35 Children advocate jobs in Manchester

About us

The Alliance for Youth Justice is an alliance of more than 70 non-profit organisations advocating with and for children to drive positive change in youth justice across England and Wales. We mobilise our members’ frontline expertise, children’s lived experience, and evidence from research to champion a child-centred, rights-based and trauma-informed system that treats contact with the justice system as a sign of unmet need and systemic failure, prioritises support over criminalisation and gives every child the opportunity to thrive.

We're widely recognised as the most influential group campaigning for improvements to the system, with trusted access to decision makers, working towards three goals: keeping children safe from the youth justice system through prevention and diversion; racial justice across the system; and custody as a last resort for children.

About the role

Following the launch of our new strategic approach, our Operations and Membership Lead will provide the operational, financial and administrative backbone of the organisation — keeping our finances and governance on track, and coordinating our network of over 70 member organisations.

Finance, operations and governance (70%) — manage bookkeeping in QuickBooks, coordinate banking, prepare management accounts, support grant financial reporting, maintain internal systems (SharePoint, IT), lead on policy compliance (safeguarding, GDPR, health and safety), and support Board governance and statutory filings.

Membership coordination (30%) — manage the end-to-end membership process from enquiries to renewals, coordinate member surveys and data, and organise our events — quarterly member meetings, roundtables and webinars.

Anti-racist, anti-oppressive practice runs through how we work with our Board, staff, members and stakeholders.

About you

You have experience in an operations, finance or administrative coordination role within a non-profit or membership organisation, including managing the full financial cycle within a charity and a working knowledge of charity fund accounting. You're practically experienced with QuickBooks (or equivalent), highly proficient in Microsoft 365, SharePoint and Excel-based tracking systems or CRMs, and bring exceptional organisational skills, discretion and a proactive, self-motivated approach. You have a personal commitment to anti-racism, social justice and child rights.

Why join us

We're a small team of three punching well above our weight, with real scope to shape how we work and few layers of hierarchy. We offer flexible, trust-based home working (within core hours), plus 25 days' leave (pro rata), Christmas office closure, and a 5% employer pension contribution.

We encourage applications from historically marginalised groups even if you don't meet every requirement, and we do not use criminal records to exclude candidates.

Please download the reruitment pack to find out more and read the full job description and person specification.

Do you believe that all children should receive consistently high-quality care in environments that strive to improve outcomes for each child?  Do you have experience in social work, education, inspection, advocacy or residential childcare management?

Then we have an exciting opportunity for a professional like you.

The Vacancy

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Independent Visitor & Quality Assurance Officer to join NYAS Independent Monitoring Service.

This is a full-time permanent role, working 35 hours in the North West and/or North East region. 

As an Independent Visitor & Quality Assurance Officer you will be required to complete statutory and non-statutory independent allocated visits within prescribed timescales and to quality assure reports submitted by other members of the team.

The purpose of this role is to ensure that judgements are consistent with evidence provided and that the feedback given is an element of continuous improvement.

While the role is home-based, there will be occasions where travel is required, including working on public transport.

About You

We are looking for a self-starter who prides themselves in professionalism and accuracy. You must have a relevant professional qualification and proven extensive experience in working with children and young people or adults at risk in a social care setting.

For more information, please view the attached job description.

In your application, you will need to evidence, using specific examples, how your skills and experience meet the criteria laid out in the person specification, within the job description attached. Requirements include:

• Professional qualification in a relevant field.
• Proven extensive experience in working with children and young people or adults at risk in a social care setting.
• Experience and an understanding of child and adult safeguarding procedures.
• Experience of quality assuring reports for regulatory bodies.
• Ability to analyse a range of information to assess effective evidence-based judgements of reports.
• Proven experience of using QA to improve report writing.
• Ability to communicate effectively and to a high standard both orally and in writing to a wide range of people.

NYAS operates robust safe procedures to ensure the protection of the children, young people and adults at risk we work with. To comply with NYAS’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, references, Digital Risk Assessment and Right to Work check.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early once we receive a high number of applications.

In accordance with UK immigration law, NYAS is required to ensure that all prospective candidates have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom. Therefore, proof of eligibility to work in the UK will be required as part of the recruitment process.

About NYAS

As an established leading rights-based charity, NYAS (National Youth Advocacy Service) is well positioned to ensure that children, young people, and adults across England and Wales are fully respected, represented, and supported in expressing their views and having their rights upheld.

We work with care-experienced children, young people, and adults who are often reliant on statutory services suffering the negative impact of the cuts in public expenditure. Our combination of social care and legal services places us in a unique position to ensure that they receive the services they need and that their voices are heard.

We are an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment which means NYAS welcomes applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, nationality, religion or belief, or any other protected characteristic.

 NYAS is proud to share that we are a Disability Confident Employer and we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for our vacancies.

Work with us to help change young lives.

Do you believe that all children should receive consistently high-quality care in environments that strive to improve outcomes for each child?  Do you have experience in social work, education, inspection, advocacy or residential childcare management?

