additional tasks as required for the Team’s successful service delivery. Such tasks will always be reasonable and broadly in line with current knowledge levels and skill sets.

Please find below the job specification, including required skills and qualifications.

Application deadline: 24th November at 9am GMT.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Senior Communications Officer to come and join our team in Redcar & Cleveland. 

Location – This role is both community-based in Redcar & Cleveland, with the ability to work from home as agreed with your manager. There may also be occasional travel to other programme sites (currently Middlesbrough, Stoke-On-Trent and Scotland) or travel to our London office.  

Salary – Up to £35,000 DOE 

Employment Type – Permanent

Team – Communications team

About you

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following: 

• Significant experience in a communications role, including experience with copywriting and content creation. 
• Experience producing high quality, clear, compelling and audience appropriate content for a range of platforms. 
• The ability to clearly demonstrate our impact and inspire collaboration among our partners and stakeholders by sharing compelling and meaningful stories.
• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the local community, including its strengths, needs, and challenges. 
• Strong knowledge and skills in Adobe Creative Suite such as Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop or Canva. 

About the role

The responsibilities of this role include: 

• Actively identify opportunities where communications can strengthen programme delivery, support parent outreach and increase engagement with families and communities. 
• Develop the local stakeholder engagement approach in line with agreed objectives, proactively identifying opportunities to strengthen relationships and using data and team insight to increase engagement.
• Support effective communications with stakeholders across sectors including community, health, education and local organisations. 
• Develop and produce compelling, audience focused content for a range of channels, including newsletters, case studies and promotional materials. 
• Work closely with the Head of Communications, Programme Leads and colleagues across the organisation to align communications priorities with programme and organisational objectives. 

About us

Thrive at Five is a national charity focused on giving every child the best possible start in life. We know the foundations for life and learning are built in the earliest years, from pregnancy to five. By working alongside families, communities and local partners, we help build stronger, more connected support for parents, so more children get what they need to thrive and reach a good level of development by age five.
 

Thrive at Five is a relatively young organisation but with an already strong national and political profile, having been called out in Parliament for our ways of working in Stoke-on-Trent and invited to be interviewed at the 2025 Civil Society Summit by the Secretary of State for Education. We have grown rapidly in our first four years, with a growing team of nearly 40 across the country. 2026 will be a year of further growth and milestones for the charity as we celebrate our fifth-year anniversary and expand into our third and fourth regions. This will involve recruiting for a new teams, establishing our programmes and beginning to co-design and implement our work in partnership with communities. 

About our benefits

• Pension contributions – We will contribute 3% and you can contribute 5% towards your pension through NEST. 
• 25 annual leave days per year plus bank holidays.
• £100 contribution towards your professional body membership.

Please note that as this role is subject to a successful Basic Level Disclosure check through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). If you have any unspent convictions, but wish to apply for this role, please advise us in your application. The successful candidate will also need to provide satisfactory references and current right to work in the UK. 

To apply for this role, please submit your cover letter and CV by following the Apply Now button. Closing date for applications is midnight on Friday 8th May 2026.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Senior Communications Officer to come and join our team in Middlesbrough.

Location – This role is both community-based in Middlesbrough, with the ability to work from home as agreed with your manager. There may also be occasional travel to other programme sites (currently Redcar, Cleveland, Stoke-On-Trent and Scotland) or travel to our London office.  

Salary – Up to £35,000 DOE 

Employment Type – Permanent

Team – Communications team

About you

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following: 

• Significant experience in a communications role, including experience with copywriting and content creation. 
• Experience producing high quality, clear, compelling and audience appropriate content for a range of platforms.
• Empathy, cultural awareness, and sensitivity when communicating with and about communities whose voices and experiences are often underrepresented, including those with English as an additional language or limited literacy in English.
• The ability to clearly demonstrate our impact and inspire collaboration among our partners and stakeholders by sharing compelling and meaningful stories.
• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the local community, including its strengths, needs, and challenges. 
• Strong knowledge and skills in Adobe Creative Suite such as Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop or Canva. 

About the role

The responsibilities of this role include: 

• Actively identify opportunities where communications can strengthen programme delivery, support parent outreach and increase engagement with families and communities. 
• Develop the local stakeholder engagement approach in line with agreed objectives, proactively identifying opportunities to strengthen relationships and using data and team insight to increase engagement.
• Support effective communications with stakeholders across sectors including community, health, education and local organisations. 
• Develop and produce compelling, audience focused content for a range of channels, including newsletters, case studies and promotional materials. 
• Work closely with the Head of Communications, Programme Leads and colleagues across the organisation to align communications priorities with programme and organisational objectives. 

About us

Thrive at Five is a national charity focused on giving every child the best possible start in life. We know the foundations for life and learning are built in the earliest years, from pregnancy to five. By working alongside families, communities and local partners, we help build stronger, more connected support for parents, so more children get what they need to thrive and reach a good level of development by age five.
 

Thrive at Five is a relatively young organisation but with an already strong national and political profile, having been called out in Parliament for our ways of working in Stoke-on-Trent and invited to be interviewed at the 2025 Civil Society Summit by the Secretary of State for Education. We have grown rapidly in our first four years, with a growing team of nearly 40 across the country. 2026 will be a year of further growth and milestones for the charity as we celebrate our fifth-year anniversary and expand into our third and fourth regions. This will involve recruiting for a new teams, establishing our programmes and beginning to co-design and implement our work in partnership with communities. 

About our benefits

• Pension contributions – We will contribute 3% and you can contribute 5% towards your pension through NEST. 
• 25 annual leave days per year plus bank holidays.
• £100 contribution towards your professional body membership.

Please note that as this role is subject to a successful Basic Level Disclosure check through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). If you have any unspent convictions, but wish to apply for this role, please advise us in your application. The successful candidate will also need to provide satisfactory references and current right to work in the UK. 

To apply for this role, please submit your cover letter and CV by following the Apply Now button. Closing date for applications is midnight on Friday 8th May 2026.

Youth Outreach Practitioner – Glasgow  

Salary: Up to £32k 

Hours: Full time 

Location: Glasgow  

Contract: Permanent  

WE STAND FOR CHILDREN, THEIR CHILDHOODS AND THEIR FUTURES - WILL YOU? 

Around the world hundreds of thousands of children struggle to survive on the streets. In many countries, they have become an accepted issue in society, deprived of access to the most basic services and they experience extreme harm before and during their time on the streets.

Wherever they may be in the world, they face violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation. 

Founded in 1996, Railway Children has dedicated over a quarter of a century to developing outstanding practice and services for street connected children. With projects in the UK, India and Tanzania, we aim to reach these children as soon as they are in danger and intervene before an abuser can.  As we embark on our new strategy to 2030, we have ambitious plans to ensure no child is left behind, wherever we work. 

