Children support worker jobs

Assistant Benefits Advisor
Salary £24,000 FTE (rising to £27,000 per year FTE after 1 year and completion of training) 
17.5 - 21 hours per week, 6.6 weeks holiday   
Remote working with occasional travel for events and meetings in West Sussex

Are you passionate about working with SEND families? 
Do you have the transferable skills and qualities to train as a benefits advisor?

We have an exciting opportunity for someone to join a rapidly growing caring charity with the benefits of flexible family friendly working (from home), generous holiday, pension scheme, travel expenses, laptop and phone provided.  

Reaching Families was established in 2008 to empower, inform and support parent-carers and families of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities in West Sussex.  We achieve this through the delivery of our services providing information, training and peer support.

Our Benefits Advice Service provides support to parents of children and young people with SEND in West Sussex applying for Carer’s Allowance, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Personal Independent Payments (PIP).  Offering 1-2-1 advice sessions on the above benefits, support with claim checking of draft applications, information resources on benefits and other sources of financial support, and training workshops on DLA, PIP and Universal Credit.

We are looking to recruit a skilled and motivated Assistant Benefits Advisor to join our team
The post holder will be responsible for supporting our Benefits Advisor with the delivery of information, advice and guidance on Carers Allowance, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) to parent-carers of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in West Sussex.  This is a training role with the view to promotion to Benefits Advisor following completion of training. 

Person Specification (essential):
• Understanding of challenges facing parents and carers of children with SEND 
• Passionate about improving the life chances of children with SEND and their parents/carers, and families
• A highly motivated self-starter with a flexible approach to working life 
• A creative and strategic thinker 
• Committed to professional and personal development and lifelong learning 
• Ability to work independently and manage a diverse and demanding workload 
• Comfortable working with people from a diverse range of backgrounds
• Excellent inter-personal and communication skills
• Excellent writing and editing skills 
• Experience of using MS Office including SharePoint
• A good all-round education including GCSE’s (or equivalent) or NVQ level 2 

See attached job description for details and full criteria 

We welcome applications from all members of the community and value diversity in the organisation. Please contact us if you require any reasonable adjustments to be made to the application or interview process due to any disability or health requirements. 

Closing date for applications is 12th January 2026

Interviews to be held in Littlehampton on 21st/22nd January 2026

To apply please complete the attached application form and share why you feel you fit the role and person specification (see attached documents) 

Join Us in Making a Real Difference

About YMCA St Paul’s Group

YMCA St Paul’s Group is one of London’s longest-standing charities, dedicated to empowering young people and strengthening communities for over 150 years. Through transformative youth programmes, inclusive health and wellbeing centres, and vital supported accommodation, we work to ensure that people—especially young people—have the opportunity to belong, contribute, and thrive.

Our mission is rooted in long-term transformation of mind, body, and spirit, and we remain committed to building vibrant, supportive, and resilient communities across London.

About the Role

As a Housing and Support Assistant (Nights), you’ll play a pivotal frontline role in ensuring our accommodation remains a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment. You’ll be a steady presence throughout the night—providing guidance, reassurance, and practical assistance for residents and visitors alike.

Whether you’re responding to queries, managing reception tasks, ensuring safety protocols are upheld, or offering a compassionate ear during challenging moments, you will be a vital part of creating a positive and secure atmosphere for those who call YMCA home.

This is a role with real variety and real impact—perfect for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and is passionate about helping others.

Working 4 nights on and 4 nights off (8pm-8am).

Key Responsibilities

Deliver Exceptional Customer Service

You will be the warm, reassuring presence residents and visitors meet first. Your confidence and professionalism will create a positive experience and set the standard for the quality of service YMCA is known for.

A Varied, Engaging Role

No two nights will be the same. Alongside reception duties—such as answering calls, processing payments, handling repairs, and managing post—you’ll take on a broad range of responsibilities that keep the building running smoothly.

