Children and young people team manager jobs

Policy and Public Affairs Manager (England)

Reporting to: Head of Policy and Public Affairs

Line Management: 1 Policy and Public Affairs Officer England

Location of work: Remote but role holder will ideally be London-based to be able to frequently commute for meetings/ events at Westminster. The role may involve also some infrequent travel across the UK.

Contract type: Full-time, 35 hours per week, although flexible/ compressed hours will be considered. The role will require occasional evening and weekend work.

Contract Length: Permanent

Salary: £42,000

BACKGROUND

Magic Breakfast is the UK’s leading school breakfast charity and makes a difference to over 350,000 children and young people every day by offering breakfasts and expert advice to tackle child morning hunger in schools across England and Scotland.

This is an exciting time for Magic Breakfast as the benefits of school breakfast provision are increasingly recognised by policymakers, educators and the public. The Policy and Public Affairs (PPA) Team is central to this work. And through our new organisational strategy, Nourishing Futures, the work of the PPA Team is growing to meet our advocacy ambition to expand school breakfast provision and deliver our vision which would see every child in the UK nourished, empowered and thriving.

JOB PURPOSE

The role of the Policy and Public Affairs Manager is a high-impact role, central to designing and delivering Magic Breakfast’s national policy and public affairs strategy in England. The role holder will lead the development of evidence-based policy positions and work collaboratively to drive forward strategic, integrated and impactful advocacy campaigns to successfully influence decision-makers, policy change, and funding frameworks aligned with our key objectives. Specifically, you will also lead the design and implementation of our new workstream to expand school breakfast provision to secondary schools and early years settings, alongside our work to ensure the effective implementation of the Free Breakfast Club Programme.

More broadly, you will keep abreast of political developments relevant to Magic Breakfast - proactively identifying opportunities to respond, influence and shape the debate across the school food system and provide strategic, analytical and timely advice to the Senior Leadership Team.

Using your excellent communication skills, you will be able to translate complex policy into tailored and effective communications, policy briefings, positions and submissions, and will play a lead role in confidently engaging external stakeholders including UK Government Ministers, Parliamentarians, special advisers, officials and sector partners.

We are looking for someone who enjoys collaboration, who shares our passion for driving systematic change, and who can use their experience to navigate, respond to, and influence the fast-moving political environment to deliver lasting and meaningful change. You’ll be part of a collaborative and ambitious organisation, working at the intersection of policy, practice and impact – putting children and young people at the heart of everything we do and helping to ensure every child starts their day nourished, empowered and ready to thrive.

KEY RESPONSOBILITIES

• Lead the policy development process in consultation with cross-organisational teams and external organisations to develop clear, evidence-based policy recommendations and positions.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with UK Government Ministers, Parliamentarians, Special Advisers, officials and sector organisations, including conducting stakeholder mapping and power analysis to identify key routes to influence.

• Design, lead and implement integrated advocacy campaigns to deliver maximum impact in collaboration with cross-organisational teams.

• Work closely with colleagues to share expertise and intelligence, inform and shape research areas, support campaign activities aligned with advocacy objectives, and respond proactively to live developments across the organisation.

• Line manage and support the development of the Public Affairs Officer.

• Strong ability to translate complex policy into clear, persuasive communications tailored to specific audiences to deliver maximum impact.

Please read the full job description attached below. 

WHAT WE OFFER

At Magic Breakfast we value our employees and work hard to develop offer a supportive, respectful culture which enables everyone to thrive.

Please see our job pack below

Please see our website

APPLICATION PROCCESS

Should you wish to discuss the role before applying please email our People and Culture Team, HR @ magicbreakfast .com

Shortlisting: w/c 25th and 26th May

Interview 1: w/c 1st and 2nd June

Interview 2: w/c 8th and 11th June

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications are received. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels whilst maintaining a positive candidate experience. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications.

Overview

The Premier League Foundation is seeking to appoint an experienced Communications Manager to support the Head of Communications in delivering strategic, impactful communications that advance the charity’s work, ensure recognition for our funding partners, and raise awareness of the work of both the Foundation and the wider football club charity network.

The Communications Manager will be responsible for the day-to-day delivery of the communications action plan. This is an exciting, fast-paced and varied role within a small, committed team and will involve regular collaboration with communications leads across football club charities, as well as Policy, Communications, Editorial and Marketing colleagues from the Premier League.

We are looking for an individual with excellent interpersonal skills who can build effective relationships and work confidently with a diverse range of stakeholders. The preferred candidate will be able to adapt seamlessly between shaping and executing strategy, drafting compelling copy, and developing engaging success stories. Outstanding written, oral and digital communication skills, alongside strong attention to detail, are essential.

Requirements for the role

· Proven communications experience in a fast-paced environment, with the ability to build effective relationships at all levels.

· Demonstrable experience in one or more of the following areas: strategic communications, public relations, digital communications, or internal communications.

· Experience working with multiple partners and managing competing priorities across a varied workload.  

· Proven writing, editing, proofreading, publishing and report development skills.

· Excellent interpersonal, influencing and relationship management skills.

· Proven ability to work independently, exercising sound judgement and demonstrating strategic leadership without close supervision.

· A collaborative team player with excellent communication and organisation skills.

