Children and young people support worker jobs

Children and Families Worker

When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed.

Please note, due to the nature of the service, it is an occupational requirement that the post holder is female and the post is therefore exempt from the provisions of the Equality Act 2010 in terms of Schedule 9, Part 1, and Paragraph 1 of the Act.  

Job Title: Children and Family Worker

Location: Based on site in West London (This location is hidden due to the sensitive nature of the service) Unfortunately this service does not have step free access.

Salary: £28,800

Shift Pattern: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday (One Saturday once every 3 months instead of a Friday) on a rolling rota including 07:30 - 15:30, 09:00 - 17:00 and 11:30 - 19:30. You may be required to work outside these hours dependent on service and resident requirements including weekends and bank holidays 

About the role

As a Children and Family worker, you will be based within our Women's Refuge service, supporting women and children up to the age of 15 who have escaped domestic abuse. You will deliver trauma-informed, child and family centred support to promote safety and wellbeing, working collaboratively with mothers to strengthen the parent-child relationship during a time of crisis. You will support with both emotional and practical day-to-day support. This is typically done through key work sessions, risk assessments, and empowerment focused activities. 

You will play a vital role in supporting families, being the sole specialist within the service, which gives you autonomy to shape the role based on your expertise and experience. You will lead on child-focused support, as well as working part of the wider team to provide the support to mothers. You will deliver a range of support for children and young people, as well as family and parenting support. 

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Support parents to build confidence, parenting skills, and resilience while promoting positive family relationships. 
• Deliver age-appropriate play, learning, and developmental activities that support children's education, wellbeing, and personal growth. 
• Facilitate family support sessions and interventions to rebuild relationships, improve life skills, and address the impact of trauma. 
• Develop and maintain trusting, trauma-informed relationships with children, families, and residents, providing both practical and emotional support. 
• Contribute to support planning, risk assessments, safeguarding actions, and regular reviews to ensure residents' safety and progress.
• Identify and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns, mental health issues, incidents, and emergencies, ensuring effective intervention and support. 
• Maintain accurate case records, reports, and confidential information in line with GDPR and organisational procedures. 
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, external agencies, social services, and community partners to deliver integrated support and improve outcomes for children and families.

About you

We are looking for someone who has a real passion to support families and children who have experienced domestic abuse. You will have a trauma-informed understanding of domestic abuse and the impact it has on families, and will be able to engage in sensitive conversations, recognising signs on trauma, and being proactive to support families to overcome this. This is a hands-on, active role, ideal for someone who is creative, energetic, and passionate about working directly with families. You will be a team player, able to collaborate and provide support to colleagues as needed. 

• A background in working with adults and children, particularly from trauma affected backgrounds
• Experience in supporting mothers in helping children transition to new schools
• Proven ability to plan and deliver engaging play sessions, after school activities, and family events as well as religious and national celebrations
• Confidence in working with children who may have behavioural challenges, being able to signpost to early intervention services
• Experience/ability to support children with special educational needs or additional behavioural needs
• Ability to work in a fast changing environment
• Patience, empathy and resilience
• Creativity, flexibility, and a can-do attitude
• Non judgmental approach and genuine commitment to empower families to overcome their barriers
• Alignment with our values of Ambition, Empowerment, Inclusivity, and Transparency

Please refer to the JDPS attached for more details on the vacancy and our requirements/key criteria.

What we Offer

• 25 days (Full time equivalent) annual leave, increasing with the length of service
• Employer Pension Contribution
• Eligibility to register with Blue Light Discount Card
• Access to discounted tickets for music events, shows, sports and more
• Reflective Practice regular sessions with a therapist provided by an external provider to support Mental Health and Wellbeing at work
• Training and Development, including access to courses, upskilling, and progression plans
• Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Annual Staff Awards
• EDI Ambassador programme

About Social Interest Group (SIG)

SIG is a not-for-profit organisation providing thousands of people with good-quality support and care in residential, drop-in centres, community floating support settings, probation settings, and hospitals. We do so across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, Kent and Liverpool. Our goal is to transform lives through empowering change. 

We believe good care and support improves lives with the vision to create healthier, safer, and more inclusive communities. Join us on our mission to empower independence through trauma-informed solutions and dynamic partnerships that keep people out of prison, out of hospital, and off the streets.
Want to know how we work? Watch our short Theory of Change video to see how we support people towards a brighter future: Theory of Change Further details can be found on our website here: Theory of Change - Social Interest Group - Social Interest Group. 

Additional Information

Please note that this job advert may close early due to screening applications on an ongoing basis. We advise applying as soon as possible for your application to be taken into consideration at the early stages.

Additional information on our company policies including Gender Pay, Equality and Diversity, Company Benefits and our Candidate Privacy Policy can be found on our website.

An exciting opportunity to help young people build confidence, connection and resilience through horses and life on our Skipton farm.  Following the success of our day visits, our residential programme will launch in January 2027 and we are looking for a horse specialist to join our growing team.  This unique role combines equine-assisted therapeutic work and hands-on farm life, helping young people see themselves differently.

What is Jamie’s Farm?  Jamie’s Farm is a charity that supports young people by combining therapeutic work, farming, and purposeful activities to help them thrive. Through residential visits to our working farms, we provide a nurturing environment where young people can reflect, build confidence, and develop the resilience they need to overcome personal challenges.

Known within the organisation as ‘Sessional Worker – Horse Specialist’

More about the role:  You will plan and deliver engaging horse-based sessions for visiting young people, using an equine-assisted therapeutic approach to create opportunities for connection, reflection and personal growth.  As part of the wider delivery team, you will contribute to the shared rhythms of farm life, from feeding rounds and walks, to mealtimes, group discussions and occasional evening activities. Working closely with with rest of the Skipton team you will help ensure each visit runs smoothly and provides a positive experience for all.

Alongside programme delivery, you will lead the day-to-day care and welfare of our horses, maintaining high standards of husbandry, stable management and wellbeing.

About you :  We are looking for someone with strong practical experience of horse care, welfare and management, alongside experience of using equine-assisted work with children and young people. You will be able to build positive relationships with young people from a wide range of backgrounds and create safe and engaging experiences that help encourage participation, reflection and growth.

You will bring excellent communication and organisational skills, together with a warm, patient and collaborative approach. Above all, you will share Jamie’s Farm values and be motivated to use your equine expertise to make a meaningful difference for young people.

In return, we offer a competitive salary, generous annual leave and pension, regular therapeutic supervision, specialist training/CPD, all meals when on site, and the chance to join a supportive team in a beautiful rural setting.

You can find the full job description, desired experience and further employee benefits in the recruitment pack below. Don’t meet every single requirement?  We’d still love to hear from you – your unique skills and experience could be just what we’re looking for.

If you’d like to find out more before applying, we are offering an opportunity to visit the farm on Friday 4 September, between 1pm and 4pm. You’ll be able to meet the Head of Farm, ask questions and see the site. Please email the address below for further information.

Would you like to make a lasting difference in the lives of children affected by domestic abuse? Join an award-winning trauma recovery service provider that is passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of children and families.

Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) is a lifeline for children healing from the trauma of domestic abuse and we’ve expanded our service into Oxfordshire.

