Children jobs

We have a rare opportunity for an experienced policy professional to join as team as Policy Analyst.

In this exciting role you will lead the policy workstream for Head On, a major Wellcome Trust funded campaign bringing together 20 sector leading organisations to build political momentum for mental health reform. You will be a skilled policy analyst and writer, able to coordinate influencing opportunities with MPs, Ministers and No. 10 on the NHS 10 Year Plan and the new Mental Health Strategy. Experience in policy and public affairs, and knowledge of health or mental health policy, are essential.

Centre for Mental Health is committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work, to help create better mental health for all. We are taking active steps to become an antiracist organisation, and we value and support staff with lived experience of mental health challenges. We want the team shaping mental health policy to reflect the diversity of people whose lives that policy affects. We are happy to provide reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process for disabled applicants. We particularly encourage applications from people of colour and trans people, who are often underrepresented in policy roles.

We are also able to offer this role as a potential secondment opportunity. 

Location: Remote
Contract: Temporary, 2 months (with the opportunity to become permanent)
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week
Salary: £14.79 per hour (+ holiday)
Start Date: ASAP

Prospectus is proud to be supporting our client, a national grief charity, in their search for a temporary Team Administrator. Please note this role will require a enhanced DBS check due to the close work with vulnerable young people.

Responsibilities:

• Manage referrals, appointments, and case closure processes.
• Communicate professionally and sensitively with parents, professionals, and colleagues.
• Provide administrative support to the Adult Team and wider Clinical Services Team.
• Allocate service users to appropriate practitioners and services.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records using Salesforce and other internal systems.
• Produce reports and ensure service information is kept up to date.
• Respond to telephone and email enquiries in a calm, reassuring, and professional manner.
• Support colleagues by helping manage switchboard calls and covering administrative duties when required.

Requirements:

• Recent, relevant experience in a similar role in a not-for-profit organisation, including an understanding of safeguarding and the needs of vulnerable service users
• Strong IT skills, including use of database use, Microsoft products, and Salesforce
• High level of organisation and attention to detail, with the ability to manage priorities and deadlines
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the confidence to build strong stakeholder relationships
• Collaborative and proactive approach

CVs will be reviewed on a rolling basis so early applications are strongly encouraged to avoid missing out. If you're interested, please apply ASAP with your CV in Word format.

At Prospectus, we are committed to supporting you throughout your application journey. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on age, gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, or pregnancy/maternity.

If you share our vision that ‘every young person should be empowered to gain the confidence, independence and skills they need for a better and brighter future’ we might have the perfect role for you!

ThinkForward is recruiting a Progression Coach in Nottingham Central, to join our team on a 12 month fixed term contract, delivering our unique programme supporting young people into further education and employment. If you are….

· Passionate about, and experienced in, supporting young people to make amazing decisions about their futures

· Committed to equity, diversity, anti-racist and anti-discriminatory practice

· Persistent, empathic and agile in your style of work and able to apply a coaching approach to the delivery of our programme

· Able to tell the stories of our work through data

· Confident in running one-to-one and group work sessions 

· Knowledgeable of employability practices and the importance of tailored progression planning for young people

…then please click on the job pack for our role description and information pack for more details about ThinkForward and the role you could play, then apply with your CV and cover letter.

We look forward to hearing from you.

FINANCE DIRECTOR - financial leadership role in a national STEM charity. 

Drive financial sustainability, strengthen governance and help inspire the next generation of engineers.

The Smallpeice Trust inspires young people to pursue engineering and STEM careers, helping build the future talent pipeline through innovative educational programmes and partnerships. 