The role 
We are looking for a Youth Outreach Practitioner for our Glasgow team and are keen to receive applications from those living in and around the City of Glasgow.  You’ll be part of a dynamic team delivering Railway Children’s programme in the UK, in partnership with British Transport Police (BTP).  

As a Youth Outreach Practitioner, you’ll play a key role in keeping children safe from harm by engaging in patrols to identify and safeguard young people (aged 10-17) at risk of criminal and sexual exploitation, county lines, missing from home, homelessness or family breakdown.  

You will also work closely with our Youth Practitioner, supporting a number of young people who have been identified or referred for 1-1 direct support.

Both aspects of the role will involve working directly with young people and their families to reduce risks, as well as building strong relationships other social care, Police, third sector agencies and local services in the area.  

Your base would be near to Glasgow Central Station with regular travel between the station and working in the boroughs of North Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire, Glasgow and Renfrewshire. This role involves some evenings and weekend hours.   

About you 

You will have experience of successfully engaging and supporting young people and families as well as working in an outreach or similar setting, in a creative and engaging way with young people with a range of needs and vulnerabilities.   

A relevant qualification in an appropriate discipline in working with children and families, community or youth work or equivalent experience is desirable. Alongside this relevant training in safeguarding and/or issues relevant to vulnerable young people and families is essential.

You will need to have experience of providing front line support to safeguard some of the most vulnerable young people in the UK.

Experience of developing productive relationships/partnerships with a variety of organisations such as 3rd sector group, local services and statutory services such a social care to support the needs of vulnerable young people and families is a must.

A full person specification can be found in the job pack.  

For further information about this post and working for Railway Children, including how to apply, please visit our website.

We welcome and encourage applications from candidates with a diverse range of backgrounds and lived experience. 

Railway Children is committed to safeguarding anyone who comes into contact with us and implements a range of policies to ensure only those suitable to work with vulnerable groups are employed. 

Closing Date: Sunday 10th May at 5pm 

1st interviews are scheduled to take place on Thursday 21st May 2026

2nd interviews are scheduled to take place on Tuesday 2nd June 2026 

About Action Duchenne 
Action Duchenne supports, empowers and equips every DMD community in their journey from diagnosis and beyond.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a muscle wasting condition for which there is no cure, but we journey alongside communities to empower them and provide information for them to make informed decisions. Action Duchenne has a team of passionate, supportive staff who are keen to do more for families living with Duchenne and has a number of staff with direct lived experience. 

At Action Duchenne, values are more than words—they shape how we work and interact every day. For this role, we are looking for a team member who can reflect our values: 

• Supportive – Actively assist colleagues and stakeholders, fostering a culture of collaboration and reliability. 

• Empathetic – Approach challenges with understanding, considering the impact on people internally and externally. 

• Respectful – Ensure all communications and decisions uphold dignity and fairness, especially when handling sensitive matters. 

• Community Focused – Make decisions that strengthen our community, ensuring all activity supports inclusive engagement and shared purpose. 

• Inclusive – Promote accessibility and equity, ensuring everyone feels valued and heard. 

The Events Officer will embody these values in every aspect of planning, delivering and evaluating events. 

What we offer: 

• 24-hour confidential Employee Assistance helpline 

• Private health insurance 

• Flexible hours 

• 5% employer pension contribution 

Main Purpose of the Role 
This new role aims to support the design, coordination and delivery of Action Duchenne’s events portfolio, including the Annual Community Summit, regional meetups, workshops, and online events. The role will ensure smooth operational delivery, high‑ quality participant experiences, accessible information, and effective logistics‑ and supplier coordination. 

This role contributes directly to our organisational impact by ensuring families, young people, professionals and partners have access to engaging, supportive and well managed events. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone who enjoys a challenge, is incredibly organised with excellent project management skills, close attention to detail, creativity and a passion for supporting every DMD community. 

 Specific Tasks 

1. Event Coordination and Logistics 

• Support the planning and delivery of the Annual Community Summit, working closely with the Chief Scientific Officer, Director of Fundraising and Communications, and wider team. 

• Coordinate logistics for in‑person and online events, including venue liaison, catering, accessibility arrangements, equipment, travel, accommodation and schedules. 

• Ensure event details are accurately published and updated across relevant platforms (website, CRM, communications channels). 

• Manage registration processes for all events and ensure attendees receive timely, accurate joining information. 

• Support the organisation of regional meet‑ups and workshops, ensuring venues, facilitators and resources are in place. 

2. Administration and Operational Delivery 

• Maintain clear and accurate administrative systems, including event checklists, timelines, risk assessments and evaluation forms. 

• Track planned expenditure and ensure costs align with budgets, escalating issues where necessary. 

• Prepare and maintain event collateral (slides, handouts, resources, signage), ensuring accessibility and brand consistency. 

• Provide administrative and practical support during events (both online and in person), including setting up webinar sessions and coordinating pre and post event meetings internally. 

3. Stakeholder and Supplier Management 

• Liaise with venues, suppliers, speakers, exhibitors and partners to ensure high quality event delivery. 

• Develop positive working relationships with internal colleagues to ensure a joined-up programme across support, communications and scientific teams. 

• Provide excellent customer service to participants, responding promptly and sensitively to enquiries, access requirements and logistical questions. 

4. Community and Engagement Support 

• Collaborate with Support Team colleagues to ensure events reflect community needs and priorities. 

• Support the promotion of events through the Communications Officer, ensuring timely provision of copy, event information and updates. 

• Encourage and support attendance from families, young people, professionals and community partners. 

5. Data Management, Monitoring and Evaluation 

• Ensure accurate data entry in CRM systems (eTapestry or similar) for attendee lists, engagement tracking and follow up actions. 

• Collect and analyse feedback, producing short evaluation summaries to inform future planning. 

• Track attendance, trends and logistical improvements, contributing to quarterly reporting. 

6. Risk, Compliance and Quality Assurance 

• Support event risk assessments and ensure compliance with safeguarding, accessibility and GDPR guidance. 

• Ensure that content and delivery meet Action Duchenne’s quality standards and reflect the needs of families affected by Duchenne. 

NB This is not an exhaustive list, the role holder will be asked to carry out additional tasks as required for the Team’s successful service delivery. Such tasks will always be reasonable and broadly in line with current knowledge levels and skill sets. 

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) 

• Event logistics prepared within agreed timelines 

• Accurate event information published and updated within required timeframes 

• Participant satisfaction and engagement measured through surveys 

• Conference and event attendance targets met 

• CRM data entry completed within 2 working days of events 

• Budget expenditure tracked monthly with minimal variance 

• Effective delivery of regional and online events aligned with pre-agreed schedule 

Person Specification 

Knowledge & Experience 

Essential

• Experience organising in person events from start to finish for over 300 attendees. 

• Experience liaising with suppliers, venues and speakers. 

• Experience with CRM/data entry, with close attention to detail. 

