Children service manager jobs in Manchester
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Cerebra is the national charity dedicated to improving the lives of children with neurological conditions and their families. We provide vital research, support, and practical solutions that empower families facing complex challenges.
With an annual income of £3 million and a headcount of 68 employees, we have ambitious plans to double our income between 2025 and 2027, ensuring we can extend our impact, reach more families, and drive real change. To achieve this, we are investing in fundraising innovation, income generating ventures, and strategic partnerships, alongside enhancing our brand to increase our national recognition.
Our work is underpinned by our values ensuring that everything we do aligns with our mission to create a better world for children with neurological conditions.
This is an incredibly exciting time to join Cerebra, as we are preparing to launch our new strategy and brand. The COO is a vital leadership role that will support the drive towards even greater impact for children and families across the UK.
Our Services
Sleep Advice Service
Cerebra understands that if you have a child that doesn’t sleep, the whole family suffers. Many children with neurological conditions suffer from disrupted sleep. Our sleep advice service provides bespoke advice and support so that everyone can get a good night’s sleep.
Legal Rights Service
Our Legal Rights Service provides help and support to families of children with neurological conditions when they are faced with barriers and difficulties in accessing statutory support services they are entitled to. The service provides information on their legal entitlements.
Book and Toy Library Service
Our specialist postal lending library contains a wide range of books for both adults and children, plus a selection of sensory toys specifically chosen for children with a neurological condition.
Innovation and Product Design Service
Our Innovation Service designs and builds bespoke products that cater to the specific needs of children with neurological conditions. The aim of the service is to make products that are desirable and exciting, therefore promoting social inclusion, peer acceptance and enabling children to participate in everyday activities that are so often close to them.
Information Products
Cerebra publishes different information products to help families with a child with a neurological condition. Our information products offer comprehensive, up-to-date support and research-driven strategies to assist families with a wide range of issues.
Buzgi and Toy Adaptation Service
Cerebra designs and builds bespoke assistive equipment for disabled children, this includes creating custom mobility aids, switch‑adapted toys, and other innovative solutions to help children access play, learning, and independence.
The Bugzi - a mini powered wheelchair for children offers many children their first experience of independent mobility. It uses either a joystick or switches and adaptable seating for complex needs, and helps develop spatial awareness, confidence, and early mobility skills. The Bugzi is available through a national loan scheme.
Additionally, we operate commercial services (including a web shop) to supplement our income to support children and their families.
Our services are provided to families free of charge.
Job Title:
Chief Operating Officer
Reports To:
Chief Executive Officer
Direct reports:
3 senior managers (Finance (headcount of 3), HR (headcount of 1), IT (headcount of 5))
Purpose of the Role:
The Chief Operating Officer will play a vital role in supporting the Chief Executive Officer, Board and Leadership Team to deliver Cerebra’s vision and ambitious strategic aims. The Chief Operating Officer will provide strategic leadership and operational management across key areas within Cerebra including:
- Operational Systems
- Governance
- Compliance
- Finance and Growth
This is a pivotal executive leadership role, responsible for driving organisational performance, sustainability and growth. The COO will translate Cerebra’s strategic ambitions into effective operational delivery, ensuring robust governance, financial stewardship and a high-performing, values-led culture.
As a trusted advisor to the CEO and Board, the COO will lead core operational services and commercial activity, enabling the charity to maximise impact and generate sustainable income in support of its charitable objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic & Executive Leadership
- Partner with the CEO and Board to deliver strategic priorities, growth and long-term sustainability
- Collaboration with the Director’s Group to ensure strategic alignment across the charity. The Director’s Group consists of:
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Operating Officer
Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications
Director of Research and Support Services
- Provide expert advice on finance, operations, commercial performance and organisational risk
- Lead organisational planning, business continuity, and operational resilience
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability and inclusion
Finance, Commercial & Sustainability
- Lead financial strategy, planning and performance, ensuring long-term sustainability
- Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cashflow and financial controls
- Lead and develop Cerebra’s strategy for commercial income , ensuring alignment with charitable objectives
- Support funding growth through strong financial insight and business case development
- Ensure robust financial governance, audit and compliance
Operations & Infrastructure
- Lead and strengthen operational functions including HR, IT, governance and administration
- Ensure effective systems, processes and infrastructure that enable growth, efficiency and impact
- Oversee procurement, contracts, facilities, and organisational compliance
- Drive innovation and value for money across operations
People & Culture
- Champion a positive, inclusive and high-performing organisational culture
- Oversee HR strategy, workforce planning and leadership development
- Ensure compliance with employment law and best practice
- Promote wellbeing, engagement and organisational effectiveness
Digital & Technology
- Provide strategic oversight of IT, data and digital development
- Ensure systems are secure, resilient and aligned to organisational needs
- Leverage data and technology to improve insight, decision-making and organisational impact
Governance, Risk & Compliance
- Ensure effective governance frameworks, risk management and regulatory compliance
- Support the CEO and Board with high-quality reporting and strategic insight
- Lead safeguarding, data protection and organisational risk strategy
- Drive a strong culture of accountability and ethical practice
Leadership & Management
- Lead and develop a small senior team across finance, HR and IT
- Build capability, strengthen performance, and embed a collaborative culture
- Model Cerebra’s values and leadership behaviours
Key Attributes
- Strategic and commercially minded leader with strong operational delivery experience
- Strong financial leadership and business acumen
- Proven track record of driving income growth, sustainability and organisational performance
- Skilled in governance, risk and stakeholder engagement
Please see attached job description for the Person Specification.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About This Job
This is an exciting and rewarding role managing award programmes recognising the achievements of the cadets and volunteers of the Combined Cadet Force and Army Cadet Force (UK Cadets). Working across two national cadet charities, you will proactively identify deserving individuals, manage and modernise the awards process, provide expert advice and seek additional national external awards and recognition.
We are looking for someone with experience in writing persuasive award citations or funding applications, with exceptional communication and process management skills.
This role is key to ensuring that the remarkable cadets and volunteers of the UK Cadets are appropriately recognised and celebrated for their extraordinary contributions.
Essential Skills
· GCSE English or equivalent experience
· At least two year’s experience of drafting award citations or funding applications
· Experience of working with partners, internally and externally
· Ability to extract information from people with varying powers of written expression
· Information gathering and analysis skills
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Please refer to the attached Job Description for further information.
Our charity
ACCT UK is a national youth charity dedicated to improving the life chances of young people. The Combined Cadet Force Association (CCFA) is a charity dedicated to the promotion of the ideals and activities of the Combined Cadet Force in schools. Together we want to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to learn new skills, build confidence and be inspired through their cadet experience.
We want to develop the youth leadership and training abilities of adult volunteers whilst also helping young people to access cadet activities through fundraising, grant-making, developing new resources and direct support.
We strongly believe that everyone benefits when you help young people to develop their character and values through activities that stretch and mature them. We also know that when young people engage with others at a range of levels in their communities it builds confidence and improves empathy for other’s lives.
