Children social worker jobs in wandsworth, greater london

About KLS’ Future Foundations education team 

Future Foundations is an education programme of Katherine Low Settlement. Since 2004, KLS’ Future Foundations education team of 10 part-time staff and over 100 volunteers, have supported young refugees and their families in Battersea and the London Borough of Wandsworth to thrive in their education. Through mentoring, family support, casework and homework clubs, we provide the tailored support each young person and their family (if they have one) needs to overcome the barriers to education they face at home and school. 

Key Objectives for this Role

Working with the Lead Youth Worker you will: 

Homework Clubs

•Collect up to date consent information for all young people joining Future Foundations

•Support with creating session plans for club nights

•Research and source necessary resources activities 

•Support to plan and run engaging and fun activities/ongoing projects for the young people

•Use participatory methods to involve young people about Clubs 

•Ensure children’s participation and encourage ownership of and responsibility for the Clubs

•Implement our behaviour management policy

•Liaise with families/carers to communicate information regarding Clubs and Mentoring

•Support with maintaining robust recording and monitoring systems (including registers) and ensure quotes, case studies and feedback are saved and stored

•Maintain, collect, edit and store documentation of activities, including photos, case studies and videos, for Newsletters, funding reports and other records

•Maintain excellent safeguarding practices

•Support whole team with making referrals to external partners and support agencies

•Support the Lead Youth Worker with running a weekly Youth Club for post-16 young people

•Support mentor coordinator with running early years mentoring sessions, when needed

•Work evenings and varied working hours

 

Trips and activities 

•Work with the Lead Youth Worker and Community Learning Coordinator to develop an annual programme of activity and trips during school holidays

•Ensure that this is done in collaboration with our children, young people, their families and other KLS projects

•Assist with the summer programme development, organisation and delivery

Teamwork and reporting

•Work with Future Foundations team members to coordinate work, refer young people and/or parents/carers to our casework and advice team.

•Contribute to reports for trustees and funders and attend periodic meetings with funders

•Communicate well with other teams within KLS to provide a high-quality service to our members

Other Duties 

•Participate in regular supervision and annual appraisals; help to identify your own job related development and training needs.

•Always work with anti-discriminatory, empowering practice, ensuring everyone is treated with dignity andrespect.

•Adhere to Katherine Low Settlement’s code of confidentiality, safeguarding and equal opportunities policies. 

•Undertake your role in a professional manner and maintain a high-quality standard of work in accordance with the aims, values and ethos of KLS.

 

The above job description reflects the position at the time of writing; it is not intended to be a task list but indicates the general level of work involved. It is expected that duties will be reviewed and revised as required.

Westway Trust are seeking a dedicated and experienced Children Services Manager with a track record of managing a Good or Outstanding Oftsed rated Early Years’ service, who will be committed to supporting and enhancing the lives of children in the North Kensington community.

This role is key to positioning the Trust as a provider of affordable, vital and culturally appropriate services.  Reporting to the Senior Manager Learning, you will lead and manage on all aspects of the Trust’s nursery and crèche services, ensuring the highest standards of health, safety, safeguarding, and Ofsted requirements are met.  You will manage a team of full and part-time staff and will build strong partnerships with families and the local community. You will be a confident communicator working closely with statutory regulators, commissioners, partners and stakeholders. 

If you have a passion for making a positive difference in young people lives, as well as developing and managing a team, this role could be for you.

Key responsibilities of the role include but not limited to:

• Manage the staff team to deliver the Nursery and Crèche services.
• Liaison with all relevant members of staff to ensure maximising the team’s opportunities for employment, personal and professional development and organisational engagement.
• Develop, monitor and review activities to ensure high standards of childcare and learning.
• Quality assure and develop and improve services to maintain and improve our Ofsted position.
• Attend budget planning with the finance team to ensure a full understanding of the budget; good budget management and a strong out-turn in line with the growth strategy.
• Keep appropriate records of all children and account for their social and individual developmental needs.
• Monitor and report against the delivery objectives of the service providing observation and feedback to Nursery and Crèche workers so that they can improve their own direct planning and delivery and qualifications.
• Provide data as required for reporting internally to your line manager and through the Trusts Governance, and externally.