As Finance Director, you will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, providing strategic and operational financial leadership across the organisation. Reporting to the CEO and working closely with Trustees, you will strengthen financial governance, improve forecasting and management information, and support informed decision-making across the charity.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead financial strategy, planning, budgeting and forecasting 
• Strengthen financial controls, governance and risk management 
• Deliver robust management information, KPI reporting and analysis 
• Lead statutory accounts, audit and regulatory compliance 
• Develop and support a high-performing finance team 

Benefits:

• Pension (7% employer contribution)
• Life Assurance
• Private Healthcare

This role will suit a qualified accountant with significant senior finance leadership experience, strong commercial judgement and the ability to operate effectively at both strategic and operational level. This high-impact role is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a mission-led charity while helping to shape and modernise the finance function for the future.

Please see the candidate pack for full details.

• Location: Holly House, Leamington Spa / there is an expectation that you will spend 2 days a week in the office
• Closing date: 29 July 2026
• Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by: 6 August
• Interviews with the Smallpeice Trust: 
  • 1st stage: w/c 10 or 17 August 
  • 2nd stage: w/c 24 August 

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

Job title: Programme Officer

Reports to: UK Programme Coordinator

Contract: Permanent, full-time role (40 hours per week)

Location: Remote, North UK-based, with occasional travel within the UK

Annual salary: £28,000 per annum

Introduction

THINK EQUAL is a global education initiative with a mission to ensure that Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) becomes a mandatory subject for all children in early years settings globally. SEL is the process through which knowledge, attitudes, values and skills such as emotional intelligence, empathy, self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision making are developed. 

SEL helps young people to:

• build and maintain psychological resources;

• know themselves and their emotions and to engage in positive relationships;

• make good decisions, behave ethically and responsibly;

• learn self-regulation and avoid negative behaviours;

• undo gender stereotypes and be gender equal;

• have self-worth, confidence and the right to voice and agency; and

• transition into ambitious and empowered young adults.

To support educators and governments to achieve this mission, THINK EQUAL has developed a global SEL Programme for 3-6 years-olds. The Programme is constructed around narrative children’s books, lesson plans and teaching resources which provide the concrete tools educators need to teach SEL in a low-cost and adaptable format.

The THINK EQUAL Programme has a global presence across six continents and has undergone three RCT trials in contexts as varied as Colombia, Botswana and Australia. There is a growing demand from other countries for the THINK EQUAL Programme and the organisation is now strengthening its team to be able to respond to this demand.

Purpose of the Role

Working at the forefront of Think Equal’s mission to bring the ‘missing subject’ to the hearts and minds of children in the UK, the role of the UK Programmes Officer primary focus would be to ensure the successful delivery of the Think Equal programme across early years classrooms in the UK.  Working within the dynamic Global Programmes team alongside dedicated UK-focused colleagues, this role is highly motivating, and requires great organisation and communication skills as well as an enthusiastic, solution-focused attitude. This may include providing support to the Business Development team regarding potential expansion of the programme into new areas.

Responsibilities 

Programme support

• Support and coordinate the delivery of the Think Equal programme across  UK projects. This includes:

  • Plan and deliver information sessions, training sessions, launch events and other activities engaging Think Equal practitioners, both online and in person.

  • Enrol new practitioners into the Think Equal training platform as they sign up to the programme.

  • Provide general administrative and research support to the Programmes Coordinator and other staff, representing the organisation as the first point of contact and responding to queries in a timely and professional manner.

  • Process individual orders from schools and manage shipping requests on behalf of the staff team.

  • Support and communicate with TE classroom teachers and other key stakeholders - including nursery workers, primary teachers, primary heads and local authorities - to ensure fidelity and a high quality of implementation.

  • Check and regularly update stock levels, liaising with relevant stakeholders, and order new stock as required with prior confirmation from the Line Manager.

  • Effectively and efficiently update, report and analyse relevant data relating to projects.

  • Plan and lead focus groups with participating practitioners.

  • Arrange and attend occasional on-site visits to participating schools, reviewing fidelity to the Think Equal model and programme impact.

  • Collect and manage feedback from participating schools and settings, contributing to Think Equal marketing while adhering to data-sharing laws.

