26 Children places programme manager jobs in Edinburgh

About us

The Alliance for Youth Justice is an alliance of more than 70 non-profit organisations advocating with and for children to drive positive change in youth justice across England and Wales. We mobilise our members’ frontline expertise, children’s lived experience, and evidence from research to champion a child-centred, rights-based and trauma-informed system that treats contact with the justice system as a sign of unmet need and systemic failure, prioritises support over criminalisation and gives every child the opportunity to thrive.

We're widely recognised as the most influential group campaigning for improvements to the system, with trusted access to decision makers, working towards three goals: keeping children safe from the youth justice system through prevention and diversion; racial justice across the system; and custody as a last resort for children.

About the role

Following the launch of our new strategic approach, our Influencing Manager will lead the development and delivery of AYJ's influencing, policy, public affairs and campaigning work to shift policy, legislation, practice and public narratives.

Campaigning, policy and public affairs (70%) — lead our influencing strategy alongside the CEO, spot opportunities for systemic change, develop evidence-driven policy positions and briefings, and build relationships with members, politicians, civil servants and stakeholders.

Strategic communications (30%) — ensure the reach of our influencing, write high-impact influencing content for our digital channels, and act as first point of contact for media enquiries.

Anti-opressive, anti-racist practice and youth voice run through everything, including involving children and young people with lived experience safely and meaningfully in our work.

About you

You have a proven track record of influencing for systemic change through policy, public affairs, communications or campaigning within a voluntary sector organisation or coalition, and know how to turn complex policy and research into compelling written communications for varied audiences. You have a thorough understanding of the political environment and Parliament, strong relationship-building skills, and excellent project management. You bring a genuine interest in youth justice and the issues facing children in England and Wales, alongside a personal commitment to anti-racism, social justice and child rights.

Why join us

We're a small team of three punching well above our weight, with real scope to shape how we work and few layers of hierarchy. We offer flexible, trust-based home working (within core hours), plus 25 days' leave (pro rata), Christmas office closure, and a 5% employer pension contribution.

We encourage applications from historically marginalised groups even if you don't meet every requirement, and we do not use criminal records to exclude candidates.

Please download the reruitment pack to find out more and read the full job description and person specification.

BeSpace is seeking an innovative and faith-filled leader to pioneer a new national initiative that reimagines Christian pilgrimage for children and young people in schools.

As our Pilgrimage Development Lead, you will design, test and grow creative pilgrimage models that help children explore faith, encounter God and develop spiritually through contemplative Christian practice. Working with churches, schools, dioceses and Christian organisations, you will develop resources, create training, build partnerships and identify opportunities to scale successful models across the UK.

This is a unique opportunity to shape an emerging area of ministry from the ground up. We are looking for someone with experience in children's spirituality, Christian faith development and project leadership who is excited by innovation and motivated by impact. You will be comfortable developing new ideas, building strong relationships and creating practical tools that equip others to deliver high-quality experiences.

BeSpace is a growing Christian charity with a vision to see every child joyful, resilient and growing spiritually for life. Having supported over 69,000 children through prayer and reflection spaces in schools, we are now expanding our work nationally and developing new ways for churches to engage children through contemplative Christian practices.

If you're passionate about helping children encounter God, equipping churches and developing innovative approaches to spiritual formation, we'd love to hear from you.

Please note: this role can be worked either hybrid working in London (minimum 4 days per month in the office) or Homebased.

Independent Age isthe national charity working towards ending financial hardship in later life.  

Our Helpline and expert advisers offer free information and advice to older people without enough money to live on, while our external training equips professionals with the information they need to support older people on low incomes. Through our grants programme, we fund and support hundreds of local charities working with older people across the UK. We use the knowledge and insight gained from our support services and partnerships to highlight the issues experienced by older people in povertyand campaign for change.  

We believe no one should face financial hardship in later life. We would love to find individuals from all walks of life and diverse backgrounds to join us on this journey. 

Responsibilities and Person Specification:

This is an exciting opportunity to lead the delivery and ongoing evolution of our ambitious Trusts and Foundations fundraising strategy, securing transformational five- and six-figure grants that will drive our long-term impact and growth.

We're looking for an exceptional relationship-builder and communicator with a proven track record of securing five- and six-figure grants from Trusts and Foundations. You'll be confident translating complex data into compelling funding propositions and using your outstanding written, verbal and presentation skills to inspire support for our mission.

For full details on the role and requirements, please review the job description and person specification.  If your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all of the criteria in the person specification but you do meet most of them and are excited about the role, we encourage you to apply anyway. 

This is a full-time role, 35 hours per week, which you can choose to work over five days or a 9-day fortnight. We also are open to this role being worked on a part-time basis on a minimum of 28 hours per week.

What it’s like to work at Independent Age:

We celebrate diversity at Independent Age and champion the differences that make each of us unique. We actively support and encourage people from a variety of backgrounds, experiences and skill sets to join us and help shape what we do. We aim to attract and retain a wide range of talent and create an environment where everyone can feel safe, protected, welcome and included.

We offer great benefits including 28 days annual leave plus public holidays, a generous pension scheme with life assurance, and fantastic learning and development opportunities. We also offer a number of enhanced leave provisions and benefits.