Qualification:

• Relevant qualification in childcare at a minimum Level 4. 
• Safeguarding (desirable)

Knowledge and Experience:

• Minimum 2 years’ experience of managing a Nursery with experience of all the relevant duties, monitoring, reporting and quality improvement.
• Experience of being the main contact for Ofsted. 
• A track record of working collaboratively with colleagues, partners and stakeholders to develop successful partnerships, growth, and achieve joint success.
• Strong experience of planning ahead, scheduling, attention to detail and problem solving.
• Experience of managing staff and supporting their development.
• Experience of managing resources and budgets.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and experience of writing reports.
• Knowledge of Safeguarding.
• Experience of delivering a service that demonstrates an understanding of different cultures.
• An understanding of the issues facing North Kensington and a track record of working alongside beneficiary communities (desirable)

Benefits of working for Westway Trust:

• Great location in the heart of Portobello, North Kensington
• Investor in People (IiP) employer
• Generous holiday entitlement of 25 days per year + statutory bank holidays
• Free gym membership at health club one minute walk from the office
• Pension scheme
• Life Assurance
• Sick pay scheme
• Season ticket / bicycle loan
• Free eye test voucher

The application deadline is Sunday 17 August 2025 when applications will be reviewed and shortlisted for interview.  However, we reserve the right to close the application early. An early application is strongly recommended. Please apply directly from our website.

Young Carers Sessional Worker  

Do you enjoy working with young people? Are you interested in supporting Young Carers by delivering engaging activities that promote wellbeing, reduce isolation and give them a break from their caring responsibilities? 

Then this job is for you! 

Job Title: Young Carers Sessional Worker 
Location: London, Wandsworth – Wandsworth Carers’ Centre (office-based and community/outreach) 
Contract Type: Sessional / Zero Hours Contract 
Salary: £15 per hour 
DBS Check: Enhanced required 

We are seeking a flexible, reliable, and enthusiastic Sessional Worker to support the delivery of services for Young Carers aged 5–16. The role involves two key parts. The first is helping to deliver engaging, age-appropriate activities that promote wellbeing, reduce isolation, and give Young Carers a break from their responsibilities. The second is supporting with outreach to local schools, colleges, community settings and professionals to identify and engage Young Carers. 

About The Role: 

You will work across two key age groups, 5–11 and 12–16, delivering and supervising activities, supporting events and trips, and providing behavioural management where needed. You will deliver awareness training sessions, run stalls and aim to identify and engage Young Carers in the community. You will also help ensure young Carers feel heard, included, and supported as they navigate the challenges of their caring roles. This is a sessional role, therefore hours are not guaranteed but will be offered based on project need.

Key Requirements Include: 

• Experience working with children, young people, or vulnerable groups 

• Ability to communicate sensitively and effectively with young people and their families 

• Reliable, punctual, and flexible 

• A strong understanding of professional boundaries and confidentiality 

• Willingness to work evenings and weekends 

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusive practice 

About Wandsworth Carers’ Centre: 

We are a busy, ambitious charity operating at the heart of the Wandsworth community since 1995, helping thousands of people across the borough in unpaid Caring roles. We give information and advice, organise respite, offer complementary therapies, deliver training, provide peer support, arrange fun events and much more.  In short, we are the Carer's friend and advocate, often helping Carers through difficult times. 

Wandsworth Carers’ Centre is an inclusive employer. We are committed to building a diverse organisation that represents the communities we serve and ensuring inclusion in everything we do.

Benefits of working for Wandsworth Carers’ Centre:   

Friendly team and working environment, contributory company pension, ongoing training and development opportunities and an employee assistance program.  

Closing date: 1st September 2025

Please note we will be interviewing candidates as suitable applications come in and therefore reserve the right to close this vacancy before the stated closing date. We encourage applications as soon as possible. 

The Diocese of Manchester has established the Places Project, which is currently working with 33 schools and 33 churches in developing discipleship pathways for children and young people in Bolton. We are looking to appoint a Children’s Worker, to work with the team on a range of innovative new initiatives for children and their families as well as helping existing ministries to grow and flourish.

The Children’s Worker will work with churches and primary schools to create worship and discipleship opportunities for children. As part of their role, the Children’s Worker will work as part of the wider Places Project team, with specific involvement in a Year 6 transition programme in primary schools.

The Children’s Worker will have many opportunities for training and development, as well as the creative freedom to launch new children’s initiatives. They will work within a highly motivated and supportive team, who are committed to prayer and to raising a generation of Jesus-followers.

The post holder should have some experience of children’s ministry and working or volunteering in a church and/or school context. To succeed, they need to be enthusiastic, relational, self-motivated and able to lead children in a variety of contexts.

There is an Occupational Requirement for the post-holder to be a practising Christian, in accordance with Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010.

The post will be offered to the successful candidate subject to satisfactory references, an enhanced DBS check and proof of eligibility to work in the UK.

For an informal conversation about this post, please contact us

To apply please click the APPLY button. Application should be made via a laptop or desktop rather than a mobile device. Please refer to the job description and person specification for further information.

