Children and young peoples services peer support officer jobs

About Kinship

We are Kinship. The leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We’re here for kinship carers – friends or family who step up to raise a child when their parents aren’t able to. 

Together, let’s commit to change for kinship families.

About the role

The Research Officer supports Kinship in building a strong and coordinated evidence base about kinship families, and ensures our influencing work is grounded in real experience.

The role supports the design, delivery and communication of high-quality research, insights and evaluation that shapes policy, practice and service development. It also supports the coordination and operational delivery of research and practice activity, helping ensure projects, networks and events run effectively and that insights are shared across the organisation and the wider sector.

They will work closely with colleagues across the organisation, including Policy, Programmes, Peer Support and Communications. It will ensure that research and insight are gathered and used consistently and that the experiences of kinship carers, particularly those from underserved communities, are central to our work. This role could be hybrid or remote.

Key responsibilities include:

• Design and deliver qualitative and quantitative research that improves understanding of kinship families’ needs, experiences and outcomes.

• Lead data collection through surveys, interviews, focus groups and desk research.

• Carry out analysis using suitable methods to produce accurate and meaningful insight.

• Ensure research reflects the diversity of kinship carers, including carers from ethnic minority communities, mixed heritage families, informal kinship carers and carers experiencing additional barriers.

• Maintain strong ethical standards and follow GDPR requirements.

• Developing and supporting participatory research methods with carers, children and young people.

• Support evaluation of Kinship services including peer support, training and digital programmes.

• Develop tools and approaches that help gather feedback and evidence of outcomes.

• Analyse programme data to highlight trends, gaps and opportunities.

• Provide evidence that strengthens Kinship policy positions and external influencing activity.

• Contribute data and insight to briefings, consultation responses and reports.

• Support opportunities for kinship carers to participate in research in a respectful and inclusive way.

• Manage the Kinship Professionals’ Network and the Kinship Care Researchers’ Network, working with the Practice Lead to plan and schedule meetings, coordinate agendas, record and minute meetings and share insights across the organisation. 

• Support the planning and delivery of research and practice events, from consultations to knowledge exchange events.

Essential requirements include:

• Experience completing mixed methods research including design, fieldwork, analysis and reporting.

• Experience working in a research, evaluation or insight role in a charity, academic or public sector setting.

• Experience producing accessible research outputs for different audiences.

• Experience engaging with underrepresented communities and understanding barriers to participation.

• Experience of kinship care or social care research in the UK or comparable settings

• Excellent project management skills with an ability to manage multiple projects and tasks with accuracy and attention to detail.

• Strong analytical and data interpretation skills with experience of R or equivalent statistical languages.

What we offer you:

• Flexible working - we understand how important it is to balance family and work life.
• ​30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (1 April to 31 March) pro rata (3 to be taken at Christmas shutdown)
• Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential advice line and counselling)
• Charity Worker Discounts.

Key dates:

• Application deadline: 11.59pm on Sunday 19 April 2026
• First interview: w/c 27 April 2026 (online)
• Second interview: w/c 4 May 2026 (if required)

How to apply:

Please apply for the role of Research Officer by sending a CV (max 2 pages) and cover letter (max 1 page). The deadline is 11.59pm on Sunday 19 April 2026. Any applications arriving after the closing date will not be considered for shortlisting unless there are exceptional reasons. Please ensure you have read the application timelines.

Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion.  We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams.  We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work.   We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us. 

Role Overview

This is an exciting opportunity to shape Shine’s strategic direction while managing the operational delivery of our services for children, young people, and families aged 0–25. Building on the success of our Little Stars/Ser Bach programme for members aged 0–12 and the development and extension of the FIRE (Friendship, Independence, Resilience, Empowerment) programme for those aged 13–25, you will play a key role in shaping the future of our support for children, young people and their families.

Working across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, you will lead the delivery of an established, evidence-based programme that improves health, social, and emotional outcomes for those living with spina bifida, hydrocephalus, and associated conditions.

You’ll lead a passionate team and work closely with Shine’s Adult Services Team (25+), Health Team, Wales and Northern Ireland Managers and wider colleagues across the organisation to ensure work is coordinated, complementary, and beneficial to members. At the same time, you’ll forge strong partnerships with NHS professionals, statutory services, and voluntary organisations—driving collaboration that will support our vision of providing consistent, high-quality support for children, young people and families nationwide.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Team Management
• Programme Development & Delivery
• Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting
• Member Support & Engagement

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

Benefits to working at Shine:

• Competitive salary: Review due April 2027
• Regular working hours, and no shift work (some very occasional weekends or evenings)  
• 3% pension contribution
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with additional discretionary leave between Christmas and New Year
• Additional annual leave awarded for ‘long service’
• Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave
• Broadband allowance for home-based roles
• Life insurance after 12 months’ employment  
• Access to our Employee Support Programme and Mental Health First Aiders 
• Support to learn and develop 

How to apply 

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

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

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

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

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

Closing date: Thursday 16th April 2026 at 11pm 

Interviews:  Monday 27th April 2026  

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

At YES, we care about young people futures, providing wellbeing and therapeutic support.  This brand new role will support young LGBTQ+ people to connect via a new social group and provide one to one support around issues such as sexuality, gender identity, relationships, isolation, education. You will lead and develop YES’s LGBTQ+ offer, ensuring services are peer-led, affirming, safe, and professionally delivered.