We know that a good work life balance helps us perform at our best and supports wellbeing. Flexible working hours and hybrid working is standard for all (those contracted to work in the office are required to attend the office a minimum of 4 days per month). But if you need a different form of flexibility, we are always happy to talk flexible working. 

With an employee engagement score of 98%, colleagues say Independent Age is a great place to work. You can find out more about what it’s like to work for us on the Careers Page of our website. 

Application Process:

To apply, please visit our website to submit a CV and a Supporting Statement, detailing how your skills and experience meet the criteria within the Job Description and Person Specification.

We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible to all. If you require any specific arrangements or adjustments to enable you to fully participate in the recruitment process, such as having the job description in a larger text format or to apply in an alternative format, please get in touch with us via the email address on the ‘Contact Us’ page on our jobs site. 

To support our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion our hiring managers use anonymous shortlisting. Please don’t include your name, photo, or any information that could indicate your gender or age in your CV and supporting statement, and don’t include your name in the title of any documents that you upload. However, please do include all dates of employment. 

Independent Age is committed to safeguarding and follows Safer Recruitment practices to ensure we are safeguarding those we work with. We therefore ask that you supply your full work history with explanations for any gaps in the application documents you submit and, if offered the post, we will require a minimum of two employment references including your current or most recent employer. A Basic DBS check will be carried out for the successful candidate

Closing Date: Sunday, 4 October 11:59pm

Interview Dates: First-round interviews will take place on Tuesday, 13 October (remote); second-round interviews will take place on the Tuesday, 20 October (in-person in our London office)

Fixed Term Contract until 31 August 2027

We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Data and CRM Administrator to support the management and quality of data across our programmes and operations, using our suite of Zoho resources.

This role is ideal for someone at the beginning of their data career who is keen to develop their skills in data management, reporting and CRM administration within a purpose-driven organisation. 

This role is 15 hours per week. You will be working from home with the expectation of occasional travel for in-person meetings with your manager or for organisation-wide team days (which are in London - considered commutable travel). 

Responsibilities

• Supporting the Impact and Data Lead with data quality and CRM support
• Administrative tasks such as supporting the wider TTF team with guidance documents, utilising the CRM and its functions across programmes, finance, outreach and marketing
• System improvements
• Reporting and analysis

Please read the full job description before applying for this role. 

Annual leave: 28 days + Bank Holidays (pro-rata)

Interviews will be held w/c 5 October 2026.

Applicants need to be based in the UK and have the right to work in the UK.

Join SafeLives and help transform the response to domestic abuse across the UK.

As our Project Manager (Drive Partnership), you will play a key role in supporting the delivery and growth of one of the UK's leading programmes working with high-harm, high-risk perpetrators of domestic abuse. Through effective project management, governance and partnership working, you will help ensure that services are delivered consistently, meet their objectives and contribute to safer outcomes for victims, survivors and their families.

Working closely with colleagues across The Drive Partnership, SafeLives, Respect, Social Finance, commissioners and delivery partners, you will coordinate multiple project workstreams, monitor progress against project plans and support effective programme governance. You will help manage risks, oversee compliance processes, contribute to funder reporting and support the development of systems and processes that strengthen programme delivery. You will also play an important role in facilitating collaboration between partners and ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and effectively.

We're looking for someone with strong project management experience, excellent organisational and communication skills, and the ability to manage competing priorities across multiple workstreams. You'll be confident building relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, comfortable working both independently and collaboratively, and motivated by the opportunity to contribute to meaningful social change. Experience of working within the domestic abuse sector, wider violence against women and girls sector, or the charity sector would be advantageous.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a collaborative and values-led organisation while contributing to the work of The Drive Partnership, which is transforming the national response to perpetrators of domestic abuse. An understanding of the importance of partnership working, systems change and victim-survivor safety is essential. 

About SafeLives We are SafeLives, the UK-wide charity dedicated to ending domestic abuse, for everyone, for good. We work with organisations across the UK to transform the response to domestic abuse. We want what you would want for your best friend. We listen to survivors, putting their voices at the heart of our thinking. We look at the whole picture for each individual and family to get the right help at the right time to make families everywhere safe and well. And we challenge perpetrators to change, asking ‘why doesn’t he stop?’ rather than ‘why doesn’t she leave?’ This applies whatever the gender of the victim or perpetrator and whatever the nature of their relationship.

Last year alone, we delivered more than 700 sessions to over 15,000 learners across the UK in policing, health, housing, justice, education and the specialist sector. And we have reached 90,000 adult and 100,000 child survivors through programmes designed and delivered with partners.

In the last 9 years, close to 7,000 perpetrators have been challenged and supported to change through flagship interventions developed by The Drive Partnership and the programme continues to expand year on year. 

Together we can end domestic abuse. Forever. For everyone.

Benefits:

• 34 days holiday inc. public holidays
• Paid annual wellbeing day
• Cycle 2 Work scheme
• Eye care vouchers
• Pension scheme with 4% employer contribution
• Length of service award
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Enhanced family leave Policies
• Holiday purchase scheme - buy up to an additional 5 days

How to apply

If you believe you have the qualities we have described, please look over the full job description and submit your CV and cover letter by 9am on 15th October. As part of our commitment to become a Disability Confident Committed employer we are happy to accept alternative applications such as video, voice note etc.