Then we have an exciting opportunity for a professional like you.

The Vacancy

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Independent Visitor to join NYAS Independent Monitoring Service.

This is a full-time permanent role, working 35 hours per week across Scotland.

As an Independent Visitor you will be required to complete and report on settings via independent visits

The purpose of this role is to ensure that judgements are consistent with evidence provided and that the feedback given is an element of continuous improvement.

While the role is home-based, where travel is required, it may include public transport.

About You

We are looking for a self-starter who prides themselves in professionalism and accuracy. You must have a relevant professional qualification and proven extensive experience in working with children and young people or adults at risk in a social care setting.

For more information, please view the attached job description. 

In your application, you will need to evidence, using specific examples, how your skills and experience meet the criteria laid out in the person specification, within the job description attached. Requirements include:

• Professional qualification in a relevant field.
• Proven extensive experience in working with children and young people or adults at risk in a social care setting.
• Experience and an understanding of child and adult safeguarding procedures.
• Experience of quality assuring reports for regulatory bodies.
• Ability to analyse a range of information to assess effective evidence-based judgements of reports.
• Proven experience of using QA to improve report writing.
• Ability to communicate effectively and to a high standard both orally and in writing to a wide range of people.

Please note that as this role is based in Scotland, Scottish bank holidays will apply.

NYAS operates robust safe procedures to ensure the protection of the children, young people and adults at risk we work with. To comply with NYAS’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, references, Digital Risk Assessment and Right to Work check.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early once we receive a high number of applications.

In accordance with UK immigration law, NYAS is required to ensure that all prospective candidates have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom. Therefore, proof of eligibility to work in the UK will be required as part of the recruitment process.

About NYAS

As an established leading rights-based charity, NYAS (National Youth Advocacy Service) is well positioned to ensure that children, young people, and adults across England and Wales are fully respected, represented, and supported in expressing their views and having their rights upheld.

We work with care-experienced children, young people, and adults who are often reliant on statutory services suffering the negative impact of the cuts in public expenditure. Our combination of social care and legal services places us in a unique position to ensure that they receive the services they need and that their voices are heard.

We are an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment which means NYAS welcomes applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, nationality, religion or belief, or any other protected characteristic.

 NYAS is proud to share that we are a Disability Confident Employer and we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for our vacancies.

Work with us to help change young lives.

Could you be the next Chief Officer of Just Drop-In?

We're looking for an inspiring, values-driven leader to guide our much-loved charity in Macclesfield into its next chapter.

For 25 years, Just Drop-In has been a lifeline for young people 11–24yrs old across the north of Cheshire East. Every year, we support more than 1,000 children and young people through our Counselling, Mentoring, Wellbeing, and Parent Support Services — and the need has never been greater.

We're looking for someone who brings:

✅ Strong leadership experience

✅ Business awareness

✅ Safeguarding knowledge and experience

✅ Experience of working with children and young people and a genuine passion for helping them thrive

This is a rare opportunity to lead an organisation with deep roots in its community and a team that truly believes in its mission.

If this sounds like you — or someone you know — we'd love to hear from you.

Please see further information and how to apply by downloading the attached document or clicking redirect to recruiter. 

#Hiring #ChiefOfficer #Charity #YouthWork #Macclesfield #NonProfit #Leadership #JobOpportunity

Empower Women. Change Lives. Make a Difference.

Warrington Women’s Aid is looking for a passionate, resilient, and trauma-informed Complex Domestic Abuse Support Worker to join our dedicated team supporting women and children affected by domestic abuse.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a vital role in helping women with complex and multiple needs to achieve safety, recovery, and independence. You will provide intensive support to women experiencing domestic abuse who may also be facing challenges relating to mental health, substance misuse, learning disabilities, neurodiversity, physical disabilities, and other intersecting needs. You will be joining an amazing team who make a difference to women's lives every day!

About Us

At Warrington Women’s Aid, we believe every woman has the right to live free from abuse. We provide specialist, trauma-informed support that empowers women and children to rebuild their lives with dignity, confidence, and hope. Our work is guided by the values of empowerment, safety, respect, inclusion, and collaboration.

The Role

You will hold a caseload of women living in refuge, in the community and/or moving on to independent accommodation. Working closely with colleagues and partner agencies, you will provide practical and emotional support, advocacy, safety planning, and crisis intervention, helping women navigate some of the most challenging periods of their lives.

Key responsibilities include:

• Delivering trauma-informed one-to-one support and safety planning.
• Supporting women with complex and intersecting needs.
• Advocating on behalf of women with housing, health, criminal justice, safeguarding, and social care services.
• Providing community outreach and resettlement support.
• Delivering workshops, drop-ins, and training sessions that build confidence and independence.
• Working collaboratively with partner agencies to achieve positive outcomes.
• Maintaining accurate case records, risk assessments, and outcome monitoring.
• Contributing to the ongoing development of our services.