This role requires lived experience and a strong understanding of LGBTQ+ identities and issues affecting young people, alongside professional boundaries, safeguarding awareness, and service development capability.

If you are keen to help young LGBTQ+ people in the area and have experience in delivering and/or developing services, we would love to hear from you.  We are a small but growing charity with strong roots in our local area.

Location: Loughborough (with regular travel to Cambridge and other Baca service locations)

Contract Type: Permanent

Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week (including some evenings, weekends and participation in an on‑call rota)

Start date: May/June 2026

About Us:

Baca is dedicated to providing support and care to 16 to 18 year old unaccompanied asylum seeking children who are newly arrived in the country, helping them rebuild their strength, dignity, and hope for the future. We work closely with social workers and representatives from other agencies to benefit the young people in our care.

Role Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and values‑led Accommodation & Facilities Manager to take responsibility for the safe, compliant and welcoming management of all Baca accommodation, offices and service delivery spaces.

This is a critical role within our service model. You will ensure that young people are provided with homes they can truly call their own, while staff and volunteers have safe, functional, culturally respectful environments in which to work. You will also lead our premises team and work closely with contractors, landlords and partners to deliver high‑quality, compliant properties across our services.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day management of all Baca accommodation, offices, and service delivery spaces
• Ensure properties are safe, welcoming, culturally appropriate, and fully compliant with health & safety and regulatory standards
• Lead maintenance planning to support short-, medium-, and long-term property sustainability
• Line manage and support three Maintenance Workers, working collaboratively with service teams and leaders
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, inspections, and audits, maintaining accurate documentation
• Manage maintenance budgets, monitor spend, and ensure value for money
• Build and maintain strong relationships with landlords, contractors, and suppliers
• Create safe opportunities for young people to develop practical life and employability skills through involvement in maintenance activities

About You

You will be an organised, confident and values‑driven professional with experience in facilities, accommodation or property management. You will bring:

• Strong leadership and people‑management skills
• Sound knowledge of health & safety, compliance and regulatory requirements
• Excellent planning, organisation and problem‑solving abilities
• Confidence working with budgets and contractors
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to hold constructive and supportive conversations
• Cultural humility, curiosity and a commitment to reflective practice
• A flexible approach, including participation in an on‑call rota and out‑of‑hours working when required

Why Join Baca?

• Make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable young people
• Work within a values‑led, mission‑driven organisation
• Be part of a collaborative and supportive management team
• Help shape safe, inspiring spaces that genuinely feel like home

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of young asylum seekers and have the skills and attributes we are looking for, we would love to hear from you.

Please note: You must have the right to work in the UK for this role as Baca is not on the Home Office list.

The Sickle Cell Society is looking for a Programme Manager to join the team to oversee operations of the North West region Sickle Cell Children and Young Person’s mentoring programme. The Peer Mentoring programme aims to improve the health and wellbeing of young people with Sickle Cell Disorders (SCD).The North West Programme Manager will be overseeing the success and delivery of the aims and objectives of the peer mentoring programme across Manchester, Liverpool and Sheffield.

Fitzrovia Youth in Action (FYA) is looking for an experienced, passionate and enthusiastic person for our Peer Mentoring Officer role. If you feel like this is you, we would love to hear from you!

The successful post holder will work with our peer mentoring team to empower young people to co-produce and deliver peer support programmes which draw on their own knowledge and lived-experience to help others.

The post holder will train youth facilitators to deliver our peer mentoring service through one-to-one peer mentoring and peer support group work. The post holder will also support the wider FYA peer mentoring team in training professionals working with young people around good practice in mentoring and mental health support work.

We are particularly keen to hear from candidates with experience of supporting participatory, youth-led group work, youth mental health programmes or peer support programmes.

You can find the role description and personal specification below. 

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter (no more than two sides of A4) explaining your experience and why you are suited for this role.

JOB TITLE: Kinship Community & Family Support Worker

RESPONSIBLE TO: Kinship Services Manager

HOURS OF WORK Part-time 28hours (evening and weekend work will be required)

LOCATION: Hybrid – in person community delivery, with requirements to attend office base in Edinburgh/East Lothian, and home working possible

SALARY / GRADE: Fixed term 24 months (with potential for extension, funding allowing)

Grade 4 / £28,615 per annum fte – pro-rata

KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

•Kinship Services Manager

•Adoption UK Scotland and Kinship service colleagues

•The Adoption and Kinship Community in Scotland

•Local Authorities and external commissioners

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

·To support the community work of Adoption UK Scotland and their kinship services, to provide professionals, parents/carers, children, and young people access to information, resources, and services for kinship communities and to engage with families in their local communities.

·To offer a front-line service, primarily to kinship families based in the East Lothian Community, by supporting delivery and administration for activities and events, including regular support groups delivery, youth and family events. Support of events in other areas in Scotland based on resources and availability.

·To hold and manage kinship care family cases, providing direct family support within service guidelines and delivery model.

·Support planning, organisation of, and attendance at, in person and online events through funded projects and services to bring together kinship families and individuals, enable peer support, build a sense of community and promote an active and supportive Community Network.

