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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.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
About Kinship
We are Kinship. The leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We’re here for kinship carers – friends or family who step up to raise a child when their parents aren’t able to.
Together, let’s commit to change for kinship families.
About the role
The Research Officer supports Kinship in building a strong and coordinated evidence base about kinship families, and ensures our influencing work is grounded in real experience.
The role supports the design, delivery and communication of high-quality research, insights and evaluation that shapes policy, practice and service development. It also supports the coordination and operational delivery of research and practice activity, helping ensure projects, networks and events run effectively and that insights are shared across the organisation and the wider sector.
They will work closely with colleagues across the organisation, including Policy, Programmes, Peer Support and Communications. It will ensure that research and insight are gathered and used consistently and that the experiences of kinship carers, particularly those from underserved communities, are central to our work. This role could be hybrid or remote.
Key responsibilities include:
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Design and deliver qualitative and quantitative research that improves understanding of kinship families’ needs, experiences and outcomes.
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Lead data collection through surveys, interviews, focus groups and desk research.
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Carry out analysis using suitable methods to produce accurate and meaningful insight.
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Ensure research reflects the diversity of kinship carers, including carers from ethnic minority communities, mixed heritage families, informal kinship carers and carers experiencing additional barriers.
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Maintain strong ethical standards and follow GDPR requirements.
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Developing and supporting participatory research methods with carers, children and young people.
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Support evaluation of Kinship services including peer support, training and digital programmes.
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Develop tools and approaches that help gather feedback and evidence of outcomes.
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Analyse programme data to highlight trends, gaps and opportunities.
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Provide evidence that strengthens Kinship policy positions and external influencing activity.
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Contribute data and insight to briefings, consultation responses and reports.
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Support opportunities for kinship carers to participate in research in a respectful and inclusive way.
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Manage the Kinship Professionals’ Network and the Kinship Care Researchers’ Network, working with the Practice Lead to plan and schedule meetings, coordinate agendas, record and minute meetings and share insights across the organisation.
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Support the planning and delivery of research and practice events, from consultations to knowledge exchange events.
Essential requirements include:
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Experience completing mixed methods research including design, fieldwork, analysis and reporting.
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Experience working in a research, evaluation or insight role in a charity, academic or public sector setting.
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Experience producing accessible research outputs for different audiences.
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Experience engaging with underrepresented communities and understanding barriers to participation.
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Experience of kinship care or social care research in the UK or comparable settings
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Excellent project management skills with an ability to manage multiple projects and tasks with accuracy and attention to detail.
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Strong analytical and data interpretation skills with experience of R or equivalent statistical languages.
What we offer you:
- Flexible working - we understand how important it is to balance family and work life.
- 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (1 April to 31 March) pro rata (3 to be taken at Christmas shutdown)
- Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential advice line and counselling)
- Charity Worker Discounts.
Key dates:
- Application deadline: 11.59pm on Sunday 19 April 2026
- First interview: w/c 27 April 2026 (online)
- Second interview: w/c 4 May 2026 (if required)
How to apply:
Please apply for the role of Research Officer by sending a CV (max 2 pages) and cover letter (max 1 page). The deadline is 11.59pm on Sunday 19 April 2026. Any applications arriving after the closing date will not be considered for shortlisting unless there are exceptional reasons. Please ensure you have read the application timelines.
Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion. We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams. We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work. We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us.
Some tips for your application:
• Make sure you’ve read the job description and the essential requirements – make sure your application reflects those points in the requirements very clearly.
• Tell us why you want to work for Kinship. We’re interested in working with people who share our values. You can read about our values above.
• Keep your response clear – use bullets points and short paragraphs if that helps. It will help the recruitment team to focus on your knowledge, skills and experience.
• Don’t go over 2 pages on your CV and 1 page on your covering letter.
• Please do not use AI tools like ChatGPT to produce your answers. We use software to check, and your application will be rejected if you do.
We support kinship carers in their homes and communities, giving advice and helping them work through problems to find the best way forward.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Huntington's Disease Association is a UK registered charity that supports people affected by Huntington's disease across England and Wales. We provide information, advice and support to families, friends, and healthcare professionals.
We are looking for three new team members to join our team of Specialist Huntington's Disease Advisers to support people affected by Huntington’s disease.
The roles available are:
• Bath, Somerset, Wiltshire, North & East Devon, Weston Supermare & Wiltshire Specialist Huntington’s Disease Adviser (part-time, 28 hours)
• East and South Yorkshire Specialist Huntington’s Disease Adviser (part-time, 21 hours)
• Surrey and South London Specialist Huntington’s Disease Adviser (part-time, 21 hours)
All roles available are home-based, but must be living in the area specified in the job title, as the job involves extensive travel within the region and occasional travel across England and Wales.
We are looking for an enthusiastic, self-motivated person who is dedicated and committed to the welfare of families affected by Huntington’s disease, developing and improving the quality of care that they receive. You will need to have skills gained within a Health and Social Care profession. Your main responsibilities will be to offer help, information, advice, support and education to everyone affected by Huntington’s disease and professionals involved in supporting them.
All three vacancies are on a part-time permanent contract. Due to team-wide commitments, you must be available to work on Tuesdays. All other working days (in line with contracted hours) may be flexible around your individual needs and the needs of the role. Regular working pattern will be agreed with your line manager upon successful appointment.
This is a fantastic opportunity for the right candidate to bring their knowledge, skills and experience to our organisation.
Learn more about the role in the job pack included.
We are committed to equal opportunities in our recruitment process and in order to find out how well we are doing, we collect monitoring data. This will not form part of the selection process in any way and will be used for monitoring purposes only. Providing this information is voluntary.
The Huntington's Disease Association is looking for someone with the ability to work in a way that promotes the safety and wellbeing of adults at risk, children and young people. We follow safer Recruitment practices to ensure we are safeguarding the people we work with. We require the successful candidate to provide two employment references and undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for enhance disclosure before joining the charity.
Full details of how we securely handle the data you provide to us as part of the recruitment process can be found in our privacy notice for job applicants on our website.
Click on 'apply' to begin your application. To ensure your consideration, you must upload both a CV and cover letter (make sure to press 'upload' for both documents before completing the application process!).
Your application must include which of the 3 vacancies you are applying for. You must be located within the areas the role covers. Your cover letter should also include why you are applying for the role and how you meet the requirements of the person specification. The job description and person specification can be found within the job vacancy pack.
Applications submitted without a CV and cover letter will not be considered.
Closing date for applications is Sunday 17 May, 5pm.