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience supporting vulnerable women experiencing complex needs, including mental health challenges, substance misuse, learning disabilities, neurodiversity, or physical disabilities.
• Understands risk assessment, safeguarding, and trauma-informed practice.
• Can confidently manage a varied caseload and work effectively with multi-agency partners.
• Has excellent communication, record-keeping, and organisational skills.
• Is compassionate, adaptable, resilient, and committed to empowering women.

Lead Advocate- Cheshire West and Chester

Permanent with Funding until 31st March 2028

28 hours per week

£30,600 per annum FTE (£24,480 per annum pro rata for 28 hours per week).

Location: Office base: Wythenshawe, Manchester, with regular travel across Cheshire West and Chester and to out-of-area placements as required.

Benefits include but not limited to:

-36 days' annual leave [full time roles only], inclusive of flexible bank holidays, increasing with length of service

-Enhanced maternity/paternity leave

-We match up to 8% pension

-Free counselling service

-Opportunities to develop and widen your skills

-2 days of paid volunteering time per annum to support another part of the organisation

About us:The Children's Society has been helping children and young people in this country for over 140 years. We deliver essential local services that provide safe, trusted support to children and young people during times of significant need.

Our Youth Impact domain creates impact for children and young people. With highly skilled and experienced staff working across England and Wales, we provide direct support to children, young people, parents and carers, as well as conduct research and influence Government to make changes. We also provide training for professionals. Our value driven team change the lives of children in this country for the better — and with your help and expertise, tomorrow we can support even more.

About the role:

You'll play a key part in our Cheshire West and Chester Advocacy Service, delivering independent advocacy support to children and young people who are cared for by the local authority, subject to Child in Need and Child Protection Plans, children and young people with disabilities, and those requiring non-instructed advocacy.

We're looking for a dedicated and experienced Lead Advocate with the ability to manage a complex caseload whilst providing leadership, supervision and practice support to Advocates, making a real impact in the lives of children and young people.

Key skills and experience:

The required skills and competencies for this role are:

-Experience of advocating for children and young people and ensuring their voices, wishes and feelings are heard in decisions affecting their lives.

-Ability to supervise, coach and support colleagues whilst promoting high standards of safeguarding and advocacy practice.

-Experience of risk assessment, referral triage and partnership working with social care, education, health and other agencies.

It would also be an advantage if you have any of the following skills and competencies:

-Experience of working with children and young people who are cared for, subject to CIN or CP Plans, or have disabilities and additional needs.

-Experience of undertaking case audits, quality assurance activities or service improvement work.

-Knowledge of instructed and non-instructed advocacy approaches and children's rights legislation.

Closing date: Midnight on 21st SeptemberInterviews: To be confirmed

The Children's Society is committed to safeguarding and protection of the children and young people we work with. As such, our safer recruitment process includes a Basic or Enhanced DBS check, 5 years of references, and additional vetting checks relevant to the role. We have a comprehensive range of policies and procedures in place to promote safeguarding and safer working practices across all areas of our organisation.In support of our commitment to diversity and inclusion, shortlisting is carried out on an anonymised basis. Personal details are hidden from the shortlisting panel, and candidates are referenced by a candidate number only. As part of this process, we ask that your CV is anonymised before submission - this means removing personal information such as your name, contact details, age, and any other identifying details.

AI tools can support your application but only when used appropriately. You're welcome to use them to improve clarity, structure, and research. However, overuse or misuse (e.g. inventing experience or using AI during assessments) may lead to rejection at any stage. We want to hear the real you - authenticity matters.

IN1

Children’s Domestic Violence Advocate (CHIDVA) 

Women only occupational requirement: This role is restricted to women under Schedule 9 (Part 1) of the Equality Act 2010. The nature of the work involves providing support to women who have experienced domestic abuse, and Safenet considers it a genuine occupational requirement that the post-holder is a woman. 

About Safenet 
Safenet delivers domestic abuse services across the North West of England, including refuges for women and children, safe houses for men, and community-based support. We provide trauma-informed, survivor-led services and work with partners to help people stay safe and rebuild their lives. 

About the role 
We are looking for a compassionate, skilled and trauma-informed practitioner who can provide high-quality support to children and young people affected by domestic abuse. The successful candidate will have strong safeguarding knowledge, experience of working with children, young people and families, and the confidence to manage risk, complete assessments and work effectively with partner agencies. They will be child-centred, inclusive and reflective in their practice, with the ability to build trust, advocate for children’s voices and support safe, positive outcomes for children, young people and non-abusive parents/carers. 

As a Children’s Domestic Violence Advocate (CHIDVA), you will safeguard and support children and young people affected by domestic abuse across the Continuum of Need, including Child Protection. You will deliver child-centred 1:1 and group interventions, complete child-focused risk assessments and safety plans, and ensure children and young people’s voices shape the support they receive. Working with partner agencies (including through MARAC), you will contribute to coordinated responses that improve safety, wellbeing and long-term resilience. 