Permanent | Full-time 

Salary: £58,560 – £71,480 per annum

Hours: 35 per week

Location: Home-based with regular national travel 

Job reference number: 1766

Help shape the future of Cranstoun’s services 

Cranstoun is a social justice and harm reduction charity supporting and empowering people to live healthier and safer lives. Each year, we support more than 45,000 people through services including substance use, criminal justice, domestic abuse, housing and services for children and young people. 

Following a successful five-year strategy and significant growth, we remain ambitious about the difference we can make. As we enter our next phase, we are investing in the leadership and operational capability needed to support our continued development. We are now recruiting an Assistant Directors of Service to join our senior management team.

This is a significant senior leadership role offering the opportunity to lead substantial service portfolios while helping shape how Cranstoun’s services are led and delivered across the organisation. 

The role

Reporting to the Director of Operations, you will lead a substantial portfolio of complex commissioned services and senior operational managers. 

You will lead eight services with nine direct reports, spanning substance use and services for children and young people. You will have clear accountability for ensuring services are safe, effective and well-led, with strong contractual performance, financial sustainability and positive outcomes for the people and communities we support. 

You will provide operational grip and evidence-based assurance, strengthen safeguarding and management accountability, build effective relationships with commissioners and partners, and ensure risks and underperformance are identified, escalated and addressed early. 

You will also work collectively with fellow senior operational leaders to embed a One Cranstoun approach, strengthening common standards, sharing learning, developing leadership capability and improving quality and resilience across our services. 

What you will be accountable for 

As an Assistant Director, you will take senior operational accountability for: 

• Safe, effective and well-led services – ensuring strong safeguarding, quality, operational risk management and service user outcomes.  
• Contractual performance – ensuring services deliver against contractual requirements and KPIs, with strong commissioner relationships and timely action to address underperformance.  
• Financial sustainability – maintaining strong financial oversight, effective workforce management and oversight of the sustainability of individual contracts.  
• Evidence-based assurance – using reliable performance, quality, workforce and financial information to identify risks and drive improvement.  
• Collective organisational leadership – working beyond individual portfolio boundaries to build consistent standards, stronger leadership and shared ways of working across Cranstoun.  

You will lead and develop senior operational managers, set clear expectations and create a culture in which support and accountability operate together. 

You will also lead and contribute to service mobilisation, transformation, workforce planning and continuous improvement. 

Who we are looking for 

We are looking for established senior operational leaders with substantial experience leading complex commissioned services and geographically dispersed teams. 

You will bring a strong track record of: 

• leading safe, high-quality services for people with complex needs;  
• safeguarding, quality and operational risk management;  
• contract and performance management;  
• managing significant service budgets and improving financial performance;  
• building effective relationships with commissioners, regulators and strategic partners;  
• leading service improvement, mobilisation and organisational change;  
• developing senior operational managers and addressing underperformance; and  
• using performance, quality, workforce and financial information to provide assurance and drive improvement.  

You will need to combine strategic leadership with operational pragmatism, understanding the detail when necessary while maintaining oversight of performance, risk, quality and sustainability across a complex portfolio. 

Above all, we are looking for collaborative, credible and values-led leaders who can support and challenge in equal measure, build leadership capability and bring people together around common standards and organisational priorities. 

Specialist experience 

For this role, significant senior leadership experience within substance use services is essential, including experience of leading CQC-regulated provision and maintaining high standards of quality, safety and regulatory compliance. 

You will also need a strong understanding of safeguarding and the governance required to deliver safe and effective services for children and young people. Direct operational experience of Children & Young People services would be valuable, but we are equally interested in candidates who can demonstrate strong safeguarding and CYP governance experience alongside substantial substance use leadership. 

This permanent appointment offers the opportunity to provide long-term leadership to a significant portfolio and help shape the future development of Cranstoun’s services. 

Be part of Cranstoun’s next chapter 

Our successful five-year strategy has seen Cranstoun grow considerably, extending our reach and the range of services we provide. We remain ambitious and innovative, committed to developing services that respond to the changing needs of people and communities. 

As we look to the future, we are investing in the leadership, operational capability and organisational infrastructure needed to support our continued development, strengthening operational governance, consistency and assurance across our services. 

This role offers the opportunity to do more than manage established portfolios. You will help shape the future of our services and build an Operations Directorate characterised by high standards, clear accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement. 

Find out more 

Please refer to the accompanying recruitment pack for the full Job Description, Person Specification and details of the application process.

Please note: All posts are subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

How to Apply:

For more details and to apply, please visit our website via the apply button. Please quote the appropriate Job Ref in all correspondence.

Applicants must be able to provide satisfactory evidence of their right to work in the UK at the application stage.

Sponsorship is not available for this post. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK that does not require employer sponsorship for the duration of the appointment.

Closing date: Sunday 20 September 2026.

We are an inclusive employer, committed to promoting equality and diversity in all areas of our work. 

Registered Charity No: 1061582

To successfully lead the Grants team and raise voluntary income from a range of Grantmakers including Trusts, Foundations and local Government grant funders contributing to an overall team target of £1-million +. Working effectively with a grants team of three, and across the organisation, you will meet team annual targets of circa £675,000 through finding new opportunities, building excellent relationships with funders and managing the team effectively. This will lead to more young people reached by Eikon’s services.