• Experience organising and hosting remote events. 

• Understanding of hybrid events. 

Desirable

• Experience in the charity sector. 

• Knowledge of Duchenne or similar life-limiting conditions. 

Skills & Abilities 

Essential

• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust, motivate teams and develop positive relationships with beneficiaries, staff, volunteers and external partners. 

• Understanding of the importance of safeguarding around events. 

• Exceptional communication skills. 

• Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines. 

• Analytical and data literate, able to interpret performance data, identify trends, and use insight to drive improvement. 

• Skilled in problem solving, with a proactive, solutions focused approach. 

• Ability to be assertive while maintaining empathy, particularly when supporting teams dealing with emotionally complex situations. 

• Digital proficiency including Microsoft Office, CRM systems and digital communication tools. 

Attributes 

Essential

• Emotionally intelligent, reflective and able to manage sensitive issues with empathy and professionalism. 

• Values driven, compassionate and committed to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by long term or life-limiting conditions. 

• Resilient and adaptable, able to navigate complexity. 

• Creative, dynamic and innovative, with the ability to take ideas from concept to delivery. 

• Demonstrable commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. 

• Personally, and professionally, responsible with high standards of integrity and accountability. 

• A sense of humour and the ability to bring warmth and humanity to the role. 

Closing date: 25 May 2026 at 9am, with first round, online interviews aiming to take place in week commencing 8th June. 

JOB TITLE:                      Parent Partner

RESPONSIBLE TO:Peer Services Lead for England

HOURS OF WORK:As per individual terms

GRADE/SALARY:Grade 2.4/ £24,479

LOCATION:Home based 

TYPE OF CONTRACT:Permanent

MAIN PURPOSE OF THE JOB

Provide peer support services via the transition service for One Adoption. You will support individual families with peer to peer goal-based intervention servicedeliverable via 6 sessions of support (1-1).

Provide peer support services via dedicated support phone line, bookable sessions & email cover. This will be delivered via rota’dsessions for the Eastern Region Peer Support Line.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Direct 1-1 support

•To work with families to achieve agreed goal-based outcomes.

•To work to a plan for transition.

•To signpost families to relevant support.

•To provide 6 online support sessions of 1 hour via TEAMS covering the programme topics agreed within timescale.

•To follow a programme of support and monitor progress regularly.

•To empower families to work closely with schools, settings and relevant professionals encouraging them to build and strengthen relationships. 

•To complete admin and paperwork relevant to the family including evaluation paperwork. 

Support Line

•Following a scheduled work pattern, respond to adopters calling in to alive phone line, providing a listening ear & signposting to relevant resources/information.

•Following a rota ensuring bookable sessions are responded to, listening & signposting where required

•Monitor & respond to emails within your scheduled shifts.

•Ensure feedback texts are sent at the end of each interaction with a caller.

General

•Retain accurate records in accordance with Adoption UK policy and practice, complying with GDPR legislation.

•To ensure compliance with appropriate Adoption UK policies and procedures 

•To carry out such other duties as may be deemed necessary.

•Ensure all admin tasks are carried out within a timely manner, Evide updated.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS & KNOWLEDGE

•Personal experience of adoption. (essential)

•Sound knowledge of current adoption issues, or a strong interest in developing such knowledge (essential)

•Experience within the education setting (desirable)

•Experienced mentor or similar support role. (essential)

•Experience of supporting families in group settings as well as 1:1 (desirable)

•A good understanding of One adoption RAA(s) systems and adoption landscape (desirable)

•Safeguarding – understanding of safeguarding policies and procedures (essential)

•Good working knowledge of how to use social media and a range of online platforms with confidence. (essential)

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

•Work and act on own initiative (essential)

•Work to deadlines and tight timescales and reporting around progress (essential)

•Flexible and able to work purposefully from home (essential)

•Excellent communication skills or verbally and written (essential)

•        Group facilitation skills (essential)

•Good empathic listening skills, able to deal with issues in relation to significant trauma and loss (essential)

•Ability to organise and hold meetings, including by telephone and online (essential)

•Excellent IT skills including Teams, Outlook and Zoom or a willingness to learn (desirable)

•Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times. Aware of GDPR, particularly around holding information at home (essential)

•Ensure that internal policies and procedures are complied with. (essential) 

BEHAVIOURS 

•Supports, encourages and motivates adopters and families (essential)

•Values transparency and consistency (essential)

•Understands the role of individual and collective accountability (essential)

•Has a clear understanding of other colleagues’ roles and responsibilities (essential)

•Approachable and friendly (essential)

•Confident in 1:1 and group settings (desirable)

•Ability to empower and work in partnership with families (essential)

•Shares skills and knowledge appropriately (essential)

•Offers outstanding service to service users (essential)

•Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values in all interactions with external stakeholders (essential)

•Willingness to learn new skills (essential)

The Kids Network is looking for an Executive Director to support the Fundraising, Finance and Operations of the charity for an interim period. 

• Contract: Fixed 12-14-month contract depending on availability for start date – Full time 35 hours per week 

• Salary: £60,000 per annum 

• Location: London Victoria/ Hybrid 

• Some evening and weekend work may be required, which can be claimed as TOIL 

• Reporting to the CEO 

• Line Management of 3x staff

About the Charity 

A rare opportunity to lead a values-driven children's charity through an exciting chapter of its story. 

The Kids Network is a growing charity with an ambitious five-year strategy and a decade of impact behind us. We connect children facing adversity with caring mentors from their own communities, creating relationships that change trajectories. In 2027 we celebrate our 10th anniversary and this role sits right at the heart of that milestone. 

We're a small, high-performing team of 16 who care deeply about the children and families we serve. We work hard, we learn constantly, and we look after each other. Now, while our Managing Director is on maternity leave, we're looking for an exceptional interim leader to hold the organisation steady and help it thrive. 

About the role: 

As Interim Executive Director, you'll be deputy to the CEO and a core member of our Senior Leadership Team. You'll hold the big picture: strategy, governance, finance, and fundraising, whilst also being across our operations and being present and part of the day-to-day. From Board engagement and risk management to leading our impact report and driving our plans for our 10th anniversary event, no two weeks will look the same. 

You'll lead and line-manage talented team members across fundraising, school partnerships, and operations. You'll be the steady hand that keeps our income pipeline strong and our systems running smoothly. 

This role would suit you if, you're a leader who balances strategic thinking with being genuinely hands-on. You stay calm under pressure, make clear decisions when they're needed, and take people with you rather than leaving them behind. 

Mission matters to you. Working to improve the lives of underserved children is something you care about, not just a role you're filling. You'll champion our values, model our culture and behaviours, and bring the team with you in doing the same. 

You're well-suited to the interim context. You’re able to build trust quickly, make an impact from day one, and build on what's already working well. You're comfortable with a varied workload and have the experience to make good decisions for the benefit of the children we work with. 