· Ability to communicate effectively with different audiences, including children and young people, across different formats, with written communication to an excellent standard.

· Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage complex stakeholder networks.

· Ability to work effectively under pressure, make informed decisions and solve problems proactively.

· A strong understanding of, and commitment to, equality, diversity and inclusion, including best practice in inclusive communications.

· A commitment to safeguarding and an understanding of its importance within communications activity.

· High level of computer proficiency, particularly in Microsoft Office. Experience with Pulse CMS (or a similar system) is desirable but not required.

· Willingness to travel within England and Wales as required.

· Satisfactory enhanced DBS check.

Does every child have the right to "sparkle"? We think so.

At Thriving Through Recreation, we believe that equitable access to hobbies, sports, and the arts is a fundamental part of growing up. We work with children and young people navigating social, emotional, or educational difficulties, helping them find and fund the activities they love in their own communities.

We are looking for a proactive, empathetic, and highly organised Activities Support Co-Ordinator to join our team.

The Role

Working directly with our CEO, you will be the engine room of our Activities Support Programme. This is a primarily remote role, but because our heart is in the community, you must be based in Cambridgeshire to facilitate local connections and occasional travel within the county.

Your day-to-day will involve:

• Connecting: Triage and assess applications, building relationships with families and referring professionals to understand a child’s unique needs.
• Vetting: Conducting risk assessments and due diligence to ensure every activity provider we partner with meets our gold-standard safeguarding requirements.
• Facilitating: Managing the "matchmaking" process—finding the right club, negotiating payments, and tracking the budget.
• Evidencing: Collecting the stories and data that prove our impact, helping us grow and reach more young people.

Who You Are

You are someone who balances a big heart with a sharp eye for detail. You understand that "equity" means doing whatever it takes to level the playing field.

• Experienced: You have a background in social work, youth work, teaching, or a related field. You’ve worked with families facing disadvantage, and you know how to navigate complex family difficulties.
• Qualified: A degree or certification in Social Work, Youth Work, Education or a related field.
• Safeguarding Savvy: A deep understanding of safeguarding principles and child protection procedures.
• Independent: You’re comfortable leading frontline operations autonomously and can manage a budget with precision.
• A Multitasker: Ability to manage a budget, family case load and calendar without breaking a sweat.
• A Great Communicator: Whether you’re on a video call chatting with a parent and child about finger painting or liaising with a local activity provider, you can adjust your style to build rapport instantly.
• Local Knowledge: As a resident of Cambridgeshire, you’ll use your local insight to help expand our reach across the county.

Why Join Us?

• Be a Pioneer: You’ll be instrumental in shaping the future of a rapidly growing charity.
• Impact-Focused: You will see the direct results of your work as children gain confidence and thrive through recreational learning.
• Flexible & Inclusive: We offer remote working and value your unique journey. We encourage applications that evidence these requirements through paid or unpaid roles, as well as personal and professional experience.

Thriving Through Recreation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All short-listed applicants will need to submit a Safeguarding Self-Declaration Form, and all appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.

Working closely with the Director of Development, this individual will be responsible for raising funds and managing relationships with prospects and donors, organising fundraising campaigns and delivering events.

You will support the Director of Development to raise philanthropic funds through major gift and regular giving fundraising to support key development projects for the College. About Us Clifton College is a leading independent day and boarding school educating over 1,200 pupils aged 3 to 18.

Founded in 1862, the College provides an all-round education, a rich heritage with modern state-of-the-art facilities. Located in the beautiful suburb of Clifton, we lead the way as one of the best independent schools in the country.

What you’ll be doing:

 Donor Relations and Stewardship

● Work closely with the Director of Development to deliver the fundraising strategy, with a focus on securing major gifts, regular giving, and corporate sponsorships.

● Build and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with prospective and existing donors.

● Identify new prospects and funding opportunities.

● Meet with donors and prospects with the Director and alone to develop the pipeline of future support.

● Ensure timely and personalised communication with donors to acknowledge gifts, provide updates on impact, and cultivate long-term relationships.

● Write compelling proposals and impact reports.

● Work with the Head of Alumni to develop engagement strategies for legacy giving to the 1862 Club. 

 Work with marketing to create promotional materials and build our portfolio of testimonials.

Event Management

● Create engagement events for potential donors.

● Work with the alumni team to plan stewardship events for supporters.

● Support the development of parent engagement events.

● Support the Head of Alumni with the career mentoring programme. Administration

● Manage gift processing using Raiser’s Edge, including receipting and thanking supporters, and managing pledge payment reminders. ● Create tailored communication and engagement plans for prospects and donors.

● Provide regular updates on fundraising progress and donor reports for the Director of Development.

● Develop and manage fundraising budgets, ensuring all fundraising activities are cost-effective and within financial targets.

About You

The ideal candidate will be an excellent communicator, highly organised, and have fundraising experience within the education or charity sector.

Required Qualifications & experience

● Proven experience in fundraising, development, or a related field, ideally within an educational or non-profit organisation.

● Strong knowledge of fundraising best practices, including major gifts, regular giving, legacy giving, grant writing, and event management.

● Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including current and former parents, alumni, pupils, staff, Governors and donors.

● Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlineseffectively.

● A passion for education and an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing independent schools.