Who we are
By joining the charities, you will help us to reach more young people and make a greater difference and we look forward to working with you. We actively promote and encourage you to explore ideas that improve all aspects of the charity’s work in pursuit of its charitable aims.
The charities are proud of our diverse teams, with people on different working patterns, from different backgrounds and at different life-stages. Our experience has taught us that having people with different perspectives and different lived experiences leads to better outcomes for our beneficiaries. If you are wondering if our organisation is for someone like you, the answer is yes! Please apply and explain how you, your experience, your talent and your potential are the right fit for this role.
What we can offer you
In addition to your salary, we offer all staff:
· Flexible working arrangements (you agree a working pattern with your line manager).
· The ability to work both from home and from our London office.
· Personal Accident Insurance, including loss of earnings cover and death benefit.
· 15 days of sick pay in any 12-month period (after 12 months employment - pro-rata for part time staff).
· A contributory pension scheme (you contribute at least 5% and we will contribute 10%).
· Good leave allowances (which are offered pro-rata for part time staff):
o 20 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays.
o Additional privilege leave, on set days each year, such as between Christmas and New Year.
o An additional five days of volunteering leave.
· Support for qualifications and personal development.
· Employee Assistance Programme.
· Season ticket loan.
· Railcard (if you are eligible).
· A caring and supportive team environment.
How to apply
Please send a CV and Cover letter that details how you meet the requirements of the job description by 2359hrs by Sunday 5th July 2026.
Interviews will be held in person in London during the week commencing 27th July 2026.
While AI tools can be beneficial, we value the personal touch and authenticity in job applications. We encourage you to highlight your unique experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, ensuring all information is accurate. Please use AI tools responsibly and with integrity throughout the application and selection process.
Please note that as a charity dedicated to improving the lives of young people, we require staff to make a declaration about any relevant convictions, undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check. In addition, we will follow up with references.
Please be advised that this position may close earlier than the stated deadline if a sufficient number of high-quality applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, we strongly recommend submitting it as soon as possible. Candidates will be notified of the next stage in the recruitment process if they are shortlisted.
Army Cadet Charitable Trust (ACCT) UK aims to give all young people the opportunity to develop and achieve through Army Cadets activities.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
ReachOut is a national youth development charity and a strategic partner for schools. Through collective mentoring and engaging activities, we build socio-emotional skills that transform outcomes for young people constrained by circumstance.
Our Youth Development Leads are the heart of our programme delivery and facilitate high quality and impactful sessions for our young people. Reporting to the Programmes and Impact Manager, you’ll work with autonomy to manage your school partners, develop your team of volunteer mentors and collaborate across our ambitious delivery team with a focus on evidence based continuous improvement.
Contract: Permanent, part-time (0.8FTE) with a probationary period of 6 months
Salary: £26,227.50 pro rata (£20,982 for 0.8 FTE) in line with the real living wage
Location: Manchester
- In-school project delivery Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursday with travel costs covered
- Hybrid working for the remainder of your time – choose to work from home or access co-working spaces across the city
- Manchester team co-working days – currently twice a month but some team members choose to meet up more regularly
Hours: 30 hours per week, Tuesday – Friday
- Standard hours 9:00-17:30with flexibility offered where possible
- Working hours to shift, approximately 11:00-19:30, where schools prefer sessions in our later timeslot. We do not currently have any later projects and would not allocate more than 2 in a week
Annual Leave: 29 days plus bank holidays pro rata (23 days for 0.8 FTE) with a maximum of 4 days to be taken in school term time
Application Deadline
- 9am Tuesday 7th July 2026
For the full description, person specification, and background information, please download the Recruitment Pack found below or on our website.
The role
The Domestic Abuse Prevention Worker will undertake individual and group sessions with men and women who are participating in our Domestic Abuse Prevention Programmes (DAPP) or Domestic Abuse Interventions. The purpose of this role is to deliver sessions that support a perpetrator to address and change their behaviour, ensuring they develop their understanding of domestic abuse, as well as it’s impact on others. You will conduct comprehensive needs and suitability assessments. You will support the delivery of face-to-face and online sessions, including two evening group sessions per week.
As a Domestic Abuse Prevention Worker, you will work with people on awareness raising, developing their motivation to change, ensuring accountability, and prioritising the safety of their partners/ex-partners and any children involved. The Domestic Abuse Prevention worker will work closely with the victim/survivor integrated service to review risk, develop safety plans, and improve outcomes for all parties involved.
As part of the role, you will be working with some perpetrators of domestic abuse that have been served a DAPOs. This role will include travel and delivery across Greater Manchester.
About you
You’ll have a deep understanding of the nature of domestic abuse and its effects on clients and children, as well as the reasons behind abusive behaviours towards intimate partners.
Your knowledge extends to the range of statutory and voluntary agencies that clients and their children may encounter, and you are aware of the impact of domestic abuse on children and parenting, including the additional needs of clients from BAMER communities.
You will have experience in working with clients on issues of domestic abuse, providing one-to-one and group support and advice, managing your own workload and administration, and assessing the risk and safety of your clients and those connected to your client. You will have handled safeguarding disclosures and referrals, and you communicate clearly with a range of people both over the telephone and in person.
You will be organised, able to use your initiative, and work effectively as part of a multi-service team. Your administrative skills are strong, and you are adept at using a computer to maintain effective systems.
Flexible and willing to work evenings, you can travel independently. Additionally, you will have an understanding of trauma-informed practices, risk mitigation, and safeguarding. Experience liaising with social workers and other professionals, and in related areas such as substance misuse, child protection, or family support, is desirable.
Fluency in an additional language and skills in group work are also advantageous. You stay updated with best practices and new initiatives.
We want you to feel empowered to bring your authentic self to this role, so we encourage flexible working around core hours. We offer an annual continuous Professional Development allowance, generous annual leave entitlement and Birthday leave.
About us
We want to make working at TLC an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
It takes a dedicated, passionate, and flexible team to deliver the range of services we provide. We’re lucky to have over 150 people on our teams and 12 Trustees who believe in what we do. We are looking for enthusiastic, experienced, engaged and highly motivated people to join our team.
We aim to encourage a culture where people can be themselves and be valued for their strengths. We seek to attract and employ the best people from the widest pool, reflecting the diverse range of people we support.
We want to make our recruitment processes accessible to everyone, so if there is any way that we can support you to be the best you can be, please contact us.
This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Policy and Public Affairs Manager
Location: Remote, with some travel to Cannock, London and other locations as required
Reports to: Charity Director
Team: Charitable Service
At Newlife, we’re entering an exciting new chapter - we’re on a mission to empower disabled children and their families, to live life to the fullest and champion the joy of childhood.
So we’re investing in our people and building the team we need to deliver our new strategic ambitions.
Newlife is looking for an experienced and values-driven Policy and Public Affairs Manager to lead our policy, influencing, public affairs and campaigning work. This is an exciting opportunity to shape national conversations and drive meaningful change for disabled children and their families across education, health and social care systems.
In this role, you will ensure that lived experience is at the heart of Newlife’s influencing work, developing evidence-based policy positions, building strategic relationships and delivering campaigns that challenge barriers, raise awareness and improve outcomes for families.