Responsibilities

Income generation

· Lead responsibility for raising current annual team target of £675,000 for restricted and unrestricted income

· Work to agreed metrices including an annual target of £220,000 - £250,000/year with a pipeline including statutory, national & regional grant funders (some being invite only).

· Develop and lead networking plan (internal/external) to secure long-term grant and statutory funding opportunities to help increase financial income year on year.

Account Management

· Lead a stewardship framework, ensuring excellent account management of funders across the team (including own portfolio)

· Lead plans for the year, thinking creatively to develop new engagement opportunities such as panels, breakfast meetings and other events

· Collaborate with other leads and managers in the team to maximise opportunities through relationships, for example Major Donors, Corporate partnerships and Individual Givers.

Management

· Line management two staff members (Senior Grants Fundraiser and Trust Fundraiser), creating a positive and supportive working culture supporting them to meet their targets

· Lead on managing pipeline information on Donorfy, being able to pull reports for information and analysis including:

o Provision of data and narrative for monthly team meetings

o Contribution to Board reporting with narrative and pipeline information

o Analysis for annual planning sessions

Quality and standards

· Ensure all staff and volunteers understand and deliver within Eikon’s safeguarding policies and practices when taking part in fundraising activities.

· Ensure all activities follow the relevant Fundraising Codes of Practice and Eikon’s Ethical Fundraising Policy.

· Prepare relevant Grant Agreements and contractual information.

· Carry out risk assessments for all activities for which you are responsible.

· Carry out required basic due diligence on new funders.

Finance and resources

· Budget responsibility with authorisation up to agreed limits

· Operate within organisational approved budgets, policies and procedures.

Communications and relationships

· Work collaboratively with the Communications Lead to devise annual communications and marketing plans, ensuring Eikon is strategically positioned externally.

· Work collaboratively with service leads ensure new services developed meet funder needs and requirements

Strategy/transformation work

· Lead on developing and delivering annual grants plan

· Participating in a Leads network, contribute regularly to organisation matters including strategies, annual plans and budgeting.

Organisational requirements

· Work within Eikon’s equal opportunities, health & safety, and safeguarding policies at all times

· Understand and act when safeguarding issues need to be escalated

· · This is a flexible working role. You must be available to attend regular external meetings across Surrey and occasional meetings at Eikon’s New Haw office. Some meetings may take place outside normal working hours or at weekends.

· Work co-operatively and under the management of The Eikon Charity staff to ensure the highest quality of delivery and support

· Work within Eikon’s internal policies, safeguarding and data protection regulations

· Be responsible for equipment/resources

· To promote, monitor and maintain health, safety and security in the working environment

The role

We're recruiting for a Programme Logistics Manager to join our Programme Operations team and help strengthen the systems that support Mary's Meals' school feeding programmes around the world.

Working closely with Programme Affiliates, Programme Partners and colleagues across Mary's Meals International, you'll provide technical oversight and support across key areas including inventory, fleet, facilities and supplier management, helping to ensure our logistics systems and processes are effective, efficient and sustainable.

You'll also drive continuous improvement, share best practice and support alignment with our school feeding model and programme operations strategy. At the heart of this role is a commitment to quality, stewardship and simplicity, helping us deliver our mission as effectively as possible.

Key priorities:

• Shape practical logistics policies, processes and tools that support our global programmes.
• Use performance data and insights to identify opportunities, manage risk and support informed decision-making.
• Support country teams to build capability, confidence and consistently high standards.
• Foster collaboration between procurement and logistics colleagues to improve programme delivery.
• Champion safe, efficient and cost-effective fleet management, including vehicle tracking and telematics.
• Strengthen supplier relationships, contract management and performance monitoring.
• Enhance facilities, warehousing and distribution practices across our supply chain.
• Contribute to programme planning, audits, growth initiatives and operational strategy.

About you:

We're looking for a Programme Logistics Manager who combines strong logistics expertise with a collaborative, solutions-focused approach and a genuine passion for our mission. You’ll bring:  

• Significant experience in logistics and/or operations within an international organisation.
• A strong understanding of logistics systems, processes and performance management.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work effectively across cultures.
• Experience using data and insights to monitor performance and drive improvements.
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to balance competing priorities.
• A proactive, adaptable and results-focused approach.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to turn insight into action.
• Proficiency in MS Office and data analysis tools.
• A genuine commitment to Mary's Meals' mission and values.
• Experience leading or coordinating teams, particularly in decentralised or geographically dispersed environments would be beneficial but not essential.

About us:  

Mary’s Meals is a global movement supported by people from all walks of life and from all faiths and none. We are focused on one goal – that every child receives a nutritious daily meal in a place of education. Today, more than 3 million children receive Mary’s Meals in some of the world’s poorest communities.  

We are a values-driven organisation that believes in the innate goodness of people, respects the dignity of every human being and family life, and values good stewardship of the resources entrusted to us. In line with our values, we are fully committed to a culture of safeguarding.

Mary’s Meals is committed to preventing any form of unwanted behaviour at work, and we expect all members of the Mary’s Meals family to share this commitment and act in the best interests of the communities we serve. Our safer recruitment practices ensure that only those committed to our high standards join our movement.

We are happy for you to work remotely and flexibly, in a way that best supports your work-life balance. We have an office in Glasgow for those who would like to work from here occasionally or on a regular basis. Some travel to Glasgow, will likely be required as part of this role.