● A team player who positively contributes to a collaborative and ambitious team culture. Adaptable and flexible to change as required.

● Experience with managing budgets and using fundraising CRM systems (preferably Raiser’s Edge).

● A proactive, results-driven attitude and a desire to make a tangible impact in a school environment.

● Proven experience of planning and implementing successful major donor fundraising programmes

● Proven experience of securing high-value major gifts

● An understanding of trends and developments across the sector and demonstrable knowledge of best practice in major donors, trusts and foundations fundraising

● A degree or equivalent.

Desirable Skills

● Experience in organising and leading fundraising events.

● Knowledge of UK charitable giving regulations

● Experience in working with high-net-worth individuals and corporate sponsors.

● Previous experience in alumni relations or school development.

What’s in it for you £38,000- £42,000 salary

• 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays • BUPA Employee Assistance Programme •BUPA Confidential counselling and advice • Career development and training • Cycle to work scheme • Discounted onsite gym and pool membership • Subsidised lunch • Enhanced Pension scheme • Life Assurance • Menopause clinic • Onsite Flu vaccine clinics • Pop up bike servicing • Refer a friend scheme • Subsided Holiday Club employee benefit which is available for children from Reception Year up to Year 8 • Wellbeing benefits

Clifton College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. That’s why we apply robust selection principles to our recruitment, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE). 

Although not all the roles at Clifton College are pupil-facing, we treat all roles as regulated activity. This means we can be safe in the knowledge that we have applied the most stringent recruitment checks to safeguard our pupils. Due to the nature of the role, you will need to complete an enhanced criminal record disclosure (DBS check) and undergo our pre-employment screening. As a regulated sector we are required to ask for references prior to interview. By applying for this role, you are consenting for us to contact your referees. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 therefore you will be asked to disclose all previous convictions not exempt under amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975,2013 and 2020. If you join us, we’ll expect you to maintain an up-to-date knowledge of Safeguarding legislation, and our safeguarding policies and procedures. We’ll also ask you to maintain an up-to-date knowledge of Equality and Diversity legislation and associated policies, as well as Health & Safety legislation. But don’t worry because we’ll provide training to do this! Equal Opportunities Applications are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of ethnicity, gender, age or disability. We particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups. Clifton College is committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships. How to apply Please note that we can only accept applications via our vacancy website application form (which will also allow you to attach your CV or any other supporting information). Clifton College and the Clifton College Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, all staff and volunteers are required to share this commitment. Due to the nature of the role, you will need to complete an enhanced criminal record disclosure (DBS check) and undergo our pre-employment screening. As a regulated sector we are required to ask for references prior to interview. By applying for this role, you are consenting for us to contact your referees.

This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 therefore you will be asked to disclose all previous convictions not exempt under amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. 

Be a key part of a values‑driven team supporting young people from underserved communities to feel seen, supported and inspired. Plan and deliver engaging youth sessions that build confidence, connection and possibility

Youth Outreach Practitioner – Glasgow  

Salary: Up to £32k 

Hours: Full time 

Location: Glasgow  

Contract: Permanent  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About you 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Closing Date: Sunday 10th May at 5pm 

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

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

Youth Outreach Practitioner – South Yorkshire  

Salary: Up to £32k 

Hours: Full time 

Location: Sheffield or Doncaster

Contract: Permanent 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your base would be at Sheffield or Doncaster Railway Station with regular travel between these stations plus Barnsley and Rotherham stations and working across these boroughs. This role does involve working regular unsociable hours including evenings and weekends.   

 About you 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Closing Date: Sunday 10th May at 5pm 
 
1st interviews are scheduled to take place on Wednesday 20th May 2026 
2nd interviews are scheduled to take place on Tuesday 2nd June 2026 

About Chapter One 

Chapter One is a dynamic, growing charity with a vision of a world in which all children have the literacy skills needed to thrive. Our mission is to close the reading gap by providing children with one-to-one support at the time they need it most. We work in thirteen areas/regions of the UK and will support over 4,000 children in 2026-27.

Our unique Online Reading Volunteer programme pairs struggling five to seven-year old (P2-4) readers with reading support volunteers who are working professionals. The volunteer ask is very focused: readers commit 30 minutes a week to read with a child using a bespoke digital platform for an entire academic year. The results are transformative, boosting children's reading confidence and ability. 

From a school perspective, online reading volunteers provide direct, meaningful literacy support for up to 10 pupils per class. The programme is particularly suitable for communities where it might be challenging to find parents and other volunteers who can commit to physically visiting schools to boost reading. For more information please visit our website and watch this short video!

About the Role

Chapter One is seeking a Scotland Programme Manager who is an excellent communicator and is able both to motivate and support schools and teachers to implement our online reading volunteers programme, and also to ensure that the programme’s impact and benefit to disadvantaged communities is maximised throughout the academic year. 

The post is ideal for someone looking for part-time, flexible, term-time only work from a home base and who is able to travel frequently in and around Edinburgh and Glasgow. The postholder will be joining a team of established Programme Managers who work in different parts of the UK and will need to have some flexibility to work some additional hours during busy autumn weeks, and conversely to work fewer hours during quieter periods of the year. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Effectively explain Chapter One’s online reading volunteer programme and its benefits to school leaders and teachers.