About the role
As Policy and Public Affairs Manager, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across Newlife’s policy, campaigns, public affairs and lived experience activity. You will identify opportunities to influence policy and practice, develop compelling cases for change, and represent Newlife with decision-makers, sector partners and external stakeholders.
You will also oversee the delivery and development of the APPG for Access to Disability Equipment, working with parliamentarians, government departments and sector organisations to increase awareness of the issues affecting disabled children and families.
Key responsibilities
o Lead the development and delivery of Newlife’s policy, public affairs, campaigning and influencing strategy.
o Develop evidence-based policy positions informed by research, service insight and lived experience.
o Ensure the voices of disabled children and families shape Newlife’s policy, campaigning and influencing work.
o Oversee the APPG for Access to Disability Equipment and build relationships with parliamentarians, policymakers and sector partners.
o Lead campaigns and influencing activity that raise awareness, challenge barriers and support policy change.
o Build strategic partnerships and coalitions to strengthen Newlife’s influence and collective impact.
o Represent Newlife externally at parliamentary events, conferences, roundtables and sector forums.
o Provide effective leadership for policy, campaigns and lived experience activity, including line management of the Lived Experience Coordinator.
o Contribute to organisational strategy, planning and growth as a member of the Charity Leadership Team.
About you
We are looking for someone with significant experience in policy development, public affairs, campaigning or influencing, ideally within the charity, public or not-for-profit sector. You will bring strong knowledge of policy and influencing processes, excellent communication skills and the ability to build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders and decision-makers.
You will be confident developing policy briefings, consultation responses, reports and position papers, and able to use evidence, research and lived experience to influence change. You will also be a collaborative leader with a strong commitment to inclusion, equity and the rights of disabled children and their families.
Essential experience and skills
o Experience of developing and delivering policy and influencing strategies.
o Experience of building relationships with parliamentarians, policymakers, government departments or national stakeholders.
o Experience of managing campaigns, consultations or public affairs activity.
o Experience of partnership and coalition working.
o Experience of using research, evidence and lived experience to influence change.
o Strong understanding of education, health, social care and disability policy.
o Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
o Strong leadership, people management, strategic thinking and analytical skills.
o Degree-level qualification or equivalent professional experience.
For the full person specification, please refer to the attachement below
Why join Newlife?
This is a unique opportunity to play a leading role in strengthening Newlife’s voice and influence, helping to create systemic change for disabled children and their families. You will work with passionate colleagues, families, professionals and partners to shape policy, improve practice and ensure lived experience drives meaningful action.
If you are a strategic, compassionate and influential leader who wants to make a lasting difference, we would love to hear from you.
Benefits
In return, you will receive 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, a generous in-store discount, a cash health plan, discounts on restaurants, travel and insurance, and access to an Employee Assistance Programme through Retail Trust.
#Policy and Public Affairs Manager #Policy and Public Affairs #Policy Manager #Public Affairs Manager
The UK’s largest charitable provider of specialist equipment for disabled children.


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Breaking Barriers Project is a service which works with Children, Young People (CYP) and Families who have been affected by the imprisonment of a parent or close family member. Our service offers one-to-one support to Children and Young People to maintain a connection with the imprisoned parent/loved one (where appropriate), support their emotional wellbeing and build resilience to enable them to reach their full potential. The work we do plays a critical role in helping to reduce reoffending rates and improve outcomes for children and young people.
The role of the post holder is to provide outcome-based support designed to address the needs of children and young people with a parent/carer or close family member in prison who may feel isolated or excluded in their home and community, ensuring that these programmes meet individual needs and further the aims of Ormiston Families.
To carry out initial assessments with parents/carers and partner agencies following referrals to the service and identify and agree individual outcomes for children and young people.
To work one-to-one in the home, schools, online, and other community settings, coordinating packages of support with CYP, with other agencies where appropriate, that meet the complex needs of children and young people, reduce risks, improve safety and work towards emotional well-being and development.
We are looking for an experienced practitioner confident in supporting children, young people and families to join our dynamic, ambitious team. You will need to be organised and self-motivated and have a passion for improving the outcomes for children/young people.
Full-time, permanent position; 35 hours per week
Salary is £25,880 per annum
Based in Essex
You will need to be prepared to travel within the County of Essex to enable you to carry out the direct work with Children, Young People and Families.
You will need to have a UK driving licence and access to a vehicle as travel across the county is required.
For further information and to apply, please visit our website.
Closing date for applications: 9am, Tuesday 30th June 2026
Safeguarding and DBS requirements for your role:
Ormiston Families is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
We are an equal opportunities employer; we value diversity and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Are you an experienced fundraising professional with a passion for creating meaningful impact?
At NYAS (National Youth Advocacy Service), we are dedicated to making a lasting difference to the lives of children, young people and adults at risk. We believe every child and young person deserves to have their voice heard, especially when decisions are being made about their future. Our work supports and empowers those navigating care systems, family courts and other challenging circumstances across England and Wales.
Location: Home-based with flexible/ agile working options, with access to NYAS office locations in Birkenhead, Birmingham, and Cardiff. This role also requires occasional travel to NYAS offices and other locations when required.
About The Role
We are seeking an ambitious and motivated Fundraising Manager, working 35 hours per week, to join our Growth and Partnerships team. Working closely with the Head of Growth & Partnerships, you will play a key role in delivering and developing NYAS’s fundraising strategy, helping to grow and diversify income across trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, community fundraising and individual giving.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced fundraiser who enjoys both strategic and hands-on work. You will lead and support a team of fundraising professionals, overseeing high-quality funding applications, donor stewardship and income generation activity while ensuring fundraising activity aligns with NYAS’s mission, values and organisational priorities.
You will manage a varied fundraising portfolio, helping to build strong relationships with funders and supporters while identifying opportunities to increase sustainable income. Working collaboratively across the organisation, you will help develop compelling cases for support, funding proposals and impact reports that demonstrate the difference NYAS makes to vulnerable children, young people and adults.
The role also involves maintaining oversight of fundraising systems, pipelines and reporting, ensuring activity is compliant, well-managed and aligned to fundraising best practice.
About You
We are looking for a skilled fundraising professional with experience securing income from a range of fundraising streams, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, community fundraising and/or individual giving.
You will have excellent written communication skills and experience producing persuasive funding applications, reports and donor communications. You will also have strong organisational skills, the ability to manage multiple priorities and experience supporting or supervising others within a fundraising environment.
You will be confident building relationships with internal and external stakeholders and able to use data and insight to inform fundraising activity and demonstrate impact. Experience using CRM systems and fundraising platforms is essential, alongside a good understanding of fundraising regulations and best practice.
You will demonstrate NYAS’s values of Collaboration, Accountability, Respect and Empowerment in your approach to work and share our commitment to supporting children, young people and adults at risk.
Benefits
NYAS offers a range of benefits to employees, including:
- Agile working arrangements
- 26 days annual leave increasing to 30 days plus bank holidays
- Blue light discount card
- Pension scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Learning and development opportunities
- Supportive and values-led culture
- The opportunity to directly contribute to improving the lives of children, young people and adults at risk
How to Apply
To apply for this role, please submit your application via the NYAS website.