·To respond to enquiries received via the Information and Support Service and relevant email inboxes with relevant information and/or signposting.

·To be part of the wider kinship service team within Adoption UK Scotland, working across teams and services.

·Work collaboratively with colleagues across all services areas of Adoption UK

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

·Working alongside service leads within the kinship teams, and with the wider community team members to plan and deliver specific events and activities for East Lothian Council Kinship community members, and kinship families in wider areas where resources and availability allows.

·Provide administrative coordination for community groups, including collating event materials, gathering feedback and evaluations for reporting purposes, supporting delivery of events, maintaining records using existing required systems, and responding to enquiries via our Information and Support line and relevant email inboxes.

·To facilitate referral meetings with new kinship carers accessing the East Lothian Kinship Support Service, including initial assessment of need to identify suitable support and signposting requirements

·To hold responsibility for administrative requirements relating to referrals and cases within the East Lothian Kinship Support Service, including setting up new cases and recording service delivery interactions, using existing Adoption UK systems and processes

·To work with colleagues in the Foundations for Families kinship support service to support delivery where time and resources allow, and coordinate activities between services where appropriate.

·To report to line manager and directors in Adoption UK Scotland relating to service delivery, including contributing to monitoring and reporting on activities.

·To work alongside Adoption UK colleagues to develop and improve resources and services for kinship carers

Knowledge and experience

• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the kinship legislation system, issues and challenges faced by kinship individuals. (Essential)
• Experience of engagement and direct work with families (Essential)
• Experience of facilitation of in person and online groups (or commitment to learn) and commitment to digital safeguarding (Essential)

Qualifications and Education

• Relevant degree or qualification (e.g. community work, social sciences) or equivalent experience (Essential)

Skills and abilities

• Report writing and record keeping (Essential)
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal (Essential)
• Ability to build and maintain relationships (Essential)
• The ability to use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) (Essential)

Accountability

• Liaise with colleagues to share updates and information
• Report to supervisor and relevant managers and external commissioners on activities

Behaviours

• Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values and mission in all interactions with external stakeholders.
• Demonstrates commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of role at all times.
• Follows all policies and procedures relating to risk assessments, safeguarding and youth service delivery
• Contributes to an open and honest culture
• Encourages challenge and creativity, transparency and consistency.
• Leads by example.
• Offers outstanding service to members.
• Promotes cross functional team working, sharing skills and knowledge
• Communicates clearly, seeking clarity when unclear and valuing the opinion of others.
• Valuing the opinion of other. Treating colleagues and other stakeholders with respect.
• Takes pride in own development, committed to achieving high standards and agreed objectives

Future Frontiers is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through an exciting new phase of growth and impact.

This is a remarkable opportunity to lead an organisation that has already helped thousands of young people across London to build confidence, shape their own future careers, and realise their potential. This is a pivotal time for Future Frontiers, as we continue to move forward with our 2025–28 strategy, we are expanding our offer, aiming to increase our reach and deepen our impact.

In recent years, like many similar organisations, we have navigated a challenging financial environment, and through the commitment of our leadership team and Trustees, we are returning to a more positive financial position. The next CEO will build on this momentum – strengthening our foundations, expanding our reach, and ensuring that even more young people can benefit from our work.

This role is an opportunity to lead an ambitious, passionate, and talented team united by a powerful mission: advancing social mobility and transforming life chances. We are seeking a strategic leader, commercially astute, and deeply motivated by the potential of young people. As CEO, you will play a defining role in shaping our future, forging new partnerships, securing vital support, and amplifying our impact.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has proven senior leadership experience, ideally within a charity or purpose-led organisation
• Can set and deliver strategic direction while driving measurable impact
• Is a strong relationship-builder, confident engaging funders, partners and stakeholders
• Brings commercial and financial acumen, with experience of income generation
• Is deeply committed to improving outcomes for young people and advancing social mobility

How to apply
To apply, you will need to send us your CV and a separate supporting statement. Your supporting statement should be no more than 2 sides of A4 explaining why you are interested in the role and how you meet the criteria.

Application deadline: Wednesday 22nd April, 5pm
Round one interview: Thursday 7th May (shortlisting will take place w/c 27th April)
Round two interview: w/c 11th May (date TBC)

Both rounds of interviews will take place in person at our office near London Bridge.

Start date: To be agreed with the successful candidate. Ideal start date September 2026.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo enhanced DBS and reference checks to cover employment for the last 5 years.

To support fair and inclusive hiring, we are asking all applicants to complete our diversity and equal opportunities monitoring form. This helps us to identify barriers and improve our processes. Responses are anonymous, not linked to your application, and do not affect hiring decisions.

For full details on the role, responsibilities, and how to apply, please see the attached CEO Applicant Pack.

JOB PROFILE

JOB TITLE: Education Advisor - Scotland

RESPONSIBLE TO: Kinship Services Manager

HOURS OF WORK 28 Hours per week (some weekend and evening work may be required)

LOCATION: Hybrid working with expectation of attendance at Edinburgh office

with some expectation of reasonable travel

DURATION: Permanent

SALARY / GRADE: 4.4 £31,003 FTE, 28 hour Pro Rata

KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

• Kinship Services Manager and Lead Education Advisor – Scotland

• Education professionals across Scotland

• Care experienced families (kinship, adoptive and long term fostering community) in Scotland

• Adoption UK Scotland and other nations colleagues

• Local Authorities in Scotland and external commissioners

• The Promise, Scottish Government, volunteer sector organisations

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

• To offer front line education advisory support service to kinship, adoptive and foster families and professionals seeking support and advice about education services for care experienced children.