• Install, setup and maintain Chapter One equipment in participating classrooms. This will include technical configuration/troubleshooting of mobile internet hotspots with IT team support.

• Organise and conduct initial teacher training and follow-up.

• Ensure a smooth initial launch of Chapter One’s programme in every classroom.

• Fully understand the operation of the Chapter One platform and database and effectively communicate this to others as needed.

• Liaise with colleagues performing technical and volunteer support roles.

• Through regular visits to/contact with schools, provide on-going embedded professional learning and support to teachers throughout the year as needed.  

• Proactively monitor classroom adherence/fidelity to the Chapter One model, including systematic review of data reports and volunteer feedback, taking proactive action to resolve problems that arise.

• Analyse and manipulate data (largely in Google sheets) to produce reports and identify trends.

• Create regular data summaries for all participating classrooms.

• Lead annual review meetings for senior leadership at participating schools.

• Support programme monitoring, evaluation and research as required.

• Coordinate in person and virtual school ‘visits’ of volunteer teams to classrooms where necessary. This may include opportunities for Chapter One children to visit the office of the volunteers.

• Liaison with corporate partners as required.

• Weekly communication and status updates with Senior Programme Manager(s) and wider team.

• As a new school year approaches, secure commitments from returning schools and help find and target new schools to join Chapter One’s programme. 

We are looking for applicants with the following essential qualities:

• Highly motivated individual with excellent interpersonal and organisational skills. 

• Proven track record of working at a senior level in education, project management or a related field. 

• Proven strength in both written and verbal communication. 

• Highly IT literate, with excellent computer skills, able to troubleshoot software and technical  hardware issues, adept with Google suite and Microsoft Teams.

• Ability to manipulate and analyse data to draw useful conclusions to improve programme delivery.

• Proven ability to work independently. 

• Self-starter and quick learner.

• Ability to adapt and embrace a changing environment. 

• Ability to drive and access to a car for work purposes.

Ideally, applicants will also have the following desirable qualities:

• Two years of teaching/education experience with primary age children.

• University degree.

How to Apply

Please send your CV (maximum 2 A4 sides) and a covering letter via Charity Jobs. Your covering letter (maximum 1 side of A4) should:

1) Explain your relevant experience and why you’re interested in this role at this point in your career.

2) Share your ability to be resilient when things are not going the way you thought, including clear examples of past experiences.

3) Explain how our organisational mission is in line with your values.

Applications that fail to meet these criteria will automatically be discounted. We understand that you may use AI to help craft your application, but do remember that we will be looking for individuals who write a letter that stands out. We want you to have every opportunity to shine and to show us your talents - please let us know if there is anything we can do to make sure the assessment process works for you.

Chapter One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value and celebrate diversity in backgrounds and experience and are deliberate about the kind of teams we are building. Literacy is a universal concern, and we need people from all backgrounds to maximise our innovation, creativity and impact. We especially welcome applications from persons who have experienced disadvantage and/or from those who are of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities who are currently underrepresented in the organisation. 

Chapter One is committed to safeguarding children and young people. All postholders are subject to satisfactory references and a PVG check.  Copies of our Safeguarding Policy and Safer Recruitment Policy are available on request.

N.B. Shortlisting and phone screening are likely to take place week commencing Monday 18th May.  For successful candidates, interviews are likely to begin week commencing Monday 1st June.

If you love connecting people with purpose, this is your chance to shape something extraordinary. Join Rockinghorse and lead a volunteer community that supports children and families when they need it most.

About Rockinghorse Children’s Charity

Rockinghorse Children’s Charity supports sick and disabled children across Sussex. We support babies, children and young people, along with their families, at The Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital and The Trevor Mann Baby Unit in Brighton and all of the specialist children’s wards and baby units throughout Sussex. 

We deliver and fund projects that enable doctors and nurses to do more. All of projects are led by the needs of children and young people and their families – the lifesaving medical equipment, the support for parents and families, the toys for children spending time in hospitals across Sussex, the environments and spaces that help children feel more at home when they are in hospital and additional staff to make sure children get the best possible care when they are unwell. 

Originally set up in 1967 by Dr Trevor Mann, we have been supporting children for more than 55 years, and in that time, we have supported nearly a million children and their families. As the official fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital, including the Trevor Mann Baby Unit, we work with the NHS, charity partners and the Sussex community to ensure children can be children no matter now sick they are. 

We do not receive any government, statutory or local authority funding and so we rely on the generous support of individuals, community groups, companies and trusts: people like you, who care about children and want Sussex to be a safe place for children to grow up. 

About the Role

In 2025 we launched our five-year strategic plan, which prioritised our activities to enable us to support more babies, children and teenagers. As we enter the final year of this strategy the charity continues to expand and develop its projects and services children all over Sussex.

This role will support the Head of Finance & Operations and be responsible for organising and managing the charity’s volunteers and the volunteer programme, working across the charity to ensure we have the right individuals to support our work. You will be responsible for the management, recruitment, onboarding and retention of all short and long-term volunteers, to ensure we can continue to deliver life-saving projects for children and young people across Sussex.

You’ll bring excellent organisational skills, outstanding written and verbal communication skills, a can-do attitude, evidence of brilliant people management skills, and a passion and enthusiasm for supporting young people. You’ll be part of a successful team that values wellbeing and champions teamwork, where our vision for children and young people is shared, and success is celebrated.