Your application should evidence, using specific examples, how your skills and experience meet the criteria set out in the person specification within the job description in the recruitment pack, which is available via our website vacancy page.
Important Information
- Interviews are expected to take place between 1st–3rd July
- We reserve the right to close this vacancy early once a high volume of applications is received
- Proof of eligibility to work in the UK will be required as part of the recruitment process
- References will be taken in line with safeguarding requirements
- NYAS operates robust safeguarding procedures to protect the children, young people and adults at risk we work with.
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 cuts in public expenditure. Our combination of social care and legal services places us in a unique position to ensure they receive the services they need and that their voices are heard.
We are an equal opportunities employer and are committed to creating an inclusive environment. 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 be a Disability Confident Employer and guarantees to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for our vacancies.
Work with us to help change lives.
At NYAS, we listen to what children, young people and vulnerable adults want. We empower them to have their voices heard.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are seeking a dynamic, strategic, and highly organised individual with either registered healthcare status or an experienced commissioner of healthcare services and a passion for supporting people with long-term health conditions like ME.
As Clinical Lead, you will play a pivotal role in the delivery and development of our Healthcare Services. As our CQC Registered Manager, you will play a critical role in supporting the team and assuring effective and safe services for people with ME of all ages and their families.
Reporting to the Director of Operations, you will also play a pivotal role in developing our services, drive performance and optimise processes, and enhance service delivery to take action with impact to better support individuals living with ME.
Job Purpose
Working closely with the Director of Operations, the Clinical Lead will play a pivotal role in leading and developing Action for ME’s clinical Healthcare Services, ensuring the highest standards of clinical care for individuals affected by Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME). The postholder will be responsible for clinical oversight, service development, and leadership, working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to enhance outcomes for children and adults with ME and will be the CQC Registered Manager for the service.
At present, Healthcare Services is a small team with two physiotherapists and one doctor (specialist GP), with plans to recruit more.
We are keen to develop and expand our services, building on the small amount of spot purchasing from local commissioning boards and exploring a diagnosing and prescribing offer. We are also keen to explore the potential of increasing the range of disciplines offered within the team. You will play a key role in contributing to, and delivering, the strategy for our Healthcare Services.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide clinical support and expertise to Action for ME's Healthcare Services, ensuring evidence-based, person-centred care.
- Act as Registered Manager for CQC (Care Quality Commission) purposes and ensure that the service meets all required standards.
- Lead the development and implementation of clinical policies, protocols, and best practices in line with national guidelines and regulatory requirements.
- Supervise and support healthcare professionals within the service, offering guidance, mentorship, and training.
- Collaborate with external stakeholders, including NHS services, researchers, and others, to enhance healthcare provision for people with ME.
- Ensure the service complies with regulatory and safeguarding standards, including CQC requirements where applicable.
- Monitor and evaluate service delivery, using data-driven insights to improve clinical outcomes and patient experience.
- Provide expert advice on complex cases, supporting the team with clinical decision-making.
- Designated Safeguarding Officer for Healthcare Services.
- Represent Action for ME at external forums, conferences, and policy discussions.
Person specification
All criteria noted below are essential requirements of the role.
Qualifications
- A registered healthcare professional (e.g., doctor, nurse, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist) with active professional registration (GMC, NMC, HCPC or equivalent) OR an experienced commissioner of healthcare services with experience of quality assurance, safeguarding and compliance.
Experience and Knowledge
- Extensive clinical experience in chronic illness management OR sound understanding of clinical practice, ideally with expertise in ME or related conditions and a clear understanding of the challenges faced by people with ME.
- An understanding of Care Quality Commission regulatory requirements.
- Proven leadership experience in a healthcare setting, including team management and service development.
- Strong understanding of evidence-based practice and clinical governance.
- A sound understanding and experience of safeguarding children/young people and vulnerable adults.
- Experience in training and mentoring healthcare professionals.
- Knowledge of NHS structures and commissioning processes.
- An understanding of working within the third sector or charitable organisations.
Skills and Behaviours
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with patients, carers, and healthcare professionals.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary environment.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office (including Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams) and the ability to quickly learn relevant bespoke software systems.
Attitudes
- Commitment to patient-centred care and advocacy for people with ME.
Our mission is to improve the lives of people affected by ME. Better meeting their needs today while taking action to secure change for tomorrow.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Policy and Public Affairs Officer (Devolved Nations)
£34,839 pa plus excellent benefits
Home-based
35 hours per week, full-time
Permanent
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) is seeking a talented and motivated Policy and Public Affairs Officer to join our Devolved Nations team. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to policy development, advocacy and communications activity that helps improve child health outcomes across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Working as part of the Policy and Public Affairs (Devolved Nations) team, you will play an important role in supporting the College’s policy and public affairs priorities. You will help build relationships with policymakers and stakeholders, support advocacy campaigns, develop policy positions and create engaging communications content that raises the profile of child health issues across the devolved nations.
This varied and rewarding role offers the opportunity to work with a wide range of stakeholders, including paediatricians, senior College Officers, politicians, government officials, charities and healthcare organisations.
Key responsibilities include:
• Supporting the development of policy positions specific to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, ensuring they reflect the needs of RCPCH members and have influence across the wider UK policy landscape
• Drafting consultation responses, policy briefings, reports and stakeholder communications on child health and paediatric issues
• Providing expertise and advice on the political, governmental and health service landscape within the devolved nations
• Supporting the delivery of public affairs and stakeholder engagement activity, helping to build productive relationships with governments, policymakers and health sector organisations
• Producing content for websites, social media, newsletters and other digital communications channels to support advocacy and engagement objectives
• Drafting media content, including quotes, press releases and briefing materials, in collaboration with colleagues across the College
• Supporting senior College Officers and staff during meetings and engagement with policymakers and external stakeholders
• Coordinating and supporting the work of Executive Committees across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Assisting with administrative and financial processes, including invoice processing and supplier registration
• Working collaboratively with colleagues across the College to maximise the impact of policy, communications and public affairs activity
Essential skills and experience include:
• Demonstrable experience in policy, public affairs, communications or a related field
• Strong knowledge and understanding of policy and legislative processes in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland
• Experience producing high-quality policy and communications outputs, including consultation responses, policy briefings, reports and media content
• Experience creating engaging content for digital channels, including websites, social media and email communications
• Excellent organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and work to tight deadlines
• Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills
• The ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment
Desirable:
• Experience working within healthcare, government, a membership organisation or the third sector
• Knowledge of public health, health inequalities or wider health service issues
• Experience working on issues relating to children and young people
The RCPCH has more than 25,000 members and fellows worldwide and employs around 200 staff across the UK. Our devolved nations teams play a vital role in ensuring that the needs of children and young people are represented at every level of government and policy-making.
Our values – Include, Influence, Innovate and Inspire – are central to everything we do. We are committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates and disabled candidates who are under-represented at this level of the organisation.