  • Work with the UK Team to proactively identify and resolve operational challenges. Evaluate operational systems and suggest solutions to enhance process efficiency and effectiveness

Other duties

• Liaising with the Business Development team regarding potential expansion of Think Equal in the UK.

• Supporting the UK Programme Coordinator with the relationships with Local Authorities to further expand the Think Equal programme either within the area or beyond.

• Undertake research-based tasks relating to UK programme growth, funding opportunities or project development.

• Undertake any other reasonable initiative and or activity as required to support other members of the team. 

• Participate in occasional in-person UK team meetings. 

Person Specification

Experience

Essential:

• Experience working in or with the UK education sector, ideally early years’ classrooms 

• Experience of planning and/delivering workshops or presentations. 

• Experience working to deadlines, establishing priorities in a multi-layered workload. 

• Experience in administration and data management. 

Desirable:

• Experience working with the Think Equal programme.

• Experience working for or with a Local Authority.

• Experience of Project/Programme coordination. 

Qualifications and skills

• Training competency. 

• Proficient technology skills, including a strong ability to use Microsoft (including Excel, PowerPoint and Word), as well as Google suite and Canva

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills - able to interact with different audiences and all levels of people

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to establish and maintain constructive professional relationships and perform effectively as a member of a team.

• Excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritise work and meet tight deadlines.

• Aptitude for supporting the design of communications materials using programmes such as Canva and Google Slides. (Desirable)

• Ability to manage efficient administrative systems and proactively suggest improvements to unblock issues and improve processes.

Knowledge and understanding

• An understanding of the Think Equal Classroom Programme, UK education sector, including systems and frameworks in place to support staff and ensure effective learning outcomes

• Exhibit passion and excitement about the mission of the work and have a can-do attitude 

• Works with independent flair, using strong initiative alongside honouring the core values of the organisation 

• Working collaboratively within a growing organisation

• Understanding and practice of the values of inclusivity, equality and diversity

Other

• Eligible to work in the UK and based in the North of UK.

• Willingness to work flexibly to accommodate occasional duties outside of working hours (time can be reclaimed in lieu)

• In possession of, or able to secure, an enhanced DBS check

• Support the vision, values and objectives of the organisation

• Undertake training as necessary in line with the development of the post

• Willingness to travel across the UK to deliver training and attend relevant programme activities.

This is an exciting time to join us. As we grow our international efforts and sharpen our strategic focus, we are creating a new Head of Research & Grants role to lead our combined research and grant-making function. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, you will be our senior operational and strategic leader for how we identify, fund and learn from the work that gives babies the best start in life.

The grants and research effort of the Foundation is focussed on the ‘So What?’. You will make sure every piece of ground breaking research and every charity grant adds to our global advocacy for babies, informing and educating policy makers across the world about the 1001 Critical Days and how they can help parents and carers give their babies the best start in life.

To apply, please click the redirect to recruiter button. 

Senior Programme Manager

We are seeking a Senior Programme Manager to lead a flagship initiative shaping how capital markets deliver better outcomes for children and future generations.

Salary: £56,000–£65,000 (dependent on experience) + 30 days’ annual leave (pro rata) and 10% employer pension
Location: Central London (hybrid – 60% office / 40% home)
Contract: 12-month fixed term - (4 or 5 days per week)
Start date: As soon as available
Closing date: Please apply promptly as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis

About the role

This is a senior, high-impact position leading a flagship “Investing for Future Generations” Lab, focused on transforming how capital markets understand and respond to children’s lives and outcomes.

You will shape and deliver a market-leading programme designed to embed children’s outcomes into investment decision-making, moving them from a moral concern to a recognised financial consideration. Acting as a central coordinating “backbone”, you will bring together investors, policymakers and partners to drive system-level change.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the strategy, theory of change and delivery roadmap for the Lab
• Building and coordinating a high-impact cross-sector coalition
• Managing programme budgets, governance, risks and reporting
• Producing practical outputs such as investor frameworks, policy papers and insights
• Influencing policy and supporting an enabling environment for impact investment
• Driving partnerships, fundraising and stakeholder engagement
• Contributing to organisational leadership as part of the senior management team

About you

You are a strategic and collaborative leader with experience operating across complex environments and multiple stakeholders.