Duties of the Role 

Support the charity to deliver brilliant projects and services that support children and their families:

· Work collaboratively across the charity team to recruit volunteers with the necessary skills, experience and commitment to support our project delivery, fundraising activities, events schedule and office work.

· Communicate regularly with our volunteer community, to highlight upcoming fundraising and challenge events and ensure there is sufficient and appropriate representation in place per event.

· Ensure that the charity has the right policies and procedures in place for the recruitment, onboarding, retention and management of volunteers.

· Lead on and co-ordinate the induction and training of volunteers to ensure they are fully onboarded and prepared for the charity and the role.

· Support volunteers to achieve their aspirations in terms of work experience, education, training or further volunteering during their time with us.

· Co-ordinate individual and/or group supervision and support for volunteers.

· Manage a volunteer database in line with relevant data protection legislation and ensure that all volunteers undergo appropriate due diligence during the recruitment process.

· Encourage and facilitate volunteers to share their experiences as case studies and reflections.

· Co-ordinate volunteer thank you initiatives, engagement activities and communications to ensure volunteers feel part of the charity and actively participate in our work.

· Create partnerships with new corporate and community partners to maintain a steady flow of volunteers into the charity.

· Develop effective working relationships with existing partners, helping to engage local teams in volunteering and fundraising opportunities.

· Oversee work experience placements throughout the year, ensuring a positive experience and maximising the return on investment for the team.

· Manage the offboarding process for all volunteers, ensuring a brilliant experience from start to finish.

· Support the Head of Marketing and Communications to create promotional, marketing and social media materials related to our volunteer programme.

· Modernise and automate processes on an ongoing basis to increase workflow efficiency.

· Lead on the evaluation of the volunteer programme and ensure we understand and value to impact volunteers bring to the charity.

· Report on the volunteer function as part of the management information and against set KPIs and targets. 

Support the charity more widely:

· Represent Rockinghorse at events and activities, building strong peer relationships and sharing best practice.

· Model excellent conduct and behaviours in line with the charity’s values and ethos.

· Carry out other such duties as may be required for the purposes of the charity, including working flexibly during evenings and weekends as required.

· Travel across Sussex as needed in order to attend events and meet with our supporters and volunteers.

Person Specification -

Essential experience, skills and knowledge for the role: 

1. Experience and understanding of the principles of volunteer management in a charity and/or not-for-profit.

2. Proven experience of recruiting and managing volunteers day to day.

3. An understanding of safeguarding and welfare management frameworks.

4. Able to work collaboratively and build productive relationships with colleagues, stakeholders and third-party partners.

5. Able to prioritise own workload effectively and comfortable with working autonomously.

6. Excellent time management skills with strong prioritisation and organisation skills.

7. Brilliant communication, interpersonal and stakeholder engagement abilities.

8. An understanding of data privacy theory and application.

9. Experience of using customer relationship management platforms (Rockinghorse uses e-Tapestry).

10. Commitment to Rockinghorse Children’s Charity’s mission, vision and values.

Desirable experience, skills and knowledge: 

1. Experience managing communications and marketing to support volunteer engagement.

2. Previous work experience with a non-profit, or charitable organisation.

Work skills you’ll need day to day: 

1. A can-do attitude.

2. Brilliant organisational skills.

3. Excellent people skills with an adaptable and flexible manner and approach.

4. Excellent written and verbal communication.

5. Ability to support and motivate others.

6. Ability to work on own initiative and as an active team member.

7. Ability to work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits of Working for Rockinghorse Children’s Charity: 

· 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata to part-time working pattern). 

· An additional day of annual leave on your birthday. 

· Additional Christmas closure days (pro-rata to part-time working pattern).

· Competitive pension scheme. 

· Employee and dependants’ health cash plan including access to an online GP and counselling. 

· Family leave including maternity, adoption, shared parental and paternity leave. 

· Ongoing opportunities for learning and professional development. 

· Quarterly reward and recognition days. 

· Opportunity for flexible, hybrid and part-time working. 

· Cycle to work scheme. 

· Access to Enterprise Car Club. 

Rockinghorse is committed to building an inclusive workplace, with equity for all, whilst embracing and championing inclusion and diversity. We welcome applications from all. 

_______________________________________________ 

Application Process 

To apply, please send your CV and covering letter outlining how you fulfil the ten essential elements of the person specification.

Your covering letter must address your experience, skills and knowledge against the “Essential” elements of the person specification. Applications without a covering letter will not be considered. If you also meet any of the “Desirable” criteria, please outline these too. 

If you need any support with the process or application, please get in touch. We can also talk through the role and answer any questions you may have informally.

All applicants will be shortlisted to proceed to interview based on their ability to demonstrate they have, or can gain, most of the essential criteria for the role – as demonstrated in the covering letter.

Estimated timeframes: 

· Application deadline midnight 10th May 2026.

· Shortlisting w/c 11th May 2026.

· Interviews will be Thursday 21st May 2026 in central Brighton.

Interviews will be with the Head of Finance & Operations and the Senior Projects Manager and will consist of a series of set questions (the same for each candidate) about your skills, experience and knowledge relating to the post (Essential, Desirable and Work skills).