We operate a flexible and modern hybrid working policy. While this role is home-based in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, travel across the devolved nations and occasional travel elsewhere in the UK will be required.
Policy and Public Affairs Officer (Devolved Nations)
£34,839 pa plus excellent benefits
Home-based
35 hours per week, full-time
Permanent
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) is seeking a talented and motivated Policy and Public Affairs Officer to join our Devolved Nations team. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to policy development, advocacy and communications activity that helps improve child health outcomes across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Working as part of the Policy and Public Affairs (Devolved Nations) team, you will play an important role in supporting the College’s policy and public affairs priorities. You will help build relationships with policymakers and stakeholders, support advocacy campaigns, develop policy positions and create engaging communications content that raises the profile of child health issues across the devolved nations.
This varied and rewarding role offers the opportunity to work with a wide range of stakeholders, including paediatricians, senior College Officers, politicians, government officials, charities and healthcare organisations.
Key responsibilities include:
• Supporting the development of policy positions specific to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, ensuring they reflect the needs of RCPCH members and have influence across the wider UK policy landscape
• Drafting consultation responses, policy briefings, reports and stakeholder communications on child health and paediatric issues
• Providing expertise and advice on the political, governmental and health service landscape within the devolved nations
• Supporting the delivery of public affairs and stakeholder engagement activity, helping to build productive relationships with governments, policymakers and health sector organisations
• Producing content for websites, social media, newsletters and other digital communications channels to support advocacy and engagement objectives
• Drafting media content, including quotes, press releases and briefing materials, in collaboration with colleagues across the College
• Supporting senior College Officers and staff during meetings and engagement with policymakers and external stakeholders
• Coordinating and supporting the work of Executive Committees across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Assisting with administrative and financial processes, including invoice processing and supplier registration
• Working collaboratively with colleagues across the College to maximise the impact of policy, communications and public affairs activity
Essential skills and experience include:
• Demonstrable experience in policy, public affairs, communications or a related field
• Strong knowledge and understanding of policy and legislative processes in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland
• Experience producing high-quality policy and communications outputs, including consultation responses, policy briefings, reports and media content
• Experience creating engaging content for digital channels, including websites, social media and email communications
• Excellent organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and work to tight deadlines
• Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills
• The ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment
Desirable:
• Experience working within healthcare, government, a membership organisation or the third sector
• Knowledge of public health, health inequalities or wider health service issues
• Experience working on issues relating to children and young people
The RCPCH has more than 25,000 members and fellows worldwide and employs around 200 staff across the UK. Our devolved nations teams play a vital role in ensuring that the needs of children and young people are represented at every level of government and policy-making.
Our values – Include, Influence, Innovate and Inspire – are central to everything we do. We are committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates and disabled candidates who are under-represented at this level of the organisation.
We operate a flexible and modern hybrid working policy. While this role is home-based in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, travel across the devolved nations and occasional travel elsewhere in the UK will be required.
Closing date: 6 July 2026
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health advocates on child health issues at home and internationally.


Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Service Manager – Community Services
Please note, this is an on-site role only. Due to the nature of our Refuges and Outreach services, it is essential that our teams are present and accessible, enabling us to provide safe, responsive and high-quality support to those who need us most.
About Safenet
Safenet delivers domestic abuse services across the North West, including refuges for women and children, safe houses for men, and community-based support.
We provide trauma-informed, survivor-led services and work with partners to help people stay safe and rebuild their lives.
About the Role
As Service Manager – Community Services, you will lead the operational delivery of community-based domestic abuse services, including IDVA, triage and outreach support for adults, children and young people. Working closely with the Area Operational Lead and as part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will provide strong, values-led leadership to frontline teams, drive service performance, and ensure delivery is safe, responsive, trauma-informed and survivor-led. You will also play a key role in strengthening partnerships, supporting service development and ensuring services remain compliant, effective and sustainable.
Women only occupational requirement: This post is open to women only under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010. Due to the nature of the role and the needs of the survivors we support, Safenet considers being a woman to be a genuine occupational requirement for this position.
Key responsibilities
- Lead the day-to-day operational delivery of community domestic abuse services, ensuring support is safe, timely, trauma-informed and survivor-led.
- Provide effective leadership, supervision, reflective practice and case management oversight to staff, supporting wellbeing, accountability and professional development.
- Oversee referrals, allocations and case progression to ensure survivors receive an appropriate, equitable and responsive service, with risk managed effectively.
- Monitor service quality, performance and outcomes through audits, data, survivor feedback and reporting, and use this insight to drive continuous improvement.
- Ensure compliance with safeguarding, legal, contractual and organisational requirements, maintaining accurate oversight of governance and risk.
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with statutory, voluntary and community organisations to strengthen referral pathways and improve outcomes for survivors.
- Support service planning, workforce coordination and cover arrangements to ensure safe staffing and consistent service delivery across periods of leave and absence.
- Contribute to strategic development, identifying emerging needs, supporting service growth and helping to shape high-quality, inclusive responses for diverse communities.
What you’ll need
Essential:
- Experience of managing or leading teams within domestic abuse, social care, housing, community safety or a related support environment.
- Strong knowledge of domestic abuse, trauma-informed practice, safeguarding for adults and children, and risk management in complex cases.
- Ability to provide effective supervision, case oversight and reflective support that promotes staff wellbeing, professional curiosity and high-quality practice.
- Experience of performance monitoring, report writing and using data, feedback and outcomes information to support service improvement.
- Ability to build positive working relationships with statutory, voluntary and community partners and represent the organisation confidently in multi-agency settings.
- Excellent communication, organisational and IT skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and maintain accurate records and reporting.
- Commitment to equality, inclusion and survivor-led practice, with the ability to model Safenet and Calico values in day-to-day leadership.
Desirable
- ILM, CMI or another relevant management qualification, or evidence of continued professional development in leadership.
- Experience of service development, project delivery, change management or supporting new initiatives within a support service setting.
- Knowledge of Women’s Aid National Quality Standards and relevant legislation and frameworks relating to domestic abuse and safeguarding.
- Understanding of budget monitoring, contract requirements or income maximisation within a commissioned or grant-funded service.
Salary: £ 36’500
Hours: 37 per week
Contract: Permanent
Location: Bury
Closing date: 19th June 2026
Telephone screening: 25th June 2026
Interview date: 29th June 2026
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of adults, children and young people. Appointment will be subject to appropriate safer recruitment checks. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to inclusive, anti-discriminatory and anti-racist practice.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Position: Charity Shop Managers
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours a week
Contract(s): Permanent (2 positions available)
Location: Bosden Farm, South Manchester, SK2 5JL & Stockport, Greater Manchester, SK1 1LW
Salary: £25,258 per annum plus excellent benefits
Salary Band and Job Family: Band 1, Auxiliary
About us
We make sure people living with MS are at the centre of everything we do. And it’s this commitment that unites us across the UK.
Our strategy is based on what people affected by MS have told us is important to them. It gives us a clear and determined focus.