Champion Safety and Security

As the on-site first aider and fire marshal, you’ll protect the wellbeing of our residents and staff. From conducting regular patrols to responding swiftly in emergencies, you’ll help maintain a safe and calm environment throughout the night.

A Welcoming and Compassionate Presence

You’ll often be the first to welcome new residents, address concerns, support those facing challenges, and record or escalate any issues such as anti-social behaviour or safeguarding concerns. Your empathy and professionalism will help residents feel heard, valued, and supported.

Be Part of a Supportive Team

You’ll join a dedicated and knowledgeable team of housing professionals who share your commitment to improving lives. Your role will be meaningful, varied, and rewarding—offering plenty of opportunities to develop your skills and make a real difference.

What You’ll Gain

At YMCA St Paul’s Group, we celebrate diversity, individuality, and community. Your voice matters here—and you’ll have opportunities to help shape positive change through our Employee Resource Groups and inclusive culture.

We’re committed to your growth. With access to robust training, qualifications, and hands-on experience, you’ll be supported in developing your career, expanding your expertise, and achieving your goals.

Benefits for Mind, Body, and Spirit include:

• Free gym access across all YMCA SPG sites

• Discounts at major retailers and supermarkets

• Free wellbeing and counselling services

• The flexibility to work across various outer London locations

• Career development programmes to support your journey

• Family-friendly policies, including enhanced maternity pay

• Life Assurance

36 hours per week / £36,530 per annum pro rata / permanent / working two days onsite and three days from home, working pattern to be discussed at interview

At YMCA DownsLink Group, our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

Brighton & Hove Wellbeing service is delivered by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with YMCA DownsLink Group. We offer a variety of support including counselling and psychological therapies to children and young people within Brighton and Hove.

We are looking for a compassionate and experienced Wellbeing Children & Young People's (CYP) Lead to support and shape our therapeutic services for young people in Brighton and Hove.

Overview of key areas of responsibility:

Leadership

• Provide line management support and supervision to wellbeing workers (e.g. counsellors, practitioners, therapists, link workers and trainees).
• Work alongside a team of leads to support the running, development and management of the service.
• Lead induction, mentoring, and training of new staff, trainees, and volunteers.
• Foster a culture of learning, innovation, and continuous improvement across the team.

Core Clinical

• Carry out individual counselling assessments of children and young people and make appropriate referrals.
• Provide guidance and oversight for complex or high-risk cases.
• Ensure all interventions are evidence-based, child-centred, and trauma-informed.
• Develop and oversee counselling protocols, therapeutic pathways, and risk assessment frameworks.

Safeguarding and Risk

• Lead and give oversight for safeguarding concerns, embedding a safeguarding-first culture across the service.
• Work to ensure all counsellors, staff, and volunteers are trained, confident, and compliant in safeguarding practice.
• Implement robust risk assessment and management processes.
• Monitor safeguarding incidents, identify themes, and strengthen safeguarding practice.
• Liaise with schools, health, social care, police, and other agencies in safeguarding matters.

Service Development

• Work with the Service Manager, Leads and Clinical Leads to strengthen and expand counselling provision, including group work.
• Triage referrals and represent the service in multi-agency triage meetings.
• Promote and develop opportunities for community participation and youth voice in service design.
• Build strong relationships with schools, health services, local authorities, commissioners, and community partners.
• Represent the service at local and regional forums, influencing CYP wellbeing strategies.

Qualifications, knowledge, and experience

• More than 2 years post-qualified at graduate or post graduate level Counselling Diploma or equivalent [of two years minimum duration including personal counselling or psychotherapy].
• BACP Registration or Accreditation and/or eligible for other Professional Accreditation e.g. UKCP/HPC.
• Strong team-management and line-management experience is required, including demonstrated experience in supervising, developing, and supporting staff.
• An in depth understanding of counselling theory and practice and working to short-term models.
• A sound understanding of child developmental processes, Child Protection and Vulnerable Adult Safeguarding issues and procedures, along with proven experience in safeguarding young children.
• Solid experience in delivering counselling and assessment, along with experience with high-risk/complex cases.
• Experience of multi-disciplinary team working, with the ability to work within time-limited frameworks.