The interview will also be an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the role, the charity and the process of recruitment.

The role will be available from 1st June 2026 (depending on post holder’s availability).

About Chapter One 

Chapter One is a dynamic, growing charity with a vision of a world in which all children have the literacy skills needed to thrive. Our mission is to close the reading gap by providing children with one-to-one support at the time they need it most. We work in thirteen areas/regions of the UK and will support over 4,000 children in 2026-27.

Our unique Online Reading Volunteer programme pairs struggling five to seven-year old (Y1-3) readers with reading support volunteers who are working professionals. The volunteer ask is very focused: readers commit 30 minutes a week to read with a child using a bespoke digital platform for an entire academic year. The results are transformative, boosting children's reading confidence and ability. 

From a school perspective, online reading volunteers provide direct, meaningful literacy support for up to 10 pupils per class. The programme is particularly suitable for communities where it might be challenging to find parents and other volunteers who can commit to physically visiting schools to boost reading. For more information please visit our website and watch this short video!

About the Role

Chapter One is seeking a Bristol Programme Manager who is an excellent communicator and is able both to motivate and support schools and teachers to implement our online reading volunteers programme, and also to ensure that the programme’s impact and benefit to disadvantaged communities is maximised throughout the academic year. 

The post is ideal for someone looking for part-time, flexible, term-time only work from a home base and who is able to travel frequently in and around Bristol. The postholder will be joining a team of established Programme Managers who work in different parts of the UK and will need to have some flexibility to work some additional hours during busy autumn weeks, and conversely to work fewer hours during quieter periods of the year. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Effectively explain Chapter One’s online reading volunteer programme and its benefits to school leaders and teachers.

• Install, setup and maintain Chapter One equipment in participating classrooms.

• Organise and conduct initial teacher training and follow-up.

• Ensure a smooth initial launch of Chapter One’s programme in every classroom.

• Fully understand the operation of the Chapter One platform and database and effectively communicate this to others as needed.

• Liaise with colleagues performing technical and volunteer support roles.

• Through regular visits to/contact with schools, provide on-going embedded professional learning and support to teachers throughout the year as needed.  

• Proactively monitor classroom adherence/fidelity to the Chapter One model, including systematic review of data reports and volunteer feedback, taking proactive action to resolve problems that arise.

• Analyse and manipulate data (largely in Google sheets) to produce reports and identify trends.

• Create regular data summaries for all participating classrooms.

• Lead annual review meetings for senior leadership at participating schools.

• Support programme monitoring, evaluation and research as required.

• Coordinate in person and virtual school ‘visits’ of volunteer teams to classrooms where necessary. This may include opportunities for Chapter One children to visit the office of the volunteers.

• Liaison with corporate partners as required.

• Weekly communication and status updates with Senior Programme Manager(s) and wider team.

• As a new school year approaches, secure commitments from returning schools and help find and target new schools to join Chapter One’s programme. 

We are looking for applicants with the following essential qualities:

• Highly motivated individual with excellent interpersonal and organisational skills. 

• Proven track record of working at a senior level in education, project management or a related field. 

• Proven strength in both written and verbal communication. 

• Highly IT literate, with excellent computer skills, able to troubleshoot software and technical  hardware issues, adept with Google suite and Microsoft Teams.

• Ability to manipulate and analyse data to draw useful conclusions to improve programme delivery.

• Proven ability to work independently. 

• Self-starter and quick learner.

• Ability to adapt and embrace a changing environment. 

• Ability to drive and access to a car for work purposes.

Ideally, applicants will also have the following desirable qualities:

• Two years of teaching/education experience with primary age children.

• University degree.

How to Apply

Please send your CV (maximum 2 A4 sides) and a covering letter via Charity Jobs. Your covering letter (maximum 1 side of A4) should:

1) Explain your relevant experience and why you’re interested in this role at this point in your career.

2) Share your ability to be resilient when things are not going the way you thought, including clear examples of past experiences.

3) Explain how our organisational mission is in line with your values.

Applications that fail to meet these criteria will automatically be discounted. We understand that you may use AI to help craft your application, but do remember that we will be looking for individuals who write a letter that stands out. We want you to have every opportunity to shine and to show us your talents - please let us know if there is anything we can do to make sure the assessment process works for you.

Chapter One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value and celebrate diversity in backgrounds and experience and are deliberate about the kind of teams we are building. Literacy is a universal concern, and we need people from all backgrounds to maximise our innovation, creativity and impact. We especially welcome applications from persons who have experienced disadvantage and/or from those who are of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities who are currently underrepresented in the organisation. 

Chapter One is committed to safeguarding children and young people. All postholders are subject to satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check.  Copies of our Safeguarding Policy and Safer Recruitment Policy are available on request.

N.B. Shortlisting and phone screening are likely to take place week commencing Monday 18th May.  For successful candidates, interviews are likely to begin week commencing Monday 1st June.

ID: 1782 Operational Manager, Northeast

Service: Stockton on Tees Family Time, Stockton Family Outreach & Volunteer service and South Tees Perinatal service

Salary: Grade 4 Point 34-38: £42,562 – £46,703 FTE (£34,049.60 - £37,362.40 per annum, pro rata for 29.6 hours per week)

- Additionally, £480 home-based allowance FTE per annum

Location: Home based

Hours: Part-time (up to 29.6 hours per week)

We offer flexible working arrangements - please see below for more details.