Closing Date: 12 noon on Tuesday 26 August 2025
Interviews: Wednesday 3 September 2025, at St Andrews Church Over Hulton, Crescent Avenue, Bolton BL5 1EN

Location: Bolton BL5 1EN
Contract Type: Fixed Term to 31st December 2028
Hours: Full time - 35 hours per week (Term Time Only 5 days option available)
Salary: £28,111 - £32,436 per annum (Full Time)
Benefits: Generous annual leave entitlement, Competitive employer pension contribution
 
You may also have experience in the following: Children’s Worker, Children’s Ministry, Christian Children’s Worker, Children and Families Ministry, School & Church Liaison, Faith-based Children’s Worker, Primary School Ministry, Children’s Discipleship Worker, Church Schools Worker, Children’s support worker
 
REF-223 183

A little bit about the role 

Please note that this role will be closing on Tuesday 26 August at 9am.

As a member of the Admissions & support team, you will be supporting the recruitment and development of new social workers, who will then go onto change the lives of vulnerable children and families. You will play a key role in supporting the completion of all suitability checks (conduct, health and previous social care involvement) for Approach Social Work applicants, managing competing deadlines and multiple applicant cases at any one time.

The role requires a qualified social worker with experience of statutory practice and ideally substantial working knowledge of implementing reasonable adjustments in practice. The role involves primarily risk assessment to inform often difficult discussions around health, conduct and social care experience for applicants to Approach Social Work. Experience of taking part in panels, navigating sensitive discussion around criminal, conduct, previous social care involvement would be required.

Our suitability advisors are social work qualified and experienced members of the team who hold a vital position in ensuring all pre-programme checks are completed fully and fairly, for applicants to Approach Social Work. Suitability advisors are responsible for completing risk assessments where for applicants who disclose criminal, conduct, previous social care matters or disabilities which may need to be considered pre-programme. Suitability advisors also provide organisational guidance on conduct, reasonable adjustments and disability.

A little bit about you 

The ideal applicant must be a qualified social worker who is registered with Social Work England, and be able to prioritise a busy caseload with multiple deadlines. This role will suit someone passionate about the future of the social work profession, and who holds equity, diversity and inclusion at the heart of their work.

We have a fast-moving culture within the team and organisation, so we’re looking for someone who is who is well organised, details-focused and can use their initiative to do what works. You will have excellent communication skills, be able to build relationships with people and be willing to learn. There are lots of opportunities for growth and development in this role – and for the right candidate to make the role their own. 

If you feel you have the skills to make a real impact and contribute to creating lasting social change for children and families, we would love to hear from you. 

Important information

We have increased the diversity of Frontline’s workforce in the last 12 months, but we need to do more to have greater racialised minority representation in our senior roles. We know the value racialised minority voices bring and therefore, we are strongly encouraging applicants from these backgrounds to apply. We are also a disability confident employer and welcome applicants with disabilities.

We recognise that artificial intelligence (AI) such as ‘ChatGPT’ etc can be useful for applicants e.g. to shorten an initial draft, so we do not attempt to have an absolute ban on AI in applications. However we would caution applicants not to rely too much on AI in drafting answers to application questions. We want to hear your authentic voice arising out of your experience, and we will be looking for answers that use examples and experiences that are specific to you. You are more likely to be able to produce that kind of content yourself than an AI will.

We reserve the right to close this role ahead of the deadline once we reach a suitable number of applications, so please apply as soon as you can!

This role is ineligible for sponsorship and so all applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

We’re looking for a kind and compassionate person to join our Family Support team, working directly with families who are facing the unthinkable – the news that their child has cancer or a life-challenging condition.

Primarily based at St George’s, Royal Marsden (transitioning to Evelina, Westminster in 2026), Kingston Hospital and St Peter’s, Chertsey. Travel to other partnered hospitals across London and Surrey as required. Includes at least one monthly meeting at our East Molesey office. 

As our Hospital Family Support Worker, you’ll visit children, young people and their families on the wards of our partnered hospitals. You’ll be a consistent, reassuring presence, offering emotional and practical support when it’s most needed – and helping families feel less alone.

You’ll meet families already known to Momentum, as well as take new referrals. You’ll also support families remotely who live further afield or are adjusting to life after treatment.

This role is about being that calm, empathetic and kind person who makes a difference just by showing up. You’ll be a trusted part of hospital life, and a key link between the families, Momentum, and the wider healthcare team.

Key Responsibilities:

· Offer emotional and practical support to families, being a warm and reliable presence during their hospital stay.

· Build trusting, non-judgemental relationships with parents, carers, children and young people.

· Meet families in hospital, explain our support services, and complete referral forms for further help.

· Work closely with hospital professionals, attending multi-disciplinary meetings, deliver training on Momentum’s service and sharing relevant updates with the wider Momentum team.

· Keep accurate records of your work, including family interactions and safeguarding concerns.

· Understand and follow all safeguarding, child protection, and lone working policies.

· Report any safeguarding concerns in line with our policies and procedures.

· Support Momentum’s fundraising and communications by sharing family stories (with consent) and identifying case studies.