We believe in the innate goodness and dignity of every person. In line with this, Mary’s Meals is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment. All applicants will be considered fairly and on merit, without discrimination of any kind. 

Our Benefits:

• 34 days annual leave (pro-rated for part time working patterns) including bank holidays, increasing by 1 day each completed calendar year, to a maximum of 39 days (+ option to buy another week)
• Flexible working
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Life assurance
• Pension

We're looking for a Volunteer Coordinator who's good with people and good at organising them - someone who can recruit, train and keep in touch with the volunteers who make FFLAG's support possible.

Are you someone who enjoys building relationships and helping people do their best work? This role is about making sure FFLAG's volunteers - most of them parents of LGBT+ children themselves - feel properly recruited, trained and supported.

About FFLAG

FFLAG is a national voluntary organisation and registered charity and is the UK's longest established parent support charity in the LGBT+ sector. Our history began in the grassroots parent helplines of the 1960s, grew through the 1980's and 90's as we supported anxious parents and fought against the discrimination of Section 28, becoming a formally registered charity in 2000.

Our work sounds simple, but it is life changing. We help parents and families understand, accept and support their lesbian, gay, bisexual, non-binary and transgender family members with love and pride.

We offer a range of support options spanning 1-2-1 online and helpline support services to a UK-wide monthly group Zoom meeting and face to face local groups. We also have an extensive collection of online resources and guides. We attend as many Pride events as we can and our work supports thousands of people every year. This support is provided by an active base of FFLAG volunteers who are parents of LGBT+ children themselves, supported by other volunteers and allies.

What this job is all about

As Volunteer Coordinator, you'll make sure FFLAG's volunteers are properly recruited, trained and supported, so they can continue doing this work well. Reporting to the Operations Manager, you will:

• Identify what volunteers FFLAG needs, then recruit, induct and train them, including DBS checks and references

• Maintain training, the volunteer handbook and the Code of Conduct up to date

• Maintain regular contact with volunteers, so they stay engaged, safe and supported

• Act as FFLAG's Safeguarding Lead, providing regular supervision to support volunteers

• Keep accurate records, liaise with Trustees, and report on volunteer activity to the Board

• Be a member of the Services and Support Committee

• Provide support to the Operations Manager with events, as required

What are the skills and attributes you will need?

This role needs someone who's organised, approachable, and motivated by helping people do well - but it also needs real, hands-on experience of volunteer coordination from day one, since it's a small, part-time role with no one else to lean on for this work. We're specifically looking for candidates who can point to evidence of previous experience in:

• Recruiting, training and supporting volunteers in a paid or voluntary role

• Keeping volunteers engaged and retained over time

• Handling safeguarding matters sensitively and appropriately

• Working independently and comfortably in a remote-working setup

• A genuine interest in equality, diversity, and the LGBT+ community

Please note: this role isn't suitable as a first step into volunteer management - we're looking for candidates who already have relevant, demonstrable experience in this area.

Why join us?

It's a chance to play a hands-on role at a charity with a long history of supporting parents and families, helping the volunteers who in turn support thousands of people every year. It's part-time, flexible and home-based, with 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays (both pro rata), and a pension in place.

How to apply

Click the CharityJob Apply button below. You'll be asked to submit a CV and answer a few screening questions about your experience.

Closing date for applications is Friday 25th September

Note for Applicants

Thank you for your interest in joining our team! To help us keep our recruitment process fair and organised, please submit all applications and questions through the CharityJob platform using the 'Apply' button.

Our phone lines and general inbox are reserved exclusively for individuals accessing our vital support services, so our team won't be able to transfer recruitment calls or accept CVs directly. We truly appreciate your understanding and cooperation in keeping our support lines open for those who need them most. We look forward to reviewing your application on CharityJob!

Change how the UK understands and supports bereaved children and families.

This is an exciting time to join Child Bereavement UK.

We are establishing a brand-new Research & Policy function and are looking for an ambitious Public Affairs Lead to help ensure the voices of bereaved children, young people and parents shape policy, practice and public understanding across the UK.

Working closely with the Head of Policy & Research, you will develop and deliver Child Bereavement UK's public affairs, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity, building relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians and sector leaders to drive meaningful change.

You will act as the bridge between research, lived experience and influence, translating evidence into compelling advocacy campaigns, stakeholder engagement opportunities and policy recommendations that make a difference.

This is a rare opportunity to help build a new function, shape our national influence, and ensure the experiences of bereaved children, young people and families are heard where it matters most.

While based remotely, this role has a strong external focus and requires regular travel to London to represent Child Bereavement UK, build key relationships and engage with policymakers, partners and sector networks.

Role Purpose

As Public Affairs Lead you will play a central role in ensuring the voices and experiences of bereaved children, young people, parents and families influence policy, practice and public understanding across the UK.

Working closely with the Head of Policy & Research, you will develop and deliver Child Bereavement UK's public affairs, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity, building relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, sector partners and influencers to drive meaningful change.

You will act as the bridge between research, policy and communications, helping to translate evidence and lived experience into compelling advocacy campaigns, stakeholder engagement opportunities and influencing activity.

Main Responsibilities

 Public Affairs & Policy Influence

· Develop and deliver public affairs plans that support Child Bereavement UK's strategic priorities and policy objectives.