First round interviews will be held online Thursday 4 - Friday 5 June. Second round interviews will be held in-person in London Thursday 11 - Friday 12 June.
Benefits
* 25 days annual leave plus public holidays (pro rata for part-time staff)
* 1 additional cultural or wellbeing leave day (pro rata for part-time staff)
* A pension scheme with 3% employer contribution
* Medicash scheme
* Travel-to-work scheme
* Flexible working approach
* Family forward policies
* Supportive and positive working environment
* Fantastic learning and development opportunities
We improve care and support services for people with Huntington’s disease, educate families and professionals, and champion people’s rights.



Circa £58,000 per annum
Permanent
Part home/Part office (London or Edinburgh) based
UNICEF ensures more of the world’s children are vaccinated, educated and protected than any other organisation. We have done more to influence laws and policies to help protect children than anyone else. We get things done. And we’re not going to stop until the world is a safe place for all our children.
This is a great opportunity to join the UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) in a new role, as Humanitarian Advocacy Manager.
You will develop UNICEF UK’s unique asks of the UK Government on children in emergencies, with a focus on two particular contexts, as well as broader recommendations to support children in emergencies. You will work closely with colleagues in UNICEF UK, UNICEF HQ and in country offices.
You will have:
· Demonstrable experience of leading humanitarian advocacy campaigns and of engaging with external stakeholders.
· Significant experience of managing complex relationships and competing priorities.
· A robust understanding of the UK Government’s role in ensuring children’s rights are upheld and protected in emergencies and humanitarian contexts.
Act now and visit the website via the apply button to apply online.
Closing date: 9am, Monday 27 April 2026.
Interview dates: Thursday 7 and Friday 8 May 2026 via video conferencing (MS Teams).
In return, we offer:
· excellent pay and benefits (including flexible working, generous annual leave and pension, big brand discounts and wellbeing tools)
· outstanding training and learning opportunities and the support to flourish in your role
· impressive open plan office space and facilities on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
· an open culture and workplace with colleagues who share our values, enjoy their work and are motivated to do their utmost for children.
· the opportunity to work in a leading children’s organisation making a difference to children around the world
Our application process: We use a system called "Applied" that anonymises your responses and focuses on your actual skills that are relevant to this role. This benefits you by giving you a greater chance of expressing your skills in this objective selection process.
We are gradually moving back to our offices on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, East London and we anticipate most colleagues will work one or two days a week in the office and the rest of the time from home. We will happily discuss other flexible options to suit your circumstances.
We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates, disabled candidates, and from men, because we would like to increase the representation of these groups at this level at UNICEF UK. We want to do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for children.
UNICEF UK promotes equality, diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We make employment decisions by matching business needs with skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.
We welcome a conversation about your flexible working requirements, personal growth, and promoting a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit.
The successful candidate will be required to apply for a criminal records check. A criminal record will not necessarily bar you from working with us. This will depend on the nature of the role and the circumstances of your offences.
We only accept online applications as this saves us money, making more funds available for us to help ensure children’s rights.
If you require support in completing the online form or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the Supporter Care line during office hours.
If you do not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion. Please note that we only provide feedback to shortlisted candidates.
Registered Charity Nos. 1072612 (England and Wales) SC043677 (Scotland)
The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK), a charity funded by supporters, raising funds for UNICEF’s work for children.

Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
About Kinship
We are Kinship. The leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We’re here for kinship carers – friends or family who step up to raise a child when their parents aren’t able to.
Together, let’s commit to change for kinship families.
About the role
We are the leading kinship care charity supporting more than 15,000 kinship carers across England and Wales each year. We’re here for kinship carers – friends or family who step up to raise a child when their parents aren’t able to. They care for more than 141,000 children in England and Wales, double the number in foster care, but feel isolated and need help. By supporting, advising and informing kinship carers, and campaigning together for fairer services, we are changing lives and changing the system.
Kinship’s peer support and community work, supported by Department for Education funding, helps kinship carers feel connected, less isolated and better supported by building local, carer-led peer support groups and strengthening wider community networks.
Our delivery model prioritises proactive outreach and sustainable growth through a volunteer model.
The team works in communities to bring kinship carers together, support and train volunteer group leaders, and grow groups to a point where they are sustainable and independent (ideally within 6 months). Sustainable means able to thrive without direct staff involvement or attendance. A central ‘Hub’ team then provides ongoing remote support, training and connection.
This role provides the operational grip to plan, deliver and continuously improve this work, while evidencing impact through robust data monitoring, reporting and clear storytelling.
Key responsibilities include:
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Accountable for the set-up, growth and transition of peer support groups to independence supported by the Hub, using clear milestones and support plans.
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Responsible for ensuring volunteer group leaders have high-quality training, guidance and ongoing coaching to deliver safe, supportive peer spaces.
- Responsible for embedding strengths-based, trauma-informed approaches and clear boundaries across all peer support activity.
- Responsible for managing external delivery partners or commissioned provision to support growth in specific communities, ensuring quality and delivery to agreed standards.
- Accountable for the identification and nurture of new group leaders and volunteers, ensuring groups are welcoming, accessible and inclusive.
- Accountable for ensuring a proactive outreach approach that builds relationships with kinship carers and local partners, prioritising under-served areas and communities, ensuring that learning is captured and shared across the team to build further confidence and competence in supporting under-served communities (minoritised ethnic kinship carers).
What we offer you:
- Flexible working - we understand how important it is to balance family and work life.
- 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (1 April to 31 March) pro rata (3 to be taken at Christmas shutdown)
- Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential advice line and counselling)
- Charity Worker Discounts.
Essential requirements include:
- Experience leading peer support, community development, volunteering or relational support services at scale.
- Experience of project management.
- Experience of evaluating the impact of services and projects.
- Proven track record of growing and sustaining community-based groups or networks, including supporting leaders and volunteers to independence.
- Experience embedding strengths-based, trauma-informed approaches, with clear boundaries, risk management and inclusive practice.
Key dates:
- Application deadline: Monday 20 April 2026, 9am
- First interview: Wednesday 29 or Thursday 30 April 2026 (online)
How to apply:
Please apply for the role of Planning and Delivery Manager by sending a CV and cover letter (max 2 pages). The deadline is 9am on Monday 20 April 2026. Any applications arriving after the closing date will not be considered for shortlisting unless there are exceptional reasons.
Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion. We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams. We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work. We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us.
• Please tailor your CV to highlight how your experience aligns with the essential requirements for this role.