Key responsibilities 

• Provide emotional and practical support through 1:1 sessions and groupwork using trauma-informed approaches. 

• Complete child-focused risk assessments (including SafeLives DASH RIC) and contribute to dynamic safety planning. 

• Represent children and young people’s needs in MARAC and other multi-agency forums, ensuring their voice informs decisions. 

• Work with social care, education, health and criminal justice partners to coordinate support and reduce barriers to access. 

• Help children and young people understand the impact of abuse, build resilience and develop age-appropriate healthy relationships. 

• Work with non-abusive parents/carers to strengthen safe relationships, attachment and recovery. 

• Identify and act on safeguarding concerns, including self-harm or suicidal ideation, and refer via appropriate pathways. 

• Maintain accurate, confidential case records and monitoring information in line with organisational and funder requirements. 

• Model inclusive, culturally sensitive, anti-discriminatory and anti-racist practice in all work. 

What we’re looking for 

Essential 

• SafeLives CHIDVA qualification (or working towards) and/or a relevant children and young people qualification (or working towards). 

• Experience supporting children and young people affected by domestic abuse, trauma or adversity. 

• Experience managing a caseload and delivering consistent, high-quality support to children, young people and families. 

• Experience working in multi-agency settings (e.g., social care, education, health, criminal justice). 

• Strong safeguarding knowledge (including Children Acts 1989/2004 and Domestic Abuse Act 2021) and confidence escalating concerns. 

• Ability to build trust and communicate effectively with children/young people and professionals, adapting to age and need. 

• Strong record-keeping skills and a commitment to confidentiality and data protection. 

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, including anti-racist and intersectional practice. 

Desirable 

• Women’s Aid or Respect accredited training (e.g., DAPA) and/or Paladin Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworker (ISAC). 

• Level 4 Diploma in Domestic Abuse; DASH risk assessment; trauma-informed care training. 

• Experience supporting children and young people with complex needs (including self-harm or suicidal ideation) and knowledge of referral pathways. 

• Knowledge of culturally specific forms of abuse and barriers to access for ethnic minority and migrant survivors (e.g., HBV, FGM). 

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of adults, children and young people. Appointment will be subject to appropriate safer recruitment checks. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to inclusive, anti-discriminatory and anti-racist practice. 

Who we are

IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice) is a national charity working to ensure that children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive the educational support they are legally entitled to. Since we were formed in 1983, we have helped to improve the education experience of thousands of children and young people across England. We do this by providing free and independent legal advice and casework support for families, undertaking policy work and delivering training on the SEND legal framework.

What you’ll do

Reports to: Fundraising Manager

Location: Remote, with occasional travel for funder and staff meetings 4-5 times a year

We are looking for an experienced and motivated Trusts and Philanthropy Officer to join our small, ambitious fundraising team. IPSEA has a proven track record of successfully securing grants for core costs and projects. You will be responsible for researching new funding opportunities, preparing and submitting tailored applications and reports, and managing relationships with funders through thoughtful and timely stewardship. You will also have the opportunity to shape the early development of our strategies in major gifts and wider philanthropy and contribute to this work into the future.

This is a key role in IPSEA’s fundraising strategy and will help secure long-term financial sustainability for our services. 

If you share our commitment to protecting, promoting and upholding the rights of children and young people with SEND and would like to use your fundraising skills at IPSEA, we would love to hear from you. 

What we can offer you

• 5% employer pension contributions
• Healthcare cash plan
• Flexible working arrangements
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays plus an additional day off for your birthday (pro-rata if part-time).

To apply

Visit our website to download a recruitment pack and application form.

Deadline for applications: 9am on 5 October 2026.

First-round interviews: on 16 October in London, with second-round interviews (online) in the week commencing 19 October 2026.

NO AGENCIES PLEASE.

Change how the UK understands and supports bereaved children and families.

This is an exciting time to join Child Bereavement UK.

We are establishing a brand-new Research & Policy function and are looking for an ambitious Public Affairs Lead to help ensure the voices of bereaved children, young people and parents shape policy, practice and public understanding across the UK.

Working closely with the Head of Policy & Research, you will develop and deliver Child Bereavement UK's public affairs, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity, building relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians and sector leaders to drive meaningful change.

You will act as the bridge between research, lived experience and influence, translating evidence into compelling advocacy campaigns, stakeholder engagement opportunities and policy recommendations that make a difference.

This is a rare opportunity to help build a new function, shape our national influence, and ensure the experiences of bereaved children, young people and families are heard where it matters most.

While based remotely, this role has a strong external focus and requires regular travel to London to represent Child Bereavement UK, build key relationships and engage with policymakers, partners and sector networks.

Role Purpose

As Public Affairs Lead you will play a central role in ensuring the voices and experiences of bereaved children, young people, parents and families influence policy, practice and public understanding across the UK.