• To lead the development and delivery of education training to professionals across Scotland and actively support AUK lobbying and campaigning efforts on education matters.

• To develop, coordinate and support delivery and administration of an education support group (online or in person) to the care experience community youth and family.

• To work alongside our youth service provision ensuring the voices of young people are centred in resource development and delivery, supporting development of education and employability support.  

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work closely with education advisor lead in delivering education support service to families and professionals.

• Manage own caseloads, monitor and review progress at regular education meetings using established tools. Ensure tracking and recording on AUK system database and Sharepoint.

• Develop, promote and deliver Education training for professionals across Scotland. Including supporting the development and delivery of Education elements of training in other AUK teams and development of commissioned projects e.g. care experience week lessons, resources and training for Education Scotland

• Responsible for administrative tasks relating to service delivery

• Respond appropriately to enquiries via email, telephone or in person, referring on to other services and ensure accurate and appropriate recording and tracking of all enquires are maintained using appropriate database systems.  

• Contribute and assist in development of education specific projects to improve service delivery (i.e. education peer support group or young person support group)

• Support manager in monitoring and reporting of service delivery

• Contribute and assist in the development, design and planning of promotional resources and information materials and factsheets.

• Attend relevant national meetings, conferences, training events, networking and development opportunities to promote Adoption UK services

• Collaborate, liaise with Adoption UK Scotland and Adoption UK organisation in the delivery and participation of specific events and activities relating to the delivery of Education services for Adoption UK services.

  CRITERIA

Knowledge and Experience

• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the education system in Scotland (Essential)

• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the issues, challenges and concerns affecting the kinship community, care experienced children and young people. (Essential)

• Experience of event coordination, training delivery and/or group facilitation (Essential)

• Knowledge and understanding of trauma informed practice (Desirable)

• Experience of volunteer coordination or support (Desirable)

Qualifications and Education

• Professional qualification in Education (Essential)

• Demonstrable event facilitation, group or training delivery and administration experience will be required along with demonstrable knowledge of the issues affecting our care experienced communities.

Skills and Abilities

• Training development and delivery (Essential)

• Report writing and record keeping (Essential)

• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal (Essential)

• Ability to build and maintain relationships (Essential)

• The ability to use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) (Essential)

• Able to utilise online platforms and packages (Survey Monkey, Canva, Mail Chimp etc.), and/or the ability to learn new packages (Essential)

Accountability 

• Develop and coordinate administrative support and delivery of education support services for care experienced families to fulfil grant/contract requirements.

• Consistent and trauma informed advisory case support for families within organisational policies and processes and fulfilling grant/contract requirements.

• Liaise across services to coordinate activity delivery with guidance and direction from service manager.

• Commitment to work within all organisational policy and processes, in particular safeguarding related requirements to ensure wellbeing of all individuals, families and staff and volunteers.

Behaviours

• Embeds trauma informed approach across all areas of role

• Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values and mission in all interactions with external stakeholders.

• Demonstrates commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of role at all times.

• Contributes to an open and honest culture

• Encourages challenge and creativity, transparency and consistency.

• Leads by example.

• Offers outstanding service to members.

• Promotes cross functional team working, sharing skills and knowledge

• Communicates clearly, seeking clarity when unclear and valuing the opinion of others.

• Valuing the opinion of other. Treating colleagues and other stakeholders with respect.

• Takes pride in own development, committed to achieving high standards and agreed objectives

This role profile is a guide to the nature of the work required and may involve other such duties as deemed necessary by the Organisation. It is not wholly comprehensive or restrictive. The role profile will be reviewed with the post-holder at significant points for the Organisation. Postholder is expected to abide by all organisational policies, codes of conduct and practice, and to work within a framework of equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice.

Ready for a role where your psychology can genuinely shape a developing service? PATH is growing, and we’re looking for a Clinical Psychologist who is energised by complexity, values-led practice, and the chance to build something alongside a passionate team. This is an exciting moment to join us—bringing your ideas, your therapeutic skill, and your professional leadership to a service that is ambitious about outcomes and relentless about care and compassion. 
 
We’re proud to be part of an Ofsted rated Outstanding provision, and we’re investing in psychological thinking as a central part of how we work. If you’re looking for a post with space for creativity, strong multi-disciplinary relationships, and real opportunity to develop specialist expertise, PATH could be the right next step. 

We warmly welcome applicants with strong knowledge of neurodiversity, early trauma and the experiences of adopted and care-experienced people, including those with lived or professional expertise. 

A values-based team you’ll want to be part of

You’ll be joining a warm, supportive and highly committed group of professionals who care deeply about the people we serve and the quality of our practice. We work collaboratively—sharing thinking, holding risk together, and making space for reflection even when we’re working at pace. Psychological safety matters here: you’ll have access to supervision, peer support and opportunities for CPD. 

