Children jobs

Job Purpose:

Assisting in the resettlement of vulnerable refugees and Afghan evacuees through the provision of advice, guidance, and support.

Key Responsibilities:

Direct Support for Refugees

• Facilitate initial reception and orientation.
• Provide advice on benefits, housing, health, education, and employment.
• Accompany individuals and families to appointments.

Promoting Integration and Independence

• Encourage engagement in community activities.
• Foster empowerment through supportive relationships based on mutual respect and trust.
• Liaise with local authorities and services for smooth registration and referrals.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure access to mainstream services.

Community Engagement and Awareness

• Work with local voluntary and community organisations to foster a welcoming environment.
• Deliver awareness sessions about resettlement schemes to stakeholders.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Development

• Participate in reviews and development of the resettlement scheme.
• Contribute to monitoring and evaluation processes.

Team Contribution

• Engage in team meetings, staff training, and organisational events.

Person Specification:

Essential Criteria: 

•  Emotional Intelligence & Compassion in Action: 
  - Understands the importance of recognising and managing emotions in oneself and others. 
  - Recognises the value of care and commitment to making a positive impact in relationships and the community. 
   
• Personal Growth and Empowerment: 
  - Acknowledges the importance of feedback and personal growth with a willingness to learn. 
  - Understands the importance of providing others with support to make decisions and grow. 
   
• Organisational Skills: 
  - Manages tasks efficiently, prioritises effectively, and operates professionally in high-pressure situations.
  - Understands the importance of prioritising workload and meeting deadlines under pressure. 
   
• Technical Knowledge: 
  - Has basic knowledge of email and Microsoft Office tools, with limited practical experience. 
   
• Understanding Refugee Needs: 
  - Demonstrates knowledge of and sensitivity to refugee and asylum seeker needs, actively supporting their wellbeing and empowerment.
   
• Adaptability and Problem-Solving: 
  - Recognises the importance of adapting to change and managing multiple tasks. 
  - Recognises issues and seeks guidance to contribute to potential solutions. 
   
• Communication and Collaboration: 
  - Understands the importance of effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders. 
   
• Ethics and Inclusivity: 
  - Understands the importance of ethical behaviour and maintaining confidentiality. 
  - Recognises the value of cultural diversity and the importance of inclusivity. 
   
• The right to work in the UK.
• Full UK Driving licence and access to your own transport.

Desirable Criteria: 

• Previous experience working with refugees and asylum seekers. 
• Experience of working with families and children.
• Experience in delivering workshops or community events.
• Fluency in a relevant community language. 

Other information:

As part of the recruitment and selection process Upbeat Communities will take up two references.

The post holder will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check.

Please note that in most cases we would expect a new employee to start at the lower end of the salary range listed above (unless an applicant has specialist experience in a comparable role working with refugees and asylum seekers).

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Job Title: Fostering Recruitment Officer

Salary: £26,854 per annum salary (increasing to £29,838 in 18 months) + £750 per annum Homeworking Allowance

Hours & Contract: 35 Hours per week with some evening and weekend working - Permanent Contract

Location: Homebased in West Midlands, within reasonable travelling distance of Walsall and/or West Bromwich

As a ‘not for profit’ organisation, TACT puts the needs of our children and carers first and look to appoint individuals who are as passionate about fostering as we are. We are a homeworking organisation, and we pride ourselves on our flexible working opportunities, available from day one, an extensive wellbeing programme and our benefits package, all curated to nurture a healthy work life balance for all our employees so they can give an excellent service to our carers and the young people and children we care for.

As a foster care charity, TACT invests all surplus income into services, staff, carers, and child development. This means that we have been able to invest unique projects like TACT Connect, our unique and ground-breaking scheme for TACT care experienced young people and adults,  as well as our expanding Education and Health services. All our activities are built on our commitment to becoming a fully trauma informed organisation, in line with our key values and ethos.

In 2024 TACT became one of the top 5 charities to work for in the UK, placing 5th in the UK Best Companies Work For survey results , and a top 25 mid-sized company to work with across the whole of the UK.   97% of our people feel proud to work with TACT and think that TACT cares about their wellbeing, while 92% of our people would say they “ love working for TACT”.

The Fostering Recruitment Officer will have a varied and interesting role working flexibly, including evenings and weekends, organising a variety of events, peer support groups, and promotional opportunities amongst local communities. Building relationships and communicating on the fostering process, the post holder will work closely with the West Midlands Team, existing foster carers and children and young people to promote the variety of services and benefits TACT provides to carers that contribute to making a positive difference to the outcomes for the young people and children in our care. 

