Come volunteer as youth support worker jobs

JOB PURPOSE

To coordinate Dudley Lodge's impact reporting, fundraising support and business development activities across the organisation.

The postholder will support income generation by identifying funding opportunities, maintaining funding pipelines, coordinating fundraising activity, supporting funding applications and helping Dudley Lodge evidence and communicate the impact of its work to commissioners, funders, donors and stakeholders.

Working closely with the Head of Support Services, Head of Operations and Service Leads, the postholder will collect, collate and report impact and outcomes information, support fundraising and business development activities and contribute to the organisation's sustainability and growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Impact Reporting and Communications
• Fundraising and Income Generation
• Systems and Administration

Impact Reporting and Communications

• Coordinate systems for collecting, recording and reporting impact, outcomes and stakeholder feedback data across Dudley Lodge services.
• Work with Heads of Service and Service Leads to gather feedback, case studies, testimonials and other evidence of service delivery, outcomes and organisational impact.
• Coordinate feedback collection from service users, parents, family members, professionals, commissioners and stakeholders.
• Produce impact summaries, dashboards and data reports for internal and external audiences.
• Coordinate the development of Dudley Lodge's assessment and Support Services' annual impact reports.
• Support the development of systems to collect and report information relating to longer-term outcomes for families.
• Ensure impact information is accurate, accessible and available to support reporting, funding applications and service development activities.
• Support the preparation of commissioner updates, funder reports, stakeholder briefings and annual impact publications.
• Gather, collate and present information, data, case studies and outcomes to support organisational reporting and stakeholder communications.
• Prepare draft reports, updates and communications for review by Heads of Service and Service Leads.
• Coordinate the production and distribution of approved reports, updates and communications.
• Support the dissemination of impact reports, funding updates and organisational achievements.
• Maintain records of stakeholder communications, reporting requirements and submission deadlines.

Fundraising and Income Generation

• Support the organisation to achieve fundraising and income generation targets.
• Research and monitor trusts, foundations, corporate, statutory and tender opportunities, maintaining accurate records of prospective funders, deadlines and reporting requirements.
• Maintain an up-to-date funding pipeline and funding calendar.
• Gather and coordinate evidence, data and supporting information required for grant applications, tenders, expressions of interest and funding reports.
• Assist with the preparation and submission of funding applications and tender responses.
• Coordinate fundraising appeals and donor engagement activities.
• Draft and distribute appeal letters, donor updates and stewardship communications.
• Support funder reporting and grant monitoring requirements.
• Monitor emerging funding opportunities and sector developments and share opportunities with relevant managers.

Systems and Administration

• Maintain accurate fundraising, impact and stakeholder engagement records.
• Support the development and maintenance of databases and reporting systems.
• Coordinate surveys, consultations and feedback exercises.
• Produce regular reports to support management, governance and business development activities.
• Ensure information is recorded, stored and managed in accordance with GDPR and organisational policies.
• Identify opportunities to improve systems, processes and efficiency across impact data collection and reporting, fundraising and stakeholder reporting activities.
• Undertake any other duties appropriate to the grade and purpose of the role, as reasonably required by the Line Manager or to meet the needs of the organisation.

Title of post to which this job reports:

Head of Support Services

Special Conditions:

All staff are expected to work in a flexible way to cope with the needs, demands and requirements of the Centres. This may mean attending or working from either centres, Coventry, Birmingham.

Dudley Lodge operates a non-smoking policy for staff.

Observance of the Centre’s Equal Opportunities Policy will be required, and to work at all times in accordance with all the Centre’s policies and procedures.

Failure by a member of staff to report actual or suspected physical or sexual abuse of a child by another member of a staff or other person having contact with the child may constitute a disciplinary offence.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Waking Nights Recovery Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex Needs Service in Tower Hamlets, Huddlestone.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

As a Waking Nights Recovery Worker, you will provide person-centred support to adults with complex mental health needs during overnight hours, ensuring their safety, wellbeing, and recovery. You will monitor the security of the building, conduct health and safety checks, respond to crises, support individuals through mental health relapses, and work collaboratively to develop and review support, safety, and risk management plans. The role also includes housing management duties, record keeping, and promoting positive outcomes that enable service users to live more independently.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

We are looking for candidates with experience supporting people with mental health and complex needs, ideally including substance misuse. You will have a good understanding of recovery-focused support, strong communication and record-keeping skills, and the ability to build positive relationships with service users in challenging situations. Competence in using IT systems, knowledge of relevant legislation and safeguarding practices, and the flexibility to work waking night shifts, weekends, and bank holidays are essential.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Recovery Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex Needs Service in Notting Hill.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

This role provides person centred support to service users, focusing on increasing independence, maintaining accommodation, and improving quality of life.