What you’ll bring 

• Professional expertise in psychological assessment, formulation, intervention and consultation, grounded in ethical and evidence-based practice. 

• Confidence with complexity—able to hold risk, uncertainty and co-occurring needs, while staying compassionate and person-centred. 

• At least two therapeutic modalities relevant to this sector (e.g., CBT, ACT, CFT, DBT-informed approaches, systemic/family therapy, EMDR, or other trauma-focused therapies), and the ability to integrate approaches thoughtfully. 

• Collaborative team working—you enjoy working across disciplines and with partner agencies, contributing to shared plans and shared outcomes. 

• Agility and pace—able to prioritise, adapt and respond to changing needs while maintaining high clinical standards and clear documentation. 

• A development mindset—motivation to contribute to a growing hub, improve pathways, and evaluate impact using outcomes and feedback. 

We’re also happy to discuss the opportunity with clinical / counselling psychologists who may be earlier in their career. If you can demonstrate a strong commitment to this sector—through relevant placements, roles, voluntary work, research, reflective learning, or lived experience that informs your practice—we would welcome a conversation. We’re interested in potential as well as experience: your values, your curiosity, and the way you work with people and systems matter to us. 

ROLE PROFILE

JOB TITLE:

Clinical Psychologist

ACCOUNTABLE TO:

Clinical Lead

RESPONSIBLE TO:

Clinical Director

HOURS OF WORK:

Full time / Part time

LOCATION:

Remote working with travel flexibility

DURATION:

Permanent

SALARY / GRADE:

Grade 8 £43,471 - £59,389(pro rata for part time)

KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

•      Clinical Director and PATH Clinical Lead
•      PATH team
•      AUK staff
•      Children and adults accessing our services
•      Referrers and external agencies as appropriate

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

·Deliver high-quality psychological assessment, formulation and intervention for the PATH client group.

·Provide specialist advice, consultation and reflective practice to colleagues and partner services.

·Facilitating reflective groups for families referred to PATH.

·Identify and manage safeguarding risk in line with AUK policies.

·Contribute to multidisciplinary formulation and intervention planning.

·Support service development, evaluation and quality improvement, using outcome measures and feedback.

·Maintain accurate clinical records and produce clear, timely reports for a range of audiences.

·Provide line management and/or supervision within the PATH team.

·Contribute to the training offer within Adoption UK

·To contribute to and maintain accurate records for those using the service on Adoption UK systems and ensuring compliance with both GDPR, safeguarding and confidentiality.

CRITERIA

Knowledge and Experience

•Experience of working with children and families experiencing the effects of trauma and attachment difficulties (Essential)

•Extensive experience of working within the field of mental health (Essential)

•Experience of working with adoption services (Essential)

•Experience of providing clinical supervision to staff and therapists delivering services to vulnerable families (Essential)

•Knowledge and experience of safeguarding process and procedures (Essential)

•Extensive experience and specialist training/accreditation in relevant subjects and differing types of therapy such as DDP, Theraplay, Neurodiversity, Life story, NVR (Desirable)

•Knowledge of adoption services including AGSGF processes (Desirable)

Qualifications and Education

•Doctoral Level Clinical Psychologist (Essential)

•Current registration with a professional body HCPC (Essential)

•Evidence of continuing professional development (Essential)

•Training in a range of therapeutic modalities e.g. NVR, DDP, Theraplay, Internal Family Systems, Sensory Attachment Intervention (Essential)

Skills and Abilities

•Leadership and support skills

•Group work skills

•A reflective and empowering approach

•Strong application of theory

•Creativity and innovative approach to service delivery

•A commitment to the voice of children and families

Accountability

•Consultant Clinical Psychologist

•Responsible for maintaining own professional standards

•Responsible for delivering practice within the policies and standards of the charity

Behaviours

•Demonstrates commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of role at all times.

•Contributes to an open and honest culture

•Supports, encourages, and motivates colleagues.

•Encourages challenge, creativity and innovation.

•Leads by example.

•Values transparency and consistency.

•Understands the role of individual and collective accountability.

•Actively contributes to Adoption UK’s mission.

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

•Shares skills and knowledge.

•Promotes Cross Functional team working.

•Offers outstanding service to members.

•Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values in all interactions with external stakeholders.

•Identifies and uses the most appropriate form of communication.

•Communicates clearly, seeking clarity when unclear and valuing the opinion of others.

•Treats colleagues and other stakeholders with respect, honesty, fairness and courtesy

•Is responsive to colleagues, third party professionals and service users.

•Takes pride in own development.

•Enthusiastic and committed to achieving high standards and meeting agreed objectives.

•Takes an active interest in recognising professional and personal development needs and priorities within Adoption UK.

This role profile is a guide to the nature of the work required and may involve other such duties as deemed necessary by the Organisation. It is not wholly comprehensive or restrictive. The role profile will be reviewed with the post-holder at significant points for the Organisation.

Postholder is expected to abide by all organisational policies, codes of conduct and practice, and to work within a framework of equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice.

We are currently offering a rewarding opportunity within our Helpline Team who are the ‘front-door’ to CSWS, providing a first point of contact for carers and professionals via our Countywide telephone and email service, online portal, and chat services. 