We are looking for a Service Lead and a Support Worker to join our team on a fixed term contract to help guide children and families on their healing journey.

Position: Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) Service Lead

Fixed term full time – 37 hours per week, weekdays

Location: Oxford or Reading with frequent travel. Role covers casework activity across Oxfordshire.

Salary range: £35,502 to £43,389 per annum

Position: Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) Support Worker

Fixed term part time – 18.5 hours per week, weekdays.

Location: Oxford with frequent travel. Role covers casework activity across Oxfordshire area including Cherwell, West Oxfordshire and the wider Oxfordshire area.

Salary range: £13,254 - £16,199 pro-rata per annum (full time equivalent range £26,508 to £32,397 per annum) 

About the roles:

As a Service Lead you will play a significant role in supporting children and families affected by domestic abuse, some of your key responsibilities will be to:

· support our families through providing outreach support

· deliver group work for children and parents

· provide 1-2-1 sessions to children and families most in need

· lead a dedicated team of Support Workers

· ensure BB4K activities are planned, coordinated and deliver effectively and manage caseload across the team

As a Support Worker you will play a significant role in supporting children and families affected by domestic abuse, some of your key responsibilities will be to:

· complete assessments to understand the needs of families

· deliver group work for children and parents

· provide 1-2-1 sessions to children and families most in need

· support our families through providing outreach support

About you:

A successful Service Lead will have professional expertise in the field of domestic abuse and hold a qualification or professional experience in social care or childcare support work.

You’ll be experienced at managing a team with effective interpersonal skills to collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders and colleagues. You’ll also have experience of working with vulnerable parents and/or children in a range of community settings and adept at delivering groupwork programmes.

A successful Support Worker will need a good understanding of domestic abuse and the impact on children and families (or an interest in working in this field), with experience of delivering groupwork programmes for vulnerable parents and/or children.

If this sounds like you please visit our website and apply today to join a collaborative and dedicated team who are part of something truly meaningful. You will also find contact details for an informal chat about the role on our website.

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those with personal lived experience of domestic abuse or from underrepresented communities, who meet the essential role requirements.

For more information about our BB4K service please visit the Bounce Back 4 Kids page on our website

Closing date: Midday on Thursday 27 August 2026

Early applications are encouraged as we may review and appoint on an earlier basis if a successful candidate is secured.

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Family Support Worker, Family Key Worker, Children’s Support Worker, Domestic Abuse Support Worker, Domestic Abuse Key Worker, Recovery Worker, Assistant Support Worker, IDVA Independent Domestic Violence Advocate, ISVA Independent Sexual Violence Advocate, Family Support Team Leader, Family Key Worker Team Leader, Family Support Manager, Children’s Support Team Leader, Children’s Support Manager, Domestic Abuse Support Team Leader, Domestic Abuse Support Manager etc.

Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do at PACT. We have robust measures and best practices in place to safeguard and protect the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we take pride in maintaining outstanding safeguarding standards.

Anyone joining our team is subject to PACT’s safer recruitment pre-appointment enquiries, including a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS). The role description provides information on what our safer recruitment enquiries include and the level of DBS required to work in the role.

All opportunities with PACT are based in the UK.

We’re looking for two Youth Workers (one Lead Youth Worker, and one Support Youth Worker) to plan, deliver and facilitate educational and social activities for separated children (up to 21 years old) in the context of an interactive youth club to be held weekly in partnership with Corner House Youth Project in Stockton-on Tees.

Although the Lead Youth Worker will prepare and deliver the materials, supported by the Support Youth Worker, they will also have the back-up of a Support Worker from Corner House and a social worker or personal advisor from Stockton-on-Tees Council.

Club Class is a long-standing project for The Separated Child Foundation, and Club Class in Stockton-on-Tees is a new location for us, launching as a 1-year pilot in October 2026.

Young People Support Worker

We are seeking a compassionate and proactive Young People Support Worker to help young people overcome challenges and build greater independence.

Salary: £26,436 per year
Location: Warrington
Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Closing date: 6 September 2026

About the role

Join Depaul UK and become part of a supportive team working to create brighter futures for young people experiencing homelessness and other challenges.

As Young People Support Worker, you will provide practical and emotional support to young people who may have experienced homelessness, poor mental health, substance misuse or the care system. You will build positive relationships, develop tailored support plans and help young people develop the confidence, resilience and skills they need to move forward.

Key responsibilities include:

· Completing risk and needs assessments and developing outcome-focused support plans

· Providing one-to-one and group support to young people

· Supporting clients to access education, training, employment and volunteering opportunities

· Working with local agencies and statutory services to provide joined-up support

· Ensuring safeguarding, health and safety and emergency procedures are followed

· Encouraging young people to participate in decisions about their support and wider activities

· Preparing accommodation for new clients and supporting them to settle in

· Working collaboratively with colleagues and volunteers

· Participating in a rota that may include unsocial hours, weekends and lone working

About you

You will have experience of working with young people or people who have experienced homelessness, along with an understanding of some of the challenges they may face.

You will also have:

· An understanding of homelessness, mental health, substance misuse or the care system

· Knowledge of risk assessments and support planning

· A clear understanding of safeguarding requirements and procedures

· Good literacy, numeracy and IT skills

· The ability to build trusting relationships while maintaining professional boundaries

· A collaborative, flexible and reflective approach

· A commitment to equality, diversity, dignity and respect

About Depaul UK

Depaul UK works to end homelessness and change the lives of people affected by it. Established in 1989, the charity provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

You will join an inclusive and supportive organisation that believes in the potential of every person, with access to excellent training, ongoing support and opportunities to develop.

Benefits include 26 days' annual leave, rising with service, pension contributions of up to 7%, an Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access, a cash health plan, family-friendly policies, retail and lifestyle discounts and death-in-service benefit.

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment. Where required for the role, an appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be undertaken.

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Support Worker, Young Person's Support Worker, Homelessness Support Worker, Housing Support Worker, Youth Support Worker, Key Worker, Project Worker, Residential Support Worker or Supported Housing Worker. #INDSCP

We’re looking for an experienced and compassionate Senior Support Worker to join our Stopover Supported Housing service in Brighton & Hove.

Stopover provides women-only supported accommodation for young women aged 16–25, including young women who have recently become mothers. Our services provide different levels of support as young women move towards independence, helping them develop the skills, confidence and stability they need to sustain their own tenancy.

Working alongside the Head of Supported Housing, you’ll help oversee the day-to-day running of the project while providing trauma-informed support to young women who may have experienced homelessness, abuse, domestic violence, mental health difficulties and other challenges.

This is a varied senior role combining direct work with young women, staff supervision and partnership working. You’ll build trusted professional relationships, advocate for young women and help ensure our service provides safe, consistent and high-quality support.

You will:

• Build positive professional relationships with young women, developing individual support plans and helping them gain the skills and confidence to live independently
• Help oversee the day-to-day running of the service, including managing resident issues, risk and compliance with licence agreements
• Provide line management, supervision and development support to members of the staff team
• Advocate for young women and work collaboratively with external agencies and other professionals
• Help ensure the service operates safely and effectively in line with organisational policies, funder requirements and contractual agreements

We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Experience of working with young women or young people and a strong understanding of their support needs
• Experience in supported housing, residential services or a similar environment
• Confidence managing complex or challenging situations, assessing risk and delivering effective support planning or key work
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to advocate for marginalised young women and work effectively with other professionals
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team, alongside good administrative, IT and record-keeping skills

Knowledge of safeguarding, homelessness, benefits and external services available to young women would be an advantage. A Housing or Youth Work qualification is desirable but not essential.