• Make sure you’ve read the job description and the essential requirements – make sure your application reflects those points in the requirements very clearly.
• Tell us why you want to work for Kinship. We’re interested in working with people who share our values. You can read about our values in the job pack.
• Keep your cover letter clear - use bullet points and short paragraphs if that helps. It will help the recruitment team to focus on your knowledge, skills and experience.
• Please do not use AI tools like ChatGPT to produce your answers. We use software to check, and your application will be rejected if you do.
We support kinship carers in their homes and communities, giving advice and helping them work through problems to find the best way forward.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Purpose of the Role:
The Senior Research, Policy and Influencing Manager will play a pivotal role in driving Cerebra’s mission to influence national and local policy and practice. You will lead on the translation of research into actionable policy recommendations, develop strategic partnerships, advocate for systemic change and influence, persuade and engage with policy makers to improve outcomes for children with neurological conditions and their families. Alongside this you will work with the Research and Information team on Cerebra’s research contracts and the development and dissemination of information.
This is a senior role requiring strategic vision, strong analytical and communication skills, and an ability to build influence across government, academia, and the third sector.
Key Areas of Responsibility:
1. Policy and Influencing
- Identify opportunities to influence national and local policy agendas, including legislation, guidance, and funding priorities related to childhood disability and neurological conditions.
- Develop accessible and compelling policy briefings, consultation responses, reports, speeches, and presentations for a range of stakeholders, including MPs, government officials, sector partners and the public.
- Monitor policy developments across the neuro-diverse landscape and lead on timely, evidence-led responses.
- Analyse data, trends and policy developments to produce insights and recommendations.
- Translate complex ideas into clear, persuasive communications that support positive change.
- Ensure our policy positions reflect the real experiences and insights of the neuro-diverse children and families we support.
- Develop and deliver Cerebra’s policy and influencing strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and research priorities.
- Develop and deliver influencing campaigns in partnership with Communications team.
- Work closely with the Communications Team by contributing to the drafting of responses to media enquiries on our policy and influencing work and act as the media contact if required.
- Liaise with the Legal Rights Team to assess the impact of current or proposed policies in terms of their actual or potential effects on children with neurological conditions at both national and local levels, and for their input into consultation responses.
2. Engagement and Relationship Building
- Build and maintain strong strategic relationships with decision-makers across government departments, policymakers, NHS bodies, local authorities, professional associations, and sector partners.
- Represent Cerebra at meetings and events, including engaging with MPs, civil servants, policy forums, advisory groups, and cross-sector coalitions and other key influencers, or brief the CEO or Directors if attending.
- Work closely with internal teams to ensure our policy and influencing work is grounded in practice and informed by those delivering services.
- Work closely with the Communications Team to ensure consistent, impactful messaging.
3. Research and Information
- With one of our Lead Research Officers leading, you will oversee the tendering process and delivery of our research contracts.
- Working with our Information Development Officer to ensure that we maintain our PIF Tick accreditation for our information resources.
- Carry out high-quality research and analysis.
- Use findings from Cerebra-funded and external research to produce policy briefs, consultation responses, and evidence-based recommendations.
- Alongside our Lead Research Officers carry out horizon scanning to identify emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in child health, neurodiversity, and public service delivery.
4. Budgeting, monitoring and forecasting
- Working with the team and Director to set income and expenditure budgets for Corporate, Philanthropy, Legacy and Trust & Foundations to assist with any funding applications.
- Monitoring and reporting on income and expenditure and KPIs throughout the year.
- Providing quarterly income and expenditure re-forecasts.
- Ensuring all relevant information is recorded in line with charity, fundraising and data legislation and best practice.
5. Line Management
- Line management responsibilities for a small team, currently comprising of 3 staff.
- Be responsible for the day-to-day management of the team.
- Complete regular supervision and team meetings.
- Provide effective performance management to the team.
- Promote a positive and inclusive team culture aligned with Cerebra’s values.
6. General
- Monitor and evaluate the impact the areas of work that leading on.
- Support collaboration across the different Cerebra teams.
- Experience using Client Relationship Management (CRM) systems or similar digital tools for recording and tracking work.
- Uphold Cerebra’s Data Protection Policy and all relevant confidentiality and safeguarding policies.
- Carry out any other reasonable duties in line with the needs of the team and organisation.
Please see attached job description for person specification.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role Overview
This is an exciting opportunity to shape Shine’s strategic direction while managing the operational delivery of our services for children, young people, and families aged 0–25. Building on the success of our Little Stars/Ser Bach programme for members aged 0–12 and the development and extension of the FIRE (Friendship, Independence, Resilience, Empowerment) programme for those aged 13–25, you will play a key role in shaping the future of our support for children, young people and their families.
Working across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, you will lead the delivery of an established, evidence-based programme that improves health, social, and emotional outcomes for those living with spina bifida, hydrocephalus, and associated conditions.
You’ll lead a passionate team and work closely with Shine’s Adult Services Team (25+), Health Team, Wales and Northern Ireland Managers and wider colleagues across the organisation to ensure work is coordinated, complementary, and beneficial to members. At the same time, you’ll forge strong partnerships with NHS professionals, statutory services, and voluntary organisations—driving collaboration that will support our vision of providing consistent, high-quality support for children, young people and families nationwide.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leadership & Team Management
- Programme Development & Delivery
- Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting
- Member Support & Engagement
Please see the full Job Description & Person Specification below and on our website.
Benefits to working at Shine:
- 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 with our Deputy CEO, Gill Valentine, please contact Shine 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.
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.
*Please note applications without a supporting statement will not be accepted*
Closing date: Thursday 16th April 2026 at 11pm
Interviews: Monday 27th April 2026
Please note: we reserve the right to interview suitable candidates before the closing date, therefore we encourage applications as soon as possible.
Providing specialist advice and support for spina bifida and hydrocephalus



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
JOB TITLE: Kinship Community & Family Support Worker
RESPONSIBLE TO: Kinship Services Manager
HOURS OF WORK Part-time 28hours (evening and weekend work will be required)
LOCATION: Hybrid – in person community delivery, with requirements to attend office base in Edinburgh/East Lothian, and home working possible
SALARY / GRADE: Fixed term 24 months (with potential for extension, funding allowing)
Grade 4 / £28,615 per annum fte – pro-rata
KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
•Kinship Services Manager
•Adoption UK Scotland and Kinship service colleagues
•The Adoption and Kinship Community in Scotland
•Local Authorities and external commissioners
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
·To support the community work of Adoption UK Scotland and their kinship services, to provide professionals, parents/carers, children, and young people access to information, resources, and services for kinship communities and to engage with families in their local communities.