· Use research, evaluation findings and lived experience evidence to identify policy gaps, develop influencing priorities and shape recommendations for decision-makers.

· Translate organisational evidence into clear policy asks and reform proposals for government, parliamentarians, public bodies and sector leaders.

· Identify opportunities to embed evidence and learning within national, regional and local policy frameworks, guidance and professional practice.

· Support the development of long-term influencing strategies that drive systemic change for bereaved children, young people and families.

· Build and maintain relationships with MPs, Peers, government officials, policymakers and key sector stakeholders.

· Coordinate engagement with relevant All-Party Parliamentary Groups, consultations, inquiries and policy forums.

· Support the development of policy briefings, consultation responses and evidence submissions.

· Organise parliamentary events, stakeholder roundtables and engagement opportunities that raise awareness of bereavement issues.

· Work with the Head of Voice & Participation to ensure the voices of bereaved children, young people and parents bereaved of a baby or child are represented at all stages of policy development.

Advocacy & Campaigns

· Lead the delivery of advocacy and influencing campaigns aligned to organisational priorities.

· Ensure advocacy campaigns are grounded in robust evidence, insight and lived experience, with clear objectives for policy and practice change.

· Work with the Head of Policy & Research to translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations.

· Develop stakeholder engagement plans that support campaign objectives.

· Build relationships with partner organisations, coalitions and networks to strengthen collective influence.

· Develop compelling narratives that connect research findings with real-world outcomes and policy solutions.

· Work with colleagues to identify tangible actions that policymakers, practitioners, employers, schools and communities can take in response to emerging evidence.

Stakeholder Engagement

· Develop and maintain stakeholder mapping and engagement plans.

· Build productive relationships with sector leaders, professional bodies, charities, academics and decision-makers.

· Coordinate engagement with strategic partners and external networks.

· Support senior leaders in stakeholder engagement activity through briefings, meeting preparation and follow-up actions.

Research Translation & Communications

· Develop evidence-informed policy asks, implementation recommendations and calls to action that support measurable change.

· Identify opportunities to move research and insight beyond publication and into policy development, service improvement and public discourse.

· Translate research, evidence and lived experience into compelling stakeholder communications.

· Produce parliamentary briefings, policy summaries, position statements and advocacy materials.

· Work closely with the Marketing & Communications team to ensure policy and research activity is effectively communicated to external audiences.

· Collaborate with the PR & Press Lead to identify opportunities to amplify policy and research messages through media and public engagement activity.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Insight

· Monitor and evaluate public affairs, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity.

· Track policy developments, stakeholder engagement outcomes and influencing opportunities.

· Produce reports demonstrating impact, engagement and progress against objectives.

· Maintain stakeholder databases and records to support organisational relationship management.

Person Specification

Essential

Experience & Knowledge

· Significant experience in public affairs, policy, advocacy, campaigns or stakeholder engagement.

· Experience building relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, public sector organisations or influential stakeholders.

· Understanding of UK political systems, parliamentary processes and policy development.

· Experience developing and delivering influencing or advocacy campaigns.

· Experience producing briefings, consultation responses or policy-focused communications.

· Understanding of how evidence and lived experience can be used to influence decision-making.

Skills

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

· Strong relationship-building and influencing abilities.

· Ability to communicate complex information clearly and persuasively.

· Excellent organisational and project management skills.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

· Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.

Personal Attributes

· Passionate about improving outcomes for bereaved children, young people and parents bereaved of a baby or child.

· Collaborative and relationship-focused.

· Compassionate and emotionally intelligent.

· Proactive, resilient and self-motivated.

· Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and trauma-informed practice.

Desirable

· Passionate about improving outcomes for bereaved children, young people and parents

· Experience within the charity, health, social care or education sectors.

· Knowledge of bereavement, grief, loss or trauma-informed services.

· Experience working with All-Party Parliamentary Groups or parliamentary engagement activity.

· Experience working with research and evidence-based policy development.

· Experience working with lived-experience contributors and ambassadors.

· Understanding of campaigning, coalition building and systems change approach

Recruitment Timetable

Application deadline: 17th September 2026 at midnight

Interview dates: 29th and 30th September on MS Teams

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications for the role before the closing date.

You will use a wide range of commercial and interpersonal skills to develop the way our services support children, young people and families.

The core area of your work will be working with teams of Barnardo's colleagues to produce compelling proposals to commissioners and partners in Scotland and Northern Ireland. As such, you'll be able to demonstrate:

• Strong organisational skills
• Meticulous attention to detail
• The ability to elicit and articulate great ideas
• Strong written and spoken communication

You will need to be a good writer, communicating ideas effectively on paper with an ability to analyse large volumes of information to develop clear and compelling responses to tenders. It is critical that you can build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to support the development of proposals and service design.

You will manage all aspects of proposals and tenders, leading the development and delivery of bids, working to deadlines, ensuring that we present strong business cases and bids that underpin successful outcomes. In addition, there will be the opportunity to help us develop new services and innovations in priority growth areas, monitor market intelligence, assess commercial and contract risks and work alongside operational colleagues in Children's Services.

Your project management skills may have been developed in any sector, and may need further development, but your commitment to the work we do will be demonstrated by your enthusiasm and ability to learn. In Business Development we are a supportive team, with stimulating and challenging work and extensive opportunities to learn and to help Barnardo's transform the lives of the UK's most vulnerable children.