Why join us?

Impact Initiatives is a Sussex-based charity supporting children, young people, adults with disabilities, families and older people to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

At Stopover, you’ll be part of a service built around consistent, positive relationships and trauma-informed support. You’ll have the opportunity to combine hands-on work with young women with leadership responsibilities, helping colleagues develop their practice and contributing to the quality and development of the service.

We’re committed to supporting our staff through ongoing learning, supervision and professional development.

Who can apply?

This post is open to women only, in accordance with Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010, due to the nature of the work delivering trauma-informed support to young women. We welcome applications from all women, including trans women.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974) and the successful applicant will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check.

Closing date: 5.00pm, Friday 11 September 2026
Interviews: Week commencing 14 September 2026

For further details and to apply, please visit Impact Initiatives website

Join our dedicated Step Provision team and make a real difference to people rebuilding their lives after hospital discharge or preventing unnecessary admissions. You will provide compassionate, person-centred support to individuals with complex needs, creating tailored support and move-on plans while working closely with healthcare, housing and community partners. In this varied role, you'll manage risk, safeguard clients, maintain accurate records, support housing benefit claims and help deliver a safe, welcoming environment. If you're proactive, resilient, collaborative and passionate about empowering people to achieve independence, we'd love to hear from you.

Main Purpose Of The Job:

Our Step provision service provides two differing support models that offer accommodation-based support and assessment This is for people who are being discharged from the hospital using the discharge to assess model. The Step-Down provision in Oxfordshire is run in partnership between Homeless Oxfordshire and Connection Support. The Step-Up service provides accommodation-based support which acts on a model to prevent people having the need to go into hospital. Working as part of a small dynamic and enthusiastic team to deliver a safe and supportive service to all residents, identifying need and delivering the case management of clients with complex needs working in partnership with other agencies to create holistic, individualized support and move on plans for clients who are temporarily housed due to their health needs.

Main Areas of Responsibility:

• To be part of a team running a new and dynamic service assessing and managing risk for individuals and in the service.
• Ensure the effective delivery of high-quality care, support and housing management according to Homeless Oxfordshire policies and procedures.
• To work in partnership with other agencies to ensure the delivery of holistic wrap around support.
• To work in partnership with Connection Support Step provision and Out of Hospital Team.
• To work with other agencies to provide client centered support & risk management plans for clients with complex needs to identify work towards a suitable move on option within 6 weeks.
• To be a supportive and effective part of the team working as part of a rota including evenings and weekends.
• Report any safeguarding concerns without delay in line with procedures.
• To make and maintain Housing Benefit claims.
• Manage challenging situations in line with procedures and ensure the safety of yourself and others.
• Ensure that IT systems are updated as required and concise record keeping is completed promptly.
• Maintain positive relationships with clients, relatives, carers, professionals, commissioners, contractors and the local community.
• To undertake any other duties that can be reasonably required to meet the operational needs of Homeless Oxfordshire.
• Comply with Homeless Oxfordshire’s policies and procedures.
• Contribute to a positive working environment in which equality and diversity are valued and staff are enabled to do their best.
• Contribute to the work of the broader team.

Safeguarding Statement:

Homeless Oxfordshire is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all adults, children and young people who are at risk of harm and that come into contact with our services. We believe that all adults, children and young people have an equal right to protection from abuse, regardless of their age, race, religion, ability, gender, language, background or sexual identity and consider the wellbeing of the vulnerable adult, child or young person is paramount. As a result, we have a robust safeguarding policy to ensure everyone is treated fairly and a whistleblowing policy to enable people raise any concerns confidentially. We expect everyone (staff, trustees, associates, volunteers and anyone working on behalf of the Company) to share this commitment and read, understand and adhere to this policy and related procedures.

Equal Opportunities:

We employ people on the basis of their abilities. We strive to attract and develop talent that is representative of our residents and all sections of the society, and do not discriminate based on of age, faith, disability, race, gender, sexuality and socio-economic, regional or cultural background. If you are shortlisted and need us to make any adjustments to help you attend for interview, please let us know.

About Us:

We are an open door for people experiencing homelessness whose lives have been shaped by trauma and disadvantage; providing safety, stability and support when it is needed most. We deliver this support across Oxfordshire by providing a range of accommodation with access to high quality support, offering a safe and welcoming space for people to take control of their own lives. We are an accredited Oxford Living Wage employer, and benefits to the role include: annual leave starting at 26 days (excluding bank holidays), flexible working, enhanced benefits with qualifying service, retail discounts with our Homeless Oxfordshire Benefits Hub, and life assurance up to four times your salary and a £250 bonus if you successfully refer a someone as a new colleague through our Employee Referral Scheme as a thanks from us!

What’s Next: Have a look at the job description to find out more about the role and apply on our website. Please be aware that this role is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure check and will be undertaken for the successful candidate .

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we identify a suitable candidate before the advertised closing date.

Join Homeless Oxfordshire and make a real difference to people experiencing homelessness. As a Support Worker at O’Hanlon House, you will provide compassionate, person-centred support while helping residents build confidence, independence and essential life skills. You will work closely with colleagues and external agencies to provide safe, high-quality housing and support, manage risk, respond to challenging situations and promote wellbeing. No two shifts are the same, and your work will play a vital role in creating a safe, welcoming environment where residents can move forward and thrive. If you are compassionate, resilient and ready to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, we’d love you to join our team!

Main Purpose Of Job:

This role is responsible for delivering a safe and supportive service to all residents living at O’Hanlon House in Oxford. The role holder needs to work alongside the team and external agencies to ensure the effective delivery of high quality care, support and housing management according to Homeless Oxfordshire Policies and Procedures.

Main Areas Of Responsibility:

Ensure the effective delivery of high quality care, support and housing management according to Homeless Oxfordshire policies and procedures.

To be a supportive and effective part of the team working as part of a rota including evenings and weekends.

Maintain a safe, clean and welcoming environment.

To support and encourage clients to care for themselves and develop independent living skills.

To assess and manage risk for individuals and in the service, making use of emergency services as required.

Report any safeguarding concerns without delay in line with procedures.

To make and maintain Housing Benefit claims and support clients to pay their service charges regularly.

To work in partnership with other agencies to ensure the delivery of holistic wrap around support.

To support the running of the service and perform shift responsibilities and duties that maintain good health and safety and ensures the safeguarding of clients and others.

Manage challenging situations in line with procedures and to ensure the safety of yourself and others.

To participate in handovers at the beginning and end of shifts, ensuring that information is properly recorded and passed on where appropriate and relevant and in a timely fashion.

Ensure that IT systems are updated as required and concise record keeping is completed promptly.

Maintain positive relationships with clients, relatives, carers, professionals, commissioners, contractors and the local community.

Ensure clients are aware of and support them to maximise their opportunity to be involved in Client Participation.