Benefits: 

• Flexible working arrangements (mostly working from home, with approximately one-two days a week working from the office)   

• Option for 2 Me days   

• 25 days annual leave entitlement

• Option to swap bank holidays for other religious holidays  

• Team Socials  

• Birthdays off  

• Working in a value led organisation, where we see and share the impact we have on children every day 

Responsibilities 

Strategy & Leadership 

• Provide executive leadership to the organisation, fostering a high-performance, inclusive and values-led culture aligned with the charity’s mission. 

• Lead, support, and develop the Senior Leadership Team and Fundraising and Schools Partnership leaders, ensuring consistent performance and accountability. 

• Inspire and motivate staff, promoting engagement, foster a learning culture, create ownership, and commitment to organisational goals. 

• Work with the CEO, Board, and Senior Leadership Team to shape and deliver the charity’s third year of its five-year strategy, ensuring alignment with the funding landscape and the evolving needs of children and communities. 

• Deputise for the CEO when required, including Board engagement, strategic decision-making, and external representation. 

• Act as an ambassador for TKN, promoting its work and campaigns to engage, influence, and collaborate with key stakeholders. 

Governance & Operations:

• Lead the Operations function. Manage the Systems and Operations Officer to ensure our robust systems and operations continue to run effectively at a high quality and enable the charity to achieve its stated goals. 

• Provide executive oversight of HR, demonstrating knowledge of HR compliance and law, supporting with serious HR matters and providing leadership support on people matters, performance management and staff development.

• Oversee the use of key technology platforms, ensuring that the charity is operating in the most efficient way, in accordance with UK GDPR and promoting data hygiene and security and supporting the Operations officer to develop guides and standard operating procedures 

• Hold executive accountability for organisational compliance, risk management, and operational integrity. Act as the lead for the charity in the event of a serious data or H&S incident. 

• Lead the organisational risk register and risk management, ensuring risks are proactively identified, mitigated, managed and communicated to our board of Trustees and the CEO 

• Maintain awareness of relevant policy, legislative, regulatory, and sector developments, ensuring organisational readiness and compliance. 

• Work closely with the CEO and chair of the Resource Committee to set the agenda and plan for papers for this committee (3 times a year). 

• Act as the key contact with the landlord and the charity’s IT contractors, as and when required 

Income Generation, Partnerships and Communication:

• Oversee the coordination and delivery of key fundraising activities, supporting the organisation’s income generation through strategic oversight and targeted input where required. Lead and line manage the Fundraising and Development Lead.

• Play a key role in planning and delivering the 10-year anniversary event in May 2027. 

• Develop, manage, and strengthen high-level strategic funder relationships and networks, building a strong pipeline of partnerships to support income targets.

• Lead and line manage the Schools and Partnerships Lead to achieve ambitious school targets and secure positive partnerships with schools

• Utilise the organisation’s data systems to identify relevant insights and stories, leading the development of the 2026 Impact Report. 

• Work with the external Marketing Provider and Schools and Partnerships Lead to deliver the organisation’s communications strategy to maintain a strong digital and online presence 

Finance & Sustainability 

• Hold accountability for the operational delivery and financial sustainability of the charity. 

• Work closely with the CEO and external Financial Service Provider to develop organisational budgets, support with the annual independent examiner and ensure effective financial planning, management, and oversight. 

• Ensure financial performance, risks, and forecasts are clearly and appropriately communicated to the CEO, Board. 

• Support income sustainability by aligning delivery with funding strategy and identifying opportunities for growth and partnership. 

• Act as main liaison between the charity and the Financial Service Provider, ensuring that both the charity and contractor adhere to the organisation's financial procedures 

Personal Specification 

Strategic Leadership & Drive 

• Proven senior leadership experience at director level or equivalent in the charity, public, or social sector, including leading teams and engaging boards. 

Organisational governance 

• Financial acumen; comfortable owning budgets, managing forecasts, approving payments and communicating financial health clearly to the board. 

• Sound knowledge of charity governance, HR, GDPR, risk management, and regulatory compliance. 

• Excellent organisational & project management skills 

Vision, stakeholder engagement and influence 

• Experience cultivating strategic partnerships with schools, funders, and external stakeholders. 

• A track record of building funder relationships and driving income generation, with confidence overseeing fundraising strategy and pipelines. 

• Advanced communication skills, someone who can represent the organisation externally with credibility and warmth. 

Change Management & Adaptability 

• Experience in an interim/ short term role 

• Strong people management skills, with a warm and accountable approach to developing and supporting others. 

Desirable:  

• Experience working directly with school and corporate partnerships 

• Experience using Salesforce.  

• Experience working with trustees

How to apply & Dates 

To apply please submit a CV and a covering letter through Charity Jobs, ensuring the cover letter is no more than 2 pages.

The ideal start date is August 2026 

The interview process and dates will be: 

• Rolling initial conversations as and when suitable candidates apply 

• First formal interviews (online) 27th May 

• Final interviews & presentation (in person) 2nd June

Due to the size of the Charity, we are unable to respond to all applications, therefore if you do not hear from us to arrange an interview you have not been successful with your application.  

The Kids Network is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to apply for an enhanced DBS check.  

Safeguarding commitment   

The Kids Network is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to go through our safer recruitment processes, including an enhanced DBS check.   

Equity commitment      

The Kids Network values diversity and inclusion and we have worked to create an application process that is as accessible as possible, however we still recognise that there is maybe more we can do especially for applicants who are minoritised in society, have specific accessibility needs and/or experience discrimination.    

 If this is the case we are both happy and open to discussing better ways to support your candidacy and make this application process as equitable as possible for you.    

 We are a diverse organisation and welcome everyone but it is important to note that the intersections of your identity will not increase or affect the amount of labour you are asked to do. If you wish to draw on your own lived experiences that will be both encouraged and supported but it is not nor ever will be a prerequisite of this role.   

You can find out more about our commitment to anti-oppression on our website.  

Do you want to change the world for vulnerable children?

The Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies UK (CVAA) aims to improve adoption policy and practice across the UK for the benefit of children, challenging the adoption system to deliver for children and work in their best interests. Alongside advocating for system change, CVAA works to support our member voluntary adoption agencies (VAAs) across the four nations of the UK, stimulating innovation and ensuring they stay at the leading edge of practice. The active engagement of members and the building of collaborative alliances with others who seek positive change for children are essential to the effectiveness of our work.

The Head of Policy is a vital member of the small CVAA team, working closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees to champion the voluntary adoption sector and put children at the heart of everything we do. Due to maternity leave we have an exceptional and unique opportunity for someone who shares our passion to change the world for children, to gain valuable experience working at national level with senior stakeholders to contribute to system change, advocating for the power of adoption to change lives.

You will need strong people skills, experience of developing policy in consultation with stakeholders and using data to transform services and strengthen lobbying work. Most of all you need a cast iron commitment to change the world for vulnerable children.