Responsibilities include creating and reviewing SMART support plans, delivering home or community based support, facilitating access to medical and community services, and minimizing hospital admissions for mental health. The role also involves working with external agencies, developing interventions for hard-to-engage users, and promoting ongoing engagement with support networks.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

Experience supporting people with ill mental health in a community based setting is key along with knowledge of the relevant mental health acts and legislations. it would also be beneficial to have strong IT skills and knowledge of safeguarding, recovery approach, and the benefits system.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

Volunteering Matters   

Who we are 
At Volunteering Matters, we believe people have the power to create change. Whether through volunteering by helping others and giving time, or through social action such as speaking up, campaigning, or leading change, everyone can make a difference. We bring people together to build stronger communities across England, Scotland and Wales, making sure everyone has the chance to get involved and create real change. 

Creating stronger communities through the power of volunteering 

Volunteering Matters is a nationwide charity that exists to create stronger communities through the power of volunteering. We work with local partners to develop impactful programmes that support individuals and communities across the UK.

Since 1962, we’ve used our influence to champion volunteering as a powerful tool to build a thriving, resilient society. Our projects are co-created with the people and communities we work alongside: an approach that encourages our participants to become future volunteers and leaders, not just beneficiaries. 

We understand the pressures of day-to-day life and create flexible, inclusive opportunities for people at all stages of life. And beyond delivering projects on the ground, we use our voice to shape policy and practice – ensuring volunteering stays recognised, supported and sustainable for generations to come. 

What we do 
We help people of all ages and backgrounds get involved in volunteering and social action. We focus on making sure that everyone, no matter their situation, has the chance to take part. We work with local people. 

How we do this 

We support people to share their time and skills to help others and tackle big challenges in their communities. 

• We remove barriers to volunteering and social action, making it easier for people who don’t always get the chance to take part. 

• We listen to and amplify voices that aren’t always heard, helping volunteers and communities influence change. 

• We help volunteers beyond their first experience, offering training, support, and pathways to new opportunities. 

• We connect businesses with communities, creating meaningful employee volunteering projects. 

• We show the impact of volunteering and social action, proving how it changes lives for the better. 

  Our promise to volunteers 

We are always looking for new ways for volunteers to make a difference. We bring people together across generations and backgrounds to learn from each other and create change. At the same time, we make sure that all our volunteers are trained, supported, and valued, so they feel confident in what they do. 

It’s a brilliant time to join us. We’re evolving, growing our impact, and shaping a future where everyone can take part and feel they belong.  

Role Description 

Volunteering Matters Brighter Futures CEC works with pupils (aged 12-18) who are care experienced or on the edge of care across the City of Edinburgh.

The project has two parts, one is to work one to one with the young people referred to the project, supporting them to experience a volunteering placement with local charitable organisations that will build their confidence and allow them to grow and learn new things in a different environment out with school.  

The second part is our group work, the Youth Engagement Manager will be responsible for up to 7 small groups within schools across Edinburgh.The Youth Engagement Manager supports the young people engaged in the groups to develop and deliver a Youth Social Action project within their community.

We’re looking for a patient and engaging Youth Engagement Manager to join the Brighter Futures team in Edinburgh.   The right candidate would be someone who can work flexibly and demonstrate an understanding and total commitment to our organisational values and strategy.  
   
 Due to the nature of this role and the needs of the young people we support, including the requirement to provide appropriate support and engagement for young males with complex experiences, there is a genuine occupational requirement for the postholder to be male under Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010.
Key Duties & Responsibilities   

• To build relationships with the young people, acting in a non-judgemental way to support them through their Brighter Futures journey.  

• Consistently role modelling and displaying Volunteering Matters organisational values   

• Deliver and develop the Brighter Futures Schools programme across the City of Edinburgh, meeting ambitious targets and milestones, ensuring all young people engaged achieve positive outcomes  

Develop and deliver our Social Action group work project in different schools across Edinburgh. 

• Work alongside staff form residential units, parents and carers to help support building a relationship with the young people referred to our one-to-one work  

• Build relationships with different high schools across area through both our group work and one to one program.

• To maintain excellent relationships with charity and not-for-profit partners in Edinburgh - ensuring diverse, high quality volunteer roles are available that reflect the needs and interests of young people. 

• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders including colleagues, volunteers, families, school staff, social work, NHS, Education partners, third sector organisations and others.  

• Support the young people to complete awards and qualifications linked to their volunteering. 

• To manage all elements of a young persons experience, from referral to completion of their journey   

• To manage the risk assessment, safeguarding, quality assurance and audit processes as appropriate   

• Ensure monitoring, impact and evaluation information is collected and that Brighter Futures meets it’s agreed targets, reporting format and schedule.  