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 11 January 2026 at midnight. Proposed interview date Thursday 15 January.

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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

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

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

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

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

The Vacancy

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

We are looking for individuals all across Yorkshire, including but not limitted to: Hull, East Riding, North Lincs and Doncaster.

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

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

These visits will be:

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

Regulation 25 visits to residential family centres.

Care Quality Commission visits to residential adult homes.

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

RSS20 visits to residential special schools.

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

Monitoring visits to unregulated provision.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About NYAS

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

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

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

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

Work with us to help change young lives.

Join Rape Crisis South London at a time of significant change and growth with an ambitious vision for the future, and a new leadership team.  We are seeking a highly experienced Children and Young People (CYP) Clinical Lead to oversee and develop our specialist therapeutic services for children and young people aged 4–24.

We support survivors of sexual violence across twelve South London boroughs through counselling, advocacy, group work, education, and professional training.

About the Role

You will lead and manage our CYP counselling, play therapy, and trauma-informed services, ensuring high-quality clinical delivery and strategic development. This role includes strategic development of CYP, clinical leadership of all delivery, supervision oversight, safeguarding responsibility, service improvement, and management of CYP budgets and reporting.
 

About You

You will bring:

• A counselling/psychotherapy qualification (accredited or equivalent experience).
• Significant post-qualification experience, including 600+ supervised hours.
• At least 3 years’ clinical work with children and young people affected by sexual violence.
• Strong experience in clinical leadership and team development.
• In-depth safeguarding knowledge and experience working within the violence against women and girls sector.
• Understanding of trauma-informed practice and a commitment to feminist principles.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK and be willing to have a DBS check.

What We Offer

• 27 days’ annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata)
• 3 gifted days (pro rata) between 27–31 December
• Pension scheme (3% employer / 5% employee)
• Life Assurance, Healthcare Plan, EAP, Cycle-to-Work Scheme
• Supportive feminist working culture

Our Feminist Commitment
Rape Crisis South London is a proudly feminist organisation. Our work is rooted in the belief that sexual violence is both a cause and consequence of gender inequality. We recognise that women and girls experience disproportionate levels of sexual violence, and we are committed to challenging the structures, attitudes, and behaviours that enable this harm.

We centre the voices, rights, and experiences of survivors in everything we do. Our approach is grounded in empowerment, intersectionality, and inclusivity, recognising that women’s experiences are shaped by factors such as race, class, sexuality, disability, migration status, and identity.

By joining our team, you will be part of a movement working to end sexual violence and to create a society where all women and girls live free from oppression, fear, and harm.

EDI Statement
RCSL is an equal opportunities employer, and we are particularly keen to receive applications from women underrepresented in leadership roles in the violence against women and girls movement and those with experience of providing services in a diverse context.  

Safeguarding and Confidentiality
RCSL is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, respectful, and trauma-informed environment for all survivors who use our services. We recognise our responsibility to protect adults and young people at risk from harm, abuse, and exploitation, and we understand that safer recruitment is a vital part of safeguarding. We welcome candidates in particular who have experience understanding of issues affecting women and girls.

Mission Statement
Providing specialist support to women and girls who have experienced rape and/or childhood sexual violence and abuse.

Vision
A world free from sexual violence, where survivors are believed, respected, and supported.

Learning and Development
As a charity currently going through an exciting period of transformation, we welcome people who are enthusiastic about continuous learning and development

While we endeavour to contact all applicants, and we thank everyone who takes the time to apply, we have limited resources.  Therefore if you do not here from us within 1 month of applying, please presume you have been unsuccessful but we welcome future applications.

This post is open to women only (Schedule 9, Paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010).

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a cover letter (up to 1,000 words) outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria.

Advert

Job Title - Senior Communications and Marketing Officer

Contract - Permanent, Full Time

Hours - 35 hours per week

Salary - £35,000 per annum

Location - Coram Campus, London WC1N 1AZ (with flexibility for hybrid working)

About Coram

Coram is committed to improving the lives of the UK’s most vulnerable children and young people.