If you want to be valued as a professional, be appreciated at work and contribute to better outcomes for the children and young people connected with TACT,apply now.  

Overall Duties of the Fostering Recruitment Officer will include:

• Working collaboratively with the team to progress fostering enquiry management
• Support community recruitment activity to create a consistent pipeline of carer applicants
• Facilitating a smooth application and assessment process for potential foster carers
• Undertaking essential admin relating to record keeping, creation of data for analysis, evidence for measuring objectives
• Creative contribution to innovation and improvement of strategies and local recruitment activities
• Maintaining an understanding of regulations and requirements for provision of foster care services
• Working flexibly, including evenings and weekends, and travelling throughout the area

 TACT offer an excellent employee benefits package including:

• 31 days paid holiday plus 8 annual bank holidays.
• Progression to salary target rate upon completion of 18 months service.
• 45p per mile for business travel.
• Flexible working arrangements (including compressed hours, flexibility around core hours, volunteer days policy).
• Family friendly policies.
• Homeworking ‘bundle’ including annual allowance, IT equipment and a loan for home office set up.
• Help@Hand Employee Assistance Programme (including CBT counselling, 24/7 remote GP appointments, physiotherapy, mental health support and second opinions on serious diagnosis).
• An hour a week of live, expert led activities through the Annual Employee wellbeing Programme.
• Menopause Policy and free Menopause Clinician Appointments.
• Stakeholder Pension Scheme (salary sacrifice).
• Fantastic learning and development opportunities for all roles.

This is a homebased role with the requirement for frequent travel across the West Midlands Area to travel to face-to-face events, team meetings, training and team wellbeing events.

An Enhanced DBS clearance is required for this role and will be processed by TACT on your behalf.

Closing Date: Midnight on Sunday 9th November 2025

Interview Date: Thursday 20th November 2025 (via Microsoft Teams)

Safeguarding is everyone’s business and TACT believes that only the people with the right skills and values should work in social work.  As part of TACT’s commitment to safeguarding, we properly examine the skills, experience, qualifications, and values of potential staff in relation to our work with vulnerable young children.  We use rigorous and consistent recruitment approaches to help safeguard TACT’s young people.  All our staff are expected to work in line with TACT’s safeguarding policies.

We reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than advertised if the volume of applications is excessive, you are therefore advised to apply at your earliest convenience.

TACT does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies, nor the fees associated with them.

Are you passionate about ensuring the voice of children and young people are heard? Are you committed to advocating that children and young people’s rights are upheld? Do you believe that all children should receive consistently high-quality care in environments that strive to improve outcomes for each child?  Do you have experience in social work, education, inspection, advocacy or residential childcare management? Then we have an exciting opportunity for a professional like you.

The Vacancy

The Independent Monitoring Service is seeking to recruit professionals with experience of working with children and vulnerable adults to the role of Independent Visitor.

We are looking for individuals all across Greater Manchester areas, including but not limitted to: Oldham, Rochdale, Tameside, Central Manchester, Bolton.

The role of Independent Visitors is to provide visiting services on behalf of NYAS which are consistent with the National Quality Standards for Children’s Homes, Residential Special School Standards, Welsh National Minimum Standards, Health and Social Care Standards Scotland and CQC regulations. The main duties are:

• To undertake monthly visits to identified homes in accordance with the requirements of the relevant NYAS manager.

These visits will be:

Regulation 44 visits to residential children’s homes, short breaks and secure units.

Regulation 25 visits to residential family centres.

Care Quality Commission visits to residential adult homes.

Care Inspectorate Wales regulation 8 visits to residential children’s homes.

RSS20 visits to residential special schools.

Health and social care standards Scotland residential children’s homes.

Monitoring visits to unregulated provision.

• To undertake all tasks as identified by the relevant NYAS manager, during the visits and thereafter, in order to fulfil all aspects of the role.
• To provide factual reports within set timescales as required by the relevant NYAS manager.

Candidates should have demonstrable knowledge and understanding of regulated services and their inspection frameworks and also knowledge of current legislation and statutory guidance relating to children, young people and adults at risk particularly those in residential care.

Candidates must have experience of working within a social or health care organisation, safeguarding and experience of managing complex relationships across a diverse field, e.g. OFSTED inspectors, social workers, residential care workers and registered managers, health care professionals.