Our work is based on the hopes and aspirations of our MS community. Together we campaign at all levels, fund ground-breaking research and provide award winning support and information.
Our people are our greatest asset and the key to our success. We offer a vibrant, progressive working environment where you'll be able to make a difference.
About this job
The MS Society is looking for a passionate and dynamic Shop Manager to lead the daily operations of one of our retail locations. This role is key to supporting our mission of improving the lives of those affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). The Shop Manager will be responsible for driving sales, managing a team of volunteers and staff, maintaining high standards of customer service, and ensuring efficient stock control. The role will also involve working with donors, promoting the MS Society’s work, and supporting fundraising efforts. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills, alongside a commitment to our charitable goals and the ability to inspire a dedicated team.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee all shop operations, including sales, stock management, and visual merchandising.
- Manage a team of volunteers and staff, providing training, guidance, and support.
- Drive sales targets and ensure the shop meets its fundraising goals.
- Ensure exceptional customer service standards are consistently met.
- Organise and coordinate in-store promotions and events.
- Manage donations and stock intake, ensuring the shop remains organised and efficient.
- Adhere to health and safety regulations and ensure the shop operates within budget.
This is a rewarding opportunity for an individual who is passionate about making a difference and eager to contribute to the success of the MS Society’s retail operations.
Closing date for applications: 09:00 on Monday 29th June 2026
N.B. Please confirm in your cover letter which location you’re applying for.
PLEASE PRESS THE 'HOW TO APPLY' BUTTON FOR MORE INFORMATION.
More about our employee benefits:
We have a wide range of employee benefits including (but not limited to):
Encouraging work life balance
- 38 days paid annual leave (including bank holidays), pro-rata for part-time
- More annual leave entitlement, based on length of employment
- Smart working options (with the opportunity to work remotely and find a smart working pattern that suits both you and us)
- Flexible working options
Caring for you and your family
- Generous sick pay entitlement
- More sick pay entitlement, based on length of employment
- Opportunity to buy and sell annual leave in each calendar year
- Free access to a GP virtually 24 hours a day/7 days a week allowing you unlimited advice, reassurance and where appropriate diagnosis
- Enhanced leave for new parents
- Free access to a confidential 24 hours a day/7 days a week helpline service for both you and your family with a specialist range of support and information
- Special leave options (such as up to 5 days paid leave for domestic or personal emergencies a year)
- 10 days paid disability leave a year, pro-rata for part-time
- 10 days paid carers’ leave a year, pro-rata for part-time
- Cycle to work scheme
- Death in service scheme
- New family-friendly benefits, including paid leave:
- In the event of miscarriage or still birth
- To support fertility treatments
- For antenatal appointments for both parents
Thinking about your finances
- Enhanced salary sacrifice pension scheme
- Discounted season ticket loan and interest-free emergency loans
- Give as you earn to support other charities of your choice before tax
- New employee portal including lifestyle savings vouchers and personal wellbeing
Enriching your life at work
- Personalised development plans with a wide range of training courses and opportunities to source additional training options with your line manager
- Yearly internal apprenticeship opportunities
- New, modern offices that embrace working together both in-person and remotely
- Various opportunities to influence how we internally operate (including surveys, and focus and committee groups)
- Active and supportive internal employee networking groups for collaboration and peer support
- 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering for MS Society activities during normal working hours (such as fundraising events, or campaigning in the local community)
- 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering with other charities during normal
Equal Opportunities
We particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities and or from ethnic minority backgrounds.
We’d be grateful if you downloaded and completed the equality and diversity monitoring form and submit it with your application.
Disability Confident Employer
We’re a Disability Confident Employer and we’re committed to promoting equality and diversity.
You can ask for reasonable adjustments as part of both our recruitment and new starter on-boarding processes.
If you need any help or adjustments to apply for this role, please contact us. You can also ask for the application materials to be sent to you in a different format. Such as for them to be sent to you by email or in a larger word format.
Safeguarding
We’re committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of everyone who uses our services and we come into contact with.
This is regardless of Gender, Race, Disability, Sexual orientation, Religion or belief, Pregnancy, Gender reassignment.
We recognise our particular responsibility to make sure vulnerable adults and children are protected.
We have measures in place to protect everyone we come into contact with from abuse and maltreatment of all kinds.
Your right to work in the UK
You must have the right to work in the UK to work in paid employment with us. You’ll need to share documents showing you’re eligible to work in the UK if we offer you employment.
You can find the UK visas and permits granting you the right to work in the UK on the UK Government website. We currently don’t have a Sponsor Licence agreement with the Home Office and aren’t able to support you with your visa applications.
No agencies please.
To fund world-leading research, share the latest information and campaign for everyone's rights. Together we are a community. Together we can stop MS

Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Drive is a high risk / high harm domestic abuse perpetration intervention. Its sole aim is to reduce the risk posed by those using high levels of harm towards family members and / or (ex) partners. This is achieved via disruption, diversion and direct behaviour change work, where safe to do so, within a multi-agency framework.
The Case Manager will strive to work one-to-one with perpetrators who have been identified as high risk to pro-actively secure engagement, influence attitudinal and behavioural change and connect with complementary services. To do this, the Case Manager will work with local agencies to design a co-ordinated, strategic individual intervention plan to address identified needs and risks and promote understanding of the impact of abusive behaviours. However, it may not always be safe or possible to meet with the perpetrator. Equally as vital to risk reduction efforts is analysis of presenting information to identify ways to disrupt their abusive behaviour, alongside close-knit multiagency working to implement actions.
Throughout all intervention the Drive Case Manager will work closely with the local IDVA service to review risk, develop safety plans and improve outcomes for all parties involved.
The Case Manager will be responsible for delivering outcomes, working typically for up to 12 months to achieve behaviour change with each Service User.
About you
You’ll have a deep understanding of the nature of domestic abuse and its effects on clients and children, as well as the reasons behind abusive behaviours towards intimate partners.
Your knowledge extends to the range of statutory and voluntary agencies that clients and their children may encounter, and you are aware of the impact of domestic abuse on children and parenting, including the additional needs of clients from BMER communities.
You will have experience in working with clients on issues of domestic abuse, providing one-to-one and group support and advice, managing your own workload and administration, and assessing the risk and safety of your clients and those connected to your client. You will have handled safeguarding disclosures and referrals, and you communicate clearly with a range of people both over the telephone and in person.
You will be organised, able to use your initiative, and work effectively as part of a multi-service team. Your administrative skills are strong, and you are adept at using a computer to maintain effective systems.
Flexible and willing to work evenings, you can travel independently. Additionally, you will understand trauma-informed practices, risk mitigation, and safeguarding. Experience liaising with social workers and other professionals, and in related areas such as substance misuse, child protection, or family support, is desirable.
Fluency in an additional language and skills in group work are also advantageous. You stay updated with best practices and new initiatives.
We want you to feel empowered to bring your authentic self to this role, so we encourage flexible working around core hours. We offer an annual continuous Professional Development allowance, generous annual leave entitlement and Birthday leave.