CVAA works to challenge discrimination and disadvantage and welcomes applications from all communities, particularly those who are underrepresented in our sector, which includes but is not limited to people from Global Majority backgrounds, adoptees, men and those who identify as LGBTQ.

Key information

• Maternity Cover 1 year from July 2026
• Location - remote contract with occasional travel
• £40 – 45K depending on experience
• An enhanced DBS check is required for this role.

Applications

Please send a CV and letter of application, outlining your motivation for applying and the skills you offer, to Satwinder Sandhu (CEO) by 5pm on Friday 8th May 2026.

Both Satwinder (CEO) and Alice (Director of Strategy and Policy) are happy to have an informal chat about the role. Please email to arrange a convenient time to speak.

Initial online interviews via Microsoft Teams will be on Monday 18th and Tuesday 19th May, with final in-person interviews scheduled for Thursday 28th May 2026 in London. Please let us know whether you cannot make any of these dates in your application.

Shine supports a community of over 15,000 members living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus, including 5,000 children and young people (0–25).

You will be delivering high-quality support and creating opportunities for children and young people living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus and their families/carers. Supporting Shine members to lead healthy, independent, and fulfilling lives by improving condition management and fostering connections within the Shine community. 

This role will focus on children and young people (0–25), you will be primarily working within the Children, Young People and Families team. However, there will be occasions when you will work across age groups to ensure the best outcomes for our members. 

The role is home-based but you will be required to attend regular clinics in London including GOSH (Great Ormond Street Hospital). Other travel across Southern England including Bristol, Devon and Hampshire may be required. There will be occasional travel required across wider areas and nationally including attendance at events, conferences and meetings at our head office in Peterborough. 

Benefits: 

• Competitive salary: Review due April 2027 

• Regular working hours, and no shift work (some very occasional weekends or evenings)   

• 3% pension contribution 

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with additional discretionary leave between Christmas and New Year 

• Additional annual leave awarded for ‘long service’ 

• Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave 

• Broadband allowance for home-based roles 

• Life insurance after 12 months’ employment   

• Access to our Employee Support Programme and Mental Health First Aiders  

• Support to learn and develop  

How to apply  

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

If you would like to discuss the role please email Gill Valentine, Deputy CEO, to arrange a convenient time for a call.  

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

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

We understand that you may wish to use AI tools to help you with some aspects of your application, but we do expect tailored applications which are personalised to your experiences and not generic applications which are completely AI generated. We encourage candidates to be transparent about AI usage in their applications.  

Closing date:  Monday 17th May 2026 at 11pm  

Interviews:  Tuesday 26th May 2026  (Virtual) 

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

Please see full details on the Job Description and Person Specification document below and on our website.

Interim CEO

6 Months Fixed Term Contract (Maternity Cover)

This post is restricted to women under schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010

Candidate Pack

Dear Candidate,

Thank you for your interest in the role of Interim CEO for Kent Sexual Assault & Abuse Service (KSAAS). This is a 6-month fixed term post to cover maternity leave.

KSAAS (formerly East Kent Rape Crisis Centre) has offered sexual violence services in East Kent since 1993 and we offer ongoing practical support and therapeutic services for survivors who have experienced any form of sexual violence at any time in their lives of in Kent & Medway .  KSAAS holds UKAS accreditation through The Survivors Trust and is Professionally Approved By Rape Crisis England & Wales, demonstrating the consistent, high-quality services that we offer to our survivors.

KSAAS operates Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVA) services and joint ISVA and Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVA) services for those experiencing sexual violence alongside domestic abuse.  We also offer trauma focused therapeutic counselling services for children, adolescents and adults and these services are accessible through various hubs across Kent & Medway. Peer support groups and family advocacy services are available to support families when there has been an occurrence of sexual abuse experienced by one or more family members and our services are supported and informed by the ‘Kick Back’ group,  who are survivors of sexual violence who offer help, support and advice to other survivors and inform our service development.  We also have a range of volunteers who support us with various aspects of the service provision. 

In addition to providing support and therapeutic services, a key function of the organisation is to robustly challenge the societal values, beliefs and behaviour which contribute to sexual violence, through proactive projects that aim to raise awareness, delivery of information sessions in educational institutions, delivery of NOCN accredited Rape and Sexual Abuse training, ongoing activism, challenging attitudes we encounter as part of our work with survivors, focused campaigns and participation in research focused on sexual violence.

In the last year, we worked with > 6000 survivors in our face-to-face services and specialist sexual violence Helpline service and in April 2026 we extended our provision and scope and have been commissioned to be the main provider of ISVA and Therapeutic Support services across Kent & Medway, funded by the Police & Crime Commissioner.

We are looking for an inspiring, motivated and innovative woman who is driven by feminist values to be the figurehead of our organisation, providing empowering leadership to the team, strategic oversight of the organisation and to ensure an outstanding service for all survivors of sexual violence. Note that this post is restricted to women under Schedule 9, Part 1, of the Equality Act 2010.

Shauna McCusker

Chair of Trustees

Kent Sexual Assault & Abuse Service

Role Details

Salary:

£50,000 (Pro Rata), 0.8 FTE Contract

Base:

Canterbury (Travel to Other Sites Will Be Required)

Contract:

0.8 FTE (30 Hours Per Week): 6 Months Fixed Term Contract On Occasion This Will Include Out Of Hours Meetings

Benefits:

3% Pension Contribution

Employee Discounts Scheme

28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata)

Employee Assistance Programme

Flexible Working Negotiable

Requirements:

Right to work in the UK

An enhanced DBS Check (Carried out through KSAAS) Full UK Driving Licence & Use of Own Car

Responsible To: Chair of Trustees

Main Purpose of The Role

The CEO is the figurehead of KSAAS and has overall responsibility for the management and performance of the service and strategic development and growth of KSAAS in collaboration with the core team, key stakeholders, Board of Trustees and survivors.  The overarching duties and responsibilities of the CEO is responsible for the following:

• Strategic feminist leadership of the organisation & staff

• Management of human resources and physical estate

• Direct and manage fundraising & finances

• Act as the primary public representative locally, regionally and nationally.

• Advocate for survivors of sexual assault or abuse and challenge societal attitudes that perpetuate sexual violence

• Line management of management team

• Working collaboratively with the Board of Trustees

At KSAAS, the CEO is supported by the ISVA Service Lead, the Therapeutic Service Lead, the Operations Manager, the Finance Manager and Board of Trustees.

About KSAAS

Kent Sexual Assault & Abuse Service is a feminist organisation that firmly believes that sexual violence against women and girls arises from the patriarchal social structure in our society.  We believe this social structure causes and propagates gender inequality and that sexual violence is one tool that is used to control women and girls as part of this social dynamic.  We recognise the sexual violence affects people of all genders and provides a safe space for all survivors of sexual violence across Kent & Medway, where they can access the high-quality trauma-informed specialist practical and therapeutic support they need to recover from the impact of sexual violence and rebuild their lives.