·To offer a front-line service, primarily to kinship families based in the East Lothian Community, by supporting delivery and administration for activities and events, including regular support groups delivery, youth and family events. Support of events in other areas in Scotland based on resources and availability.
·To hold and manage kinship care family cases, providing direct family support within service guidelines and delivery model.
·Support planning, organisation of, and attendance at, in person and online events through funded projects and services to bring together kinship families and individuals, enable peer support, build a sense of community and promote an active and supportive Community Network.
·To respond to enquiries received via the Information and Support Service and relevant email inboxes with relevant information and/or signposting.
·To be part of the wider kinship service team within Adoption UK Scotland, working across teams and services.
·Work collaboratively with colleagues across all services areas of Adoption UK
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
·Working alongside service leads within the kinship teams, and with the wider community team members to plan and deliver specific events and activities for East Lothian Council Kinship community members, and kinship families in wider areas where resources and availability allows.
·Provide administrative coordination for community groups, including collating event materials, gathering feedback and evaluations for reporting purposes, supporting delivery of events, maintaining records using existing required systems, and responding to enquiries via our Information and Support line and relevant email inboxes.
·To facilitate referral meetings with new kinship carers accessing the East Lothian Kinship Support Service, including initial assessment of need to identify suitable support and signposting requirements
·To hold responsibility for administrative requirements relating to referrals and cases within the East Lothian Kinship Support Service, including setting up new cases and recording service delivery interactions, using existing Adoption UK systems and processes
·To work with colleagues in the Foundations for Families kinship support service to support delivery where time and resources allow, and coordinate activities between services where appropriate.
·To report to line manager and directors in Adoption UK Scotland relating to service delivery, including contributing to monitoring and reporting on activities.
·To work alongside Adoption UK colleagues to develop and improve resources and services for kinship carers
Knowledge and experience
- Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the kinship legislation system, issues and challenges faced by kinship individuals. (Essential)
- Experience of engagement and direct work with families (Essential)
- Experience of facilitation of in person and online groups (or commitment to learn) and commitment to digital safeguarding (Essential)
Qualifications and Education
- Relevant degree or qualification (e.g. community work, social sciences) or equivalent experience (Essential)
Skills and abilities
- Report writing and record keeping (Essential)
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal (Essential)
- Ability to build and maintain relationships (Essential)
- The ability to use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) (Essential)
Accountability
- Liaise with colleagues to share updates and information
- Report to supervisor and relevant managers and external commissioners on activities
Behaviours
- Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values and mission in all interactions with external stakeholders.
- Demonstrates commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of role at all times.
- Follows all policies and procedures relating to risk assessments, safeguarding and youth service delivery
- Contributes to an open and honest culture
- Encourages challenge and creativity, transparency and consistency.
- Leads by example.
- Offers outstanding service to members.
- Promotes cross functional team working, sharing skills and knowledge
- Communicates clearly, seeking clarity when unclear and valuing the opinion of others.
- Valuing the opinion of other. Treating colleagues and other stakeholders with respect.
- Takes pride in own development, committed to achieving high standards and agreed objectives
Adoption UK is the leading charity for adopted and care experienced people and adoptive families.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About Parenting for Lifelong Health:
Parenting for Lifelong Health (PLH) aims to empower parents to improve child development, reduce family violence, and promote mental health. We give parents the support they need, the skills that work, and trusted advice they can count on to protect and support their children’s health, safety and development. Our parenting courses are developed with families, powered by low-cost and accessible technology, backed by rigorous evidence, and delivered within systems. Originally founded as an initiative in 2012 in collaboration with UNICEF and the WHO, Parenting for Lifelong Health was established as a UK charity in 2022 and since then has reached over 8 million families in more than 35 countries.
PLH Values
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Courage
We have the courage to design for the big picture and complex problems with a commitment to creating sustainable solutions that last.
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Evidence
We believe our work transforms the lives of children, families, and communities. Evidence of impact guides every decision, and we are relentless in pursuing the greatest impact with the least investment of time and resources required for parents and providers.
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Playfulness
Parenting and child wellbeing thrives on play — and so do we. We experiment, learn from each other, as well as from parents and children, and create playful and engaging products and programmes that inspire joy, curiosity, and connection.
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Respect
Everyone brings something essential. We show kindness in our team, honesty with our partners, and deep respect and empathy for parents and children, and those who are on the frontline of providing services for them.
PLH has a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity in how we work, who we work with, and what we do. Candidates from minority and disadvantaged backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
PLH also has a strong commitment to the Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA). All candidates considered for the role will be subject to background and reference checks in their country of residence.
Benefits: Flexible remote-working, home office set-up, unlimited annual leave, professional development opportunities, enhanced pension contributions, enhanced statutory leave provisions including maternity and paternity leave.
About the role:
Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Operations Officer will play a key role in coordinating core operational and HR processes across the organisation. This role is well suited to someone looking to build a career in charity operations and people management, who is comfortable working across multiple functions in a remote, international organisation and who brings strong attention to detail, sound judgement, and a collaborative approach.
Responsibilities
Operations & Systems Coordination
- Maintain PLH’s internal systems, including shared drives and databases, ensuring information is accurate, accessible, and managed in line with GDPR and data protection requirements.
- Act as a first point of contact for operational queries via PLH’s central inbox, exercising judgement in responding to requests, signposting information, and escalating issues where appropriate.
- Support the development, documentation, and consistent application of internal policies and procedures, working with the Operations Manager to ensure alignment with UK charity best practice, safeguarding standards, and employment legislation.
- Identify opportunities for improving operational processes and support the implementation of agreed improvements.
Travel, Expenses & Events
- Coordinate organisational travel arrangements, ensuring bookings are safe, cost-effective, timely, and compliant with internal policies.
- Administer staff expense processes in collaboration with the Finance team, including checking submissions, tracking approvals, and following up on discrepancies.
- Coordinate logistical arrangements for in-person and virtual meetings and events, including scheduling, communications, and follow-up actions.
Finance & Operational Reporting
- Coordinate the collection of staff timesheets and attendance data, producing accurate monthly attendance summaries for the Finance team.
- Liaise with colleagues across the organisation to ensure timely provision of operational and financial information.
People Operations & HR Support
- Coordinate HR administration processes, including contracting, onboarding, and maintenance of staff records, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with GDPR.
- Support the administration of PLH’s performance management framework, including tracking review cycles, documentation, and agreed actions.