We support children and young people from birth to independence, creating a change that lasts a lifetime.

Coram is the UK’s oldest children’s charity founded by Thomas Coram in London helping vulnerable children and young people since 1739. Today, the Coram group helps more than one million children, young people, families and professionals every year by providing access to the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.

About CoramBAAF

CoramBAAF is the UK's leading membership organisation for professionals dedicated to improving outcomes for children and young people in care. Our corporate members in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland represent 94% of all local authorities as well as regional adoption agencies, health and social care trusts, independent fostering providers and voluntary adoption agencies, and cover 88% of all children and family social workers.

Our 650+ individual and associate members - comprising lawyers, health professionals, educational institutions, therapeutic and family support services, and more - reflect the multidisciplinary nature of our work. Together, our members make up the largest network of organisations and individuals involved with children in their journey through the care system.

About the role

The Senior Communications and Marketing Officer works across the varied functions and services of CoramBAAF including policy and practice, membership, publications, and training and events. The postholder will be involved in developing, delivering and monitoring communications tools and channels, building networks, and increasing engagement with CoramBAAF members, the children’s services sector and the wider general public.

This role will suit an enthusiastic and experienced communications and marketing professional with a passion for engaging audiences across multiple channels and experience of planning and delivering marketing activity and collateral, brand development, corporate publications, audio-visual content, targeted campaigns and digital media.

The Senior Communications and Marketing Officer is responsible for devising and delivering a programme of regular membership and customer communications using a range of tools and platforms to achieve this and to monitor effectiveness. They will plan and implement the production of high-quality marketing materials, communication tools and content (written, audio and visual) that raise awareness, drive engagement and generate take up of CoramBAAF’s member benefits and services. The postholder will maintain and develop brand assets to ensure all communications remain effective and consistent.

The role is ideal for someone who wants to build on their existing knowledge, skills and experience in a small, friendly and busy organisation. Please see the job description and person specification for full details.

To apply for this role, please click on the 'apply now' button below to complete the application.

Closing Date: 5th January 2026 at 23:59

Interview Date: Week commencing 19th January 2026

Coram is an equal opportunities employer and we believe a diverse workforce enables us to improve the services to the children and families we help. We are genuinely committed to encouraging candidates from all sections of the community we seek to support. This includes those from global majority ethnic backgrounds, those that identify as LGBQT+, those with disabilities, those with lived experience of care, those with neuro-diversity, and those from other groups who are underrepresented at Coram.

If applicants feel comfortable, we would encourage them to draw on lived experience as well as professional experience in their personal statement as part of their application.

We are committed to the safeguarding of children and where appropriate will require the successful applicant to undertake a check from the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Registered Charity No. 312278.

About the Service

Children and young people who are looked after don’t always have a trusted adult that they can rely upon for support, with many young people not having someone that they can talk to or trust.

Our independent visitor service provides looked after children and young people with an adult volunteer who spends time with them, offering support and friendship whilst being a positive role model to enable young people to build on their confidence and self-esteem, whilst helping learn new skills and raise their aspirations.

The Vacancy

We are looking for a passionate and enthusiastic IV Coordinator, to work 28 hours per week who will be responsible for the day to day running of the independent visitor service.

You will be responsible for managing and developing a pool of volunteers which includes the recruitment, training, and induction of new volunteers to become volunteer independent visitors, before matching them with a young person who has been referred to the service.

You will provide continuous support to volunteers to ensure that the service is being delivered to a high standard, and that children and young people are safeguarded at all times.

You will also be responsible for monitoring volunteer visits, budgets and ensuring that risk assessments are undertaken as required, whilst acting as a link between NYAS and the local authority by liaising with social workers, carers and other professionals.

For more information, please view the attached job description below.

This role is a home-based role however to meet the requirements of the role you must live within the geographical area.