About us
We want to make working at TLC an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
It takes a dedicated, passionate, and flexible team to deliver the range of services we provide. We’re lucky to have over 150 people on our teams and 12 Trustees who believe in what we do. We are looking for enthusiastic, experienced, engaged and highly motivated people to join our team.
We aim to encourage a culture where people can be themselves and be valued for their strengths. We seek to attract and employ the best people from the widest pool, reflecting the diverse range of people we support.
We want to make our recruitment processes accessible to everyone, so if there is any way that we can support you to be the best you can be, please contact us.
Please note: We are running an active interviewing process for these roles. Rather than waiting until the application deadline to begin reviewing candidates, we start reading applications and speaking with people as they come in.
This means interviews may take place throughout the advertising period, and the role may be filled before the closing date if we find the right candidate early. If you’re interested, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible so you can be considered in the first round of interviews
This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Location: Remote (Based in England, Scotland & Wales with some travel required).
Salary: £35,280 - £38,600 pro rata (£21,168 - £23,160 actual)
Hours of work: 21 hours (3 days per week)
Contract type: Permanent
Why work for Kids Matter?
- Generous annual leave – 25 days (plus bank holidays) per year pro rata, with time off between Christmas and New Year's additional to this allowance.
- Remote working contribution – receive £26/month pro rata towards the costs of working from home and/or using a co-working space.
- Access to coaching sessions, training opportunities and our Employee Assistance Programme (a confidential support service for staff).
- Flexible working across weekdays to suit your schedule.
About us
Kids Matter is one of the UK’s fastest growing children’s charities.
Our vision is to see every child in need raised in a strong family. Our mission is to reduce the impact of poverty on children through community-based parenting programmes.
Research shows that group-based early intervention parenting groups are the most effective way to support children in need. We train peer facilitators in local churches - the largest voluntary body in the country - to run our affordable, accessible and highly effective parenting programmes, written by Clinical Psychologists. They come alongside parents and carers, building long-lasting community in addition to encouraging confidence and learning positive parenting skills.
We value difference and diversity, and we want our workplace to be built on shared values of equality and mutual trust, with team members representing the wide range of backgrounds and experiences that exist within the UK. We therefore actively encourage applications from people of diverse backgrounds and varied experiences, particularly those who are African, Afro-Caribbean, Asian or part of other minority ethnic communities, who have lived experience of the impact of low-income/low-support circumstances, and who are living with a disability or identify as being neurodivergent.
About the role
The Grant Manager role involves:
- Writing clear and compelling grant applications that communicate Kids Matter’s vision and impact
- Building and nurturing strong, professional relationships with grant funders through regular updates, meetings, and invitations to engage with our work.
- Working with the Head of Fundraising & Communications to forecast income and contribute to long term fundraising planning
- Working closely with programme, finance, and research and impact teams to gather accurate data, budgets, and stories
About you
Are you experienced in Grant Writing? Do you have strong relational skills? Are you a Christian with an active faith in Jesus? Do you have a passion for Kids Matter’s vision of seeing every child in need raised in a strong family?
Then we would love to hear from you!
How to apply
You can apply for the Grant Manager position by clicking ‘Apply via Website’ and completing a copy of our online application form.
The deadline for applications is 29th June 2026. All successful and unsuccessful applicants will be notified by email.
We also ask for all applicants to submit an Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form, which will be sent to you to complete following the submission of your application. This form will be used for anonymous analysis to ensure our overall recruitment procedures are fair and transparent. It will never be viewed or used as part of the selection process. It is optional to submit this form.
If you would like any application/interview support or you need any reasonable adjustments throughout the application process, or if you would like an informal phone call to ask questions or discuss the role, please contact Katie Washington (HR & Systems Manager).
Please see the job pack for more details on the role and application process.
We exist to reduce the impact of poverty on children in need across the UK.


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for a Weekenders Journey Guide to support prospective Weekend Foster Carers from their first conversations with Now Foster through to the next stages of the recruitment and assessment journey.
This is a highly relational, candidate-facing role. You will be one of the main people helping applicants understand what Weekenders is, explore whether it is right for them, stay motivated through the process, and feel supported to take the next step.
Introductory conversations (our ‘intro chats’) will be a core part of the role. You will speak with people who are curious about fostering, but who may also feel unsure, nervous or are still working out whether they can foster. Your role will be to bring warmth, clarity and momentum: helping people feel welcomed, informed and confident, while also making sure the right people progress at the right pace.
You will use Now Foster’s digital platform (a bespoke CRM system) to manage the candidate journey, track progress, record key information and help the team understand where applicants are getting stuck or moving forward. You will play an important role in making sure we are attracting the right leads, supporting them well, and learning how to improve the journey as we grow.
This role would particularly suit someone with experience of fostering or working in fostering. It could also suit someone from a related background who is deeply motivated by innovation in this area and excited by what fostering could look like if it were designed around children, carers and relationships.
You do not need to be a qualified social worker, but you do need to be emotionally mature, reflective, organised and comfortable working closely with a social work-led team. You will need to understand safeguarding, and be confident holding thoughtful conversations with prospective carers.
What You’ll Be Doing
Supporting candidates through the journey
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Acting as a consistent, warm and encouraging point of contact for prospective Weekend Foster Carers.
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Carrying out intro chats with people who have expressed interest in the Weekenders programme.
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Helping candidates understand the Weekenders programme, what the role involves, and what the journey looks like.
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Supporting candidates to reflect on whether Weekenders is right for them.
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Keeping candidates engaged, informed and motivated as they move through the process.
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Helping people overcome practical barriers where appropriate, while being honest and clear about expectations.
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Making sure candidate communication feels relational, timely and values-led.
Helping the right people progress
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Helping identify candidates who are ready to move forward, as well as those who may need more time, more information or a different route.
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Support candidates to progress, pause or close, as advised by our fostering service colleagues.
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Using strengths-based and motivational approaches to help candidates reflect on their motivations, support networks and capacity.
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Working closely with social work colleagues to escalate questions, concerns or safeguarding issues appropriately.
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Supporting candidates to prepare for training, home visits and assessment stages.
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Helping ensure the process is clear, efficient and supportive.
Supporting groups, events and community activity
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Supporting information events, training sessions and candidate-facing events.
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Co-delivering sessions with social workers and other colleagues.
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Helping create a welcoming community for people exploring Weekenders.
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Supporting socials and community-building activity for applicants and approved Weekend Foster Carers.
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Helping candidates connect with the mission and feel part of something meaningful.
Administration, data and follow-up
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Keeping candidate records, notes and next steps up to date on Now Foster’s digital platform.
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Using Google Workspace, Trello and other tools to access key documents and manage your workload.
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Making sure no candidate falls through the cracks.
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Supporting data capture so the team can understand what is working and where candidates are getting stuck.
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Helping improve templates, messages, prompts and workflows for the candidate journey.
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Supporting home visit admin and logistics where needed.
Contributing to innovation and learning
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Gathering feedback from candidates to help improve the journey and bringing this insight from candidate conversations into team discussions.
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Helping the team understand what motivates people to become Weekend Foster Carers, what worries them, and what helps them move forward.