· Ensure all actions reflect Momentum’s values and vision – that no family with a seriously ill child should have to cope alone.

· Comply with hospital policies around dress code, infection control, and health and safety.

· Attend team meetings in-person and online across London and Surrey.

· Complete training requirements relevant to your role.

· Carry out other reasonable duties to support the delivery of Momentum’s work.

Our mission is to provide opportunities for people to develop to their full potential, with a focus on children and young people and those who are vulnerable, have a disability or face disadvantage.

We are recruiting for a qualified Youth Worker to join our Family and Youth Services. You will plan, deliver and evaluate youth club activities for young people and ensure that all safeguarding, regulatory and health & safety requirements are met. Actively engaging with young people in informal learning opportunities that promote their physical, mental, social and emotional development.

This role requires a minimum of 2 years experience of leading youthwork sessions, either centre-based and/or detached. The candidate must have a minimum of a Level 3 Youth Work qualification or equivalent, and must be a driver due to the delivery of detached work on the Y Bus. In addition the role requires evening work during Term Time.

Key responsibilities:

• To actively engage with young people aged 10 to 18 in a wide range of youth work programmes that promote personal and social development
• To plan, deliver and evaluate our YMCA East Surrey Youth Work offering
• Coordinate YMCA’s detached programme – Y Bus and Street Talk including liaising with partner agencies. This includes driving our Y Bus.
• Coordinate YMCA’s holiday programme including applying for funding and delivering residentials.
• To oversee part time staff and volunteers, providing professional support and guidance.
• Delivering information, advice, and guidance to young people referring to specialist agencies where appropriate
• To meet with young people and set an action plan to assist with their social and personal development.
• To record and collect data with various tools and to use this to evaluate the effectiveness of youth work programmes.
• Involve young people in co-production of all the youth work undertaken
• Liaise with local partners and stakeholders in schools, the voluntary and statutory sectors to enhance the coherence, range, reach and quality of services for young people.
• To supervise the activity environment to ensure physical and emotional/personal safety for all children and young people attending

We are seeking candidates who are passionate about working for a charity and making a difference to the lives of the children and young people in our community.

PAY:

• £26,780 - £29,974 dependant on experience

BENEFITS:

• Be part of a long-standing and well-respected charity
• Discounted childcare for permanent employees
• Gym membership and free access to all leisure facilities for permanent employees
• Eligibility for Blue Light Discount Retail Card
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• 6.6 weeks annual leave which increases after 2 years continuous service
• Free access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• On site parking

CLOSING DATE: 15 August 2025

Successful candidates will already have the right to live and work in the UK without restrictions. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.

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

YMCA East Surrey requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced DBS (including the Children’s and Adult’s barred lists) check, along with reference checks.

Could you help families through the most difficult time of their lives?

We’re looking for a compassionate and experienced leader to guide our Family Support Team as we grow and evolve. You’ll play a vital role in delivering emotional and practical support to families facing childhood cancer or life-challenging conditions—for as long as they need us.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a talented, multidisciplinary team and shape the future of our services as we expand into new regions and prepare for the transition from the Royal Marsden to Evelina London Children’s Hospital.

If you’re someone who can think strategically, lead with empathy, and understand the emotional realities families face when a child is seriously ill—we’d love to hear from you.

Role overview

Leadership & Service Delivery

• Lead and coordinate the delivery of family support across all regions, ensuring services are accessible, consistent, and impactful.
• Line manage a skilled team including Family Support Workers, a Senior Family Support Worker, and a Senior Social Worker.
• Oversee referrals and caseloads, ensuring support is tailored to each family’s needs.
• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), overseeing safeguarding policy, training, and practice.
• Monitor service outcomes and contribute to strategic planning and budget management.
• Participate in the on-call family support rota (occasional weekends).

Hospital & Community Partnerships

• Build and maintain strong relationships with hospital teams across London, Surrey, and Sussex.  Including, St George’s Tooting, Royal Marsden Sutton/Evelina London Children’s Hospital, Kingston Hospital, St Peter’s Hospital Chertsey, Epsom Hospital, Royal Surrey Hospital Guildford, East Surrey Hospital Redhill, Worthing Hospital
• Represent the charity in multidisciplinary meetings, safeguarding boards, and service planning discussions.
• Support the transition of services to Evelina London Children’s Hospital.
• Identify new partnership, across new regions and referral opportunities in clinical and community settings.

Organisational Contribution

• Provide insights and case studies to support fundraising and communications.
• Attend occasional family events and community activities.
• Champion Momentum’s values and safeguarding standards in all areas of work.

 Person specification

Essential

• Significant experience working directly with children and families.
• Background in health, education, care, or social support.
• Proven experience leading and managing staff teams.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and experience as a DSL.
• Knowledge of the emotional impact of serious illness and bereavement on families.
• Excellent communication, organisation, and digital literacy.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams and evaluating service delivery.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a car.
• Reliable internet and suitable space for remote working.