You will bring:

• Proven ability to design and deliver ambitious strategies with system-wide impact
• Strong relationship-building and influencing skills, including at senior levels
• Excellent communication skills, with confidence in public speaking and stakeholder engagement
• Experience working with or alongside capital markets, investment or policy environments
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities
• A passion for using finance as a force for positive societal change

Experience in impact investing or children-focused policy is beneficial but not essential.

About the organisation

This independent, purpose-driven organisation works to transform capital markets to support a fairer, greener and more resilient future. Through collaborative programmes, research and partnerships, it mobilises private capital to address pressing societal challenges.

The organisation is values-led, ambitious and collaborative, with a strong commitment to inclusion and diversity. Flexible working is supported, and applications are encouraged from candidates of all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in finance and policy.

Other roles you may have experience of could include:
Programme Director, Impact Investment Manager, Policy & Partnerships Lead, Strategy Lead, Head of Programmes, Investment Director, Social Impact Lead, Senior Project Director.

Join a growing Therapeutic service supporting children, young people and families.

Link Adoption & Family Support Service provides therapeutic support services for children, young people, and families across the UK. Much of our work is focused within adoption services, supporting adoptive families, children, and young people who have been adopted. We also provide therapeutic services to Special Guardians, kinship carers, and foster carers.

More recently, we have expanded our provision to support wider communities through partnerships with Barnardo's projects, health authorities, charities and voluntary sector organisations. Services are delivered both face-to-face and virtually across the UK.

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Therapeutic Social Worker to join our dynamic therapeutic services team.

This is an exciting opportunity for a qualified Social Worker to play a key role in coordinating therapeutic interventions that make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and families.

Working within a trauma-informed and attachment-focused service, you will manage referrals from initial enquiry through to case closure, ensuring children and families receive timely, appropriate support. You will work collaboratively  with therapists, commissioners, local authorities, and families to coordinate high-quality therapeutic interventions and help achieve positive outcomes.

The successful candidate will:

• Lead the assessment, planning and case management of therapeutic support packages, coordinating referrals from enquiry to closure and ensuring children, young people and families receive tailored, child-centred interventions.
• Provide safeguarding leadership, by assessing and managing risk, responding to safeguarding concerns, participating in the safeguarding duty rota and ensuring compliance with safeguarding policies and procedures.
• Offer professional consultation and support to therapists and practitioners, offering guidance on case management, safeguarding, risk management and best practice, contributing to quality assurance and continuous professional development.
• Build and maintain effective partnerships with families, social workers, health professionals and partner agencies, acting as a key point of contact and ensuring collaborative, outcome-focused service delivery.
• Develop and maintain relationships with commissioners and referral partners, providing outcome reports, attending review meetings and identifying opportunities to enhance service delivery and grow referrals.
• Contribute to the growth and development of the service by identifying and delivering new service opportunities, leading improvement initiatives, supporting business development, and deputising for the Practice Manager when required.

This is a hybrid role, primarily home-based with occasional travel for training, team meetings and service-related activities. The successful candidate will become an integral member of our multi-disciplinary team, working collaboratively to deliver high-quality therapeutic services to children, young people and families.

About You

We are looking for someone who has:

• Professional Social Work qualification and registration.
• Experience of safeguarding practice and risk assessment.
• Additional training or qualifications in therapeutic practice, trauma informed approaches, attachment, adoption support, or related areas would be desirable.
• Experience within adoption, fostering, kinship care, Special Guardianship, or related children's services would be desirable.
• Excellent assessment and analytical skills.
• Strong organisational and case management abilities.
• Ability to manage a complex caseload and competing priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills.

If you are passionate about therapeutic social work and want to work in a role that combines safeguarding, relationship-building, service development, and therapeutic coordination, we'd love to hear from you.