To undertake any other duties that can be reasonably required to meet the operational needs of Homeless Oxfordshire.

Comply with Homeless Oxfordshire’s policies and procedures Contribute to a positive working environment in which equality and diversity are valued and staff are enabled to do their best.

Contribute to the work of the broader team.

Safeguarding Statement:

Homeless Oxfordshire is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all adults, children and young people who are at risk of harm and that come into contact with our services. We believe that all adults, children and young people have an equal right to protection from abuse, regardless of their age, race, religion, ability, gender, language, background or sexual identity and consider the wellbeing of the vulnerable adult, child or young person is paramount. As a result, we have a robust safeguarding policy to ensure everyone is treated fairly and a whistleblowing policy to enable people raise any concerns confidentially. We expect everyone (staff, trustees, associates, volunteers and anyone working on behalf of the Company) to share this commitment and read, understand and adhere to this policy and related procedures.

Equal Opportunities:

We employ people on the basis of their abilities. We strive to attract and develop talent that is representative of our residents and all sections of the society, and do not discriminate based on of age, faith, disability, race, gender, sexuality and socio-economic, regional or cultural background. If you are shortlisted and need us to make any adjustments to help you attend for interview, please let us know.

About Us:

We are an open door for people experiencing homelessness whose lives have been shaped by trauma and disadvantage; providing safety, stability and support when it is needed most. We deliver this support across Oxfordshire by providing a range of accommodation with access to high quality support, offering a safe and welcoming space for people to take control of their own lives. We are an accredited Oxford Living Wage employer, and benefits to the role include: annual leave starting at 26 days (excluding bank holidays), flexible working, enhanced benefits with qualifying service, retail discounts with our Homeless Oxfordshire Benefits Hub, and life assurance up to four times your salary and a £250 bonus if you successfully refer a someone as a new colleague through our Employee Referral Scheme as a thanks from us!

What’s Next: Have a look at the job description to find out more about the role and apply on our website. Please be aware that this role is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure check and will be undertaken for the successful candidate .

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we identify a suitable candidate before the advertised closing date.

The role

This is an exciting opportunity to join NEYDL’s growing team and help us establish and develop our work with young dads in Sunderland.

As a Senior Young Dads Worker, you will provide direct, intensive support to young dads across Sunderland, working with some of the most disadvantaged young men in the region. You will manage your own caseload, lead peer support activity, work in close partnership with Family Hubs, social care and other local services, and take a lead role in ensuring every young dad you work with is effectively supported from first contact through to positive outcomes.

This is a senior role with real responsibility. Alongside direct delivery, you will take ownership of your project budget, contribute to funder reporting, supervise junior staff and/or volunteers, and develop a designated area of specialism agreed with the senior leadership team. You will be part of a close, supportive team and will play an active role in shaping how NEYDL grows its presence in Sunderland.

What we are looking for

We are looking for someone with experience of working with disadvantaged young people or young families in a direct support role, ideally in a statutory or voluntary sector context. You will be confident working independently and managing a complex caseload, and you will understand the challenges facing young dads and the systems they navigate.

We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of young fatherhood or young parenthood, from individuals with local knowledge of Sunderland communities, and from people from minoritised backgrounds.

What we offer

NEYDL is a close, inclusive and supportive team that actively invests in the development of its staff. We are a non-judgmental organisation built on mutual trust, respect and honesty. If you join us, you will be part of a team that genuinely believes in what it does.

In addition, we offer:

• 7.2 weeks’ annual leave per year, inclusive of statutory and public holidays
• 5% employer pension contribution
• A flexible hybrid working arrangement
• Regular supervision and fortnightly team meetings
• Funded professional development and training
• Mileage paid at 55p per mile for business travel

Job purpose

To provide high-quality, intensive support to young dads and expectant fathers (aged 25 and under) across Sunderland; to lead and coordinate peer support activity; to manage allocated budgets and contribute to funder reporting; and to take an active role in the development of NEYDL’s commissioned services in the region.

Key responsibilities

1. Direct support

• Provide in-person and online 1-to-1 support to young dads and non-birthing people, helping them address key challenges and achieve personal outcomes
• Assess new referrals and manage a complex caseload, prioritising according to need and risk
• Support young dads to attend key meetings with professionals (including child protection, child in need, family court and multi-agency forums)
• Help young dads to access wider opportunities including volunteering, employment, education and community activities
• Support young dads and their families to engage in father and child activities, stay and play sessions, and peer supported recreational activities
• Promote and support access to DigiDAD, NEYDL’s free e-learning platform, and other training and information resources

2. Peer support and group work

• Establish, coordinate and co-facilitate in-person peer support groups for young dads in Sunderland
• Support the development and delivery of parenting, relationship skills and employability sessions in response to community-identified needs
• Support peer moderated video gaming groups as part of DigiDAD Gaming where relevant

3. Induction, onboarding and milestones

• Ensure every young dad is effectively inducted onto the NEYDL service, completing key onboarding steps and baseline self-evaluation measures
• Track and record progress against key milestones throughout the support journey, in line with NEYDL’s evaluation framework
• Ensure all relevant data is recorded accurately and on time in NEYDL’s data management system

4. Budget and targets

• Take ownership of allocated project budgets, monitoring expenditure and liaising with the Programme Manager (Commissioned Services) and Finance Officer as required
• Work proactively to achieve agreed referral rate targets, taking responsibility for building pathways and relationships that generate consistent referrals
• Contribute to the preparation of funder reports under the oversight of the Programme Manager and Fundraiser, providing accurate data and case study material

5. Specialism

• Take on a designated area of specialism within NEYDL, agreed with the Senior Leadership Team (for example, volunteering, safeguarding or environmental programmes)
• Take a lead role within the team in relation to your specialism, contributing expertise and supporting colleagues

6. Management of staff and volunteers

• Line manage junior staff, project workers and/or volunteers as required
• Support staff and volunteers with operational queries and day-to-day delivery
• Contribute to the induction, supervision and professional development of staff and volunteers
• Support the recruitment and progression of young dads into volunteering roles, including as DigiDAD content creators, peer researchers, DADvocates, AmbassaDADS and community leaders

7. Monitoring and evaluation

• Support the effective recording, monitoring and reporting of programme performance via NEYDL’s data management system and evaluation framework
• Comply with all monitoring, evaluation and reporting requirements, both internal and funder-related
• Support the work of NEYDL’s research partners and independent evaluators as required

8. Collaboration and partnerships

• Work in partnership with key stakeholders in Sunderland to improve the service offer for young dads, including Family Hub teams, social care, health, housing, education and voluntary sector organisations
• Build referral pathways and maintain strong working relationships with local services and networks
• Develop and build effective relationships with principal stakeholders, supporters and referral partners

9. Advocacy and engagement

• Represent NEYDL at external events and meetings to raise awareness of the service and influence other organisations
• Promote, campaign and advocate with and on behalf of young men, ensuring NEYDL continues to be a leading voice for positive change
• Work proactively to enable young dads to influence the design and delivery of the service, including supporting their participation in community leadership programmes
• Support the charity’s communications and engagement activity, including contributing content to annual reports, social media and local media

10. Other

• Deputise for the Programme Managers as required
• Report to the Board of Trustees in person or in writing on a quarterly basis as required

11. Standard clauses

• The post holder must carry out their responsibilities at all times with due regard to NEYDL’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategy, policy and statement, and Safeguarding Policy
• The post holder is responsible for ensuring that policies and procedures relating to health and safety in the workplace are adhered to at all times
• The post holder must respect the confidentiality of data stored electronically and by other means, in line with NEYDL’s Data Protection Policy
• This role requires satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance prior to appointment

This job description is not exhaustive. NEYDL reserves the right to reasonably add to or revise it at any time in agreement with the post holder.