Working closely with the Head of Policy & Research, you will develop and deliver Child Bereavement UK's public affairs, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity, building relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, sector partners and influencers to drive meaningful change.

You will act as the bridge between research, policy and communications, helping to translate evidence and lived experience into compelling advocacy campaigns, stakeholder engagement opportunities and influencing activity.

Main Responsibilities

 Public Affairs & Policy Influence

· Develop and deliver public affairs plans that support Child Bereavement UK's strategic priorities and policy objectives.

· Use research, evaluation findings and lived experience evidence to identify policy gaps, develop influencing priorities and shape recommendations for decision-makers.

· Translate organisational evidence into clear policy asks and reform proposals for government, parliamentarians, public bodies and sector leaders.

· Identify opportunities to embed evidence and learning within national, regional and local policy frameworks, guidance and professional practice.

· Support the development of long-term influencing strategies that drive systemic change for bereaved children, young people and families.

· Build and maintain relationships with MPs, Peers, government officials, policymakers and key sector stakeholders.

· Coordinate engagement with relevant All-Party Parliamentary Groups, consultations, inquiries and policy forums.

· Support the development of policy briefings, consultation responses and evidence submissions.

· Organise parliamentary events, stakeholder roundtables and engagement opportunities that raise awareness of bereavement issues.

· Work with the Head of Voice & Participation to ensure the voices of bereaved children, young people and parents bereaved of a baby or child are represented at all stages of policy development.

 

Advocacy & Campaigns

· Lead the delivery of advocacy and influencing campaigns aligned to organisational priorities.

· Ensure advocacy campaigns are grounded in robust evidence, insight and lived experience, with clear objectives for policy and practice change.

· Work with the Head of Policy & Research to translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations.

· Develop stakeholder engagement plans that support campaign objectives.

· Build relationships with partner organisations, coalitions and networks to strengthen collective influence.

· Develop compelling narratives that connect research findings with real-world outcomes and policy solutions.

· Work with colleagues to identify tangible actions that policymakers, practitioners, employers, schools and communities can take in response to emerging evidence.

Stakeholder Engagement

· Develop and maintain stakeholder mapping and engagement plans.

· Build productive relationships with sector leaders, professional bodies, charities, academics and decision-makers.

· Coordinate engagement with strategic partners and external networks.

· Support senior leaders in stakeholder engagement activity through briefings, meeting preparation and follow-up actions.

Research Translation & Communications

· Develop evidence-informed policy asks, implementation recommendations and calls to action that support measurable change.

· Identify opportunities to move research and insight beyond publication and into policy development, service improvement and public discourse.

· Translate research, evidence and lived experience into compelling stakeholder communications.

· Produce parliamentary briefings, policy summaries, position statements and advocacy materials.

· Work closely with the Marketing & Communications team to ensure policy and research activity is effectively communicated to external audiences.

· Collaborate with the PR & Press Lead to identify opportunities to amplify policy and research messages through media and public engagement activity.

 

Monitoring, Evaluation & Insight

· Monitor and evaluate public affairs, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity.

· Track policy developments, stakeholder engagement outcomes and influencing opportunities.

· Produce reports demonstrating impact, engagement and progress against objectives.

· Maintain stakeholder databases and records to support organisational relationship management.

Person Specification

Essential

Experience & Knowledge

· Significant experience in public affairs, policy, advocacy, campaigns or stakeholder engagement.

· Experience building relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, public sector organisations or influential stakeholders.

· Understanding of UK political systems, parliamentary processes and policy development.

· Experience developing and delivering influencing or advocacy campaigns.

· Experience producing briefings, consultation responses or policy-focused communications.

· Understanding of how evidence and lived experience can be used to influence decision-making.

Skills

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

· Strong relationship-building and influencing abilities.

· Ability to communicate complex information clearly and persuasively.

· Excellent organisational and project management skills.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

· Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.

Personal Attributes

· Passionate about improving outcomes for bereaved children, young people and parents bereaved of a baby or child.

· Collaborative and relationship-focused.

· Compassionate and emotionally intelligent.

· Proactive, resilient and self-motivated.

· Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and trauma-informed practice.

Desirable

· Passionate about improving outcomes for bereaved children, young people and parents

· Experience within the charity, health, social care or education sectors.

· Knowledge of bereavement, grief, loss or trauma-informed services.

· Experience working with All-Party Parliamentary Groups or parliamentary engagement activity.

· Experience working with research and evidence-based policy development.

· Experience working with lived-experience contributors and ambassadors.

· Understanding of campaigning, coalition building and systems change approach

Recruitment Timetable

Application deadline: 17th September 2026 at midnight

Interview dates: 29th and 30th September on MS Teams

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications for the role before the closing date.

Hours: 30–35 hours per week
Location: Home-based*
Reporting to: CEO

*This is a home-based role. However, the successful candidate will need to be based within reasonable travelling distance of London and our programme activity, with the ability to travel to meetings and visits within a day where required. We therefore anticipate that applicants based in Scotland, Ireland, West Wales or the far South West may find the role impractical.