Contract: Permanent

Family Action & the Role’s Impact:

At Family Action we support people through change, challenge or crisis. It’s what we’ve done for over 150 years. We protect children, support young people and adults and offer direct, practical help to families and communities.

We see first-hand the power of family to shape lives, for better or worse, so we speak up for the

importance of family in national and local policymaking, amplify family voices and represent the changing needs of families in the UK today.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead the operational delivery of services across Stockton on Tees and South Tees (Recar & Middlesbrough) area.  The Operational Manager will provide strategic and operational management to our services in the Northeast and line management of 2 - 3 service managers.

Stockton services are delivered under our successful strategic partnership with Stockton Borough Council. This unique partnership was formed nearly 5 years ago with the aim of transforming service provision using a collaborative approach to service development and innovation. Our South Tees Perinatal service operates over Redcar and Middlesborough and are just entering a 3 year extension to our current contract.

Main Responsibilities:

· Provide leadership, management and supervision to operational services that provide Family Time sessions, Family Outreach support and Volunteering support, plus perinatal support to families.

· Ensure that services are delivered to a good quality standard in relation to practice and performance and that services can demonstrate their impact using evidence based outcomes tools.

Main Requirements (for details check the job description and person specification):

· Experience of providing effective management, leadership and safeguarding oversight of case work and group work based support services, which overall improve the lives of  service users.

· Experience of setting up and/or managing innovative projects.

· Strong interpersonal skills, with the confidence and ability to present and communicate information effectively both in person and using a range of mediums to internal and external stakeholders, including children and young people, parents and carers, and funders.

· Appointments are subject to Family Action receiving a satisfactory disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service –Enhanced

Benefits:

- an annual paid leave entitlement that commences at 25 working days, rising each April by one day, subject to a maximum of 30 working days plus bank holiday pro rata

- up to 6% matched-pension contributions

- flexible working arrangements and new starters have the right to make flexible working requests from day one of employment

- enhanced paid sick leave and paid family leave provisions

- eye care and winter flu jabs vouchers

- cycle to work scheme

- investing in your professional development with ongoing quality training and career development opportunities

We are forward looking, ambitious and committed to continuous improvement. We are a people focused, can-do organisation, which strives for excellence in all we do and operates with mutual respect.

To Apply:

· Click the “Apply Now” link below and fill out our digital application form

· Closing Date: Sunday 10th May 2026 at 23:59

Interviews are scheduled to take place on: 20th May 2026

For direct queries or if you would like to discuss any aspect of the selection process or flexible working requests, please email: Claire Meek (email address available on advert document).

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:

We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process and you will be asked whether you require any adjustments if shortlisted for interview. We also make reasonable adjustments on the job, where required.

We are committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion in all that we do and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Intersectionality is important to us and we particularly welcome applications from ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ candidates and disabled candidates because we are committed to increasing the representation of these groups at Family Action. We know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for families and children and strive for our workforce to be truly representative of the diverse communities we support.

All candidates with a disability are welcome to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme and request priority consideration for an interview, provided they meet the essential criteria for the role.

To help remove financial barriers to working with us, we will reimburse reasonable travel costs if you are invited to attend an interview in person.

*Ordinarily Family Action appoints new starters at the starting point of the salary scale (with subsequent annual pay progression), unless you have experience that would justify appointment further up the salary scale or there are any other exceptional reasons.

Do a job that is amazing! 

We are looking for people with great energy and motivation to join our Short Breaks service which offers a chance for young people with an additional support needs or disability to have fun and take a break from daily routines, and helps families to enjoy quality time, local activities, and connections with others.

Our holiday and weekend activities give parents and carers a break while providing participants with a safe, welcoming space to have fun and receive the care they need. Our coordinators plan, arrange and deliver a programme of activities shaped around the needs of the young people, making the most of local opportunities, from heritage sites and outdoor adventures, to sports, arts and crafts, cooking, and team challenges. These sessions help children build friendships, grow in confidence, and express themselves in a fun, supportive space.

Family day activities bring families together to create special memories and enjoy time with others who share similar experiences. Coordinators develop and facilitate activity days which involve the whole family and provide opportunities to build friendships and connections with others. Activities take place at outdoor centres, local heritage sites and museums, as well as organised beach days and community centre-based workshops and activities.

Applicants should have relevant experience of working or volunteering with children and young people in education, health or social care, and have exceptional organisational and communication skills. 

Full and part-time positions available, and coordinators are required to work most Saturdays.  In school holiday periods, more activities take place on weekdays (instead of Saturdays), so flexibility is needed. Activities are delivered across Kent, so some travel is required.

It’s essential that applicants have their own car and preferably willing to drive a minibus (full training provided). Immediate start available.

Apply today.

We offer our employees:

· Inclusive values-based environment

· Competitive remuneration package

· Workplace pension scheme

· Generous annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays

· Carers leave

· Opportunities for hybrid working

· Benenden Health Care

· Death in Service Benefit

· Cycle to Work Scheme

· Employee Supported Volunteering scheme

· Development opportunities

· and more

Imago is committed to Safer Recruitment practices, and the post is subject to references and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Please either submit your CV with a short covering note or visit our website for full details.