Desirable

• Relevant professional qualification (e.g., social work, nursing, education, counselling) or equivalent experience.
• Experience working in a charity or family support setting.
• Experience supporting bereaved families.
• Budget and financial oversight experience.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Programme Operations Manager is responsible for the operational delivery of our programmes being delivered to young people aged 8-19. This role ensures consistent, high-quality service provision through effective team leadership and comprehensive oversight of programme activities.

Key responsibilities include direct management of the youth work team and supervision of programme implementation to maintain service standards aligned with organisational values. The postholder ensures operational effectiveness through resource allocation, staff support, and robust quality assurance processes.

Working alongside the Programme Development Manager, this position translates organisational objectives into practical programme delivery through systematic implementation and monitoring. The role involves providing youth workers with appropriate resources and professional support to achieve optimal outcomes for young people.

The Programme Operations Manager contributes to organisational decision-making whilst maintaining hands-on programme management. This balance ensures service delivery meets established standards and regulatory requirements.

The position demands proven leadership capabilities, operational expertise, and commitment to youth development principles within our structured framework.

You will help embed our values throughout the organisation and ensure our programmes remain at the cutting edge of youth work practice.

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Quality Assurance and Standards Management

· Support the Programme Development Manager to develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive quality assurance frameworks for all youth programmes, ensuring consistent delivery of high standards across all activities.

· Establish quality indicators and performance metrics for programme delivery, conducting regular monitoring and evaluation to ensure continuous improvement.

· Design and implement quality audit procedures, conducting systematic reviews of programme delivery, facilities, and resource utilisation.

· Create and maintain quality documentation, including standard operating procedures, best practice guidelines, and compliance frameworks.

· Ensure all programmes meet regulatory requirements, funding obligations, and sector best practice standards.

· Implement corrective action procedures when quality standards are not met, working with teams to identify solutions and prevent recurrence.

· Liaise with external quality assurance bodies, inspectors, and regulatory authorities as required.

Youth Worker Team Management and Development

● Provide direct line management to youth workers and volunteers, ensuring clear role expectations and performance standards.

● Attend Line Managers training and regular sessions with HR Manager.

● Implement robust induction programmes for all new team members, ensuring thorough understanding of organisational values, procedures, and quality expectations.

● Conduct quarterly supervisions and annual appraisal with line reports, providing professional support, guidance, and performance management.

● Conduct systematic observation of youth work sessions, providing constructive feedback and identifying development opportunities.

● Foster a culture of continuous professional development, identifying training needs and supporting career progression opportunities.

● Ensure adequate staffing levels for all programmes, managing rotas, cover arrangements, and resource allocation effectively.

Programme Operations and Delivery Oversight

● Oversee day-to-day operational delivery of all youth programmes, ensuring smooth running of activities and services.

● Collaborate with the Engagement, Communities and Culture Manager to monitor programme attendance, engagement levels, and participant outcomes, implementing strategies to maximise positive impact.

● Collaborate with the Programme Development Manager to ensure all programmes operate within approved budgets, monitoring expenditure and resource utilisation.

● Coordinate programme scheduling, space allocation, and resource distribution to maximise efficiency and participant experience.

● Implement risk management procedures for all programme activities, always ensuring health and safety compliance.

● Collaborate with the Programme Development Manager to oversee marketing and recruitment activities for programmes, working with relevant teams to ensure optimal participation levels.

Safeguarding and Compliance

● Ensure that full compliance with safeguarding policies and procedures are adhered to.

● Implement comprehensive safeguarding training for all team members, maintaining records and ensuring regular updates.

● Manage safeguarding incidents and concerns.  In the absence of the Designated Safeguarding Leads liaise with external agencies including social services, police, and other statutory bodies.

● Monitor and maintain health and safety standards across all programme areas, conducting regular risk assessments and safety audits.

● Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, including data protection, health and safety, and equality requirements.

Data Management and Reporting

● Oversee collection, analysis, and reporting of programme data, ensuring accuracy and compliance with funder requirements.

● Contribute to the preparation of regular reports for leadership team, funders, and external stakeholders on programme performance and quality indicators.

● Maintain comprehensive records of all programme activities, participant outcomes, and quality assurance measures.

● Implement feedback mechanisms for participants, parents, and stakeholders, using insights to drive continuous improvement.

Partnership and Stakeholder Management

● Develop and maintain relationships with local schools, community organisations, and partner agencies.

● Represent the organisation at multi-agency meetings and sector networks, promoting collaborative approaches to youth work, as required.

● Coordinate with external providers delivering services within AYP premises, ensuring quality standards are maintained.