• Assist the Senior Project Manager by preparing Impact Reports   

• Administration tasks including maintaining effective and accessible records, the use of Microsoft Office, Teams, Zoom and other software such as Canva

• This job description is intended to include the broad range of responsibilities and requirements of the post. It is neither exhaustive nor exclusive but while some variations will be expected, these will be at an appropriate level for the role.  

Skills / Knowledge Required   

• Excellent knowledge & understanding of the life challenges and issues that young people face in Scottish society including an understanding of “The Promise” as well as understanding of trauma informed practice.  

• Experience delivering a youth work approach to young people who challenge. 

•  An understanding of how to assess the needs of an individual using a person-centred approach  

•  Excellent written and verbal communication skills including being able to have strategic conversations with partners and stakeholders one minute and talk to an anxious or unsure young people the next.  

• Excellent organisational skills including strong attention to detail, the ability to manage a busy workload, and prioritise effectively   

• Excellent IT skills including the use of Office 365, Microsoft Teams and other software packages including a CRM. 

• Ability to think on your feet, act quickly and respond to situations as well as demonstrate common sense and initiative.   

• The post holder should be non-judgemental, competent, conscientious and self-aware.   

• Ability to develop and sustain relationships with a wide range of people.  

Experience Required   

• Significant experience working directly with young people, specifically those who are care experienced or who face life challenges   

• Experience of youth work in a group setting 

• Experience in all aspects of effective Volunteer Management (recruitment, training, support)   

• Experience developing strong working relationships, with a range of internal and external stakeholders   

• Experience of project management, achieving goals, managing a busy workload and working to deadlines  

• Experience of measuring the impact of mentoring/volunteering, and understanding the results   

• Understanding of and full commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion   
   

Qualifications Required    

Relevant experience and values alignment is more important for this role than specific qualifications 

Location 

This role is based in Edinburgh, a large part of your hours will require you to work within the community and schools, for the other hours you will have the opportunity to work from home. The postholder will require good internet access to enable remote working, and a suitable home office space. I.T. equipment and infrastructure will be supplied. 

PVG  

This role requires membership of the PVG (Protection of Vulnerable Groups) scheme. We will support you to become a PVG member if you are not already. Having a conviction will not necessarily cause a bar to employment.  

Our Values & Way of Working 

In all that we are guided by our values: Empowering, Inclusive, Compassionate, Positive & Straightforward.  

 Diversity & Inclusion   

Volunteering Matters welcomes all applicants and are keen to ensure our team reflects the diversity of the UK and the communities we serve. We encourage applications from disabled, LGBT and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, along with candidates with any protected characteristics and from disadvantaged groups.   

Disability Confident & Reasonable Adjustments 

We guarantee to interview anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the role. Please provide evidence in your application, which demonstrates that you meet the level of competence required in the Job Description under skill and experience. To be considered for a guaranteed interview or to discuss any reasonable adjustments during the process, please state this in your cover letter.  

 Benefits   

Our employee benefits reflect our culture which is built on an approach of full flexibility with accountability, and designed to let you make your most positive contribution; we offer: 

• Flexible Working by Default (re hours & place of work)  

• Unlimited Annual Leave  

• Employee Pension scheme  

• Life Assurance  

• Cycle to Work Scheme  

• Season Ticket Loan  

• Employee Assistance Programme  

• Enhanced sick and family leave.   

• Lifestyle Discount Scheme   

We are also open to discussing job share applications.   

 GDPR Statement   

If you apply for a role with us, we will retain your contact details including your name, address, email address and phone number to help us manage your application for up to six months.  We will not use your personal data for any other purpose or share it with any third party. You can contact us at any point to update your personal information or ask us to delete it from our records.    

Policy on AI-Generated Applications  

Applications are accepted on trust, and we expect all submissions to reflect the applicant’s own words, experiences, and motivations. While tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) may support the application process, applications should not be generated wholly by AI. 

To Apply   

Please send an updated, complete CV and cover letter via the Charity Job Apply button above. In your application clearly state which role you are applying for. In the cover letter please demonstrate how you would fulfil the role requirements, what previous relevant achievements you have (both in life and at work), what skills & experience you can offer, and what you believe you can contribute to Volunteering Matters.   

We welcome applications from everyone, but please note that if we receive an extremely large number of responses, we may close this advert early to fully consider applications. We encourage you to apply promptly so you don’t miss the opportunity to join our community. 

Right to Work in the UK 
Please note that while we hold a license to sponsor employees on a skilled worker visa, the number of applications we can make each year is very limited. Unfortunately, this role does not meet the criteria for sponsorship, therefore, you must already have the right to work in the UK to be considered for this position. 