In your application, you will need to evidence, using specific examples, how your skills and experience meet the criteria laid out in the person specification, within the job description attached. Requirements include:

• Proven experience of face-to-face work with children and young people in a social care setting, particularly children in care.
• Knowledge and experience of the recruitment and training of staff and/ or volunteers.
• Experience and an understanding of child protection and safeguarding procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively.

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

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

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

About NYAS

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

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

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

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

Work with us to help change young lives.

Westway Trust are seeking a dedicated and experienced Nursery and Crèche 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.

This is a full-time post however job share will be considered

Key responsibilities of the role include but are 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.

Qualifications:

• Relevant qualification in childcare at a minimum Level 4.
• Level 3 Safeguarding qualification

Knowledge, Skills 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)

The application deadline is Sunday 11 January 2026 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.

This is a rewarding and varied role combining direct family support with the organisation and delivery of family support activities and events.

You will be a consistent point of contact for families navigating life after a childhood cancer diagnosis, building relationships, coordinating tailored support, and helping families thrive emotionally and socially.

Alongside your casework, you’ll plan, deliver, and review a high-quality weekly events and activities programme, ensuring every session and event is engaging, inclusive, and aligned with family needs and organisational priorities.

You will play a key role in supporting The Joshua Tree’s family experience, balancing compassionate, hands-on support with proactive coordination, creativity, and operational excellence.

Family Support Worker 

£24,000 pa + Company Car and benefits (including 25 days annual leave, reward scheme and pension)

To cover Southampton, including Dorset, Hampshire and parts of Wiltshire and Isle of Wight

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity is going through an exciting time where we are growing, with the aim of reaching more families in need.

About the role:

We are looking to appoint a Family Support Worker, on a full time basis (35 hours per week), to deliver a high-quality family support service as part of our Southampton Care Team.

Reporting to the Family Support Manager of the Southampton Care Team and working in partnership with health, education and social care professionals, you will take responsibility for providing needs-led emotional, social and practical support to families where a child/young person has a life threatening or terminal illness.

Having worked in a demanding and emotional environment you have a genuine interest in building supportive relationships and helping people; and having provided bereavement support to families, you understand processes of grief, loss and change - and how best to help others deal with its impact.

What we’re looking for:

· An experienced child health, education or social care professional - applications will be particularly welcome from those who have worked in a community environment and those with a recognised qualification in education, health or social care

· A warm, inclusive approach to achieving goals quickly and correctly

· Practiced in child protection, information sharing and the rules around data protection - you lead by example, drawing on your own professional experience and working within established guidelines

· Practical and people-oriented - you will thrive working at a fast pace whilst maintaining accuracy and be a confident user of IT (including MSOffice)

· A persuasive and open communicator - you will work collaboratively with your team and volunteers to ensure delivery of a high-quality service and support fundraising colleagues by writing case studies and family updates

· A practical knowledge of diversity issues affecting children, young people and their families – aware that being responsive to others needs and concerns, is essential.

What we offer:

We are a Best Companies Two-Star rated organisation, an outstanding place to work! We have a range of fantastic benefits that we offer our employees, including:

· Flexible working hours to balance home and working life

· Employee Assistance Programme with access to remote GP, counselling, physiotherapy, resources to support your mental health and financial wellbeing, as well as a 24/7 helpline via Help@Hand

· Company car for front line care posts

· 25 days of annual leave plus public holidays – rising to 26 days after 1 year, 27 days after 5 years and 30 days after 11 years, with an additional 5 years to use in your 10th or 20th year of service (pro rata for part time)

· Time off in Lieu

· Access to the Blue Light Card Scheme, and other rewards and discounts

· Bike to work, season ticket loan and payroll giving schemes

· A recommend a friend recruitment bonus scheme

· Family friendly policies, focused on employee wellbeing, and an active cross-organisational wellbeing group running a number of initiatives throughout the year

· Pension scheme where we contribute 5% of your salary and you contribute at least 3%

· The option to buy/sell annual leave, as well as additional leave for your birthday, wedding/civil ceremony and an extra half day off for Christmas shopping

· Robust training and development programmes to support your learning and growth

As part of our learning and development Anne Harris Skills Development Programme, we aim to provide a high level of training and development opportunities for all staff, so you are able to perform to the best of your ability, achieve individual and team objectives aligned to Rainbow Trusts strategic plan, supporting staff to be their best and feel a valued member of a high performing organisation.