● Build positive relationships with parents and carers, maintaining regular communication about programme delivery and young people's progress.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES 

· In conjunction with your Line Manager to continuously develop the role to ensure that all tasks are being undertaken in an effective and appropriate manner which meets the strategic aims and objectives of The Avenues. 

· Participate in internal/external meetings as required, and attend training events, conferences, and other functions as necessary. 

· Participate in regular supervision and annual appraisal and help in identifying your own job-related development and training needs. 

· Adhere to all The Avenues’ policies and procedures. 

· Stay abreast of policy and developments in youth work locally and nationally

· Always undertake your role in a professional manner maintaining a high-quality standard of work and in accordance with our values and role model our Behaviours Framework.

· Undertake any other duties as may be reasonably required within the scope of the role. 

Note: The details contained in this Job Description summarise the main expectations of the role at the date it was prepared.  It should be understood that the nature of individual roles will evolve and change as service, service members and funders needs change.  Consequently, The Avenues will revise this Job Description as required in consultation with post holders. 

ABOUT YOU 

● A Level 3 or above Youth Work Qualification is desirable, or experience equivalent. 

● Minimum 3 years frontline youth work experience with 8-19 year olds

● Demonstrate significant project management experience. 

● Strong people management skills

● Proven ability to design, oversee and implement a youth programme, and experience in leading and managing youth work activities. 

● Strong analytical, organisational and communication skills, with a structured approach and ability to be flexibility.

● Experience managing budgets and members expectations.

● Proven track record in creating and building relationships with local partners to enhance a youth programme.

● Understanding and empathy of current issues young people face.

● Strong understanding and knowledge of safeguarding procedures and commitment to safeguarding

Personal qualities:

● Passion for youth work and belief in young people's potential

● Creative thinking balanced with evidence-based practice

● Resilience and flexibility in a dynamic environment

● Ability to work collaboratively and thrive as part of a team.

● A proactive approach, self-motivated and enthusiastic with high levels of initiative. 

● A genuine passion for working with young people, with a strong empathy to the vision, mission and values of The Avenues. 

Starting Salary: Up to £35,000 depending on experience

Specific Hours: 40 hours per week shift work- including evenings, weekends, bank holidays and sleep-ins. 

(flexibility to work evenings and sleep-ins are for the Day position. Waking Night position requires staff to be awake for the entire night shift).

Sleep-ins: £50. Overtime / bank holidays paid time-and-a-half and alternative weekends off

Location: Croydon, CR2 - closest station is 1 stop after East Croydon | 10 minutes from Clapham Junction | 20 minutes from Waterloo.

Looking for fantastic career progression, excellent training and therapeutic support? Join our committed and professional team and make a difference to young people living in residential care, where no two days are the same!

About the role

As a Children’s Residential Worker, you will directly look after children and young people who have complex emotional and mental health needs due to trauma, loss and other adverse experiences.

You will be required to support children to regulate and understand their emotions. Working within a therapeutic framework, you will develop a direct programme of work aimed at developing authentic relationships with our children and young people (aged 12 – 17 years old on admission to the Children’s Home).

You will have a key role in making sure our children are safe and happy. You will also be required to work collaboratively with key professionals to ensure that information is recorded and shared appropriately, as well as to enable children to receive the multi-agency support that they require.

If applying for the Day position, you will be required to do sleep-ins paid at £50 each.

If applying for the Waking Night position, you will have the additional support of an on-call manager should there be any emergencies. Further to this, you will be involved in monthly team meetings and receive monthly supervision.

Applicants should have

• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or equivalent (i.e. Level 3 Diploma Children and Young People Workforce with the children's social care pathway) as per Children’s Homes Regulations 2015 (England).
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience working and supporting children and Young People to achieve their full potential.
• Genuine commitment to working with and supporting children and Young People to achieve their full potential; with the ability to build and promote trusted relationships while maintaining professional boundaries.
• An understanding of the issues facing children and Young People and a basic understanding of safeguarding Regulations and Procedures.
• The ability to cope effectively with challenging behaviour.
• Good communication and team working skills.
• Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends and bank holidays, and if applicable, sleep-in’s.
• Commitment to undertake any mandatory training (outside of working hours) and continuous learning to ensure a high level of service.
• Creativity, enthusiasm and energy to inspire and encourage young people to achieve their goals.

What you should expect from us

• Salary: Up to £35,000 depending on experience
• Sleep-ins: £50. Overtime / bank holidays paid time-and-a-half and alternate weekends off
• A friendly working environment, a fun, open and honest culture.
• 25 days holiday rising to 27 days after 3 years’ service, plus Bank Holidays, pro-rata.
• Industry leading training programme including access to level 3 qualifications, children’s right and participation, CSE, empowerment, mental health and social pedagogy.
• Contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity and company sick scheme.
• UK Life Assurance (Death in service) to the value of 3 times your annual salary.
• BUPA employee assistance programme, offering counselling, financial advice and legal support.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Bluelight card; discount shopping scheme at hundreds of retailers across the UK.
• Discretionary funded training programs.
• Employee awards based on performance and length of service.
• Fantastic opportunities to develop your career within our range of services.