Additional Information

You must demonstrate within your application how you currently use, or have previously used, the skills outlined above and within the Job Description and Person Specification. This may be through employment or other relevant experience. Applications should demonstrate an understanding of the context and demands of the service described.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date.  We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible

1 in 125 babies are born with heart disease.

Children’s Heart Surgery Fund (CHSF) empowers the lives of everyone born with congenital heart disease in our region. We do this through the delivery of our holistic family support service and by providing vital resources to the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit and region.

Our Fundraising and Marketing team are the driving force behind our charity. We are 100% self-funded, and we successfully manage a diverse range of income streams to ensure we can deliver our help and support each year. Children’s Heart Surgery Fund are proud of our Corporate Partnerships, we invest in relationships to maximise opportunities for businesses to fundraise for us and get involved in our activities and events.

We are looking for an exceptional person who is a natural relationship builder to join CHSF as one of two full-time Corporate Partnership Managers. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will be responsible for securing new business and seeing these partnerships through to co-deliver meaningful income generating projects that are enjoyable for teams as well as valuable for us.

Safe Accommodation Worker

Location: Burnley

Salary: £25,139 FTE

Contract Type: Permanent

Hours: 24.25 hours on a 2-week rolling rota

Week 1

Wednesday 12.15pm-4.15pm, Thursday 9am-4.15pm, Friday 9am-4.15pm

Week 2

Wednesday 12.15pm-4.15pm, Thursday 9am-4.15pm, Friday 9am-4.15pm, Saturday 9am-4.15pm, Sunday 9am-4.15pm

Please note, this is an on-site role only. Due to the nature of our Refuges and Outreach services, it is essential that our teams are present and accessible, enabling us to provide safe, responsive and high-quality support to those who need us most.

This post is open to women only as permitted under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010. 

About Safenet

We provide domestic abuse services across the Northwest of England, including refuges for women and children, safe houses for men, community support, and extra support for those facing addiction, mental health, or other issues.

We understand the serious impact domestic abuse can have, especially on health and wellbeing, and provide support and guidance to help survivors live safely and securely.

Safenet is part of the Calico Group. Here’s what makes The Calico Group unique: each of our specialist companies collaborates and innovates together to have a greater impact than they could alone.

Our shared vision, flexible group structure, and expanding range of services help us adapt to the fast-changing environment and times in which we work.

“A future where everyone can live safe, happy and healthy lives free from abuse, violence and exploitation in their homes, streets and communities.”

About the role

We are looking for high calibre, passionate, caring individuals who are excellent team players and are committed to providing high quality, trauma informed services for victims and survivors of domestic abuse. 

The role will provide range of practical housing and administrative provision within a supported housing environment. The role is the first point of contact for Safenet services and will ensure emergency access to accommodation for women, men and children through the Safenet Helpline.

For further information about the role, please visit the Role Profile.

What we are looking for

We welcome applicants from a range of relevant backgrounds; direct refuge experience is not essential, but you do need to bring credibility, confidence and compassion from related fields.

You might come from:

• Substance misuse or addiction recovery services
• Trauma‑informed women’s services
• Mental health or psychologically informed environments (PIE)
• Housing or supported accommodation with complex needs

Essential Core Skills

Health & Safety Awareness

All of our employees are required to work in a safe way, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and keep themselves, other colleagues and customers safe.  You will be expected to update your knowledge and skills on Health & Safety if successful in your application. 

Safeguarding

We work with adults and children who may be ‘at risk’ and expect colleagues to work in a way which protects the people we support from harm.  Our colleagues are expected to identify people ‘at risk’ and confidently report any Safeguarding concerns as appropriate within the service.

Digital

Across our services, we use a range of technology and systems and expect colleagues to use them effectively and safely following cybersecurity and data protection principles (UK GDPR).  Full training on specific systems is provided but a willingness to learn and develop is essential.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)

The Calico Group welcomes diversity and champions the rights of those in society who may be marginalised.  Our employees are expected to be inclusive, embracing those from different backgrounds to develop a fairer society.