Our Vision

KSAAS’s vision is to create a community where everyone is free from all forms of sexual violence and to achieve this within a feminist, equalities and human rights framework. We aim to provide help, hope and healing to all those impacted by sexual violence and cultivate a safe, non-violent community. 

Our Mission

It is our mission to:

• Respond to and promote the needs of those who have suffered sexual violence through the empowerment feminist model of work

• Reduce the impact of sexual violence by supporting, educating, informing and advocating for all survivors

• Challenge oppression in all forms

• Challenge societal attitudes that condone and collude with sexual violence

Job Title: Chief Executive Officer Responsible To: Board of Trustees

Main Responsibilities of Post:

Strategic Leadership

• Develop an in-depth understanding of the issues faced by women and girls who are subjected violence and the staff who support them within the service

• Develop an in-depth understanding of local, regional and national agendas regarding sexual violence against women and girls within the service

• Review the aims, vision and mission of the organisation in collaboration with our survivors, staff, board of trustees, business partners & umbrella organisations

• Work collaboratively with the board of trustees, business partners, staff and service users to develop evidence based strategic priorities for the service and a rigorous business plan that addresses key priorities

• Lead, motivate and encourage the KSAAS staff team to provide excellent services in support of the strategic plan

• Be the leading voice of KSAAS locally, regionally and nationally, ensuring that KSAAS and its mission, campaigns, and services are consistently presented in a strong, positive image for the benefit of survivors of sexual assault and abuse.

• Consult widely and draw on expertise within the organisation and externally to KSAAS for the visioning of evidence based and innovative sexual violence services for children, young people and adults across Kent & Medway

Finance and Funding

• Manage the KSAAS fundraising strategy in collaboration with the management team and board of trustees

• Oversee fundraisers to identify, diversify and secure fundraising opportunities to ensure the financial health of the organisation

• Sit on the finance committee to ensure effective financial management and reporting

• Manage relationships with key funders and ensure that all contractual obligations to funders are met

• Provide effective oversight and reporting of the finances and budgets to the board of trustees and funders and ensure the financial sustainability of theorganisation

Partnership and Communication

• Represent the voices of survivors of sexual violence at key strategic meetings

• Ensure effective communication of information from KSAAS to all key internal and external partners

• Develop and broker regional and local partnerships to ensure KSAAS pushes boundaries, maintains excellent working partnerships and ultimately improves services for victims of sexual violence and abuse in Kent

• Promote public awareness about sexual violence through social media and deliver talks and presentations and broadcasts as necessary.

• Keep up to date and informed about local, regional and national agendas, ensuring that KSAAS can respond to trends effectively as they emerge.

• Maintain a high quality collaborative working partnership with Rape Crisis England and Wales and work with other rape crisis centres as necessary.

• To be an effective public speaker with the ability to influence.

Management, Resources and Policy

• Empower staff within the organisation through proactive and inspiring line management processes, catering for diversity through a range of different approaches.

• Develop the leadership team within KSAAS and work collaboratively with them to meet the vision and mission of the service.

• Have overall responsibility for the fair recruitment, management and development of employees and volunteers and the effective management of external contractors and service providers.

• Be the key point of contact for our Human Resources Provider and ensure that all policies and procedures are up to date and appropriately communicated and implemented throughout KSAAS.

• Ensure effective monitoring and evaluation systems are in place that reflect best practice across all aspects of the organisation’s operation enabling review and development ofservices.

Legality and Governance

• Accountable for organisational compliance with general legal obligations, Charity Commission regulations,  membership obligations & safeguarding responsibilities.

• Responsible for keeping the Board of Trustees up to date with accurate information to enable them to fulfil their roles.

• Provision of appropriate and timely reports to the Board ofTrustees.

• Responsible for ensuring the health and safety of all staff, volunteers and service users within KSAAS.

• Engage with own line management, supervision, training, personal development & wellbeing, using opportunities provided by KSAAS to do so.

• To carry out any further work that is reasonably in line with thisposition.

To be eligible for this role, you need to evidence the following knowledge, skills and experience, at least in part:

• A successful track record of leadership within an organisation of comparable complexity or across a significant area of work, including strategic, financial and operational planning.

• Experience of successful financial management of a complex budget and oversight of income generation from a variety of sources.

• A track record of successfully managing and leading people who work across a range of sites and an understanding of the challenges faced by staff working with sexual violence survivors

• Ability to think innovatively, take measured risks and manage an organisation and staff through period of significant change

• Experience of developing & maintaining effective networks with local government, statutory and other voluntary organisations.

• Experience of successful partnership working, such as developing and maintaining relationships with a range of organisations and funders.

• Experience at senior level of successful financial management, including responsibility for significant complex budgets.

• Experience of working with a variety of media to successfully promote an organisation or issue.

• An understanding of the gendered nature of sexual violence and abuse, its causes and consequences and commitment to challenging injustice, violence and abuse, stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination and bias in a non-confrontational way, aligned to the values of the organisation.

• Experience of managing support services and a clear understanding of trauma and vicarious trauma and appropriate wellbeing strategies.

• Sound knowledge of the charitable sector and working collaboratively with a Board of Trustees

• An understanding of trauma informed care / service provision and the challenges associated with such services

• Excellent communication skills and experience of communicating complex information in a range of ways to a range of audiences

• Excellent organisational skills and an ability to prioritise and manage competing demands

• Commitment to self-development, self-reflection and personal wellbeing

• Able to travel & work between sites across Kent when needed

• Formal qualifications, such as university level qualifications, professional qualifications, therapeutic qualifications and / or leadership / management / coaching qualifications would be an advantage.

• Able to work independently, in close teams and across services

• Demonstrates resilience, courage and bravery when facing challenges • Demonstrates excellent communication skills and public presentation skills

• Excellent organisational and time management skills.

How To Apply

KSAAS values diversity and welcomes applications from people from all sections of the community, especially from minoritised groups. To apply for this role, please email a detailed CV along with a supporting statement to the Chair of Trustees Shauna McCusker. The deadline for applications is midnight on Sunday 3rd May 2026. The supporting statement should demonstrate how you meet the candidate profile and should be no more the 4 A4 pages. All applications will be acknowledged and responded to by 2pm on Mon 4th May 2026 and interviews will take place on Wednesday 6th May 2026 in person in Canterbury (reasonable adjustments can be made on request). If you have any questions or require support with any part of the process, please contact Shauna McCusker. We value every application, thank you for your time, effort and interest. Good luck.

Barnardo's is seeking an empathetic and child led individual who can work within a dynamic and fast-paced environment using their strong organisational, communication and time management skills to support children in the secure estate.