Recruitment Process

At St Christopher’s we are committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people in our care. During the recruitment process you will be expected to complete an online application form to ensure we capture essential information to meet legislation, best practice and vetting requirements. Applicants will ideally already be on the DBS Update Service; if this is not the case St Christopher's will carry out a DBS (police) check prior to starting.

Your Online application must include a supporting statement addressing the criteria stated in the Person Specification.

For the full Job Description and Person Specification please see our wwebsite. CV’s will not be accepted.

For more information or assistance during the application process, please visit our website.

Closing Date: August 18th 2025

First Stage Interview – Throughout August 2025

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview at our Head Office

Second Stage Interview 

Successful candidates will then attend the second stage interview at one of St Christopher's residential homes.

Our Children and Young People are looking forward to hearing from you

We advise you to apply as soon as possible as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Please note:

• This post has a minimum age restriction of 21 year for roles working directly with children and young people in our residential and supported accommodation Homes in line with the Equality Act ‘occupational requirement’.
• It is illegal to apply for any role that involves working with children and young people under the age of 18, if you know you are barred from working with children.
• All shortlisted candidates invited to interview will be asked to submit a Self-Declaration and Disclosure form which will need to be returned prior to an interview being booked.

About UP

Unlocking Potential deliver high performing therapeutic programmes and education provision for children and young people with SEMH needs. We work in collaboration with families, communities, and other partners to ensure that children and young people access the interventions they need to thrive.

Mission

We work collaboratively with communities to enable children and young people with social, emotional, and mental health needs to unlock their full potential

Values

Trust

We build trust by being honest, transparent, and accountable in the way we work with children and young people, staff, and partners and by providing services and programmes whose outcomes are measurable and evidenced based.

Collaborative

Relationships are at the heart of our work. We prioritise communication and collaboration with partners, families, and communities, believing that by working together we create more effective and holistic outcomes for children and young people.

Empowering

We co-create opportunities for our children, young people, parents/carers and staff to actively participate in decision-making that influences change. We promote the voices of children and young people in our organisation and the wider community.

Nurturing

We provide a nurturing approach based on safety and space for creativity, exploration, and growth. We support and care for our children, young people, and staff to realise their potential.

Impact

We are committed to measuring our impact through a data driven method to develop our programmes and make a greater difference to the lives of children, young people, and their parents and carers.

Overview

We will be launching our new programme from September 2025, initially as a pilot working with families across Wandsworth, with aims to be able to expand and continue beyond this.

As a Family Support Worker, you will deliver flexible, hands-on, and therapeutically minded support to families facing multiple and complex challenges. You will build trusted relationships through home visits, school meetings, and practical support—empowering parents and carers to strengthen routines, manage behaviour, improve attendance, and access services. Your role will be guided by detailed needs assessments and focused on achieving meaningful outcomes with each family.

Established in 1997, Jigsaw4u provide a range of services for children, young people, families and vulnerable adults experiencing complex social and emotional difficulties across South West London. Jigsaw4u has experienced considerable growth and development over the past several years. Jigsaw4u’s Board of Trustees and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) have recognised the need for dedicated staffing resource to hold the day-to-day responsibility for the service management function as part of our Senior Leadership Team (SLT).

As a member of our SLT, you will help to deliver and shape and the organisation’s vision and strategy. It will be your responsibility to ensure that Jigsaw4u’s services achieve their goals, meet their strategic objectives and achieve our growth targets while being delivered to Jigsaw4u’s exceptionally high standards.

Under the direction of the CEO, the postholder’s areas of responsibility will be to:

• Line Manage the Service Managers, ensuring that their teams are high performing, reporting and data collection is of a high standard and relationships with funders and other stakeholders are outstanding.
• Ensure that the structure of all Jigsaw4u services are optimised to allow for growth and support staff and volunteers (including trainee counsellors/therapists) to develop key skills.
• Maintain knowledge and awareness of best practice within the charitable sector (and other sectors where relevant), to inform and update Jigsaw4u so that we take advantage of the latest approaches to change, innovation and development which can have a positive impact on our beneficiaries lives.
• Work proactively and collaboratively to identify innovation and business improvement within the SLT to define and agree Target Operating Models and oversee implementation and ongoing review. Use insight, evaluation and analysis to continually inform and refine practice.
• Play a full part in the development of the SLT and deputise for the CEO as required. Work closely with the Service Management Team to develop and deliver an outstanding approach to people management, building a learning culture that delivers high quality, extensive support enabling people to achieve their best as a team.
• Represent Jigsaw4u at formal meetings with funders and other stakeholders and through submission of reports and data requests. Establish new, and strengthen existing, external relationships to promote Jigsaw4u’s profile, influence and reputation.
• Ensure compliance with relevant statutory and regulatory requirements, and adherence to relevant professional codes and standards of good practice.
• Support the CEO in funding and tender applications
• Support the CEO and fundraising team in generating income

As a member of the SLT you will be expected, with training and support, to take an active part in supporting the whole organisation. Experience and aptitude to provide calm leadership and a supportive problem-solving approach to practical problems and judgements involving risk is necessary.