These roles will operate on a 'Work from Anywhere' basis, meaning that you can work both from home and/or from an office 'hub' that's nearest to where you live. Some travel across Scotland and Northern Ireland may be required.

Barnardo's believe in creating equality of opportunity in the workplace and supporting people to manage their work-life balance; we are therefore open to offering flexible working arrangements.

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

As an Officer in ImpactEd Evaluation you will project manage evaluation partnerships with schools, trusts and education organisations, from Theory of Change and evaluation design through data collection and analysis to reporting, with the support of a project sponsor. You will work directly with partners, keep projects on track and in scope, and help partners understand and act on what their data is telling them.

We are open to a range of experience and backgrounds. Prior experience in any of consultancy and partnership management, data analysis and report writing, research and evaluation, or the UK education system is likely to be particularly useful. What matters most is a curiosity about what works for young people and the discipline to get things done well.

Officers lead the delivery of specific projects and engagements with support, contribute to revenue generation and service delivery, and mentor junior colleagues.

Partnerships and delivery Project manage evaluation partnerships, coordinating delivery and often leading much of it, with support from a project sponsor. Drive partnerships forward through proactive communication and follow-up, build partner buy-in by involving different stakeholders, and manage scope and the risk of over- or under-delivery.

Evaluation design Facilitate evaluation design with partners: create Theories of Change, design research questions, identify outcome measures and measurement tools, and bring these together in an evaluation framework.

Data collection and analysis Identify suitable approaches to recruiting research participants and facilitate quantitative and qualitative data collection (surveys, existing school data, focus groups and interviews), using our School Impact Platform. Carry out simple inferential statistics independently and more advanced analysis with support, including the data cleaning and matching needed to get data ready.

Reporting and insight Engage with partners to understand the context and purpose of a report and agree the output accordingly. Synthesise the key messages from a complex set of data and report them in an accessible, concise way that fits the partner's context and helps them act.

Colleagues, practice and Group Plan and manage your time, give and act on constructive feedback, communicate openly about progress and blockers, and mentor junior colleagues. There is no direct business development target, but you will contribute to proposals and renewals, and take part in Group-wide work, residentials and professional development.

Job description 

Motivated to make a difference and connect communities through sport, you'll be a proactive natural connector who thrives on helping others succeed. With effective communication and organisational skills, you'll confidently support grassroots groups and build lasting impact across the North of England. Join Sported as our Lancaster Network Co-ordinator and you could be playing a vital role in the heart of our Field Team. As this role is place- based you will be required to live in Lancaster or surrounding areas, with frequent travel across the region.

About the role 

As the key contact for Sported groups across Lancaster & surrounding areas you'll play a vital role in helping community led organisations grow, become more sustainable and maximise their impact. You'll build effective relationships with these groups, understand their challenges and opportunities, and connect them to the support, resources and funding they need to thrive. This involves welcoming new groups to our network and supporting existing ones to develop. 

Working closely with colleagues, volunteer consultants and partners, you'll help deliver projects and programmes that strengthens and develops them and creates positive outcomes for people and communities. You'll also contribute to volunteer engagement, partnership development, grant administration and project evaluation, while ensuring accurate records and data are maintained across your area. 

About You 

Are you passionate about the power of sport to strengthen communities and change lives? We're looking for someone who is enthusiastic about supporting grassroots organisations, ideally within sport (but please still apply if not in the sport sector), and who shares our commitment to inclusion, equality and positive social change.You'll be a confident relationship-builder with a proactive, solutions-focused approach and the ability to build trust with a wide range of people. Organised and able to manage competing priorities, you'll be comfortable working independently while contributing to a collaborative remote team. You will also possess a working knowledge of Microsoft 365 and have experience of database management. 

Apply to be part of our team

Benefits 

Joining Sported means becoming part of a passionate, supportive team dedicated to ensuring there are opportunities for everyone, improving health and wellbeing, ensuring communities are empowered. We believe in creating a positive environment not only for the people we support, but also for our colleagues. That's why we offer flexible, homebased working, generous annual leave, a pension scheme, wellbeing support, and opportunities to give back through paid volunteering days. With paid study leave, wellbeing days, and ongoing learning and development opportunities, you'll have the support you need to grow professionally while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

At Sported, you'll be part of an organisation where your contribution truly makes a difference. 

Act with Integrity. Champion Inclusion. Transform Together. Drive Change. 

We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly candidates from ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQ+ communities, disabled people, and those with lived experience of tackling inequality. We believe diverse voices are essential to creating meaningful and lasting change. 

Please see the job pack, where you’ll find details of roles and responsibilities, and required skills and experience. 

The closing date for this role is 12pm on Monday 5th October 2026.

We want you to feel comfortable and supported throughout the recruitment process. If there is anything we can do to help make the process more accessible for you, please let us know. 

We want every candidate to have the best opportunity to showcase their skills. That's why we use an anonymous recruitment process and provide interview questions in advance, supporting a fair, transparent and inclusive selection process. 

Application Instructions 

If you wish to apply, please provide an up to date CV, together with a cover letter detailing how you meet the criteria shown in the person specification. You can use experiences gained from work, volunteering and life experiences. We will not consider applications without these two documents. We also ask you to complete an equal opportunities monitoring form, this is not compulsory but we use the anonymous data to help us improve our recruitment practices and ensure our approach reaches a diverse audience.