Candidates should also possess a professional qualification in a related field, i.e. social work, residential care, health care professional, advocacy or youth work.

This is a self-employed position and you will be paid a sessional rate.

You will also be required to complete annual safeguarding and compliance including, Personal Safety, Data Protection, Information Security, Safeguarding and Equality and Diversity. You will be able to subscribe to an e-learning platform provided by NYAS. The platform will provide you with the opportunity to undertake a number of other professional courses that you can complete in your own time to maintain your own CPD. You can do this on the e-learning platform at a significantly reduced cost compared to undertaking each course individually with different providers.

Note for candidates - when completing the application form, it is important that you refer to the person specification within the contract delivery specification and detail how you can evidence the criteria.

NYAS operates robust safe procedures to ensure the protection of the children, young people and adults at risk we work with. To comply with NYAS’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, references and a Digital Risk Assessment.

In accordance with UK immigration law, NYAS is required to ensure that all prospective candidates have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom. Therefore, proof of eligibility to work in the UK will be required as part of the recruitment process.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early once we receive a high number of applications.

About NYAS

As an established leading rights-based charity, NYAS (National Youth Advocacy Service) is well positioned to ensure that children, young people, and adults across England and Wales are fully respected, represented, and supported in expressing their views and having their rights upheld.

We work with care-experienced children, young people, and adults who are often reliant on statutory services suffering the negative impact of the cuts in public expenditure. Our combination of social care and legal services places us in a unique position to ensure that they receive the services they need and that their voices are heard.

We are an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment which means NYAS welcomes applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, nationality, religion or belief, or any other protected characteristic.

NYAS is proud to share that we are a Disability Confident Employer and we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for our vacancies.

Work with us to help change young lives.

Vision: Home-Start believes every parent should have the support they need to give their children the best possible start in life. Main purpose of job: To support Home-Start Southwark’s administrative and operations functions, enabling us to provide the best possible support to families with children under 5 in Southwark and Lewisham. 

Our ambition is to continue to develop outstanding services that meet the needs of our community; if you want to be part of our future, we would love to meet you to discuss this further.

Vision: Home-Start believes every parent should have the support they need to give their children the best possible start in life. Main purpose of job: To ensure Home-Start's Southwark’s finance and operations systems best meet the needs of the organisation, enabling us to provide the best possible support to families with children under 5 in Southwark and Lewisham. 

Our ambition is to continue to develop outstanding services that meet the needs of our community; if you want to be part of our future, we would love to meet you to discuss this further.

About Us

F6IT helps children and young people, aged 0-25, with additional needs and disabilities-and their families- get active, connect and have fun.

We offer accessible and inclusive fitness, clubs, leisure activities and support that break down barriers, reduce isolation and boost physical and mental well being. 

About Our Role

You will contribute to the strategic direction of F6IT ensuring we achieve our vision where disabled children and young adults and with their families and friends can together and inclusively, enjoy a rewarding life which is fun, beneficial and above all fulfilling. 

As the Fundraising Manager you will work to maximise the available funding, income generation and activities for the work of F6IT.

• You will work with the CEO/Trustees to develop and deliver a targeted and strategic programme for Trusts, Grants, and Fundraising to secure long-term income.
• Develop, write and deliver high quality tailored and persuasive applications and proposals for funding in line with F6IT's strategic objectives.
• Prepare regular up to date funding reports for the CEO, Trustees and wider F6IT team.
• Plan and support delivery of F6IT's Funding activities.
• Identify new Corporate Supporters and Partnerships.
• Essential experience and skills - Track record of income generation accross one or more income. streams,strong organisational and communication skills, solid IT and Computer skills.
• This post is subject to an enhanced disclosure application to the Disclosure and Barring Services.

Advert

(Individual Giving / Supporter Engagement)

Permanent

35 hours per week 

£30,600

Location: Flexible, with travel to our London base.  

At The Children's Society, we passionately believe that every child should feel safe and loved and be able to be the best they can be. That's why we've been helping children and young people in this country for over 140 years. We run local services that support children when they are at their most vulnerable and in desperate need of help. We're there for children, every step of the way. 

This role sits within our Social Impact domain, which helps to deepen engagement from our existing supporters and grow our movement by engaging more people with the amazing work we do to change young people's lives.