We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Support Worker to join our Stopover Supported Housing team in Worthing.

Stopover provides the only female-specific supported housing for young women in Brighton & Hove and West Sussex. The service offers a pathway from high to low levels of support, giving young women aged 16–25 a safe and stable environment in which to rebuild their lives and move toward independence.

You will work primarily within our low to medium-level support projects, supporting young women who have often experienced trauma, abuse, mental health challenges, and housing instability. Your role will be to build consistent, trusting professional relationships and support residents in developing confidence, life skills and resilience.

Why Join Impact Initiatives?

Support for You
We understand the emotional demands of this work, and we prioritise the wellbeing of our staff. All team members receive:

· Regular wellbeing and reflective pathway sessions with an external psychologist

· Supervision and restorative circles facilitated by external professionals

· A supportive, experienced team environment where your voice is heard

A Healthy Work-Life Balance
Our structured rota is designed to support wellbeing and predictability:

· Work 3 days on, get 1 day off

· Work 4 days on, get 2 days off

· Alternate weekends off guaranteed

Room to Grow
There are clear progression opportunities within the team. Many Support Workers go on to become Senior Support Workers and develop specialisms in housing, safeguarding, or youth leadership.

A Role with Real Impact
This is a varied and enriching position. No two days are the same, and the effect of your work is often visible in short timeframes. You’ll be part of a team that makes a tangible difference in the lives of young women, every single day.

We’re Looking for Someone Who Can:

• Build trauma-informed, empowering relationships with young women aged 16–25
• Support residents to access education, employment or training
• Assist with personal and emotional matters such as health, relationships, and wellbeing
• Co-facilitate life skills sessions and support group activities
• Work within safeguarding, risk management, and confidentiality frameworks
• Work flexible hours on a rota that includes evenings and weekends.

Who You Are:

• You have experience supporting young people or vulnerable individuals
• You understand trauma-informed care and are committed to inclusive, non-judgemental practice
• You’re emotionally resilient, calm under pressure, and a strong team player
• You’re confident using IT systems and can maintain accurate, professional case records
• You’re reliable, flexible, and passionate about improving young lives

To Apply:

Please visit our jobs page Impact Initiatives website

Additional Information:

· This post is open to women only, in accordance with Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010, due to the nature of the work delivering trauma-informed support to young women. We welcome applications from all women, including trans women.

· Impact Initiatives is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups such as people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ people, and people from Black and minoritised communities.

• This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and subject to an Enhanced DBS check.
• We regret that we are unable to sponsor applicants who do not already have the right to work in the UK.
• All interviews will be held in person – we are unable to accommodate virtual interviews.

Closing date: 5.00pm, 11 September 2026
Interview dates: During week commencing Monday, 14 September 2026

The role

This is an exciting opportunity to join NEYDL’s growing team and help us establish and develop our work with young dads in Tees Valley.

As a Senior Young Dads Worker, you will provide direct, intensive support to young dads across Tees Valley, working with some of the most disadvantaged young men in the region. You will manage your own caseload, lead peer support activity, work in close partnership with Family Hubs, social care and other local services, and take a lead role in ensuring every young dad you work with is effectively supported from first contact through to positive outcomes.

This is a senior role with real responsibility. Alongside direct delivery, you will take ownership of your project budget, contribute to funder reporting, supervise junior staff and/or volunteers, and develop a designated area of specialism agreed with the senior leadership team. You will be part of a close, supportive team and will play an active role in shaping how NEYDL grows its presence in Tees Valley.

What we are looking for

We are looking for someone with experience of working with disadvantaged young people or young families in a direct support role, ideally in a statutory or voluntary sector context. You will be confident working independently and managing a complex caseload, and you will understand the challenges facing young dads and the systems they navigate.

We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of young fatherhood or young parenthood, from individuals with local knowledge of Tees Valley communities, and from people from minoritised backgrounds.

What we offer

NEYDL is a close, inclusive and supportive team that actively invests in the development of its staff. We are a non-judgmental organisation built on mutual trust, respect and honesty. If you join us, you will be part of a team that genuinely believes in what it does.

In addition, we offer:

• 7.2 weeks’ annual leave per year, inclusive of statutory and public holidays
• 5% employer pension contribution
• A flexible hybrid working arrangement
• Regular supervision and fortnightly team meetings
• Funded professional development and training
• Mileage paid at 55p per mile for business travel

Job purpose

To provide high-quality, intensive support to young dads and expectant fathers (aged 25 and under) across Tees Valley; to lead and coordinate peer support activity; to manage allocated budgets and contribute to funder reporting; and to take an active role in the development of NEYDL’s commissioned services in the region.

Key responsibilities

1. Direct support

• Provide in-person and online 1-to-1 support to young dads and non-birthing people, helping them address key challenges and achieve personal outcomes
• Assess new referrals and manage a complex caseload, prioritising according to need and risk
• Support young dads to attend key meetings with professionals (including child protection, child in need, family court and multi-agency forums)
• Help young dads to access wider opportunities including volunteering, employment, education and community activities
• Support young dads and their families to engage in father and child activities, stay and play sessions, and peer supported recreational activities
• Promote and support access to DigiDAD, NEYDL’s free e-learning platform, and other training and information resources

2. Peer support and group work

• Establish, coordinate and co-facilitate in-person peer support groups for young dads in Tees Valley
• Support the development and delivery of parenting, relationship skills and employability sessions in response to community-identified needs
• Support peer moderated video gaming groups as part of DigiDAD Gaming where relevant

3. Induction, onboarding and milestones

• Ensure every young dad is effectively inducted onto the NEYDL service, completing key onboarding steps and baseline self-evaluation measures
• Track and record progress against key milestones throughout the support journey, in line with NEYDL’s evaluation framework
• Ensure all relevant data is recorded accurately and on time in NEYDL’s data management system

4. Budget and targets

• Take ownership of allocated project budgets, monitoring expenditure and liaising with the Programme Manager (Commissioned Services) and Finance Officer as required
• Work proactively to achieve agreed referral rate targets, taking responsibility for building pathways and relationships that generate consistent referrals
• Contribute to the preparation of funder reports under the oversight of the Programme Manager and Fundraiser, providing accurate data and case study material

5. Specialism

• Take on a designated area of specialism within NEYDL, agreed with the Senior Leadership Team (for example, volunteering, safeguarding or environmental programmes)
• Take a lead role within the team in relation to your specialism, contributing expertise and supporting colleagues