If you share our values and are ready to grow through continuous learning, development, and the support of a dedicated team, we want to hear from you!

What’s in It for You?

At The Calico Group, we value our people and offer a supportive, inclusive culture alongside fantastic benefits:

• Bravo Benefits – Exclusive discounts at popular high street brands including many retailers and restaurants.
• Westfield Health – Our company funded cash plan, with access to a Doctor 24/7 – for you and your dependents.
• Mental Health Support – Access emotional and mental well-being services through Spectrum.
• Cycle to Work Scheme – Save on commuting costs while staying active.
• Pension Options – with employer pension contributions.
• Life Assurance – Peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
• Financial Advice – Expert guidance to help manage your finances.
• Recognition Awards – Celebrate your achievements with our recognition programs.
• Meaningful learning and development programmes with regular focus on your individual growth.
• Gym Membership Discounts – Stay fit with local gym access.
• One Calico Events – Connect and unwind at our employee social gatherings.
• Paid Professional Fees – We’ll cover the cost of professional subscriptions so you can continue growing your career.

And much more! We also offer enhanced holidays, sickness, maternity, and paternity options, ensuring you feel supported when you need it most.

How to Apply

Click Apply Now to complete your application online. Applications close on 24/07/2026

We can’t wait to welcome you to our team!

This post is open to women only as permitted under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

SafeNet is working towards Equal Opportunities for all and actively encourages applications from disabled, ethnic minority and LBGTQI+ women who are under-represented.  SafeNet is a Registered Charity No. 1091544 and a Company Limited by Guarantee No. 3860803. 

Inclusive Hiring at Calico 

We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and can thrive. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process or would like to discuss accessibility, please let us know.

Our Commitment to Safeguarding 

The Calico Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our customers employees, and volunteers. Successful candidates will be subject to a DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service) and appropriate pre-employment checks in line with our safeguarding policies. 

The Specialist Practitioner role sits under the direction of the Clinical Manager and within the Therapy Team. The role is multifaceted which includes professional liaison, other types of support and direct client work through therapy and Initial Meetings. This role has been developing since 2023 to meet the needs of the service and the children and families that TGH supports. 2026 will see further change to this role as TGH aims to support children and young people within a new pathway. The post holder must be self-governing as lone working may be required within sites across BNSSG and BANES, which upholds TGHs mission to more accessible to families, meeting them where they live.

Tom’s Trust is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to providing psychological support to children and young people with brain and central nervous system tumours and their families.

We are seeking an experienced Marketing & Audience Development Manager to help us build awareness, engage new supporters and grow fundraising income.

This is a newly evolved role designed to help Tom’s Trust increase its reach, influence and fundraising potential.

The Marketing & Audience Development Manager will lead the charity’s marketing strategy, focusing on growing audiences, strengthening supporter engagement and delivering integrated campaigns that increase awareness, participation and income.

We are asking that this role attends our office in Duxford (South Cambridgeshire) once per fortnight on a Tuesday.

Domestic Abuse Practitioner

Location: Burnley & Preston

Salary: £27,500 FTE

Contract Type: Permanent

Please note, this is an on-site role only. Due to the nature of our Refuges and Outreach services, it is essential that our teams are present and accessible, enabling us to provide safe, responsive and high-quality support to those who need us most.

This post is open to women only as permitted under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010. 

About Safenet

We provide domestic abuse services across the Northwest of England, including refuges for women and children, safe houses for men, community support, and extra support for those facing addiction, mental health, or other issues.

We understand the serious impact domestic abuse can have, especially on health and wellbeing, and provide support and guidance to help survivors live safely and securely.

Safenet is part of the Calico Group. Here’s what makes The Calico Group unique: each of our specialist companies collaborates and innovates together to have a greater impact than they could alone.