We are looking for an excellent individual to join our dynamic, ambitious knowledge group. If you're passionate about young people and create direct and digital marketing communications that inspire action, this could be the role for you.

As one of our Public Engagement Officers, you'll support the development of communications across multiple channels. You'll deepen audience understanding of the challenges that young people face. You'll manage projects end-to-end with the help of colleagues across the organisation. Using insight, you'll deliver compelling campaigns with young people right at the centre. You'll encourage audiences to give their time, money and voice.

To achieve our goal, we've got to approach things differently. That's why you'll need to be brave and ambitious - helping to stretch our brand and contributing to a test and learn culture where we challenge assumptions and the status quo.

In order to be successful in this role, you must have: 

-Knowledge of direct mail & email marketing

-Project management experience

-Excellent written communication skills.

The Children's Society runs over 100 local services that help thousands of young people who desperately need our support, and we campaign to get laws and policies changed to make children's lives happier and safer. 

Every day we're changing the lives of children in this country for the better - and with your help, tomorrow we can be there for even more. 

The Children's Society runs over 100 local services that help thousands of young people who desperately need our support, and we campaign to get laws and policies changed to make children's lives happier and safer. 

Every day we're changing the lives of children in this country for the better - and with your help, tomorrow we can be there for even more. 

The Children's Society is committed to safeguarding and protecting the children and young people that we work with.  As such, all posts are subject to a safer recruitment process, including the disclosure of criminal records and vetting checks.  We ensure that we have a range of policies and procedures in place which promote safeguarding and safer working practices across our services.

Therefore, candidates applying for work in our CYP Directorate will be required to complete an “Employment history template” document prior to interview. The fully completed document should be loaded by the candidate at the point of uploading your CV.

The closing date for applications is 23.59 on Wednesday 19th November 2025.

Interviews are to be held week commencing Monday 1st December 2025.

IN3

Delivery Manager (North) £42,500 pro rata 

The Role 

Are you passionate about creating inclusive spaces where girls can thrive? We're looking for an organised and values-driven Delivery Manager (North) to support the delivery of our groups, trips, residentials and events at GFS. You'll line manage Group Coordinators, ensure operational compliance, champion inclusion, and maintain strong communication with volunteers, groups and external partners across England and Wales. 

About Girls Friendly Society 

Established in 1875, GFS is one of the oldest UK registered charities working to support girls and young women. We believe in challenging gender inequality by empowering girls and young women. We achieve this by providing groups and opportunities for girls and young women to build friendships, gain confidence, and learn that they are unstoppable. We deliver a programme of activities designed to develop socio-emotional skills such as confidence, self-esteem, emotional wellbeing, and resilience, and recruit and train women volunteers to run those activities in a space designed for girls and young women. We prioritise working in areas of disadvantage. 

Why Join Us? 

At GFS, we believe in creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where our team can thrive. As part of our organisation, you'll enjoy: 

• Remote working with annual in-person opportunities to connect with colleagues
• 25 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays 
• Long service leave after two years 
• GFS Pension Scheme with 7.5% employer contribution 
• We embrace flexible working and support our employees to work in ways that suit their individual circumstances and responsibilities
• 24-hour access to Employee Assistance Programme 
• Season ticket loan 
• Annual EDI Learning Days 
• Study time and personal training budget nto support your professional development 

Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion 

GFS is committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those from marginalised communities including Black, Asian and minoritised ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ individuals, disabled people, and those from underrepresented groups. 

As part of our commitment to equitable recruitment, we guarantee interviews for candidates from marginalised communities who meet the essential criteria for the role. We are also committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace. If you require any adjustments to support your application or interview, please let us know and we will work with you to ensure an accessible and inclusive process. 

Key Dates 

• Closing Date: Noon, Sunday 16th November 2025 

• Interviews: Tuesday 2nd December 2025 

3 permanent positions with a provisional funding end date of September 2026

3 Fixed Term contracts (Maternity Cover) until July 2026

£30,997 per annum

Full Time 35 hours per week

The Children's Society  has vacancies for  Education Mental Health Practitioners within our  Rise Mental Health Support Teams (MHST)  in Newcastle & Gateshead. The Rise service offers evidence-based individual and group interventions in educational settings for children and young people experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties, as well as supporting settings to develop their whole school/college approach to mental health.

Practitioners work out of identified schools but can also access The Children's society offices in Newcastle & Gateshead.