Are you passionate about sharing the good news of Jesus with children & young people through sport and physical activity?

About the role 

We’re looking for a creative and entrepreneurial individual with a passion for using sport to help children and young people across our Central Region to explore and respond to the good news of Jesus. 

This unique role combines the benefits of direct face-to-face engagement with young people in a local context, delivering mission through sport activities and programmes, while also developing and mentoring others to expand ministry across Central England. The ideal candidate will have equal passion and experience in both contexts. 

Location: Home based with travel across England. 

Important things to note before you apply. 

1. This role will focus on Central England and will require extensive regular travel across the region.
2. We are committed to building a culturally diverse workforce. As part of this commitment, we welcome applications from people, regardless of their background. 
3. We take Safeguarding seriously. This role will require an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure & Barring Service and has an occupational requirement to be filled by a committed Christian, active in church life. Equality Act 2010, Part 1, Schedule 9 applies. 
4. Please note that we do not provide visa sponsorship arrangements so applicants will need to have the right to live and be employed in a permanent job in the UK. 

A flexible role shaped around you 

The role is part-time and would suit a candidate who enjoys face-to-face interactions with young people locally and strategic work regionally, training others for delivery. You’ll maintain weekly connections with the SU Sports Mission team as well as contributing to the wider work of the SU England & Wales team. 

Who we’re looking for team

You are someone who loves variety in your work and thrives on the fact that no two days are the same. You value a blend of face-to-face interaction with children and young people through sports coaching and leading, while also adopting a facilitating approach; equipping, training, and motivating others. You enjoy being rooted in a local context but are also happy travelling and working in a range of settings. 

You’re a connector who relishes being in the community, with experience in leading teams whilst working with diverse groups of people. Your creative mindset, combined with excellent organisational skills, enables you to spot and create opportunities for impact. You love Jesus and are filled with energy and passion for sharing the gospel. You excel with people and thrive when given a blank canvas to drive projects from conception to completion. You are a confident communicator with experience in training, coaching, and empowering others. You have a passion for sport and experience in using this as a tool for sharing the gospel with children and young people. You’ve got a Level 2 coaching qualification or you’re willing to work towards one. 

If this describes you and you would like to join a like-minded organisation that offers the flexibility of an exciting, varied role, provides a competitive salary, a generous pension scheme, and other valuable benefits, then read on.

Invest in our mission, as we invest in you: Our Benefits: 

• Home-based working
• 23 days holiday + bank holidays + 5 volunteering days 
• Up to 12% pension contribution 
• Life insurance 
• Enhanced family leave. 
• Free Bible Reading Guide 
• A supportive, faith-filled environment where your work has eternal impact 

About Scripture Union  

You might have heard of us before if you're one of the 1.5 million+ who have attended one of our Christian holidays or missions over the years, or maybe you're one of the 40,000+ subscribers to have used our brilliant devotionals or been stirred by our exceptional bible resources. We've been at this for a fair few years... over 150 to be precise. Over this time, we’ve remained passionate about helping children and young people develop a vibrant faith in Jesus. As our name describes, the radical power of God's word has always been central to our approach.

We still do all the great stuff with resources and holidays, but in the last few years, we have sharpened our vision with a renewed focus to help the 95% of young people (primary and secondary school age) across the UK who have never stepped foot inside a church, to hear and respond to the good news of Jesus. We do this through equipping and resourcing the local church, training up volunteers from local churches (we call them ‘Faith Guides’) and collaborating with local and national partners across the UK to connect with children and young people and support them on a journey of exploring faith in a way that is relevant and meaningful.

In the last few years we’ve developed a brand new approach to how we do this, it’s deceptively simple and incredibly effective, we call it Revealing Jesus, and its making a massive difference, in the last couple of years we’ve trained up nearly 600 faith guides across 400+ churches all over the UK, collectively we’re seeing over 50,000 young people across the UK on a journey of exploring the Christian faith and responding to an invitation to become followers of Jesus. We have 24 staff organised into four regional mission teams, and alongside our local and national partners, we’re playing our part in a network of organisations that seeks to reach children and young people in every context, across every town and city across the whole of the UK. The journey ahead is significant, and we invite you to be a part of it! 

Since 2015, SU has had a dedicated Mission Through Sport team which contributes directly towards this outreach to the 95. We have recently developed some innovative new resources, aligned with the RJ framework, which the post holder will be involved in both delivering and equipping others to utilise. These include our flagship programme called Holy Ground which empowers churches to adopt a local sports space in their community to connect with the 95 in their context. Half Time is our brand new Explore-Respond resource which uses sports-themed videos and fun games to help the 95 to explore the life of Jesus by journeying through Mark’s Gospel. 

About your team

With this role, you will have the benefit of being part of a national-focused sports team at SU, as well as the Central team with a regional focus. You’ll contribute your expertise in a variety of settings, ranging from urban and suburban to coastal and rural areas across Central England. You’ll have a brilliant time getting acquainted with this rich tapestry of local and national partners.

Closing date: 5th October 2026

Interview date: 21st October 2026

Interview location: Nottingham, venue to be confirmed. 

We invite interested applicants to contact Mark Oliver, Sports Mission Team Leader at Scripture Union, for an informal conversation.