This position is being re-advertised; previous candidates need not apply.

Be part of a mission that's transforming children's futures through food, farming and the countryside

For more than 45 years, The Country Trust has been connecting children from the UK's most disadvantaged communities with the land that sustains us all. Through inspiring farm visits, food education and countryside experiences, we've already reached more than 600,000 children, and we're just getting started.

We're entering an exciting new chapter as we develop our next organisational strategy, and we're looking for an experienced fundraising leader to help shape our future.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious and strategic fundraiser to join our Senior Leadership Team and lead the next phase of our income growth, enabling even more children to benefit from our life-changing programmes.

About the role

As Head of Fundraising, you'll provide strategic leadership across all fundraising activity while remaining hands-on in securing major income and developing key relationships.

You'll lead a dedicated fundraising team, drive innovation, strengthen fundraising systems and processes, and develop a sustainable fundraising strategy that diversifies income across:

• Trusts and foundations
• Corporate partnerships
• Major donors
• Individual giving
• Legacies
• Gaming and Streaming for Good
• Emerging fundraising opportunities

Working closely with the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, Digital and IT colleagues, you'll help embed new fundraising systems, champion data-driven decision making and ensure fundraising excellence across the organisation.

About you

We're looking for an inspiring fundraising leader who combines strategic thinking with practical delivery.

You'll bring:

• Significant senior-level fundraising leadership experience
• A proven track record of securing substantial income across multiple fundraising streams
• Experience developing and delivering fundraising strategies that drive sustainable growth
• Strong leadership skills with experience developing high-performing teams
• Excellent relationship-building, communication and influencing skills
• Financial and commercial awareness, including budgeting and forecasting
• Knowledge of fundraising regulation, GDPR and fundraising best practice
• A passion for improving opportunities for disadvantaged children

Experience developing new income streams, digital fundraising and CRM systems would be particularly valuable.

Why join us?

At The Country Trust, you'll be joining an ambitious charity where collaboration, learning and innovation are at the heart of everything we do.

We offer:

• Flexible working
• 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (FTE)
• Workplace pension
• Homeworking allowance
• Mileage and agreed travel expenses
• A supportive, values-led culture
• The opportunity to shape our future strategy and make a lasting difference to children's lives

We're committed to building a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the communities we serve and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

Key dates
Closing date: 11:59pm, Sunday 13th September
Interviews from: Monday 21st September
 

The Country Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

NCT is the national charity for pregnancy, birth, infant feeding and early parenthood. Our vision is simple: a society where everyone who becomes a parent feels confident, connected and safe.

Through our For Every Parent strategy, we're working to make that vision a reality. We support parents with trusted information, practical help, local communities and a stronger voice in the issues that matter to families.

For 70 years, we've been by parents' sides through the excitement, uncertainty, wonder and challenges of becoming a parent. Today, our volunteers contribute more than 70,000 hours of community service each year, helping parents build friendships, find support and feel less alone.

We educate and empower parents with evidence-based information and support. We advocate and act by listening to parents' experiences, raising their voices and campaigning for change. No judgement. No exceptions.

About the role 

We're looking for 5 Perinatal Peer Supporters to join us to provide compassionate, non-judgemental peer support to mothers, birthing people and families across Kent. Support will be delivered through a range of settings, including face-to-face and virtual peer support groups. 

Working closely with our Perinatal Peer Support Service Lead, volunteers, health professionals and community partners, you will help create safe and welcoming spaces where parents can connect, share experiences and access appropriate support. 

Join our passionate team and contribute to the meaningful work that transforms the loves of parents and families. Your role will include: 

• Facilitating welcoming and supportive perinatal peer support groups across Kent, including providing cover for additional sessions when required. 

• Building trusting relationships with parents and families, using active listening and peer support skills to help people feel heard, understood and supported. 

• Identifying when someone may need additional support, signposting to appropriate local services and escalating safeguarding or wellbeing concerns where necessary. 

• Working with volunteers, health and social care professionals, Family Hubs and community partners to increase awareness of the service and strengthen local referral pathways. 

• Supporting the ongoing development of the service through accurate record keeping, feedback, data collection, promotional activity and participation in service review meetings. 

You will also contribute to promoting the service within local communities, particularly among families who may experience additional barriers to accessing support. 

Safeguarding and wellbeing are central to this role. You will receive regular support and supervision and will be expected to raise any concerns appropriately and contribute to creating a safe environment for everyone using the service. 

About you 

You will be compassionate, approachable and able to build trusting relationships with people from a wide range of backgrounds. 

You will have a strong understanding of the challenges associated with the perinatal mental health period and be confident providing sensitive, non-judgemental support to parents and families. 

You will also bring: 

• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills. 

• Good written and verbal communication skills, including active listening. 

• The ability to manage your time effectively and prioritise competing demands. 

• A reflective and solution-focused approach to your work. 

• Confidence working independently while remaining connected to a supportive wider team. 

• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and internet-based systems. 

• A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and to ensuring all families feel welcomed and supported. 

Experience of community engagement, supporting vulnerable families or working with diverse cultural communities would be particularly valuable. 

Knowledge of safeguarding, including child and vulnerable adult protection, and awareness of emotional and practical support services within the local community would also be beneficial. 

You must either be a trained NCT Parents in Mind Peer Supporter or be willing and eligible to undertake this training. The training requires lived experience of perinatal mental ill-health and/or experience supporting someone through perinatal mental health challenges. 

An Enhanced DBS check and driving licence are required for this role. You will also need to be willing and able to travel across the commissioned area, sometimes at short notice to support peer support sessions. 

Our Benefits – What we offer you 

We value our team and offer fantastic benefits to support your well-being and professional growth: 

• 30 days annual leave pro rata (excluding Bank Holidays)
• Pension matched up to 5% 
• Flexible working options to suite your lifestyle 
• Employee Assistance Programme, including 24/7 GP access, personalised counselling, legal advice and more 
• Life Assurance for peace of mind 
• Free eye test for all staff, with further discounts 
• Blue Light discount card 

At NCT,we’recommitted to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or within your role, please let us know—we’rehere to support you.Ready to make a difference? Apply now and be part of something truly special. 

NCT is the national charity for pregnancy, birth, infant feeding and early parenthood. Our vision is simple: a society where everyone who becomes a parent feels confident, connected and safe.

Through our For Every Parent strategy, we're working to make that vision a reality. We support parents with trusted information, practical help, local communities and a stronger voice in the issues that matter to families.

For 70 years, we've been by parents' sides through the excitement, uncertainty, wonder and challenges of becoming a parent. Today, our volunteers contribute more than 70,000 hours of community service each year, helping parents build friendships, find support and feel less alone.

We educate and empower parents with evidence-based information and support. We advocate and act by listening to parents' experiences, raising their voices and campaigning for change. No judgement. No exceptions.

About the role 

As Perinatal Peer Support Service Lead, you will take responsibility for the effective day-to-day delivery of our local perinatal peer support service. Working closely with peer supporters, volunteers, health and social care professionals and community partners, you will help ensure families receive safe, inclusive and high-quality support when they need it. 

Join our passionate team and contribute to the meaningful work that transforms the loves of parents and families. Your role will include: 

• Leading and supporting the local peer support team, providing line management, supervision and operational oversight to ensure a consistent and high-quality service. 

• Overseeing the day-to-day delivery of peer support groups, including volunteer recruitment and support, rotas, venues, resources and training coordination. 

• Managing referrals into the service, assessing individual needs and suitability, providing appropriate signposting and coordinating onward or alternative support where needed. 

• Building strong relationships with health and social care professionals, Family Hubs and other community partners to develop effective referral pathways and increase awareness of the service, particularly within disadvantaged communities. 

• Monitoring the impact and quality of the service through accurate data, service user and volunteer feedback, outcome measures and evaluation, using insights to support continuous improvement. 

Safeguarding and the wellbeing of the families we support are central to this role. You will help maintain robust safeguarding and health and safety practices and ensure concerns are identified and escalated appropriately. 

About you 

You will be an organised, compassionate and confident people leader with a strong understanding of the challenges families may experience during the perinatal period. 

You will have experience supporting vulnerable families or people with complex needs, together with strong judgement when assessing individual needs and identifying appropriate support, referrals or signposting. 

You will also bring: 

• Experience supervising and supporting others, including volunteers. 

• Project management experience and the ability to coordinate multiple areas of service delivery. 

• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to work flexibly while managing competing priorities. 

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including active listening and the ability to build rapport with people from a wide range of backgrounds. 

• Strong relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills. 

• Experience collecting data and contributing to professional reporting. 

• An understanding of the barriers parents can face when accessing services and the importance of providing inclusive and equitable support. 

• Good judgement when managing workloads, people and safeguarding concerns. 

• Confidence using Microsoft Office and internet-based systems. 

Knowledge of safeguarding, including child and vulnerable adult protection, and awareness of local emotional and practical support services would be beneficial. 

Training as an NCT Parents in Mind Peer Supporter would also be welcomed, although we are happy to consider candidates willing and eligible to undertake this training. 

An Enhanced DBS check and driving licence are required for this role. You will also need to be willing and able to travel across Kent, including providing occasional cover for peer support sessions when required. 

Our Benefits – What we offer you 

We value our team and offer fantastic benefits to support your well-being and professional growth: 

• 30 days annual leave (excluding Bank Holidays) 

• Pension matched up to 5% 

• Flexible working options to suite your lifestyle 

• Employee Assistance Programme, including 24/7 GP access, personalised counselling, legal advice and more 

• Life Assurance for peace of mind 

• Free eye test for all staff, with further discounts

• Blue Light discount card 

At NCT,we’recommitted to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or within your role, please let us know—we’rehere to support you.Ready to make a difference? Apply now and be part of something truly special. 