Carer Wellbeing Workers on the Helpline focus on registration and ‘Tier 1’ conversation model using active listening skills to identify any most pressing need before referring/signposting onwards.

You will have excellent IT skills and experience of working with adults and families, and working knowledge and / or lived experience of social care and health. You will use excellent communication and interpersonal skills to provide a professional, time-limited and informed service for carers who contact the helpline for a variety of reasons and who may be distressed or in need of safeguarding support. 

The role is mainly remote / homeworking with the expectation that you may need to travel on occasions to in-person meetings and training across the country. This role would therefore suit those located in, or close to, West Sussex.

Key Responsibilities

•  Work within a team to provide carer registration and support to carers via a variety of methods (phone, email, online chat) following the ‘Tier 1’ conversation model – addressing only the most pressing need before referring/signposting onwards, including referrals to our Community and Health Teams.

•  Supported by a Shift Manager, respond with a professional, time-limited and informed service for carers who contact the helpline for a variety of reasons and who may be distressed or in need of safeguarding support. 

•  Provide guidance to professionals outside of the organisation, answering queries about carer’s support or related areas.

•  Follow Carers Support West Sussex processes to record activities on in house database systems. Accurately record all interventions on CSWS Client Record Management System to enable timely and informative reports on the services provided.

•  Use a range of outcome-based tools to evidence your work and as a framework to support carers to create a personal plan to identify and achieve positive change. Demonstrate the impact the service has made through feedback surveys, case studies and collating general feedback.

•  Focus on outcomes for the carers, appropriately triaging and signposting them to relevant services making dynamic decisions about the suitable pathway for a carer. Work closely with colleagues to ensure carers receive timely support.

•  Provide mentoring and support to volunteers who work within the team to provide services to carers.

•  Promote the principles of Think Carer across all networks and proactively identify carers and opportunities through partnership working, outreach, community connections and networking, promoting carers as expert partners in care.

For a full list of responsibilities, please refer to the Job Description in the attached Recruitment Pack.

Employee Benefits

•  Training and Development: Opportunities for professional development and training.
•  Flexible Working: Flexible working hours and remote working options.
•  Annual Leave: 33 days increasing to 35 days after completion of two years and 36 days after 5 years of service (Inclusive of Bank Holidays).
•  Healthcare and Employee Assistance Programme with perks and discounts.
•  Enhanced Maternity/ Paternity/ Adoption Pay.
•  Supportive Environment: Work in a supportive and collaborative environment with a focus on making a positive impact on the lives of carers.

Interview Date: 11 May 2026
Please note that we may begin interviews as soon as a strong application is received, so this vacancy could close earlier than advertised if the right candidate is found.

Are you passionate about supporting children and young people affected by domestic abuse? Do you want to make a real difference through therapeutic support in a trauma-informed, child-centred environment? Join Acorns as a Mental Health & Wellbeing Project Worker.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and empathetic Mental Health & Wellbeing Project Worker to contribute to the development and delivery of flexible support services which address the psychological and emotional needs of children, young people and families living with the effects of domestic abuse, in North Tyneside and Northumberland. You will help to develop, organise and facilitate key aspects of the service as requested by the Team Coordinator such one-to-one support interventions, group work, and youth participation opportunities in a variety of settings including in-house, schools and community venues. Post is to be predominantly based in Northumberland.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver flexible one to one support sessions, using a range of interventions to assess and positively contribute to the individual wellbeing needs of children and young people impacted by domestic abuse.
• Support service users, particularly within the 11-16 age group to develop personal and life skills, promoting self-esteem and independence, and raising awareness of other support services and opportunities available to them and their families.
• Contribute to the planning and delivery of group work, activities and events, including the continued development of service user participation
• Work in partnership with statutory and voluntary agencies to ensure coordinated care and refer service users to additional sources of help and protection as needed.
• Adhere to safeguarding, confidentiality, and equal opportunities policies while maintaining accurate and confidential records, reporting appropriately, and complying with organisational guidelines.
• Participate in training, supervision, and team activities, contributing flexibly to service development and supporting broader organisational goals as required by management.

About You

• Holds qualifications and relevant experience in social care, childcare, youth work, or a therapeutic field
• Experience working directly with children and young people with an excellent understanding of common issues relating to child development, mental health and wellbeing
• Experienced in one-to-one casework, group facilitation, youth programmes, and multi-agency working, with a proven ability to assess needs and connect individuals to appropriate support services.
• Effective communicator with the ability to engage sensitively and non-judgementally with service users, demonstrating empathy, professionalism, and a commitment to empowering individuals.
• Skilled in managing workloads, maintaining accurate records, writing reports, and meeting deadlines under pressure, with strong time management and attention to detail.
• A motivated, flexible team player who values equality and diversity, and brings creativity and initiative to their practice.
• Driver with access to a reliable vehicle for work purposes. This role involves frequent travel to and from locations across North Tyneside and Northumberland to meet the varied needs of service users.

Please note, that an enhanced DBS check will be required.

Why join us?

This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a positive, compassionate and impact-driven team. You’ll enjoy flexible working arrangements and autonomy in your role, opportunities for professional development and training, a supportive environment, reflective supervision, and the chance to help shape our systems for the better.

We warmly welcome applications from all sections of the community and are committed to equal opportunities.