This part-time position (Independent Children's Rights and Advocacy Worker – Project Worker 2) is based within HMYOI Parc, which accommodates children aged between 15-18 years, who are in custody, either sentenced or on remand.  Barnardo's refers to Young Offender Institutions (YOI) and Secure Training Centres (STC) as the ‘Secure Estate'.

Barnardo's is commissioned by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) to provide an Independent Children's Rights and Advocacy (ICRAS) Service to children accommodated in a secure setting. The service is known to children as Barnardo's: Your Rights, Your Voice, and currently works within  four Young Offender Institutes and  one Secure Training Centre. The ICRAS service is child led and independent of the secure estate; our service is delivered within HMYOI Parc to ensure children can freely access support for a range of issues linked to their needs, rights & experiences of custody, resettlement, and safeguarding.  As such this is a child-facing service, and at times involves lone working in the establishments, so we are seeking someone who can see the child, not the offence.

We hold ‘voice' at the heart of all we do, therefore we feel the role is best described by someone who is currently working in this sector: “The role is an Independent Children's Rights and Advocacy role, which means it is our job to empower the children we work with and help them to understand that what they think, what they feel and what they want, really matters. We can speak on behalf of children to ensure their voice is heard and we also have the opportunity to help them to find the tools and confidence to raise their voices for themselves.  Advocacy and Children's Rights support is particularly crucial in the secure estate because children are away from home, family and natural advocates, and also because children in secure estate are some of the most vulnerable children in society; they have often faced considerable adversity, disadvantage and discrimination prior to arriving into custody and they might not, therefore, be equipped with the skills needed to articulate their concerns. Through the work you do with a child such as  simply helping them make contact with friends or family on the outside, to helping them with concerns they may have in relation todiscrimination, resettlement or safeguarding issues, you  may be the one person telling them that  they matter for the very first time.”

The position (Independent Children's Rights and Advocacy Worker – Project Worker 2) is line managed by a Team Manager, reporting to an off-site manager. The post holder will need to be able to work autonomously, working to the requirements of the contract and the regime of the YOI. The secure estate is a highly structured environment; as a Barnardo's service we deliver independent advocacy and support for a range of issues, whilst still having to follow and adhere to this structure.

This role includes lone working in this challenging secure environment. It is, therefore, critical that the successful candidate can follow guidance and policy and is able to take proactive and individual responsibility to understand and access the service support mechanisms.  This role requires the worker to be onsite for their contracted hours, working remotely only for occasional training or meetings. The advocacy team work on a rota system with set hours each week, which includes weekends and bank holidays. Applicants should also be aware, that due to the nature of working within secure estate, the vetting and induction process can take several months to complete.

When completing your application please refer to your skills, knowledge and experience in relation to the Additional Information, Person Specification and Job Description document. This should be done with an understanding of the context of the service described, including advocacy and safeguarding.  

This is a part-time vacancy with 18.5 hours available per week.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date. We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

Barnardo's is seeking an empathetic and child led individual who can work within a dynamic and fast-paced environment using their strong organisational, communication and time management skills to support children in the secure estate.

This part-time position (Independent Children's Rights and Advocacy Worker – Project Worker 2) is based within HMYOI Werrington, which accommodates children aged between 15-18 years, who are in custody, either sentenced or on remand.  Barnardo's refers to Young Offender Institutions (YOI) and Secure Training Centres (STC) as the ‘Secure Estate'.

Barnardo's is commissioned by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) to provide an Independent Children's Rights and Advocacy (ICRAS) Service to children accommodated in a secure setting. The service is known to children as Barnardo's: Your Rights, Your Voice, and currently works within  four Young Offender Institutes,  one Secure Training Centre.  The ICRAS service is child led and independent of the secure estate; our service is delivered within HMYOI Werrington to ensure children can freely access support for a range of issues linked to their needs, rights & experiences of custody, resettlement, and safeguarding.  As such this is a child-facing service, and at times involves lone working in the establishments, so we are seeking someone who can see the child, not the offence.

We hold ‘voice' at the heart of all we do, therefore we feel the role is best described by someone who is currently working in this sector: “The role is a Children's Rights and Advocacy role, which means it is our job to empower the children we work with and help them to understand that what they think, what they feel and what they want, really matters. We can speak on behalf of children to ensure their voice is heard and we also have the opportunity to help them to find the tools and confidence to raise their voices for themselves.  Advocacy and Children's Rights support is particularly crucial in the secure estate because children are away from home, family and natural advocates, and also because children in secure estate are some of the most vulnerable children in society; they have often faced considerable adversity, disadvantage and discrimination prior to arriving into custody and they might not, therefore, be equipped with the skills needed to articulate their concerns. Through the work you do with a child such as  simply helping them make contact with friends or family on the outside, to helping them with concerns they may have in relation todiscrimination, resettlement or safeguarding issues, you  may be the one person telling them that  they matter for the very first time.”

The position (Independant Children's Rights and Advocacy Worker – Project Worker 2) is line managed by a Team Manager, reporting to an off-site manager. The post holder will need to be able to work autonomously, working to the requirements of the contract and the regime of the establishment. The secure estate is a highly structured environment; as a Barnardo's service we deliver independent advocacy and support for a range of issues, whilst still having to follow and adhere to this structure.

This role includes lone working in this challenging secure environment. It is, therefore, critical that the successful candidate can follow guidance and policy and is able to take proactive and individual responsibility to understand and access the service support mechanisms.  This role requires the worker to be onsite for their contracted hours, working remotely only for occasional training or meetings. The advocacy team work on a rota system with set hours each week, which includes weekends and bank holidays. Applicants should also be aware, that due to the nature of working within the secure estate, the vetting and induction process can take several months to complete.

When completing your application please refer to your skills, knowledge and experience in relation to the Additional Information, Person Specification and Job Description document. This should be done with an understanding of the context of the service described, including advocacy and safeguarding.  

This is a part-time vacancy with 18.5 hours available per week.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date. We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

Barnardo's is seeking an empathetic and child led individual who can work within a dynamic and fast-paced environment using their strong organisational, communication and time management skills to support children in the secure estate.

This part-time position (Children's Rights and Advocacy Worker – Project Worker 2) is based within Oakhill Secure Training Centre, which accommodates children aged between 12-18 years, who are in custody, either sentenced or on remand.  Barnardo's refers to Young Offender Institutions (YOI) and Secure Training Centres (STC) as the ‘Secure Estate'.

Barnardo's is commissioned by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) to provide an Independent Children's Rights and Advocacy (ICRAS) Service to children accommodated in a secure setting. The service is known to children as Barnardo's: Your Rights, Your Voice, and currently works within  four Young Offender Institutes,  one Secure Training Centre and one  Secure Children's home. The ICRAS service is child led and independent of the secure estate; our service is delivered within Oakhill STC to ensure children can freely access support for a range of issues linked to their needs, rights & experiences of custody, resettlement, and safeguarding.  As such this is a child-facing service, and at times involves lone working in the establishments, so we are seeking someone who can see the child, not the offence.