- Assist in coordinating internal learning and professional development activities, supporting staff development and organisational capability.
Culture & Organisational Development
- Support initiatives that promote an inclusive, values-led organisational culture, with a focus on staff wellbeing, equity, and professional growth.
- Assist in coordinating internal communications and activities that strengthen connection and collaboration across a distributed team.
Essential criteria:
- Bachelor's degree.
- 3 years experience of coordinating operational processes such as HR administration, finance processes, travel coordination, or internal systems ideally within a UK charity.
- High level of attention to detail, with the ability to maintain accurate records and manage information systematically.
- Confidence using digital tools and systems (e.g. shared drives, databases, spreadsheets, HR or finance systems) and the ability to learn new systems quickly.
- Ability to identify process improvements and support the implementation of agreed changes.
- Clear and professional written and verbal communication skills. 2
- Basic understanding of data protection principles (e.g. GDPR) and the importance of confidentiality and safeguarding in organisational operations.
Preferred criteria:
- Experience working in a remote or distributed organisation.
- Working knowledge of UK employment practices and charity sector policies.
Personal attributes:
- Proactive and reliable, with a strong sense of ownership and follow-through.
- Collaborative working style, with the ability to build positive relationships across a remote and international team.
- Commitment to PLH’s values, including equity, social justice, and supporting families and communities.
Please submit a CV and a supporting statement explaining how you meet the above criteria.
Only complete applications will be considered.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Ready for a role where your psychology can genuinely shape a developing service? PATH is growing, and we’re looking for a Clinical Psychologist who is energised by complexity, values-led practice, and the chance to build something alongside a passionate team. This is an exciting moment to join us—bringing your ideas, your therapeutic skill, and your professional leadership to a service that is ambitious about outcomes and relentless about care and compassion.
We’re proud to be part of an Ofsted rated Outstanding provision, and we’re investing in psychological thinking as a central part of how we work. If you’re looking for a post with space for creativity, strong multi-disciplinary relationships, and real opportunity to develop specialist expertise, PATH could be the right next step.
We warmly welcome applicants with strong knowledge of neurodiversity, early trauma and the experiences of adopted and care-experienced people, including those with lived or professional expertise.
A values-based team you’ll want to be part of
You’ll be joining a warm, supportive and highly committed group of professionals who care deeply about the people we serve and the quality of our practice. We work collaboratively—sharing thinking, holding risk together, and making space for reflection even when we’re working at pace. Psychological safety matters here: you’ll have access to supervision, peer support and opportunities for CPD.
What you’ll bring
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Professional expertise in psychological assessment, formulation, intervention and consultation, grounded in ethical and evidence-based practice.
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Confidence with complexity—able to hold risk, uncertainty and co-occurring needs, while staying compassionate and person-centred.
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At least two therapeutic modalities relevant to this sector (e.g., CBT, ACT, CFT, DBT-informed approaches, systemic/family therapy, EMDR, or other trauma-focused therapies), and the ability to integrate approaches thoughtfully.
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Collaborative team working—you enjoy working across disciplines and with partner agencies, contributing to shared plans and shared outcomes.
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Agility and pace—able to prioritise, adapt and respond to changing needs while maintaining high clinical standards and clear documentation.
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A development mindset—motivation to contribute to a growing hub, improve pathways, and evaluate impact using outcomes and feedback.
We’re also happy to discuss the opportunity with clinical / counselling psychologists who may be earlier in their career. If you can demonstrate a strong commitment to this sector—through relevant placements, roles, voluntary work, research, reflective learning, or lived experience that informs your practice—we would welcome a conversation. We’re interested in potential as well as experience: your values, your curiosity, and the way you work with people and systems matter to us.
ROLE PROFILE
JOB TITLE:
Clinical Psychologist
ACCOUNTABLE TO:
Clinical Lead
RESPONSIBLE TO:
Clinical Director
HOURS OF WORK:
Full time / Part time
LOCATION:
Remote working with travel flexibility
DURATION:
Permanent
SALARY / GRADE:
Grade 8 £43,471 - £59,389(pro rata for part time)
KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
- Clinical Director and PATH Clinical Lead
- PATH team
- AUK staff
- Children and adults accessing our services
- Referrers and external agencies as appropriate
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
·Deliver high-quality psychological assessment, formulation and intervention for the PATH client group.
·Provide specialist advice, consultation and reflective practice to colleagues and partner services.
·Facilitating reflective groups for families referred to PATH.
·Identify and manage safeguarding risk in line with AUK policies.
·Contribute to multidisciplinary formulation and intervention planning.
·Support service development, evaluation and quality improvement, using outcome measures and feedback.
·Maintain accurate clinical records and produce clear, timely reports for a range of audiences.
·Provide line management and/or supervision within the PATH team.
·Contribute to the training offer within Adoption UK
·To contribute to and maintain accurate records for those using the service on Adoption UK systems and ensuring compliance with both GDPR, safeguarding and confidentiality.
CRITERIA
Knowledge and Experience
•Experience of working with children and families experiencing the effects of trauma and attachment difficulties (Essential)
•Extensive experience of working within the field of mental health (Essential)
•Experience of working with adoption services (Essential)
•Experience of providing clinical supervision to staff and therapists delivering services to vulnerable families (Essential)
•Knowledge and experience of safeguarding process and procedures (Essential)
•Extensive experience and specialist training/accreditation in relevant subjects and differing types of therapy such as DDP, Theraplay, Neurodiversity, Life story, NVR (Desirable)
•Knowledge of adoption services including AGSGF processes (Desirable)
Qualifications and Education
•Doctoral Level Clinical Psychologist (Essential)
•Current registration with a professional body HCPC (Essential)
•Evidence of continuing professional development (Essential)
•Training in a range of therapeutic modalities e.g. NVR, DDP, Theraplay, Internal Family Systems, Sensory Attachment Intervention (Essential)
Skills and Abilities
•Leadership and support skills
•Group work skills
•A reflective and empowering approach
•Strong application of theory
•Creativity and innovative approach to service delivery
•A commitment to the voice of children and families
Accountability
•Consultant Clinical Psychologist
•Responsible for maintaining own professional standards
•Responsible for delivering practice within the policies and standards of the charity
Behaviours
•Demonstrates commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of role at all times.
•Contributes to an open and honest culture
•Supports, encourages, and motivates colleagues.
•Encourages challenge, creativity and innovation.
•Leads by example.
•Values transparency and consistency.
•Understands the role of individual and collective accountability.