Our Family Support Teams are given the opportunity to complete a number of diverse training courses in their first 12 months, including but not limited to: Mental Health First Aid, Makaton, introduction to play, drawing and talking training.

The programme aims to provide a building block for you to individually tailor your own learning and development needs.

About us:

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity enables families who have a child with a life-threatening or terminal illness to make the most of time together, providing expert, practical and emotional support, where they need it for as long as it is needed. For families living with childhood illness, time is everything. Right now, there are too many families coping alone with no support, no time to think, no time to make memories and no time for each other. We believe that no family should go through this alone, so we are here to change that.

How to apply:

Please visit our website and apply online.

Please disclose on your application form if you have used AI for any part of your job application.

Interviews will take place at our Southampton Care Team office with the dates to be confirmed. We will only contact those applicants who have been successful. If you require any adjustments during the interview process, please let us know.

There will be a requirement for flexible working and a full current driver’s licence to accommodate team and family need. An enhanced DBS disclosure will be required for this post.

Rainbow Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees to share this commitment.

Rainbow Trust is an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Role Context

At Gaddum, we treat everyone as individuals. We really get to know those we help, understanding their world to offer a range of support that’s right for them. Our promise of tailored support is made possible by our breadth and depth of knowledge, through our unwavering commitment to the local people of Greater Manchester.

Our experience listening to generation after generation, for nearly 200 years, has taught us the importance of considering not just the individual but also the relationships around them. Our innovative approach means we can, not only build resilience, but identify further risks and offer preventive support now and in the future. At Gaddum, we believe that by supporting individuals, we ultimately help support entire communities.

Our aim is to empower and enhance the lives of people in Greater Manchester.

We currently work in four Greater Manchester authorities, Manchester, Rochdale, Salford and Stockport.

Role Purpose

The role of the Outreach & Development Worker is to ensure carers of all ages and backgrounds are aware of their rights and know how to receive support from Gaddum and other services they need at the right time for them.

The job holder will provide outreach & support sessions, deliver groups and events for carers and other relevant partners across Salford. Creating exciting new opportunities for carers through networking and building partnerships.

The role will focus on the outreach provision, being based in different locations across Salford including hospitals, community venues, mental health settings and others accessed by people with caring responsibilities. The role will include supporting the continued development of the service, assisting with the creation of resources and training. The role will also support our involvement offer; ensuring carers are at the forefront of service change and service delivery.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

· Facilitate carers drop-ins in venues across Salford, including but not limited to hospital sites (both on wards and public areas), community venues (such as Gateways) and high footfall locations.

· Provide one-off, solution-focussed appointments to address the immediate needs of carers identified in the community or at the point of referral.

· Create networking opportunities throughout all wards of Salford to publicise the service and build/ maintain relevant partnerships.

· Complete Statutory Carers Assessments.

· To be able to travel to various locations in Salford, at times multiple locations per day – often carrying service promotional materials. Salford is a large city covering 37 sq. miles.

· Create and run exciting events and support groups for carers, organisations and stakeholders to attend.

· Create and deliver service presentations aimed at carers, to communicate the support and opportunities available from the service.

· Create and deliver service presentations aimed at community groups, educational bodies and organisations to raise awareness of how to identify and support carers, and to increase the visibility of the service.

· Develop ways to identify carers across Salford and let them know about support available to them and their needs.

· Invite Carers to be involved with the service and help us to coproduce/ codesign our service offer.

· Get to know Salford’s diverse communities and organisations, providing culturally appropriate information and support.

· Promote Carers Rights to carers, Salford’s communities and relevant organisations.