We hold ‘voice' at the heart of all we do, therefore we feel the role is best described by someone who is currently working in this sector: “The role is a Children's Rights and Advocacy role, which means it is our job to empower the children we work with and help them to understand that what they think, what they feel and what they want, really matters. We can speak on behalf of children to ensure their voice is heard and we also have the opportunity to help them to find the tools and confidence to raise their voices for themselves.  Advocacy and Children's Rights support is particularly crucial in the secure estate because children are away from home, family and champions, and also because children in secure estate are some of the most vulnerable children in society; they have often faced considerable adversity, disadvantage and discrimination prior to arriving into custody and they might not, therefore, be equipped with the skills needed to articulate their concerns. Through the work you do with a child such as  simply helping them make contact with friends or family on the outside, to helping them with concerns they may have in relation todiscrimination, resettlement or safeguarding issues, you  may be the one person telling them that  they matter for the very first time.”

The position (Children's Rights and Advocacy Worker – Project Worker 2) is line managed by a Team Manager, reporting to an off-site manager. The post holder will need to be able to work autonomously, working to the requirements of the contract and the regime of the STC. The secure estate is a highly structured environment; as a Barnardo's service we deliver independent advocacy and support for a range of issues, whilst still having to follow and adhere to this structure.

This role includes lone working in this challenging secure environment. It is, therefore, critical that the successful candidate can follow guidance and policy and is able to take proactive and individual responsibility to understand and access the service support mechanisms.  This role requires the worker to be onsite for their contracted hours, working remotely only for occasional training or meetings. The advocacy team work on a rota system with set hours each week, which includes weekends and bank holidays. Applicants should also be aware, that due to the nature of working within secure estate, the vetting and induction process can take several months to complete.

When completing your application please refer to your skills, knowledge and experience in relation to the Additional Information, Person Specification and Job Description document. This should be done with an understanding of the context of the service described, including advocacy and safeguarding.  

This is a part-time vacancy with 25.5 hours available per week.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date. We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

Pay & Reward Framework

We know that our colleagues go above and beyond in delivering our vital work, driven by their passion and commitment to Barnardo's values.  We also know that we can only realise our ambitions and achieve better outcomes for more children, thanks to the talent, hard work and creativity of our people. 

For all these reasons, we are committed to a new approach to pay and reward, to ensure it is fair, attractive and progressive, which was rolled out in April 2023. This is a positive change for the charity, and a part of our People & Culture Strategy. It will assist us in supporting colleagues to belong, thrive and grow in their colleague journey at Barnardo's and in time will offer clear routes of progression for colleagues in both their career and their pay. 

Whilst the full pay band and salary range is advertised, our approach to starting salaries is to appoint between the minimum to mid-point of the pay band – this ensures that pay steps are available to reward our colleagues annually based on their contribution to excellence and alignment to our values and behaviours.  More details on Barnardo's pay framework can be found upon application. 

Location: MSSC National Support Centre, London SE1 7JY (Hybrid)

Contract: Full-time, permanent

Salary: £49,000 gross per annum

Closing Date: 3 May 2026

Are you a Safeguarding Manager looking for a new opportunity?

The Marine Society & Sea Cadets (MSSC) is the leading maritime charity for youth development and lifelong learning. We are a vibrant and growing charity inspiring young people to achieve their potential through challenge and nautical adventure, while also enabling seafarers and maritime professionals to realise their potential through learning and career development.

Thousands of young people take part in Sea Cadets activity every week. We want to reach thousands more. We have a strong vision and are on the cusp of rolling out a new multi-year growth strategy to meet the growing demand for what we provide for young people. We aim to equip them to achieve their potential and thrive in a rapidly changing world. We are immensely proud of the breadth, quality and safety of activities we offer to young people.

We are currently looking for a Safeguarding Manager to join our team.

About the role

We are currently seeking to appoint a Safeguarding Manager who will be responsible for overseeing the day to day operational safeguarding functions for our charity. You will manage a team of Safeguarding Officers to ensure that an effective and robust safeguarding service is provided.  The post holder will provide professional advice and support on safeguarding matters to staff and volunteers, as well as liaising and meeting with external bodies, and occasionally delivering training.

You will have experience of the voluntary youth or community sector as a direct practitioner, and knowledge of Early Help and statutory guidance relating to safeguarding children and adults at risk. You will also have experience of managing a team where safeguarding is the main focus area of your work. 

Our safeguarding team operates centrally in London where we are responsible for providing support, advice and guidance to our volunteers relating on all safeguarding matters across the UK. Our Safeguarding Officers act as our lead professionals in managing safeguarding casework in line with our policy, procedures, national guidance and in line with our statutory duty.

Whilst this is a Monday- Friday full time position, a flexible approach to work and working patterns is a must, as is the ability to work effectively and respond appropriately in challenging circumstances.

Responsibilities

· Operational delivery

· Line management of the Safeguarding team

· Service development

Requirements

· A relevant professional qualification for example: Youth Work, Education, Early Years or demonstrable equivalent work experience.

· Detailed understanding of Early Help and legislation affecting safeguarding, regulatory requirements and best practice in relation to youth participation and inclusion.

· Knowledge and understanding of current issues and trends in safeguarding, child protection and work with children and young people.

· Management experience including responsibility for managing safeguarding, child protection, review or risk assessment and complaints and being the key decision maker.

· Experience of managing a team with an understanding of the impact and issues involved in safeguarding and child protection.

For further information, please download the Recruitment Pack. If you are interested in this role, please apply now!

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata for part time employees, increasing with length of service
• Hybrid working for many roles
• Volunteering Leave
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• Private medical insurance
• Generous pension (employer contribution up to 10%)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Access to the Marine Society Digital Library
• Wellbeing portal and EAP with 121 counselling
• Employee development: We are investing in our employees' development and have an annual calendar of learning and development opportunities, designed to support employees to develop into their roles and stretch them to achieve their full potential.

Additional Information

MSSC positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates from all backgrounds. Equity, diversity, and inclusion really matters to us, so we can best serve our beneficiaries from every community. We work to ensure a fair and consistent recruitment process and aim to be a charity where diversity of experience, identity and skills are valued and welcomed. MSSC is an equal opportunities employer.

We recognise our responsibilities to safeguard and protect the young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We do all we can to promote their health, safety and wellbeing, and we expect our staff to share this commitment and work in line with safeguarding policy, the MSSC’s values and ethos of inclusivity. We adhere to safer recruitment practices and therefore employment is subject to detailed pre-employment checks for successful candidates, including references and criminal disclosure checks and the completion of a disclosure questionnaire.

All successful applicants are required to attend safeguarding training and undergo pre-employment checks including a criminal record check.