•Actively contributes to Adoption UK’s mission.
•Has a clear understanding of other colleagues’ roles and responsibilities
•Shares skills and knowledge.
•Promotes Cross Functional team working.
•Offers outstanding service to members.
•Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values in all interactions with external stakeholders.
•Identifies and uses the most appropriate form of communication.
•Communicates clearly, seeking clarity when unclear and valuing the opinion of others.
•Treats colleagues and other stakeholders with respect, honesty, fairness and courtesy
•Is responsive to colleagues, third party professionals and service users.
•Takes pride in own development.
•Enthusiastic and committed to achieving high standards and meeting agreed objectives.
•Takes an active interest in recognising professional and personal development needs and priorities within Adoption UK.
This role profile is a guide to the nature of the work required and may involve other such duties as deemed necessary by the Organisation. It is not wholly comprehensive or restrictive. The role profile will be reviewed with the post-holder at significant points for the Organisation.
Postholder is expected to abide by all organisational policies, codes of conduct and practice, and to work within a framework of equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice.
Adoption UK is the leading charity for adopted and care experienced people and adoptive families.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
JOB PROFILE
JOB TITLE: Education Advisor - Scotland
RESPONSIBLE TO: Kinship Services Manager
HOURS OF WORK 28 Hours per week (some weekend and evening work may be required)
LOCATION: Hybrid working with expectation of attendance at Edinburgh office
with some expectation of reasonable travel
DURATION: Permanent
SALARY / GRADE: 4.4 £31,003 FTE, 28 hour Pro Rata
KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
• Kinship Services Manager and Lead Education Advisor – Scotland
• Education professionals across Scotland
• Care experienced families (kinship, adoptive and long term fostering community) in Scotland
• Adoption UK Scotland and other nations colleagues
• Local Authorities in Scotland and external commissioners
• The Promise, Scottish Government, volunteer sector organisations
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
• To offer front line education advisory support service to kinship, adoptive and foster families and professionals seeking support and advice about education services for care experienced children.
• To lead the development and delivery of education training to professionals across Scotland and actively support AUK lobbying and campaigning efforts on education matters.
• To develop, coordinate and support delivery and administration of an education support group (online or in person) to the care experience community youth and family.
• To work alongside our youth service provision ensuring the voices of young people are centred in resource development and delivery, supporting development of education and employability support.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Work closely with education advisor lead in delivering education support service to families and professionals.
• Manage own caseloads, monitor and review progress at regular education meetings using established tools. Ensure tracking and recording on AUK system database and Sharepoint.
• Develop, promote and deliver Education training for professionals across Scotland. Including supporting the development and delivery of Education elements of training in other AUK teams and development of commissioned projects e.g. care experience week lessons, resources and training for Education Scotland
• Responsible for administrative tasks relating to service delivery
• Respond appropriately to enquiries via email, telephone or in person, referring on to other services and ensure accurate and appropriate recording and tracking of all enquires are maintained using appropriate database systems.
• Contribute and assist in development of education specific projects to improve service delivery (i.e. education peer support group or young person support group)
• Support manager in monitoring and reporting of service delivery
• Contribute and assist in the development, design and planning of promotional resources and information materials and factsheets.
• Attend relevant national meetings, conferences, training events, networking and development opportunities to promote Adoption UK services
• Collaborate, liaise with Adoption UK Scotland and Adoption UK organisation in the delivery and participation of specific events and activities relating to the delivery of Education services for Adoption UK services.
CRITERIA
Knowledge and Experience
• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the education system in Scotland (Essential)
• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the issues, challenges and concerns affecting the kinship community, care experienced children and young people. (Essential)
• Experience of event coordination, training delivery and/or group facilitation (Essential)
• Knowledge and understanding of trauma informed practice (Desirable)
• Experience of volunteer coordination or support (Desirable)
Qualifications and Education
• Professional qualification in Education (Essential)
• Demonstrable event facilitation, group or training delivery and administration experience will be required along with demonstrable knowledge of the issues affecting our care experienced communities.
Skills and Abilities
• Training development and delivery (Essential)
• Report writing and record keeping (Essential)
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal (Essential)
• Ability to build and maintain relationships (Essential)
• The ability to use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) (Essential)
• Able to utilise online platforms and packages (Survey Monkey, Canva, Mail Chimp etc.), and/or the ability to learn new packages (Essential)
Accountability
• Develop and coordinate administrative support and delivery of education support services for care experienced families to fulfil grant/contract requirements.
• Consistent and trauma informed advisory case support for families within organisational policies and processes and fulfilling grant/contract requirements.
• Liaise across services to coordinate activity delivery with guidance and direction from service manager.
• Commitment to work within all organisational policy and processes, in particular safeguarding related requirements to ensure wellbeing of all individuals, families and staff and volunteers.
Behaviours
• Embeds trauma informed approach across all areas of role
• Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values and mission in all interactions with external stakeholders.
• Demonstrates commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of role at all times.
• Contributes to an open and honest culture
• Encourages challenge and creativity, transparency and consistency.
• Leads by example.
• Offers outstanding service to members.
• Promotes cross functional team working, sharing skills and knowledge
• Communicates clearly, seeking clarity when unclear and valuing the opinion of others.
• Valuing the opinion of other. Treating colleagues and other stakeholders with respect.
• Takes pride in own development, committed to achieving high standards and agreed objectives
This role profile is a guide to the nature of the work required and may involve other such duties as deemed necessary by the Organisation. It is not wholly comprehensive or restrictive. The role profile will be reviewed with the post-holder at significant points for the Organisation. Postholder is expected to abide by all organisational policies, codes of conduct and practice, and to work within a framework of equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice.
Adoption UK is the leading charity for adopted and care experienced people and adoptive families.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Trusts and Foundations Manager
Permanent | Full time
Ideally 1 or 2 days a week in either in Coventry or Middlesbrough
circa £38,000 - £45.000 per annum
Are you an experienced trusts & foundations fundraiser looking to join a much loved charity which supports babies and young children who have life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.
Aquilas is delighted to be supporting Zoe’s Place in the appointment of a new Trusts and Foundations Manager, a key role at an exciting time of growth for the charity.
About the charity
Zoe’s Place is the only baby specific hospice charity in the UK, providing specialist palliative, respite and end of life care for children aged 0 to 5 with life limiting and life-threatening conditions. They offer a safe, nurturing and joyful environment where families can feel completely supported. With their dedicated nurses delivering 24-hour care, they work together to make every moment of childhood count.