Imago recognises that many people in our society experience discrimination or lack of opportunity for reasons that are not fair. We aim to create a culture that respects and values each other’s differences, and see these differences as an asset, as they improve our ability to meet the needs of the organisations and people we work with. We proactively seek to increase opportunities for inclusion and celebrate diversity across our organisation and within communities.

Imago recognises its duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of the children, young people and adults at risk who access its services or with whom it comes into contact.

Research Programme Manager

Are you an experienced research professional looking to make a difference to children and young people’s lives?

Please note: this role is known internally as Research Lab Manager

Anna Freud are seeking a Research Lab Manager to join our world-leading mental health charity for children, young people and their families on a part-time basis.

Our mission is to close the gap in wellbeing and mental health by advancing, translating, delivering, and sharing the best science and practice with everyone who impacts the lives of children, young people and their families. More information about Anna Freud is available on our website.

Our EDI commitment

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and being an equal opportunities employer, whereby equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are core to our recruitment practices. All candidates who meet the job criteria will be considered for employment, regardless of ethnic origin, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, socioeconomic background, caring responsibilities and care experience.

We ask candidates to share their diversity dimensions with us to help us identify, tackle and prevent bias across the employee lifecycle. We believe a diverse workforce enhances our ability to support mental health and wellbeing, allowing us to better meet the needs of the children, young people and families we serve.

As a Disability Confident employer, disabled candidates meeting our criteria are guaranteed an interview. Applications are submitted anonymously and assessed using a fair evaluation process based on the criteria set out in our job profiles.

What we offer

We offer a range of staff benefits, including an all-in-one rewards and recognition platform called Perkbox and wellbeing offers such as finishing early on Fridays and free counselling through our Employee Assistance Programme. We are proud to have staff-led Diversity Networks offering unique opportunities for learning, connection and impact.

This role offers the chance to work on high-impact mental health research, gain exposure to leading experts across Anna Freud and UCL, and take real ownership of projects from start to finish. You’ll build experience across a range of research methods, develop your profile through publications and funding work, and play a meaningful role in improving outcomes for children and young people.

What you’ll do

A central role supporting the delivery of a programme of mental health research, coordinating projects, managing operations, and ensuring studies are delivered to a high standard from set-up through to completion.

• Coordinate and manage multiple research projects, ensuring timelines, risks, and deliverables are effectively tracked and met
• Oversee research operations, including data management, documentation, and project governance
• Lead on funder reporting and support grant applications and wider research opportunities
• Liaise with key stakeholders, including funders, NHS services, local authorities, and research participants
• Support and supervise junior team members while contributing to high-quality research outputs

What you’ll bring

For the Reseach Lab Manager role, you will be an organised and proactive research professional, with strong experience managing complex projects and data, who can confidently coordinate studies, work with a range of stakeholders, and drive high-quality research delivery in a mental health setting.

• Proven experience managing and coordinating large-scale quantitative or mixed-methods research projects
• Strong data management and administrative skills, with attention to quality, accuracy, and compliance
• Experience contributing to research outputs, including funder reports, publications, or dissemination activities
• Ability to plan, prioritise, and manage multiple deadlines independently, using initiative to solve problems
• Effective communication skills and experience working with diverse stakeholders, including supporting or supervising junior team members

Key details

Hours: Part-time: 14 hours per week (two days). Usual working hours are Monday to Friday, 09:00-17:00. Specific days to be negotiated. Flexible working is possible.

Salary: £46,062 FTE per annum, plus 6% contributory pension scheme

Location: Hybrid (a mixture of home/onsite working): staff are working onsite for at least 20% of their working hours at our London site (4-8 Rodney Street, London N1 9JH). Attendance in-person for meetings, as and when required.

Contract type: Permanent

Next steps

Closing date for applications: midday (12pm), Friday, 08 May 2026. Please note that due to high application volumes, we may close this advert early. We encourage you to apply promptly and to keep an eye on our future vacancies for more opportunities.

Notification of interview: shortlisted applicants will be notified no later than Friday, 15 May 2026. During shortlisting, applicants are anonymously assessed using the criteria visible in the Job Profile. Please note: due to the high volume of applications received, we will not be able to provide feedback to unsuccessful applicants.

Interviews: will be held in Week commencing 18 May 2026.

How to apply: click on the 'apply now’ button to apply online. We are unable to accept CVs and kindly request no contact from agencies.

Questions?

Please get in contact with any job enquiries, or if you require assistance or experience difficulties when applying. Please note that successful candidate(s) will be asked to evidence their Right to Work in the UK post-job offer – we do not hold a sponsor license therefore we are unable to provide Visa sponsorship.

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

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

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

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

Benefits: 

• Competitive salary: Review due April 2027 

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

• 3% pension contribution 

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

• Additional annual leave awarded for ‘long service’ 

• Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave 

• Broadband allowance for home-based roles 

• Life insurance after 12 months’ employment   

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

• Support to learn and develop  

How to apply  

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

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

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

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

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

Closing date:  Monday 17th May 2026 at 11pm  

Interviews:  Tuesday 26th May 2026  (Virtual) 

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

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