6. Management of staff and volunteers

• Line manage junior staff, project workers and/or volunteers as required
• Support staff and volunteers with operational queries and day-to-day delivery
• Contribute to the induction, supervision and professional development of staff and volunteers
• Support the recruitment and progression of young dads into volunteering roles, including as DigiDAD content creators, peer researchers, DADvocates, AmbassaDADS and community leaders

7. Monitoring and evaluation

• Support the effective recording, monitoring and reporting of programme performance via NEYDL’s data management system and evaluation framework
• Comply with all monitoring, evaluation and reporting requirements, both internal and funder-related
• Support the work of NEYDL’s research partners and independent evaluators as required

8. Collaboration and partnerships

• Work in partnership with key stakeholders in Tees Valley to improve the service offer for young dads, including Family Hub teams, social care, health, housing, education and voluntary sector organisations
• Build referral pathways and maintain strong working relationships with local services and networks
• Develop and build effective relationships with principal stakeholders, supporters and referral partners

9. Advocacy and engagement

• Represent NEYDL at external events and meetings to raise awareness of the service and influence other organisations
• Promote, campaign and advocate with and on behalf of young men, ensuring NEYDL continues to be a leading voice for positive change
• Work proactively to enable young dads to influence the design and delivery of the service, including supporting their participation in community leadership programmes
• Support the charity’s communications and engagement activity, including contributing content to annual reports, social media and local media

10. Other

• Deputise for the Programme Managers as required
• Report to the Board of Trustees in person or in writing on a quarterly basis as required

11. Standard clauses

• The post holder must carry out their responsibilities at all times with due regard to NEYDL’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategy, policy and statement, and Safeguarding Policy
• The post holder is responsible for ensuring that policies and procedures relating to health and safety in the workplace are adhered to at all times
• The post holder must respect the confidentiality of data stored electronically and by other means, in line with NEYDL’s Data Protection Policy
• This role requires satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance prior to appointment

This job description is not exhaustive. NEYDL reserves the right to reasonably add to or revise it at any time in agreement with the post holder.

Family Support Worker

£27,000 + Company Car (with an approx. retail value of £23,000-26,000, taxable benefit in kind of £6-£8k) and other excellent benefits

This role covers Northumberland, Newcastle, Gateshead, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Durham, Darlington, Hartlepool, Sunderland, Stockton, Redcar and Cleveland and Middlesbrough.

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity is going through an exciting time where we are growing, with the aim of reaching more families in need.

About the role:

We are looking to appoint a Family Support Worker on a full-time basis (35 hours, 5 days per week), to deliver a high-quality family support service as part of our North East Care Team to families in the local area, at a time where they need it most.

Reporting to the Family Support Manager of the Southampton Care Team and working in partnership with health, education and social care professionals, you will take responsibility for providing needs-led emotional, social and practical support to families where a child/young person has a life threatening or terminal illness. You will enjoy responsibility for managing your own schedule, remaining flexible to the needs of the families on your caseload.

Having worked in a stressful and emotional environment you have a genuine interest in building supportive relationships and helping people; and having provided bereavement support to families, you understand processes of grief, loss and change - and how best to help others deal with its impact.

What we’re looking for:

·An experienced child health, education or social care professional - applications will be particularly welcome from those who have worked in a community environment and those with a recognised qualification in education, health or social care.

·A warm, inclusive approach to achieving goals quickly and correctly.

·Practiced in child protection, information sharing and the rules around data protection - you lead by example, drawing on your own professional experience and working within established guidelines.

·Practical and people-oriented - you will thrive working at a fast pace whilst maintaining accuracy and be a confident user of IT (including MSOffice)

·A persuasive and open communicator, you will work collaboratively with your team and volunteers to ensure delivery of a high-quality service and support fundraising colleagues by writing case studies and family updates

·A practical knowledge of diversity issues affecting children, young people, and their families – aware that being responsive to others needs and concerns, is essential. 

What we offer:

We are proud to be a Best Companies Two-Star rated organisation, an outstanding place to work! As a Top 10 Charity, we have a range of fantastic benefits that we offer our employees, including:

· Control over your own schedule, based on the needs of families on your caseload, to balance home and working life

· Company car for front line care posts (car P11D value of £23,000-26,000, taxable benefit in kind of £6-£8k)

· Pension scheme where we contribute 5% of your salary and you contribute at least 3%

· 25 days of annual leave plus public holidays – rising to 26 days after 1 year, 27 days after 5 years and 30 days after 11 years, with an additional 5 days to use in your 10th or 20th year of service (pro rata for part time)

· The option to buy/sell annual leave, as well as additional leave for your birthday, wedding/civil ceremony and an extra half day off for Christmas shopping

· Time off in Lieu

· Family friendly policies, focused on employee wellbeing, and an active cross-organisational wellbeing group running a number of initiatives throughout the year

· Employee Assistance Programme with access to remote GP, counselling, physiotherapy, resources to support your mental health and financial wellbeing, as well as a 24/7 helpline via Help@Hand

· Access to the Blue Light Card Scheme, and other rewards and discounts

· Bike to work, season ticket loan and payroll giving schemes

· A recommend a friend recruitment bonus scheme

· Robust training and development programmes to support your learning and growth.

If you’d like to find out more about these benefits and working with us, please visit our why work with us page on our website.

More information about us and our recruitment process can be found in our Candidate Pack on our website.

Development opportunities:

As part of our learning and development Anne Harris Skills Development Programme we aim to provide a high level of training and development opportunities for all staff, so you are able to perform to the best of your ability, achieve individual and team objectives aligned to Rainbow Trusts strategic plan, supporting staff to be the best they can be, and feel a valued member of a high performing organisation.

Our Family Support Workers are given the opportunity to complete a number of diverse training courses in their first 12 months, including but not limited to: Mental Health First Aid, Makaton, counselling skills, and Introduction to Play.

The programme aims to provide a building block for you to individually tailor your own learning and development needs, with all family support workers having a foundation level of skills within their first year.

About us:

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity enables families who have a child with a life-threatening or terminal illness to make the most of their time together, providing expert practical and emotional support where they need, it for as long as it is needed. For families living with childhood illness, time is everything. Right now, there are too many families coping alone with no support, no time to think, no time to make memories and no time for each other. We believe that no family should go through this alone, so we are here to change that.

How to apply:

To apply please visit our website via the link and apply online.

Please disclose on your application form if you have used AI for any part of your job application.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert early.

Additional information:

Interviews will take place at our North East Care Team Office, we will only contact those applicants who have been successful.

If you require any adjustments during the interview process, please let us know as part of your application.

There will be a requirement for flexible working and a full current driver’s licence to accommodate the team and family need. An enhanced DBS disclosure will be required for this post.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all employees to share this commitment.

Rainbow Trust is an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds. We are a Best Companies One-Star rated organisation.

About DadVocates

DadVocates is a new four-year project, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, that will train, mentor and supervise young dads with lived experience of young fatherhood to act as volunteer peer advocates for young fathers going through children’s social care (CSC) proceedings, including Child Protection, Child in Need and Public Law Outline.

The project responds to evidence from our work with over 800 young dads, which shows that the majority felt negatively about CSC proceedings from the outset: many hold fatalistic expectations about losing contact with their children and are reluctant to engage. By matching young dads with a trained volunteer DadVocate at the earliest possible stage, the project aims to build agency, improve engagement and ultimately improve outcomes for children.