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Supporting testing and iteration of new candidate journey approaches.
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Helping us build a process that is warm, efficient, inclusive and effective.
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Contributing to a new model of fostering that is relational, ambitious and designed around children and young people.
You’ll Thrive in This Role If You Are
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Warm and relational – able to build trust quickly and make people feel welcome.
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Emotionally mature – able to have thoughtful conversations about motivation, care, family life and uncertainty.
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A strong communicator – clear, encouraging and confident across phone, video calls, emails and written updates.
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Motivational and strengths-based – skilled at helping people see their potential while also being honest about what fostering involves.
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Organised and proactive – able to manage a busy candidate journey, track next steps and keep people moving.
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Tech-savvy – comfortable using digital platforms, Google Workspace and Trello.
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Confident in your judgement – able to decide when someone should progress, pause or close, while knowing when to seek advice.
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Safeguarding-aware – able to recognise when something needs to be escalated and comfortable working within clear safeguarding processes.
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Reflective and curious – interested in learning what works and improving the candidate journey over time.
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Comfortable with ambiguity – happy working in a small, growing charity where things are evolving.
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Committed to better outcomes for children and young people – motivated by Now Foster’s mission and the potential of Weekenders.
Experience We’re Looking For
Fostering experience would be highly beneficial. For example, this could include experience as a foster carer, working in fostering, supporting foster carers, working with fostering services, or working in a closely related part of children’s social care.
We are also interested in people with experience in:
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Volunteer management
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Children’s social care or youth work
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Community work
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Social prescribing
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Mentoring or coaching
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Recruitment, onboarding or candidate support
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Relationship-based support roles
Most importantly, we are looking for someone who understands the importance of relationships, can guide people through a meaningful decision-making process, and is excited by the possibility of building a different kind of fostering journey.
Bonus Points For
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Lived experience of the care system or fostering.
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Experience working directly with prospective or approved foster carers.
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Experience using motivational interviewing, coaching or strengths-based approaches.
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Experience supporting people through an application, recruitment, assessment or onboarding journey.
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Experience delivering or supporting information sessions, preparation groups, training or community events.
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Experience working remotely or in a flexible, fast-moving team.
An interest in innovation, service design or changing how fostering works.
About Us
Now Foster is a team of innovative social workers, designers, and entrepreneurs on a mission to change fostering in the UK.
We bring together social work, service design, public sector transformation and lived experience to create better outcomes for children and young people. Our overarching vision is to transform the fostering system by bringing many more wonderful people into it as foster carers, so that children and young people have the relationships, stability and support they need to thrive.
You will be joining a small, ambitious and passionate team, alongside our trustees, freelancers and advisors, all of whom play an active part in shaping our work. We partner with local authorities and not-for-profits who share our values and are ready to embrace change. As a registered charity, everything we do is driven by purpose, not profit.
About Weekenders
Weekenders is Now Foster’s flagship programme. It pairs children and young people in foster care with inspiring adults who can offer guidance, stability and encouragement on a regular basis. It is about showing up, making a difference, and being that person a young person can count on.
The programme is growing quickly. We are scaling Weekenders across London and beyond, testing new ways to support applicants, local authorities and independent social workers, and building the operational foundations needed for long-term growth.
A core part of this growth is making sure that people who are interested in becoming Weekend Foster Carers receive the right balance of warmth, encouragement, information and challenge as they move through the journey. That is where the Journey Guide comes in.
Working Pattern and Location
This role is offered at 4 to 5 days per week, with a salary of £34,000 pro rata.
The role can be based anywhere in England, with occasional travel to our Weekender delivery areas. Our Weekenders team is currently based across London and Manchester, and our wider organisational team is based in Oxford. Most work will be home-based, but there will be some in-person meetings, events, training sessions or bi-monthly co-working days.
The role will involve some work outside standard office hours. This is likely to include:
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Around one weekend day per month, which you would take back as time off during the previous or following week.
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Some evening work, for example around one information event per month.
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Some evening intro chats with prospective foster carers, where this helps people engage with the process.
We work flexibly and will support the successful candidate to manage their time in a sustainable way.
Safeguarding
Now Foster is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
This role will involve contact with prospective carers, rather than direct work with children and young people. However, you will need to understand safeguarding, work within Now Foster’s safeguarding processes, and escalate any concerns appropriately.
This role will require an enhanced DBS check.
What’s In It For You
Joining Now Foster means being part of something different. We are small, ambitious and innovative, and you will play a key role in helping Weekenders grow.
You will be close to the people exploring whether they could become Weekend Foster Carers, and your work will directly shape whether they feel supported, confident and ready to take the next step.
You will join a supportive, collaborative and values-led team. We work hard, care deeply about what we do, and are building something bold and lasting: a new way of fostering that blends social work, design, technology and relational practice.
We will provide the tools and technology you need, cover agreed travel and expenses, and support you to work flexibly within the rhythm of the programme.
How to Apply
Please send us your CV and a short cover letter explaining:
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Why you are interested in Now Foster and the Weekenders programme.
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The experience you would bring in supporting, guiding or motivating people.
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Any experience you have of fostering, working in fostering, children’s social care, community work, volunteer management or similar.
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What excites you about innovation in fostering and what fostering could look like.
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Your availability, including whether you are looking for 4 or 5 days per week and when you could start.
You must have the right to work in the UK.
We recognise that some candidates may use generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT, to support the preparation of their application. While this is acceptable, applications must remain an authentic reflection of your own experiences and motivations. We ask candidates to let us know if and how they used AI as part of the recruitment process.
Our Commitment to Equality
Now Foster is committed to being an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, identities and experiences.
Recruitment and selection decisions are made on the basis of fair, objective and transparent criteria. We will also make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process to ensure accessibility for all candidates.
Please Note: We are hoping to appoint as soon as possible and will close recruitment once we find the right person so candidates are advised to submit an application as soon as they are able.
Are you passionate about supporting young people and making a real difference to young carers?
We are looking for a motivated individual to lead our Young Carers service at an exciting stage of development.
This is a unique opportunity to combine hands-on service delivery with the chance to shape and grow the project.
The role would suit someone who is confident working both operationally and strategically who can deliver high-quality support, while helping us build for the future.
Could this be you?
We’re looking for someone who:
- Experience working with children and young people
- Strong understanding of safeguarding and social work practices
- Experience of managing or supporting staff
- Excellent partnership and communication skills
- A proactive and adaptable approach
About the Role
As the Young Carers Project Manager, you will:
- Lead the day-to-day delivery of the Young Carers service
- Manage and support a small team
- Build strong relationships with schools, families and partner organisations
- Ensure high-quality support, safeguarding, and positive outcomes for young carers
- Lead and support the Young Carers Forum to develop and grow the service and to have their voices heard
- Contribute to funding bids and future service development
- Monitor and report on service performance
What else can we tell you?
- You will be joining a team of people with a strong commitment and passion to support carers.
- Salary: £29,688 for a 35 hour per week.
- Location: Trafford
- All staff receive 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and Christmas Efficiency days.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.