· Maintain a clear record of work completed by note taking and recording on our recording system.

· To meet regularly with line manager for supervision.

All staff are expected to work within all Gaddum policies and procedures. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

Senior Residential Care Worker

Location: Worksop, Nottinghamshire
Salary: £33,273.24 to £43,797.00 (includes payment for 2 sleep-ins per week, dependent on experience and based on either our 39-hour or 45-hour contract options)

About Us

For over 110 years, The Caldecott Foundation has been helping children build a future. We provide homes, schools and therapeutic services for children and young people who have experienced trauma, adversity and disrupted relationships.

We focus on creating safe, nurturing and playful environments where young people can develop life skills, grow in confidence, enjoy new opportunities and feel a genuine sense of belonging.

About the Role

As a Senior Residential Care Worker, you will play a key role in supporting the day-to-day running of the home. You’ll lead by example, guide the team, and help ensure high standards of care, safety and support for children and young people.

You will work closely with the Registered Manager and Deputy Registered Manager, contributing to assessments, care planning and the delivery of consistent, high-quality support across the home.

This role includes working a rota and participating in sleep-in duties.

What Kind of Person We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who is confident, compassionate and committed to helping young people feel safe, understood and supported.

You’ll be able to:

• Lead and support colleagues as part of a collaborative team
• Build trusting, positive relationships with young people
• Stay calm, reflective and grounded in challenging situations
• Guide others in trauma-informed practice and child-centred care
• Communicate clearly and contribute to reports, records and assessments
• Meet the practical demands of the role, including working a rota and participating in sleep-ins
• Drive Foundation vehicles to transport young people to activities and appointments

Key Responsibilities

As a Senior Residential Care Worker, you will:

• Support the Registered Manager and Deputies with the day-to-day running of the home
• Lead and guide the staff team to maintain high standards of care and safeguarding
• Contribute to assessments, care planning and reviewing young people’s needs
• Provide consistent support to young people during times of stress or crisis
• Maintain a safe, nurturing and positive home environment
• Ensure young people are informed, involved and supported in planning their lives
• Communicate effectively with families, colleagues and external professionals

Essential Experience & Qualifications

You will need to have:

• A Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent)
• Proven experience working in a children’s residential setting
• Experience leading or supporting groups of children or young people
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• An understanding of trauma and the impact it can have on behaviour
• A commitment to inclusive, child-centred practice
• A full driving licence

What We Can Give You

• 28 days’ holiday (including bank holidays), rising to 30 days after 3 years
• Career development, including funded qualifications up to master’s level
• Health cashback scheme (covering you and up to four children)
• Pension scheme with up to 5% employer contributions
• Wellbeing support through our Employee Assistance Programme
• Access to retail, food and entertainment discounts
• Cycle-to-work scheme and will writing service

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team where everyone feels valued, respected and able to be themselves. The children and young people we support come from many different backgrounds, and we believe our workforce should reflect and celebrate that diversity. We welcome applications from people of all ages, backgrounds and lived experiences who share our commitment to helping children build brighter futures.

Sound Like a Match?

If you’re ready to lead by example, support young people through both challenge and achievement, and help create a safe and nurturing home environment, we’d love to hear from you.

Please click apply to be redirected to our website.

Please note: The Caldecott Foundation is committed to safeguarding children. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check in line with safer recruitment guidelines.

37.5 hours per week / permanent / working onsite on a seven-day rolling rota, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

At YMCA DownsLink Group, our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

Our Eastbourne and Hailsham services provide 24-hour supported housing for young people aged 16–25, offering low to medium levels of housing-related support. Eastbourne Foyer houses 34 young people, while our two Hailsham properties houses 10 young people, all with shared communal facilities. Across all three sites, we support residents to develop the skills needed for independent living. This includes managing finances and budgeting, building life and work skills, and maintaining personal self-care.