Over four years, the project will train 40 volunteer DadVocates, support 100 young dads through CSC proceedings, and deliver father-inclusive practice training to 160 social workers and other professionals across five local authorities. It will also co-design clear guidance on what good father-inclusive practice looks like within children’s social care teams.

This is a genuinely ambitious project, working at the intersection of lived experience, peer advocacy, social care practice and systems change. It was conceived by a young dad who is now a NEYDL trustee and qualified social worker and has been co-designed with 174 young dads over three years.

The role

The DadVocate Programme Manager will lead this project from the outset. You will recruit, train, mentor and supervise our volunteer DadVocates; chair and manage the project Steering Committee; lead the development and delivery of professional training for social workers; oversee monitoring, evaluation and funder reporting; and manage the project budget.

This is a programme management role, not a casework role. Cases are held by NEYDL’s Senior Young Dads Workers; the DadVocates you manage provide peer support within those cases. You will have direct relationships with young dad beneficiaries through steering committee meetings, evaluation sessions and learning events, but your primary responsibility is managing and supporting the DadVocates and the systems around them.

The DadVocates are young dads with lived experience of young fatherhood, not professional practitioners. They will need significant support, encouragement and professional development to operate effectively in what can be a challenging environment. The quality of that management and support is central to the success of this project.

You will work alongside training and research providers, closely with NEYDL’s Senior Young Dads Workers as the case holders and be supported day-to-day by the CEO.

What we are looking for

We are looking for someone with substantial experience, knowledge and competency working within the children’s social care and social work arena, alongside a track record of managing projects in the voluntary sector. The ideal candidate will bring both: professional grounding in children’s social care/social work and the programme management experience to lead a complex, multi-strand project over four years.

You will possess a deep understand of the children’s social care and social work system, be able to design and deliver training that changes professional culture and have the people management skills to support a team of volunteer young dads who are developing professional skills alongside their advocacy role. You will also need to build trusted relationships with young dad beneficiaries, social workers, academic partners and a range of local statutory and voluntary organisations.

We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of young fatherhood or young parenthood, from people with personal or professional experience of children’s social care proceedings (including professionally qualified social workers) and people from minoritised backgrounds.

What we offer

NEYDL is a close, inclusive and supportive team that actively invests in the development of its staff. We are a non-judgmental organisation built on mutual trust, respect and honesty. If you join us, you will be part of a team that genuinely believes in what it does.

In addition, we offer:

• 7.2 weeks’ annual leave per year, inclusive of statutory and public holidays
• 5% employer pension contribution
• A flexible hybrid working arrangement
• Regular supervision and fortnightly team meetings
• Funded professional development and training
• Mileage paid at 55p per mile for business travel
• The opportunity to lead a nationally significant project at the forefront of father-inclusive practice

Job purpose

To lead and manage the DadVocates project, a four-year National Lottery-funded programme training volunteer young dads as peer advocates for young fathers in children’s social care proceedings; delivering professional training to social workers; and working towards the embedding of father-inclusive practice across children’s social care teams in five local authorities.

Key responsibilities

1. Project management

• Take day-to-day responsibility for the management and delivery of the DadVocates project across all strands of activity
• Manage the project budget, monitor expenditure and liaise with the CEO and Finance Officer
• Update and maintain NEYDL’s Evaluation Framework with DadVocates-specific indicators and methodologies within the first two months of the project start date
• Ensure the project meets its funder milestones and KPIs, maintaining accurate records of outputs and outcomes
• Produce quarterly progress reports for internal review and contribute to annual funder reports
• Commission and manage the external evaluator for the four-year evaluation
• Identify and escalate risks and challenges to the CEO, recommending solutions

2. Steering Committee

• Chair and manage the project Steering Committee, which meets every two months and comprises young dads, NEYDL frontline staff, the safeguarding lead, social work professionals, related experts and academic partners
• Induct Steering Committee members, including young dads, into their roles, providing tailored support to ensure they can contribute confidently alongside professionals
• Use Steering Committee meetings to review progress, identify challenges and agree recommendations for the next period of delivery

3. Co-creating the DadVocate training programme

• Work with training and research providers, young dads and Steering Committee members to co-create a 100-hour peer advocacy training programme for volunteer DadVocates
• Deliver the DadVocate training programme alongside NEYDL staff and delivery partners
• Lead annual reviews of the training programme and update content in response to learning and feedback

4. Managing and supporting volunteer DadVocates

• Recruit and train 10 young dad volunteers per year (40 over four years), all with lived experience of young fatherhood
• Provide ongoing mentoring, supervision and wellbeing support to all active DadVocate volunteers: at least 50 hours per volunteer per year
• Set clear objectives for each volunteer, conduct regular appraisals and team meetings, and support their professional development and progression
• Recognise that DadVocates are young dads with lived experience rather than professional backgrounds, and provide the high level of structured support this requires, including supporting them to navigate professional environments with confidence
• Support the progression of volunteers into employment, further training and community leadership roles

5. Matching DadVocates with young dads in CSC proceedings

• Build and maintain referral pathways with social services, midwifery, Family Nurse Partnerships, Family Hubs and other local networks across target local authorities
• Match 100 young dads over four years with a volunteer DadVocate (10 in year 1, rising to 40 in year 4)
• Work closely with NEYDL’s Senior Young Dads Workers, who hold cases, to coordinate peer advocacy support within CSC proceedings
• Maintain oversight of active advocacy arrangements, ensuring DadVocates are appropriately supported and that safeguarding obligations are met at all times
• Engage directly with young dad beneficiaries through steering committee meetings, evaluation sessions and project learning events

6. Professional training for social workers

• Co-create professional training content with social workers and young dads on the Steering Committee, drawing on national research and NEYDL’s practice experience
• Deliver half-day induction training to 15-20 social workers per local authority at the outset of each area’s involvement, co-facilitated by young dads or DadVocate volunteers
• Deliver annual refresher training in each local authority
• Facilitate quarterly case review and learning meetings with social workers in each local authority, involving DadVocate volunteers
• Co-design guidance on what father-inclusive practice looks like within children’s social care teams, with social workers and young dads (first version in year 2; updated version in year 4)
• Organise and host two information-sharing events for social care professionals in years 2 and 4 (approximately 100 professionals per event)

7. Monitoring, evaluation and learning

• Coordinate data collection with young dads, DadVocate volunteers and social workers using NEYDL’s evaluation tools and new instruments co-designed for this project
• Produce annual evaluation reports and disseminate learning through NEYDL’s wider networks, events and conferences
• Share learning through stakeholder events, professional networks and NEYDL’s regular sector-facing activity

8. Safeguarding

• Ensure robust safeguarding arrangements are in place for all project activity, particularly for DadVocate volunteers operating within CSC proceedings
• Work closely with NEYDL’s Safeguarding Lead to ensure policies and protocols relevant to the project are current, understood and followed by volunteers and partners
• Act as first point of contact for safeguarding concerns arising within the DadVocates project