We are seeking an EMHP-trained Practitioner with:

-HEE PG Diploma in Education Mental Health Practice for children & young people

-Evidence of working in settings with people age 0-18 (predominantly 0-17) who have emotional, behavioural and/or mental health difficulties.

-Evidence of providing 1:1 session and groups.

-Evidence of working in a person-centred approach.

-Evidence of assessments and Outcome tools

INFORMATION ABOUT THE CHILDREN'S SOCIETY

The Children's Society runs over 100 local services that help thousands of young people who desperately need our support, and we campaign to get laws and policies changed to make children's lives happier and safer.  

Every day we're changing the lives of children in this country for the better - and with your help, tomorrow we can be there for even more.  

Benefits

Enhanced Annual leave 28 days length of service extra 2 after 2 5 and 7 goes up to 36 days plus bank holidays.

Free eye test claim back

Pension match contribution up to 8% can opt out

Life Assurance death in service 4 x salary gets paid to nominated person.

Cycle to work 39% of bike costs can be spread across the year

770 retailers' discounts offered with You Star App.

All people within diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply, and particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities   

The Children's Society is committed to safeguarding and protecting the children and young people that we work with.  As such, all posts are subject to a safer recruitment process, including the disclosure of criminal records and vetting checks.  We ensure that we have a range of policies and procedures in place which promote safeguarding and safer working practices across our services.   

Therefore, candidates applying for work in our Youth Impact Domain will be required to complete an “Employment history template” document prior to interview. 

The closing date for applications is Midnight on 13th November 2025.

Interviews to be confirmed.

For an application pack please visit the web site http://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/about-us/work-us

If you wish to discuss these roles further, please do not hesitate to email -

[email protected]

[email protected]

IN1

Thank you for your interest in the Head of Collaboration Partnership roles (x3) at the Fair Education Alliance

A key part of the new FEA strategy 'Neighbourhood to National' is our work with Combined Authorities, who we believe are an incredible unit for change for children and young people’s outcomes and we are now hiring three Heads of Collaboration Partnership to lead on this work employed by the FEA and working alongside a MCA Partnership Lead in each area. They will provide expert leadership to establish deep partnerships and enable cross-sector collaboration.

You’ll report to our Director of Place-Based Collaboration, within our expanding Place-Based team, drawing on expertise from across the FEA. You will also work with a dedicated lead for the Partnership in the Combined Authority. You will play a key role in ensuring that: learning and evaluation are bedded into the approaches; youth engagement is a key factor driving the work, and what is being uncovered in MCAs is feeding into policy change.

We are looking for a professional who is highly collaborative, committed to systems change, comfortable with working through ambiguity, sees the incredible potential for MCAs, and will be passionate about long-lasting change for children and young people.

We are accepting applications from candidates living and working across the country - so if you live or work in any of the Mayoral Combined Authority areas, then please consider applying.

ImpactEd Consulting is acting as recruitment advisor to the FEA on this appointment.

Key dates

• Applications close: Wednesday 12 November (5.30pm)
• R1 Interviews: Monday 1 – Wednesday 3 December (online)
• R2 Interviews: Wednesday 10 – 12 December (in person - location TBC)
• Start date: early 2026 – as soon as possible (to be agreed with the successful candidate)

If you have any questions based on any aspect of the appointment process or require any additional information, please contact ImpactEd directly

Occupational Therapy Team Lead – Inscape House School 
Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours/week, 41 weeks/year Term time
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £43,753 (pro-rated from £48,022)

Are you a passionate and experienced Occupational Therapist ready to take the next step in your career? Do you thrive in a collaborative, child-centred environment where your leadership can make a real difference? 

About the Role:

We’re looking for a dynamic Occupational Therapy Team Lead to join our specialist ASC school, part of the Together Trust. You’ll lead a skilled OT team, shape service development, and deliver high-quality, evidence-based therapy to children and young people aged 5–19 with Autism Spectrum Conditions.

This is a unique opportunity to combine clinical practice with leadership, working closely with families, carers, and a multidisciplinary team to ensure holistic support for our students. 

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Leading and developing the OT service across Inscape House and outreach settings.
• Managing your own clinical caseload and supervising team members.
• Delivering specialist assessments and interventions.
• Providing consultancy and training to staff, families, and external partners.
• Driving service improvement through evidence-based practice and innovation.
• Contributing to policy, procedures, and service development within the school and Trust.