About the role:
Supporting the delivery of Zoe’s Place overall income generation strategy, by researching, record keeping, applying and reporting to a portfolio of trusts and foundations to deliver long term sustainable income growth for the Trust. Overall accountability for capital projects across the Trust
Key Responsibilities:
Account manage the trust and foundations fundraising function
- Contribute to the maintenance of a comprehensive database for both hospice sites of all relevant grant making trusts and keep up to date with changes in the sector.
- Develop and write applications and bids to a wide range of funders as required.
- Work collaboratively with the Head of Fundraising and fundraising colleagues to ensure all funding opportunities are maximised
- Manage and develop relationships with new and existing funding partners.
- Work collaboratively with Director of Clinical Services, clinical teams and finance to prepare bids and reports.
- Ensure funding partners receive timely and appropriate information about the progress and outcomes of projects including written reports and evaluation in accordance with requirement.
- Responsible for delivery of income targets.
- Ensure excellent relationships are maintained with current, past and prospective funders so the Zoes Place Trust name is associated with honesty and high standards of service delivery.
- Organise visits and tours for trustees of charitable foundations if requested to both Middlesbrough and Coventry sites.
Administration and pipeline
- Use our fundraising CRM and in line with GDPR to ensure accurate and timely record keeping allowing for good stewardship.
- Carry out detailed research on prospective foundations, identify and maintain a calendar for submitting applications.
- Working with an income pipeline / tracker to ensure accurate and timely financial forecasting, identifying risk to income and mitigating accordingly.
- Ensure activities comply with current law, guidance and best practice of the Fundraising Regulator
Person Specication:
- strong track record in Trusts and Foundations fundraising
- Experience of working in the charity Sector
- Excellent and persuasive writing skills and a sharp eye for details
- Excellent interpersonal and verbal communication skills
To Apply:
To receive a candidate pack or arrange a confidential conversation, please contact:
Kieran McGorrian, Head of Not for Profit Appointments, Aquilas (contact details in candidate pack)
Applications close 5pm Monday 20th April
Aquilas are wholly committed to equality of opportunity and diversity and we warmly welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates. We are truly invested in our candidates and being supportive and informative throughout the application journey
Together for Short Lives is looking for a driven and creative Business Development Manager to develop and secure high‑value corporate partnerships that will help transform the lives of seriously ill children and their families. You’ll lead our business development strategy, build a strong pipeline of opportunities, and develop lasting relationships with prospective and existing supporters.
If you’re collaborative, tenacious and passionate about making a real impact in children’s palliative care, we’d love to hear from you.
Full‑time 1 year FTC | Hybrid (UK‑wide with travel to our Bristol Office) | £42,000
Purpose of role
The Business Development Manager will lead our efforts to secure high-profile, high-value partnerships with corporate organisations that will generate vital income for children's palliative care. Securing new partnerships and growing our income requires exceptional collaboration skills; a driven, tenacious and resourceful nature; innovation and creativity; and a passionate determination to make a difference to the lives of children and families across the UK.
The main objectives are as follows:
- Secure new corporate partnerships raising funds to support Together for Short Lives’ direct work, and our National Fundraising Scheme (raising funds on behalf of the UK’s children’s hospices).
- Develop and deliver a business development strategy, including prospect research, managing a robust pipeline of opportunities, and developing a diverse range of business development products.
- Manage and develop relationships with a portfolio of individual contacts and organisations, including prospective and existing supporters.
We exist to ensure every seriously ill child and their family gets the high-quality children’s palliative and end of life care



Join our Psychology and Therapy Hub (PATH) and make a meaningful difference in everyday life for adoptive, kinship and care-experienced families. We’re recruiting an Occupational Therapist with specialist expertise in sensory processing/sensory integration and attachment-informed practice to deliver practical, trauma-informed assessment and intervention that strengthens regulation, participation and connection.
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Make a difference that families feel every day: co-produce practical strategies that support calmer routines, better sleep, smoother transitions and greater participation at home, school and in the community.
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Bring specialist sensory expertise: assess sensory processing and regulation needs and translate findings into clear, realistic plans for parents/carers and partner professionals.
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Work at the sensory–attachment interface: use a trauma- and attachment-informed lens to understand behaviour and build felt safety and co-regulation alongside sensory strategies.
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Thrive in an MDT: contribute an OT perspective to formulation-led work within PATH, collaborating with psychology and therapy colleagues to create joined-up support.
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Flexible, UK-wide reach: deliver support primarily online with occasional travel for team days, training or commissioned work (as required and agreed).
You’ll need:
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HCPC registration as an Occupational Therapist.
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Strong experience supporting children/young people and their parents/carers (including complex presentations).
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Proven skills in sensory processing assessment and intervention, including regulation strategies, activity adaptation and environmental modification.
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Confidence working in an attachment- and trauma-informed way with adoptive/kinship/care-experienced families (or closely related work).
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Excellent communication and report-writing skills, able to translate specialist thinking into practical, non-judgemental guidance that families can use.
ROLE PROFILE
JOB TITLE:
Occupational Therapist
ACCOUNTABLE TO:
Clinical Lead
RESPONSIBLE TO:
Clinical Director
HOURS OF WORK:
Full time / Part time
LOCATION:
Remote working with travel flexibility
DURATION:
Permanent
SALARY / GRADE:
Grade 8 - £43.471
KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
- Clinical Director and PATH Clinical Lead
- PATH team
- AUK staff
- Children and adults accessing our services
- Referrers and external agencies as appropriate
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
The Occupational Therapist (Sensory & Attachment) will deliver high-quality, trauma-informed occupational therapy assessment and intervention to families with a history of adoption, kinship care and long-term fostering. The postholder will bring advanced expertise in sensory processing/sensory integration and the impact of early adversity, attachment disruption and developmental trauma on regulation, participation and family life. The role will work as part of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) within PATH, contributing to formulation-led support, practical strategies and therapeutic approaches that strengthen safety, connection, and everyday functioning at home, school and in the community.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
·Provide specialist assessment and intervention where sensory processing differences interact with attachment needs, developmental trauma, neurodiversity and emotional/behavioural presentations.
·Co-produce practical, strengths-based support plans with parents/carers and, where appropriate, the child/young person; provide clear strategies that are realistic for family life.
·Deliver evidence-informed interventions (1:1 and group-based as appropriate) including sensory-based regulation strategies, activity adaptation, routine design, environmental modification and caregiver coaching.