Ready to apply? Download the candidate pack and get started! We’ll invite you to send us your CV and a short supporting statement outlining your experience and fit for the role.

If you are committed to empowering children and young people and want to be part of a team making lasting change, we’d love to hear from you.

Please make sure you include in/with your CV and personal statement:

• Name, previous names, and address.
• Education and training history, including any qualifications and the awarding body, any relevant training recently undertaken and any professional memberships.
• A full employment history in chronological order.
• Details of any convictions, spent and unspent. Details of any relation to the organisation or staff.
• A signed & dated declaration confirming that information provided is true, with no omissions. You must understand that providing false details can lead to rejection or dismissal, plus a possible referral to the police.
• All of the above information is only used to assess the candidate suitability, and will be treated with the strictest confidentiality, and stored and retained according to our GDPR policies and procedures which are available upon request.

Equality & Diversity Statement

Acorns will be proactive in all matters relating to equality of opportunity and diversity. We value and will celebrate the benefits brought to our organisation by a diverse population within our communities, services, staff and volunteers team, and Board of Trustees. We commit to creating an environment, through training, practice and policy, where Trustees, employees, volunteers and service users are encouraged by example and guidance to confront and challenge discrimination where and whenever it arises, whether between colleagues or in any other area of the organisation’s work.

Acorns commits to:

• Actively challenge discrimination;
• Ensure that all staff, volunteers and service users are treated fairly;
• Make sure that our activities and services are truly accessible to all who might benefit;
• Work collaboratively with other organisations to address inequality; 
• Work to promote an organisational culture of diversity;
• Strive to ensure that the profile of trustees, staff and volunteers reflects the wider communities within which we operate.

Everyone engaging with Acorns, as a servicer user, volunteer, or staff member, will be expected at all times to treat other people with respect and consideration. Our full Equality & Diversity Policy is available upon request.

Safeguarding Statement

Acorns believes that no child, young person or adult should ever experience abuse of any kind. We have a responsibility to promote the welfare of all children and young people and keep them safe. We are committed to practice in a way that protects them, to promoting their well-being and enjoyment and protecting their health, safety and general welfare while in the company, employ or care of Acorns staff or volunteers. Safeguarding and protection of those at risk is everyone’s business; it is everyone’s duty to report any safeguarding concerns to the relevant agency. We also practice Safer Recruitment practices. Our full safeguarding policies are available upon request.

Details

Position:Head of Community Support and Operations

Location:Barnsley, South Yorkshire

Hours:30 hours to be taken flexibly over Monday – Friday; 1 day wfh allowance

Salary:                                £50,562 FTE (£40,996 pro rata)

Contract type:Permanent

Reportable to: CEO

Direct reports: Volunteer Development Co-ordinator, Charity Advisor and Partnership Coordinator and any relevant roles that develop

Job Purpose

The Head of Community Support and Operations is a pivotal new role being introduced to the executive team at Barnsley CVS.  This person will be a key role in the growth and development of the executive team.  You will play an exciting part in the delivery and development of the recently developed 4-year strategy and theory of change. Your role will drive intention and focus on developing our support to the sector in a meaningful way to high standards, whilst ensuring our own internal operations reflect best practice.  You will need a strong knowledge of charity set up, management and governance along with a passion for what the VCSE sector does.  You will be confident in people management and development; have the ability to work inclusively with a wide range of people and backgrounds and the skill to see gaps and opportunities for service development.

You will work closely with the Head of Strategic Partnerships to identify gaps and opportunities to develop our offer of support to the sector whether through direct services, training, brokerage agreements or membership offers.  As you identify these opportunities, you will work collaboratively with the Head of Business Development to explore commercial income options that are also in line with our mission and vision.

Using your excellent people skills, you will act as the first point of contact for HR matters within the charity, overseeing the general management of our online HR system, policies and procedures.  You will work in collaboration with the CEO in any areas that need significant development or management.

You will keep up to date with new initiatives and ideas in the wider infrastructure sector, relevant legislation and modern thinking in relation to charity management best practice.

Benefits:

- 33 days annual leave increasing with years of service + annual leave given between Christmas and New Year that doesn't count against your annual leave

- Sick leave entitlement increases with years of service

- 5% pension contribution

- Paid leave to complete voluntary activity for up to 5 days pro rata

- Discount on local gym membership

- Flexible working with TOIL given for any additional hours worked

Job Description - South Yorkshire Child Poverty Partnership Officer 

Overview 

Resolve Poverty are excited to be working in partnership with Save the Children UK to recruit a South Yorkshire Child Poverty Partnership Officer that will improve outcomes for children and young people living in poverty across South Yorkshire. This new role will mobilise the development of a regional Child Poverty Action Plan, working closely with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) and work with complex systems and multiple partners.

Drawing on Resolve Poverty’s expertise in developing strategic local responses to poverty and the work of the Dream Big South Yorkshire: Children & Families Commission, the postholder will be passionate about using this pilot phase to establish the necessary mechanism for a sustainable long-term approach to addressing child poverty across the region.

Particulars: 

Role Title: South Yorkshire Child Poverty Partnership Officer 
Location: Hybrid — based in South Yorkshire with regular presence at South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and Save the Children’s offices in Sheffield and an expectation of some travel to Resolve Poverty’s office in Manchester. 