About You: We’re looking for a passionate, experienced OT who can lead with vision and clinical expertise. You will have: 

• A degree or diploma in Occupational Therapy.
• Registration with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) with a current practicing certificate.
• Experience working with children and young adults, ideally with Autism Spectrum Conditions.
• Proven leadership skills and experience managing a team.
• Strong knowledge of OT assessment tools and evidence-based interventions.
• Excellent communication and collaborative skills.

Desirable: 

• Postgraduate study in paediatric OT or Sensory Integration.
• Experience in school settings, supporting EHCPs, or delivering training.
• Ability to work across multiple sites and provide outreach services.

Benefits 

• Generous pension scheme and death in service benefit, up to 7% company pension contributions initially rising with length of service and up to 6 x basic salary death in service benefit.
• Occupational sick pay and family friendly policies including enhanced maternity, paternity and adoptive leave.
• Reward and Discount platform offering discounts at high street shops, travel, insurances etc.
• Cycle to work scheme
• Eligibility to apply for Blue Light card.
• Proud to be a real living wage employer.
• Refer a friend scheme, be rewarded for recommending a friend to work with us
• Comprehensive training and development opportunities, including apprenticeship qualifications.
• Long service awards including cash gifts and extra holiday.
• Promotion of Wellbeing across the organisation including Mental Health First Aiders offering wellbeing support from trained colleague and free weekly yoga session  in person or online.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for you and adults at your home.

Together we make a difference, develop and learn, and support each other. Every day with us is different, but our mission remains the same: To champion the rights, needs and ambitions of the people we support - they are at the heart of everything we do. We stand by them and we work together for change.

Alongside an incredible team of like-minded peers, you’ll be working behind-the-scenes to support our staff, volunteers, families, and supporters. You will be helping our work happen across the charity; enabling us to care for and champion the rights, needs and ambitions of the people we support.

Curious about us? Watch our quick career video as an Occupational Therapist:

https://youtu.be/Hb-9Dg-qK-s 

If you’re ready to lead, innovate, and make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you. Please use examples in your application to demonstrate how your skills and experience align with the role.

The Together Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the people we support and expects all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment.  

Safeguarding checks will be undertaken for the successful candidate in line with our safer recruitment policy, including an Enhanced DBS check (at no cost to yourself).

This role will involve regulated activity.

Applications are very welcome from all regardless of age, disability, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief, race, sex, sexual orientation, trans status or socio-economic background. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments for disabled people. We positively encourage applications from those with lived experience. 

If there is any part of your lived experience you want to keep confidential in some way please talk to the Recruitment or HR shared service teams and we will do what we can to support you.

Location: Reading, Hybrid 
Hours: 37 per week 
Salary: £27,792
Contract Type: Permanent
Campaign Closes: 13th November 2025

First Stage Interviews: 26th November 2025

Second Stage Interviews: TBC

Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of children with critical illnesses? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment where empathy, precision, and people skills come together? Join Make-A-Wish UK as a Wish Referral Officer and be the guiding light at the start of every wish journey. You will be the warm, reassuring voice that helps families navigate the first steps of their magical experience, all while managing vital relationships and keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

Core Purpose
The Wish Referral Officer is responsible for processing new referrals and stewarding the wish child and their application through the initial stages of their wish journey, whilst providing excellent stakeholder management. A Wish Referral Officer is responsible for facilitating and managing a large network of relationships such as the wish child and their family, medical professionals, charities, volunteers and referral partners. As each wish is unique, accurate record keeping, data privacy and safeguarding are essential for every wish and experience. This role requires the ability to work at a high pace while maintaining strong attention to detail, with data management and accuracy forming core aspects of day-to-day responsibilities.

Essential Criteria
To be successful in this role you will need:

• Experience in an administrative role 
• Experience of handling large volumes of data accurately, within a fast-paced environment
• Experience in customer service role with set targets and data management 
• Demonstrate the ability to be flexible and change priorities within short time frames 
• Excellent organisational and prioritising skills to support an ever-changing workload 
• To be able to confidently communicate through all communication methods to multiple stakeholders
• Exceptional attention to detail 
• Calm and professional, especially when dealing with emotional situations 
• Excellent IT and administration skills including experience in processing/inputting data and MS Office 
• Ability to work on own initiative without supervision 
• A personal commitment to and understanding of equal opportunities 
• Experience in using CRM systems 