NCT is the national charity for pregnancy, birth, infant feeding and early parenthood. Our vision is simple: a society where everyone who becomes a parent feels confident, connected and safe.

Through our For Every Parent strategy, we're working to make that vision a reality. We support parents with trusted information, practical help, local communities and a stronger voice in the issues that matter to families.

For 70 years, we've been by parents' sides through the excitement, uncertainty, wonder and challenges of becoming a parent. Today, our volunteers contribute more than 70,000 hours of community service each year, helping parents build friendships, find support and feel less alone.

We educate and empower parents with evidence-based information and support. We advocate and act by listening to parents' experiences, raising their voices and campaigning for change. No judgement. No exceptions.

About the role  

As Kent Project Support Coordinator, you will help coordinate and deliver our local perinatal mental health peer support service across Kent. Working closely with our Perinatal Peer Support Service Lead, peer supporters, volunteers, health professionals and community partners, you will help ensure families receive safe, inclusive and accessible support within their local communities. 

Join our passionate team and contribute to the meaningful work that transforms the loves of parents and families. Your role will include:  

Coordinating the day-to-day delivery of local peer support groups, including venues, rotas, local promotion, resources and providing occasional facilitation cover where required. 

Recruiting, coordinating and supporting volunteers and peer supporters, including regular communication and debriefing following sessions to identify safeguarding, signposting or additional support needs. 

Supporting referrals into the service, helping assess individual needs and ensuring parents and families are connected with appropriate peer support, signposting or onward referrals. 

Building and maintaining positive relationships with local health and social care professionals, Family Hubs and community organisations to strengthen referral pathways and increase awareness of the service. 

Supporting monitoring and evaluation through accurate record keeping, data collection, case studies, service feedback and contributions to commissioner reporting and continuous service improvement. 

You will also help promote the service within local communities, particularly among families who may experience additional barriers to accessing support, and contribute to social media content, promotional activities and local events.

About you  

You will be compassionate, organised and confident working with parents, families, volunteers and professionals from a wide range of backgrounds. 

You will have an understanding of the challenges associated with the perinatal mental health period and be comfortable supporting people sensitively and without judgement. 

You will also bring: 

• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage your time and priorities effectively. 
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including active listening and the ability to build rapport with people from different backgrounds. 
• Strong relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills. 
• Confidence working independently while remaining part of a supportive wider team. 
• Good judgement when responding to individual needs, safeguarding concerns and situations requiring signposting or referral. 
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and internet-based systems. 
• A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and to ensuring services are welcoming and accessible to all families. 

Experience of community engagement, working with vulnerable families or people with complex needs, supporting volunteers, or working successfully with diverse cultural communities would be particularly valuable. 

Knowledge of safeguarding and awareness of emotional and practical support services available within local communities would also be beneficial. 

Training as an NCT Parents in Mind Peer Supporter is desirable. We also welcome applications from candidates who are willing and eligible to undertake this training. 

An Enhanced DBS check and driving licence are required for this role. You will also need to be willing and able to travel across the commissioned area, including at short notice when required.

Our Benefits – What we offer you  

• We value our team and offer fantastic benefits to support your well-being and professional growth:  
• 30 days annual leave pro rata (excluding Bank Holidays)  
• Pension matched up to 5%  
• Flexible working options to suite your lifestyle  
• Employee Assistance Programme, including 24/7 GP access, personalised counselling, legal advice and more  
• Life Assurance for peace of mind  
• Free eye test for all staff, with further discounts  
• Blue Light discount card  

At NCT, we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or within your role, please let us know—we’re here to support you. Ready to make a difference? Apply now and be part of something truly special.  

Farm Discovery Programme Manager

Salary: £40,170 | Home-based | 35 hours per week | Permanent

This is a varied senior role combining programme leadership, team and contract management, quality assurance, safeguarding, data and financial oversight, partnership development and programme improvement.

You’ll ensure our Farm Discovery team has the clarity, support and resources they need to deliver consistently high-quality educational experiences for children from disadvantaged communities. You’ll also use data, feedback and evaluation to improve the programme, develop partnerships and contribute to its future growth and development.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has a strong track record in programme management and leading complex delivery
• Is outstanding at enabling and leading educators and dispersed teams
• Understands the primary education context in England
• Can build strong relationships with schools, farmers, funders and partners
• Has experience of quality, safeguarding, health and safety and risk management
• Is confident using data, managing budgets and improving systems and processes
• Can communicate effectively and work collaboratively across an organisation
• Shares our commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for children experiencing disadvantage

The role is home-based, with regular travel across England and North Wales, including overnight stays, an essential part of the role. Reasonable travel and accommodation expenses are covered.

Hours: 35 hours per week, with flexible working arrangements considered, including slightly reduced or compressed hours for the right candidate.

Closing date: Thursday 8 October 2026, midday.
CVs not accepted for this role. Please see our website for more information.