Hours: Full-time (35 hours/week)

Contract: Fixed-term, 12 months, with potential extension dependent on funding. 

Salary: £43,000 to £47,000 (dependent on experience).  

Host and working arrangements 

Employer: Resolve Poverty (host organisation). 

Embedded placement up to 2 days per week within South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) to support regional policy development and delivery. 

Partnership support: Will receive regular technical and programme support from Save the Children UK — South Yorkshire team and work closely with their staff on delivery, stakeholder engagement and safeguarding. 

Background 

The South Yorkshire Child Poverty Coalitionis being established as a collaborative advisory board, co-chaired by key partners and supported by stakeholders including VCSFE infrastructure organisations, policy academics, strategic leads, and national experts. Its mission is to develop and deliver a comprehensive South Yorkshire Child Poverty Action Plan that tackles the root causes of child poverty and leverages opportunities for change at regional, local, and community levels. 

Central to this work is the South Yorkshire Children and Families Commission, a regional body made up of Community Commissioners and Civic Commissioners who blend lived and learned experience to embed the reality of poverty’s impact across our communities. Their voices will shape priorities, decisions, and direction throughout the strategy period, ensuring that the Coalition’s work is grounded in the experiences of those most affected. This role will also ensure that this work aligns with SYMCA’s ambitions to develop a youth engagement strategy.

The Coalition will also play a pivotal role in aligning the Action Plan with the proposed Child Lens Investment Fund. This pioneering approach to child-lens investing—intentionally directing investment decisions based on their potential impact for children and families—offers South Yorkshire the opportunity to maximise social investment to improve outcomes for children and families living in poverty, while strengthening the local economy through funding for businesses, social enterprises, and charities. 

Role Purpose 

The South Yorkshire Child Poverty Partnership Officer will work closely with SYMCA to provide strategic leadership, coordination, and  development of the Child Poverty Action Plan. The role will initially sit within the Violence Reduction Unit as part of an embedded placement, building capacity within the unit to ensure that the Action Plan reflects the work of the unit to embed lived experience, youth voice and preventative approaches to address exploitation and vulnerability. The role will ensure that the Coalition’s work is embedded within wider regional strategies, aligned with local and national frameworks, and driven by lived experience and robust data. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead the Coalition: Convene partners, provide strategic leadership, oversee progress, and manage projects to ensure effective delivery. 

• Build capacity: Strengthen organisational capacity within SYMCA to embed the Child Poverty Action Plan within regional strategies, working closely with the four local authorities. 

• Develop the Framework: Work alongside the Coalition and the regional Commission to design a robust Action Plan framework, informed by data and region-specific priorities. 

• Champion Lived Experience: Promote a culture of participatory production, ensuring that lived experience is embedded and championed throughout the Coalition’s work. 

• Maintain Momentum: Collaborate with Coalition partners to sustain energy and momentum, ensuring the Action Plan feeds into wider opportunities and regional priorities. 

• Set Regional Targets: Based on national child poverty targets and metrics, establish South Yorkshire-specific ambitions with short, medium, and long-term goals to reduce child poverty rates. 

• Empower the Commission: Support the Children and Families Commission to be fully embedded within the Coalition, ensuring it holds equal decision-making power alongside other partners. 

• Advance Child-Lens Investing: Support the development of the Child Lens Investment Fund, aligning investment outcomes with the deliverables of the Child Poverty Action Plan to maximise social impact and economic benefit. 

• Strengthen Partnerships: Hold and nurture relationships with a wide range of partners and stakeholders—including health, education, transport, and planning sectors—to ensure the Child Poverty Action Plan is supported and embedded across the region. 

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Proven experience in strategic leadership, partnership working, working with complex systems and project management. 

• Strong understanding of child poverty, social policy, and regional inequalities. 

• Ability to convene diverse stakeholders and build consensus across sectors. 

• Commitment to participatory approaches and embedding lived experience in decision-making. 

• Excellent communication, influencing, and relationship-building skills. 

Desirable 

• Experience of working within combined authorities, local government, or regional policy environments. 

• Knowledge of social investment approaches, particularly child-lens investing. 

• Familiarity with evaluation frameworks and data-led strategy development. 

Benefits and practicalities 

Salary: £43,000 to £47,000 (dependent on experience). 
Pension and leave: Standard employer pension contributions and annual leave in line with Resolve Poverty policy. 
Professional development: Access to training and peer support through Resolve Poverty, Save the Children UK and with SYMCA. 
Travel: Travel across South Yorkshire and occasional travel to national meetings. There is an expectation of some travel to Resolve Poverty’s office in Manchester. Travel expenses will be reimbursed in line with policy. 

The postholder will be required to hold an Enhanced DBS.  

Application and selection 

Application materials: CV (max 2 pages) and a short supporting statement (max 1,200 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and why you are interested in the role. 

Applications should be sent to Michelle Hewitt no later than 5pm on Tuesday 28th April.

Selection process: Shortlisting, panel interview and a short task or presentation related to project. 

Recruitment timetable:

Deadline for applications: 5pm on Tuesday 28th April.

Confirmation of interview dates for shortlisted candidates: Tuesday 5th May. 

Interviews to be carried out in Sheffield on Tuesday 12th May.