Our shared vision, flexible group structure, and expanding range of services help us adapt to the fast-changing environment and times in which we work.

“A future where everyone can live safe, happy and healthy lives free from abuse, violence and exploitation in their homes, streets and communities.”

About the service 

You’ll be part of a committed and compassionate frontline team working within a busy community environment. We support adult survivors, children, and young people affected by domestic abuse, providing a safe and supportive space where recovery and empowerment can begin. 

Our team is passionate about creating a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere for all residents and colleagues. We work in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment, adapting to the diverse needs of those we support. With a strong focus on teamwork, resilience, and sound judgement, we collaborate to make thoughtful decisions that prioritise safety, dignity, and respect. 

About the role

As a Domestic Abuse Practitioner, you’ll play a vital role in helping individuals and families affected by domestic abuse take their first steps toward safety, recovery, and independence. You’ll be the first point of contact for those in crisis - offering compassionate, practical, and emotional support that makes a real difference. 

For further information about the role, please visit the Role Profile.

What we are looking for

We welcome applicants from a range of relevant backgrounds; direct refuge experience is not essential, but you do need to bring credibility, confidence and compassion from related fields.

You might come from:

• Substance misuse or addiction recovery services
• Trauma‑informed women’s services
• Mental health or psychologically informed environments (PIE)
• Housing or supported accommodation with complex needs

You will bring:

We believe in recruiting for potential as well as experience. Our ideal candidate will have:

• Although no formal qualifications are necessary a good level of spoken and written English is essential for this role.
• Time management and ability to work independently during night shifts.
• Accurate logging of incidents, referrals, and resident updates.
• Familiarity with confidentiality and data protection protocols (e.g., GDPR).
• Room preparation, health & safety checks, and maintaining a secure environment.

Essential Core Skills  

Health & Safety Awareness 

All our employees are required to work in a safe way, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and keep themselves, other colleagues and customers safe.  You will be expected to update your knowledge and skills on Health & Safety if successful in your application.  

Safeguarding 

We work with adults and children who may be ‘at risk’ and expect colleagues to work in a way which protects the people we support from harm.  Our colleagues are expected to identify people ‘at risk’ and confidently report any Safeguarding concerns as appropriate within the service. 

Digital 

Across our services, we use a range of technology and systems and expect colleagues to use them effectively and safely following cybersecurity and data protection principles (UK GDPR).  Full training on specific systems is provided but a willingness to learn and develop is essential. 

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) 

The Calico Group welcomes diversity and champions the rights of those in society who may be marginalised.  Our employees are expected to be inclusive, embracing those from different backgrounds to develop a fairer society. 

If you share our values and are ready to grow through continuous learning, development, and the support of a dedicated team, we want to hear from you! 

What’s in It for You?

At The Calico Group, we value our people and offer a supportive, inclusive culture alongside fantastic benefits:

• Bravo Benefits – Exclusive discounts at popular high street brands including many retailers and restaurants.
• Westfield Health – Our company funded cash plan, with access to a Doctor 24/7 – for you and your dependents.
• Mental Health Support – Access emotional and mental well-being services through Spectrum.
• Cycle to Work Scheme – Save on commuting costs while staying active.
• Pension Options – with employer pension contributions.
• Life Assurance – Peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
• Financial Advice – Expert guidance to help manage your finances.
• Recognition Awards – Celebrate your achievements with our recognition programs.
• Meaningful learning and development programmes with regular focus on your individual growth.
• Gym Membership Discounts – Stay fit with local gym access.
• One Calico Events – Connect and unwind at our employee social gatherings.
• Paid Professional Fees – We’ll cover the cost of professional subscriptions so you can continue growing your career.

And much more! We also offer enhanced holidays, sickness, maternity, and paternity options, ensuring you feel supported when you need it most.

How to Apply

Click Apply Now to complete your application online. Applications close on 23/07/2026

We can’t wait to welcome you to our team!