9. Collaboration and partnerships

• Work closely with NEYDL’s Senior Young Dads Workers as case holders, ensuring a joined-up and consistent approach to supporting young dads involved in the project
• Build and maintain relationships with academic, statutory and voluntary sector partners
• Work with the Business Development Manager to help secure longer-term Local Authority funding for DadVocates, using evidence of impact from the project to support conversations with Local Authorities and expand the project’s reach beyond the areas and targets in the original funding bid
• Represent NEYDL and the DadVocates project at external meetings, networks and conferences
• Contribute to NEYDL’s wider communications and engagement activity

10. Other

• Deputise for the CEO as required
• Report to the Board of Trustees in person or in writing on a quarterly basis as required

11. Standard clauses

• The post holder must carry out their responsibilities at all times with due regard to NEYDL’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategy, policy and statement, and Safeguarding Policy
• The post holder is responsible for ensuring that policies and procedures relating to health and safety in the workplace are adhered to at all times
• The post holder must respect the confidentiality of data stored electronically and by other means, in line with NEYDL’s Data Protection Policy
• This role requires satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance prior to appointment
• This job description is not exhaustive. NEYDL reserves the right to reasonably add to or revise it at any time in agreement with the post holder.

Salary: Balham Home- Waking Nights: £30,227 or Days: £29,635 & Ealing Home- Waking Nights: £30,227 or Days: £27,929 

Contract: Full time/ Permanent

Hours:40 hours per week (including weekends, bank holidays and occasional sleep-ins) 

• Day Shifts: work between 8 am and 10:30 pm 

• Waking Night Shifts: work between 10 pm and 8 am 

Additional Benefits: 

• £50 per sleep-in 

• Time-and-a-half pay for overtime (over 40 hours per week) and bank holidays 

• Two weekends off per month

Locations: Ealing (W13) and Balham (SW12) 

Looking for fantastic career progression, excellent training and therapeutic support? Join our committed and professional team and make a difference to young people living in residential care, where no two days are the same! 

About Us 

Our vision is for every child and young person to be safe, loved and happy, to achieve their potential and have a bright future. 

St Christopher's is a leading charity caring for children and young people. We are proud of our history of providing fostering, children's homes and innovative leaving care services across the UK.We have a passionate commitment to our young people, placing them at the centre of everything we do.We provide positive and life-changing support experiences for young people who are unable to sustain a placement in their parental or foster home. Our offering in underpinned by therapeutic expertise and young people in our care also benefit from extensive life-skills and participation opportunities as well and learning support regarding their education. 

We are an equal-opportunity employer keen to develop an inclusive workforce where people feel they belong.We hope to attract applications from under- represented groups, including people from different cultures, nationalities, socioeconomic backgrounds, ages, disabilities, religions, faith, sex, orientation, childcare responsibilities and gender-diverse identities.

St Christopher’s Academy 

At St Christopher’s, we offer more than a job in social care— we offer a real career pathway. You’ll have the chance to build your skills, grow your knowledge, and make a lasting difference to young people’s lives, as well as your own. 

When you join us, you’ll receive a tailored development plan designed around your goals. Whether you want to move into a different service, progress into a leadership role, or just explore your current role further, we’ll support you every step of the way. If you want to learn more aboutSt Christopher’s Academy, please clickhere 

Our development programme, St Christopher’s Academy, is built to help you reach your full potential — and the results speak for themselves: 
84% of our Team Leaders, Deputies, and Managers are promoted internally. 

About the Role 

As a Support Worker in a Children’s Home, you will provide direct support and care for our young people, who have complex emotional and mental health difficulties (such as trauma and loss) and can struggle to regulate their emotions. Working within a therapeutic framework, you will develop a direct programme of work aimed at developing authentic relationships with our children and young people (aged between12 – 17 years old), you will also have responsibility for making sure our those in our care are safe, providing support, liaison with other external professionals and completion of support documents to record information.

If applying for the Waking Night role, you will have the additional support of an on-call manager should there be any emergencies. Further to this, you will be involved in monthly team meetings and receive monthly one-to-one supervision with your manager. 

Applicants should have 

• Minimum of 1 years’ experience working and supporting Young People in residential, semi-independent, fostering settings or youth work centres, caring for Children and Young People with emotional behavioural difficulties, neurodivergent or SEND, etc. 

• Willingness to achieve the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare within 2 years as per Children’s Homes Regulations 2015 (England) 

• Genuine commitment to working with and supporting children and Young People to achieve their full potential; with the ability to build and promote trusted relationships while maintaining professional boundaries. 

• An understanding of the issues facing children and Young People and a basic understanding of safeguarding Regulations and Procedures. 

• The ability to cope effectively with challenging behaviour. 

• Good communication and team working skills. 

• Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends and bank holidays, and if applicable, sleep-in’s. 

• Commitment to undertake any mandatory training (outside of working hours) and continuous learning to ensure a high level of service. 

• Creativity, enthusiasm and energy to inspire and encourage young people to achieve their goals. 

What you should expect from us 

• Competitive pay. 

• 4 weeks full induction and training program (paid). 

• Fantastic opportunities to develop your career within our range of services, Tailored career development plan through our“St Christopher’s Academy”. 

• Industry leading training programme including access to level 3 qualifications, children’s right and participation, CSE, empowerment, mental health and social pedagogy. 

• 25 days holiday rising to 27 days after 3 years’ service, plus Bank Holidays, pro-rata. 

• Contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity and company sick scheme. 

• UK Life Assurance (Death in service) to the value of 3 times your annual salary. 

• BUPA employee assistance programme, offering counselling, financial advice and legal support. 

• Cycle to work scheme. 

• Bluelight card; discount shopping scheme at hundreds of retailers across the UK both in store and online. 

• Discretionary funded training programs for you to explore and attain new and relevant skills. 

• Employee awards based on performance and length of service. 

Recruitment Process 

At St Christopher’s we are committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people in our care. During the recruitment process you will be expected to complete an online application form to ensure we capture essential information to meet legislation, best practice and vetting requirements.

Your online application must include a supporting statement addressing the criteria stated in the Person Specification. CV’s will not be accepted. 

Application Process 

1. Application:Complete our online form and include a supporting statement addressing the criteria stated in the Person Specification.Please note that applications without supporting statement will not be accepted. 

1. Interview:Shortlisted candidates attend a face-to-face interview at our Putney office. 

1. Second Stage:Successful candidates will visit the home they applied to. 

We advise applying as soon as possible as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. 

Important note: 

• This post has a minimum age restriction of 21 year for roles working directly with children and young people in our residential and supported accommodation Homes in line with the Equality Act ‘occupational requirement’. 

• It is illegal to applyfor any role that involves working with children and young people under the age of 18, if you know you are barred from working with children. 

• All shortlisted candidates invited to interview will be asked to submit aSelf-Declaration and Disclosureform which will need to be returned prior to an interview being booked. 

• It is a requirement that practitioners working in Children Homes are qualified with the Diploma 3 in residential childcare within 2 years of starting in the job role. (Children Home Regulations England 2015). St Christopher’s provide access and funding to undertake this qualification. Applicants who have Citizenship or Visa status restrictions that may preclude them from being able to meet the qualification requirement may be considered for other options such as fixed term contracts. Each applicant’s situation will be assessed as part of the recruitment process.