Personal Qualities

• Maintain a professional, caring, friendly and helpful manner always whilst dealing with wish children, their families, volunteers, suppliers as well as other stakeholders 
• Strong empathy with wish families understanding that each child is an individual and may have needs 
• The ability to be able to build strong relationships
• Maintain high levels of attention to detail 
• Ability to remain calm under pressure 
• Punctual and reliable 
• Friendly, courteous and professional 
• Be motivated to always support the charity and its objectives

Key Responsibilities:
Referral Enablement

• Process new referrals submitted by Community Referral Partners, health and social care professionals, ensuring accurate data entry, and excellent stakeholder management both through both written and verbal communication.
• Proactively manage a dynamic caseload of 150–200 wishes at any given time, ensuring each wish application progresses efficiently through the various stages of the wish journey in alignment with established referral targets and service timelines. This includes monitoring progress, identifying and resolving potential delays, maintaining accurate records, and self-allocating new referrals in line with organisational priorities
• Take ownership of the weekly coordination and distribution of wish referral materials, ensuring all communications and resources are prepared, reviewed, and delivered accurately and on time to key stakeholders—including Community Referral Partners, wish families, and internal teams—to support a seamless and consistent referral process.
• Monitor and maintain the accuracy and integrity of data across internal systems to ensure full compliance with service level agreements (SLAs), data protection regulations, and organisational protocols. This includes conducting regular data audits, identifying and correcting discrepancies, and working collaboratively with internal teams to uphold high standards of data quality, which are essential for effective decision-making, reporting, and service delivery.
• Collaborate with the Wish Discovery Coordinator to facilitate the effective involvement of Make-A-Wish UK volunteers, ensuring families receive the support they need throughout the wish experience. This includes coordinating volunteer assignments, arranging interpreter services where required, and promoting a seamless, inclusive, and supportive journey for every wish family.
• Ensure all referral processes, service level agreements (SLAs), and Make-A-Wish UK eligibility criteria are consistently followed, maintaining full compliance with organisational policies and procedures. This includes accurately assessing referral information against eligibility requirements, escalating any concerns, queries, or ambiguities to the appropriate team or line manager for review, and ensuring all decisions are documented and communicated clearly. Additionally, maintain strong communication with stakeholders to ensure clarity around eligibility decisions and support a fair, transparent referral process.
• Ensure the principles of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion are always reflected within the wish process.
• Support the Wish Referral Team Manager and Wish Referral Lead and Make-A-Wish UK in achieving our goal to reach every eligible child within the UK.

Stakeholder Communication

• Act as the first point of contact for all Wish Granting (WG)–related queries and enquiries, responding promptly and professionally via email, phone, WhatsApp, and post. Ensure that all stakeholders—including wish families, volunteers, and referral partners—receive a high-quality, compassionate, and consistent customer service experience
• Ensure accurate communications with referral partners, wish children and their families/guardians, employees, and volunteers in relation to wish applications.  
• Ensure that our service level agreements are met, and stakeholder expectations are sensitively and professionally managed in line with our policies.
• Liaise with other charity partners to assess whether referred wish children meet Make-A-Wish UK’s eligibility criteria. Where referrals do not meet the criteria, collaborate with the Wish Referral Partner Manager to ensure that referrers receive clear, constructive feedback and gain a full understanding of Make-A-Wish UK’s eligibility requirements, supporting transparent and informed referral practices.

Systems and Processes:

• Collaborate with the Wish Referral Team Manager to identify and implement improvements to the wish journey experience, ensuring it is seamless, inclusive, and positive for all stakeholders. Contribute feedback, insights, and suggestions to enhance processes, communication, and overall service delivery in line with organisational goal
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records within our CRM system (Salesforce), ensuring data integrity and consistency, at all times.
• Follow internal processes to ensure wish children and their families move through the wish journey smoothly, and always in line with our service level agreements.
• Actively participate and engage in project work, providing constructive insights and ideas to enhance the wish journey for every wish child.

Safeguarding and Data Governance:

• Ensure all wish records and related data are stored and maintained on Make-A-Wish Information Systems and that all data is managed within set policies and procedures (such as data privacy, liability, consent forms, marketing permissions etc.)
• Facilitate a culture of safeguarding awareness. Identify, report and escalate any issues or concerns in line with organisational processes and procedures.
• Raise safeguarding concerns and complete relevant internal procedure

F6IT helps children and young people, aged 0-25,with additional needs and disabilities, with their families and friends, get active, connect and have fun.