Our staff take a trauma-informed and psychologically informed approach, supporting residents to build essential life skills, identify personal goals, and work towards their aspirations so they can move on to independent and fulfilling futures. Our dedicated team of Support Workers, Night Workers, and Bank Workers provide personalised guidance, practical assistance, and signposting in key areas including housing, budgeting, daily living skills, employment, and healthy relationship building.

We are looking for a Supported Housing Support Worker to join our team at Eastbourne Foyer, with the expectation of working from our other sites in Hailsham when required. You will hold a caseload of residents and carry out regular key work sessions with them each week. Through these sessions, you will work together to develop personalised support plans, track progress, and help residents achieve their goals.

Main areas of responsibilities are:

Housing:

• Coach young people to manage their occupancy agreement and adhere to house rules, in preparation for independent living
• Promote a credit culture, encouraging young people to keep up to date with all payments for rent
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of housing and welfare benefits for young people and be well-informed on significant changes to housing law
• Deal effectively with non-compliance issues, such as non-payment of rent or damage to room, using restorative practices and working collaboratively with the rest of the team

Coaching and Engagement:

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

General:

• Work as part of a team, on a rota shift pattern, ensuring young people at the service have non-judgemental, objective, and supportive staff during the day/evening, along with taking responsibility for personal safety during periods of lone working
• Contribute to a great working environment, with a calm, yet assertive manner, being able to handle potentially difficult situations
• Participate in relevant continuing professional development and utilise Reflective Practice Supervision as part of leading psychologically informed practice

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

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

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

Experience and Knowledge:

• Experience relating to housing, support work, and/or working with young people at risk
• Experience of working proactively with a caseload of young people with multiple and complex needs to enable them to achieve independent living
• Knowledge of statutory and voluntary resources available to young people with multiple and complex needs
• Knowledge of good safeguarding procedures in relation to young people and the ability to maintain effective professional boundaries
• Demonstrated confidence and competence in recording notes/actions in service log, incident forms and health and safety check lists

Skills and Abilities: 

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

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 4 January 2026 at midnight. 

Please note that we are unable to offer a work permit or visa sponsorship for this role; applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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

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

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

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

Are you looking for a rewarding job with flexibility to work around your commitments, whilst making positive changes in young people’s lives?

You will be offered available shifts (day, evening, night, weekends and bank holidays) in advance and at short notice – you choose which ones you want to work.

At YMCA DownsLink Group, our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be. We do this by providing a safe home, building life skills and self-confidence, and supporting emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections - guide and shape how we show up for children and young people we support and for each other.

We are looking for Bank Supported Housing Support Workers to join our Brighton and Hove services. Gareth Stacey House and Lansworth House are our 24-hour supported housing services in central Brighton and Hove offering high levels of housing-related support for young people aged 16-25. The services have up to 20 bedspaces, with shared communal facilities; the services support young people to manage their daily living activities in areas including finances and budgeting, developing life and work skills, and managing self-care.

We adopt a trauma informed and psychologically informed approach to supporting our residents to help them build essential life skills, identify their goals and support residents into independent accommodation. We have a dedicated team of Support Workers, Night Workers and additional Bank Workers who provide support, guidance, and signposting around areas such as housing, budgeting, living skills, jobs and relationship building

Our Bank Support Worker roles are similar to our Support Workers roles, but they work on a more flexible, temporary basis – they are great way into the organisation and can be a stepping stone into other roles. 

In this rewarding role you will work proactively and creatively alongside young people providing support, guidance, and signposting around areas such as housing, budgeting, living skills, jobs and relationship building. You will contribute to the smooth and safe running of the services by providing consistency and reliability.

You will ideally have experience of working with a similar client group and a good understanding of the key risks, challenges and opportunities for young people.

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

Please note this is a rolling advert; applications will be reviewed regularly, and suitable applicants will be invited to attend interviews on a rolling basis.

We are not able to support a work permit or offer a visa sponsorship for this role. Candidates must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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

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

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced DBS (including the Children’s and Adults’ barred lists) check, along with a reference and background check carried out by a third-party service provider.