Location: Remote (based in England & Wales with occasional travel required for biannual team days in London, termly Support Coach Team meetings in various locations, and twice termly vists to facilitators in various locations). Due to location of regional hubs, we would encourage applications from the Bristol, Liverpool and Manchester areas.

Salary: £28,665 - £30,765 pro rata (£22,932 - £24,612 actual)

Hours of work: 4 days a week (28 hours)

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 Support Coach role involves:

• Supporting volunteer facilitators by coaching them through the opportunities, challenges and obstacles of running a Kids Matter programme
• Training and upskilling facilitators by helping run events and develop new resources
• Working with the wider Kids Matter team to encourage and strengthen Kids Matter’s church partnerships

At Kids Matter, we are committed to delivering effective coaching. All Support Coaches are given the opportunity to go through the coaching accreditation process with ICF to become an Associate Certified Coach (ACC). Kids Matter provides the support and supervision for this to take place, and will cover the cost of the accreditation if the individual remains employed as a Support Coach for the two years following applying for accreditation. If the individual leaves before two years, a percentage of the accreditation cost will be required to pay back.

About you

Are you someone who enjoys coming alongside others, encouraging and challenging them as they learn and grow? Do you have a strong understanding of the disadvantages many families face in the UK? Can you sensitively and effectively communicate with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences? Are you a Christian with an active faith in Jesus? Do you have a passion for Kids Matter’s vision to see 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 Support Coach position by clicking ‘Apply via Website’ and completing a copy of our online application form.

The deadline for applications is 4pm Monday 1st September 2025. 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 Coordinator).

Please see the job pack for more details on the role and application process.

About the role:

At Single Homeless Project (SHP), we believe that everyone deserves a safe place to call home and the opportunity to lead a meaningful life. If you're someone who brings energy, resilience and a genuine commitment to making change happen, then this role offers a chance to turn those qualities into lasting impact. As part of our Complex Needs Accommodation Services in Islington you’ll be part of a team dedicated to supporting individuals who face significant challenges and who are ready to take their next steps toward stability and independence.

Working alongside the Regional Services Manager and Team Manager, you'll take on a specialist role focused on clients with complex support needs linked to high-risk offending behaviour (MAPPA Level 2 & 3), mental and physical health issues, and substance use. You’ll build trusted relationships, support clients to reduce their risk of reoffending, and help them access the services they need, from mental health and medical care to pathways out of homelessness. Your work will not only promote social inclusion and greater independence for each individual, but also directly contribute to creating safer, stronger communities.

Joining SHP means becoming part of one of London’s most progressive homelessness prevention charities - a place where your ideas, growth and career development are actively supported. You'll be surrounded by people who care deeply about what they do, and who know that by working together, we can change lives.

The working rota for this post is Monday-Friday (no weekend shifts) and a mixture of earlies (8am - 3.30pm) & lates (3pm - 1.30pm.)

About you:

• Previous experience of working with offenders and/or people with complex support needs.
• The ability to manage a caseload and deliver positive outcomes utilising your knowledge of the health, social care and criminal justice sector.   
• A flexible, innovative and creative approach to working with a sometimes hard to engage and challenging client group, is also required.

About us:

Single Homeless Project is a London-wide charity. Our vision is of a society where everyone has a place to call home and the chance to live a fulfilling life.

We help single Londoners by preventing homelessness, providing support and accommodation, promoting wellbeing, enhancing opportunity, and being a voice for change. From supporting people in crisis to helping people take the final steps towards independence and employment, we make a difference to 12,000 lives every year across all 32 boroughs.

We offer you more than a job; we offer you a chance to be part of a compassionate, driven team that's committed to making a real difference in people's lives. You'll have the opportunity to lead, co-create, and inspire change while enjoying a collaborative, growth-oriented environment.

Join us in creating a brighter, more hopeful future for individuals in need. 

Important info:

Closing date: Sunday 24th August at midnight

Interview date: Wednesday 10th and Friday 12th August at SHP service in Islington 

This post will require an Enhanced DBS check to be processed (by SHP) for the successful applicant.

Please note applications are reviewed for AI use in application questions. Applications requiring sponsorship will not be accepted or progressed.