·Integrate attachment- and trauma-informed principles (e.g., PACE/connection-based approaches) into OT recommendations, ensuring strategies support safety, relational connection and felt security.
·Contribute to MDT formulation and case discussions, offering an occupational therapy perspective on function, participation, sensory-motor development and regulation
·Prepare high-quality written outputs including assessment summaries, recommendations, letters and reports suitable for families and professionals; contribute to documentation required for commissioning/regulated service evidence as needed.
·Support families to understand the sensory, neurodevelopmental and trauma/attachment factors that may underpin behaviour and distress, and to implement strategies safely.
·Maintain accurate, timely records in line with organisational policies, data protection and confidentiality requirements.
·Contribute to the development of resources (e.g., guides, webinars, workshops) that translate specialist OT knowledge into accessible tools for families and professionals.
·Contribute to delivery of training in your specialist area (sensory processing, regulation, sensory-attachment interface) internally and externally.
·Actively manage a caseload, prioritising risk and complexity, and working within agreed service pathways, timescales and outcome measures.
CRITERIA
Knowledge and Experience
• Significant experience working with children and young people and their parents/carers.
• Experience delivering assessment and intervention for sensory processing differences and regulation needs.
• Experience delivering remote/online OT interventions and caregiver coaching.
• Experience of group work (parents/carers and/or young people).
• Experience of working with adopted children, previously looked-after children, kinship or long-term foster families (or closely related settings).
• Strong understanding of attachment, developmental trauma and the impact of early adversity on regulation, behaviour and participation.
• Ability to integrate sensory strategies with relational/attachment-informed approaches.
• Training/experience in DDP, PACE, NVR, therapeutic parenting or other attachment-informed models.
• Expert knowledge of sensory processing and sensory-based regulation strategies.
• Ability to differentiate sensory needs from (and understand overlap with) trauma responses, anxiety, and neurodevelopmental differences.
• Sensory Integration training (e.g., postgraduate modules) and/or recognised competency frameworks.
• Knowledge of neurodevelopmental profiles (e.g., autism, ADHD, DLD, FASD) and how these can interact with trauma/attachment and sensory processing.
• Ability to provide accessible psychoeducation to families and partner professionals.
Qualifications and Education
•Degree/diploma in Occupational Therapy.
• Current HCPC registration as an Occupational Therapist. Postgraduate training/qualification relevant to sensory integration, sensory processing or advanced paediatric OT practice.
• Evidence of continuing professional development (Essential)
• Training in a range of therapeutic modalities e.g. DDP, Theraplay, BUSS model, Sensory Attachment Intervention (Essential)
Skills and Abilities
• Experience of working within an MDT and contributing an OT perspective to shared formulations and plans.
•Leadership and support skills
•Group work skills
•A reflective and empowering approach
•Strong application of theory
•Creativity and innovative approach to service delivery
•A commitment to the voice of children and families
Accountability
•Consultant Clinical Psychologist
•Responsible for maintaining own professional standards
•Responsible for delivering practice within the policies and standards of the charity
Behaviours
•Demonstrates commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of role at all times.
•Contributes to an open and honest culture
•Supports, encourages, and motivates colleagues.
•Encourages challenge, creativity and innovation.
•Leads by example.
•Values transparency and consistency.
•Understands the role of individual and collective accountability.
•Actively contributes to Adoption UK’s mission.
•Has a clear understanding of other colleagues’ roles and responsibilities
•Shares skills and knowledge.
•Promotes Cross Functional team working.
•Offers outstanding service to members.
•Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values in all interactions with external stakeholders.
•Identifies and uses the most appropriate form of communication.
•Communicates clearly, seeking clarity when unclear and valuing the opinion of others.
•Treats colleagues and other stakeholders with respect, honesty, fairness and courtesy
•Is responsive to colleagues, third party professionals and service users.
•Takes pride in own development.
•Enthusiastic and committed to achieving high standards and meeting agreed objectives.
•Takes an active interest in recognising professional and personal development needs and priorities within Adoption UK.
This role profile is a guide to the nature of the work required and may involve other such duties as deemed necessary by the Organisation. It is not wholly comprehensive or restrictive. The role profile will be reviewed with the post-holder at significant points for the Organisation.
Postholder is expected to abide by all organisational policies, codes of conduct and practice, and to work within a framework of equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice.
Adoption UK is the leading charity for adopted and care experienced people and adoptive families.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Engagement Development Executive plays a key operational support role in supporting the charity’s engagement development activity. The role ensures that information, reporting, and resources are accurate, current, and accessible, enabling the organisation to respond effectively to funding opportunities, partnerships, and engagement needs while clearly demonstrating impact for the families we support.
Working closely with and in support of the Programmes Manager, the postholder underpins proposal development, reporting, and stewardship by coordinating high‑quality engagement, project, and impact information across teams.
Key Responsibilities
Reporting, Data & Insights
- Collate engagement, project, and impact reports, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and readiness for internal and external reporting.
- Maintain dashboards and trackers, ensuring data is current and supports effective decision‑making and accountability.
- Develop and update impact report templates to ensure consistent reporting across partners and funders.
Porposal & Pipeline Management
- Manage the proposal pipeline tracker, maintaining accurate records and reporting readiness.
- Collate and organise proposal information required for submissions, ensuring deadlines and funder requirements are met.
- Support proposal development by aligning appropriate family case studies, testimonials, and feedback with funding opportunities.
Resource & Content Management
- Maintain the Engagement resource library, ensuring content remains relevant, up to date, and easily accessible.
- Create clear, fundable opportunity information documents to support fundraising and partnership activity.
Stakeholder & Team Support
- Respond to requests from the Engagement team, providing timely support for proposal development and reporting needs.
- Provide coordination and administrative support to the Engagement Development Manager, including organising engagement, project, and impact information to support strategic planning, reporting, and oversight.
Knowledge & Experience
- Experience supporting engagement, fundraising, development, or programme activity within a charity or purpose‑led organisation.
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Attention to detail, particularly when working with data, reports, and written content.
- Experience using trackers, dashboards, CRMs, or data management systems to maintain accurate records and reporting.
- Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, with experience managing and presenting data; familiarity with Power BI or similar tools is desirable.
- Understanding of fundraising or proposal development processes, including the use of impact reporting and family case studies.
- Experience maintaining shared resources or knowledge libraries.
- Strong written communication skills, with the ability to write in line with organisational tone and values.
- A collaborative, proactive approach and the ability to handle sensitive information with care and discretion.
- A genuine commitment to RMHC’s mission, values, and focus on supporting families and creating impact.