We offer accessible and inclusive fitness, clubs, leisure activities and support that break down barriers, reduce isolation and boost physical and mental wellbeing. 

About Our Role

You will contribute to the strategic direction of F6IT ensuring we achieve our vision where disabled children and young people with their family and friends can together and inclusively, enjoy a rewarding life which is fun, beneficial and above all fulfilling. 

As the Operations Manager you will work with the CEO and Trustees to manage and oversee the operations and administration in line with the strategic direction of F6IT.  This will include a variety of different task and activities.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead day to day management of all F6IT activities. This includes the planning, delivery and evaluation of inclusive events, clubs and fitness activities
• Coordinate Coaches, Session Leads and Volunteers to ensure activities and session are well planned and staffed
• Work with the Social Media Lead to advertise and promote activities and events
• Develop and monitor kdy performance indicators (KPIs) and analyse data to identify trends and areas of improvements
• Work with CEO and Trustees to develop and plan new events, clubs and fitness activities
• Oversee bookings, payments and banking related to events and activities
• Track DBS checks, mandatory and additonal training for all Volunteers, Staff and Trustees
• Take responsibility for compliance with health and safety, safeguarding and risk management   

Essential Experiences and Skills

• Strong organisational and administrative skills
• Strong interpersonal and communications skills written and verbal
• Good problem solving skills 
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities
• Solid experience with MS Office and Payment systems
• Previous experience in a similar role
• Hold a valid UK driver's licence and able to drive to attend the office and activities in South-West Surrey

This post is subject to an enhanced disclosure application to the Disclosure and Barring Services​

About Us

Literacy Pirates’ vision is for every child to have the literacy skills, confidence and perseverance to succeed at school and beyond. We provide free, after-school literacy support to children who are falling behind in class and who have fewer opportunities for additional support due to their personal circumstances than others. Founded in East London, Literacy Pirates’ programme now runs online and serves children anywhere in the United Kingdom.
 
Literacy Pirates is on an exciting journey of growth, rolling out our innovative learning programme to reach more children than ever before. An ambitious, fast-growing charity we have set ourselves a goal of reaching 3,000 children a year nationally, by 2030 compared with 650 this year. To support this, the fundraising team must double the charity’s revenue over the next four years, from £1million to £2million annually. 

This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious Trust and Foundation specialist with a keen interest in developing strategy and a flair for building strong relationships with funders. You will be excited to play a pivotal role in the growth of this charity, knowing the huge impact every new grant will have on the number of disadvantaged young people we are able to support. You will have significant freedom to design and execute a strong growth-oriented trusts strategy.

What we're Looking for

• Proven track record of securing significant multi-year grants from trusts and foundations. 
• Strong grant-writing skills with the ability to produce clear, persuasive, and tailored proposals. 
• Experience using AI to generate proposals and grant reports time-efficiently. 
• Excellent relationship building and management skills, with experience engaging funders and external stakeholders. 
• Strong track record of prospect research using a mixture of techniques and strategies 
• Experience representing an organisation at events and conferences.  
• Strong numeracy and experience in preparing budgets for funders. 
• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities. 
• Familiarity with Salesforce or other CRM systems. 
• Commitment to safeguarding and the welfare of children and young people. 
• Commitment to the mission of improving outcomes for children from less advantaged backgrounds. 
• Knowledge of the education sector a plus, but not essential. 

Responsibilities

• Research and identify trusts, foundations, and other funding opportunities to grow Literacy Pirates’ funding base. 
• Develop a pipeline of high-quality funding applications to meet agreed income targets. 
• Write or generate compelling funding proposals and grant applications, drawing on organisational impact data and stories
• Place AI tools at the centre of routine content generation for applications and reports. 
• Build and maintain excellent interpersonal relationships with funders, ensuring effective stewardship at all stages. 
• Attend conferences and networking events, and arrange funder visits, meetings. 
• Track progress against targets and provide regular updates to the Head of Development.
• Provide support and leadership to the broader fundraising team 
• Contribute to the development of the charity’s wider fundraising strategy, ensuring trusts and foundations income complements individual giving, corporate partnerships, and community events. 
• Work with the Education and Comms team to ensure the right impact data and case studies are available to strengthen proposals and reports and contribute to organisation’s marketing work 
• Ensure accurate and up-to-date records of applications, grants, and funder communications in the CRM system. 
• Monitor sector trends and share insights on funding opportunities and best practice.