This post is open to women only as permitted under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

SafeNet is working towards Equal Opportunities for all and actively encourages applications from disabled, ethnic minority and LBGTQI+ women who are under-represented.  SafeNet is a Registered Charity No. 1091544 and a Company Limited by Guarantee No. 3860803. 

Inclusive Hiring at Calico 

We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and can thrive. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process or would like to discuss accessibility, please let us know.

Our Commitment to Safeguarding 

The Calico Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our customers employees, and volunteers. Successful candidates will be subject to a DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service) and appropriate pre-employment checks in line with our safeguarding policies. 

37.5 hours per week / permanent / working Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm.

YMCA DownsLink Group is the leading charity for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. We offer safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice.

We believe that every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside them to make that happen.

We are here for children and young people, many of whom face multiple challenges and need our support.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections – guide us in all our actions.

East Sussex Transitional Housing is a low-support service, providing safe, secure, supported accommodation for 98 young people between the ages of 18-25 who have been, or are, at risk of homelessness. We have a small, supportive, and established team which manages 18 housing properties across, Eastbourne, Bexhill and Hastings. We adopt a trauma informed and psychologically informed approach to supporting our residents to help them build essential life skills, identify their goals and work towards aspirations so that they can move on to enjoy fully independent futures.

You will be based at the YMCA office in Eastbourne but will be visiting our 7 properties around Eastbourne each week, meeting with residents in their homes and at the office.

Main areas of responsibilities are:

Housing and Compliance

• Support young people to understand and comply with their occupancy agreements, including coaching them to meet house rules and responsibilities as part of preparing for successful independent living.
• Promote a strong rent‑payment and credit culture, encouraging residents to maintain regular payments and understand their financial obligations.
• Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of housing legislation, welfare benefits, and statutory requirements affecting young people, ensuring practice aligns with current housing law and organisational policies.
• Respond promptly and effectively to breaches of agreement, including rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, or property damage, using restorative approaches where appropriate and working collaboratively with the wider team.

Coaching and Engagement

• Coach young people so they can articulate their aspirations and ambitions and take the lead in acquiring the skills they need to live independent and fulfilling lives.
• Ensure young people are encouraged to take responsibility for their own personal development, to engage with the services on offer and build strong networks and connections within the local community.
• Ensure consistent standards of safeguarding and Trauma Informed Practice when supporting young people, observing our safeguarding procedures, and keeping yourself and residents safe by respecting professional boundaries.
• Maintain client records on In-Form (client database) detailing the young person’s journey in relation to their strengths and needs, any risks, and any outcomes (to monitor service performance).

There will be times when lone working will be a requirement for this role, but you will get to know the team and service, along with an induction and training prior to starting on a rota. 

If you are enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferrable. You may be just the right candidate. 

This is a dynamic and varied role; you will be passionate about being involved in the support and growth of young people.

Experience and Knowledge

• Experience in housing or supported accommodation, ideally supporting young people with multiple and complex needs.
• Strong understanding of occupancy agreements, rent management, welfare benefits, and tenancy sustainment.
• Ability to manage arrears, ASB, and other non‑compliance issues using appropriate and restorative approaches.
• Good knowledge of housing legislation, safeguarding procedures, and compliance requirements, with the ability to maintain clear professional boundaries.
• Familiarity with statutory and voluntary services available to young people and ability to work proactively with a caseload to support progression towards independent living.

Skills and Abilities

• Confident in record‑keeping, including case notes, incident reporting, and health and safety checks.
• Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing for appropriate recording of a resident’s progression, and to evidence outcomes achieved.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with all stakeholders, including signposting and advocating for clients as necessary.
• Ability to work autonomously, and use own initiative, as well as being part of a team.
• Clear verbal and written communication skills, good IT, and keyboard skills.
• Ability to de-escalate volatile situations and manage challenging behaviour appropriately.

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 26 July at midnight. 

PLEASE NOTE: We are unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorship for this role, so applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. 

Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third-party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity checks.