If you have any questions about current vacancies, the recruitment process, or need support, our team is here to help.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Support Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex needs Service in Croydon.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

Empower a caseload of service users to manage their health and wellbeing. As part of a team, you will support a staffing rota offering support to service users between the hours of 8am-10pm Mon-Sun each week. In collaboration with your team, you will actively monitor wellbeing, mental health, housing and living environment to ensure service users journey into independence. Moreover, you will take a solution focused and co-produced approach to supporting service users with their move-on into independent living.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

You will have experience working with people with mental health and/or dual diagnosis needs, gained through paid or voluntary roles. You will be able to learn quickly, gather and assess information, and make sound decisions while accurately recording and sharing information in line with confidentiality requirements. You will be confident supporting individuals who may display challenging behaviour, using a calm, non-judgemental and solution-focused approach to de-escalate difficult situations and work collaboratively towards positive outcomes. The role requires resilience and optimism, with a strong belief in people's capacity for change, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and sometimes pressured environment. A sound understanding of safeguarding is essential, along with the ability to respond appropriately to concerns. You must also be flexible and willing to work unsociable hours, including early and late shifts and occasional weekends as part of a team rota.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Senior Recovery Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex Needs Service in Hammersmith and Fulham.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

This role is responsible for empowering a caseload of clients to maintain their wellbeing, independence, and tenancy, while supporting them to achieve personal goals and aspirations. You will co-produce support and recovery plans, facilitate group activities and peer networks, and engage with community professionals to ensure holistic support. The role involves monitoring health, safety, and security, managing referrals, assessments, and reviews, and maintaining accurate records in line with policy. You will also support the manager with housing management tasks including rent collection, arrears, voids, repairs, and budgets, ensuring properties are safe, services run effectively, and contractual obligations are consistently met.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

Here's what the team will be looking for

The ideal candidate will have experience supporting people with mental health needs and working with criminal justice services, with an understanding of relevant regulatory frameworks. They should have a good knowledge of health and safety within accommodation-based services and be able to monitor and maintain safety, security, and maintenance needs.

Basic housing management knowledge, including maintenance and repairs, is required, along with strong literacy, numeracy, and IT skills to produce clear written communication and records. A sound understanding of safeguarding issues and the ability to respond appropriately is essential.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Support Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex Needs Service in Tower Hamlets.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

As a Support Worker, you will provide person-centred support to individuals with mental health and complex needs, empowering them to progress on their recovery journey and develop the skills needed for independent living. Working as part of a dedicated team, you will build positive relationships with service users, carry out assessments and reviews, promote wellbeing and recovery, and work collaboratively with healthcare professionals and partner agencies to deliver high-quality, flexible support tailored to individual needs.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

The ideal candidate will have experience supporting individuals with mental health and/or complex needs and a good understanding of recovery-focused approaches and safeguarding principles. They will possess strong communication and IT skills, the ability to work independently and as part of a team, and experience working collaboratively with healthcare and other statutory services. Flexibility to work shifts, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays, is essential.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

Job Title:  Ipswich Project Manager: Social Action

Location: Ipswich. Homebased with travel across Suffolk 

Contract Type:  6 months Fixed Term 

Hours: 17.5 hours per week (0.5 FTE) 

Salary: £17,000 pa (£30,000 FTE  pro rata) 

DBS/PVG: DBS Basic 

Job Family: 3    

Volunteering Matters   

Who we are 
At Volunteering Matters, we believe people have the power to create change. Whether through volunteering by helping others and giving time, or through social action such as speaking up, campaigning, or leading change, everyone can make a difference. We bring people together to build stronger communities across England, Scotland and Wales, making sure everyone has the chance to get involved and create real change. 

Creating stronger communities through the power of volunteering 

Volunteering Matters is a nationwide charity that exists to create stronger communities through the power of volunteering. We work with local partners to develop impactful programmes that support individuals and communities across the UK. 

Since 1962, we’ve used our influence to champion volunteering as a powerful tool to build a thriving, resilient society. Our projects are co-created with the people and communities we work alongside: an approach that encourages our participants to become future volunteers and leaders, not just beneficiaries. 

 We understand the pressures of day-to-day life and create flexible, inclusive opportunities for people at all stages of life. And beyond delivering projects on the ground, we use our voice to shape policy and practice – ensuring volunteering stays recognised, supported and sustainable for generations to come. 

What we do 
We help people of all ages and backgrounds get involved in volunteering and social action. We focus on making sure that everyone, no matter their situation, has the chance to take part. We work with local people.

How we do this 

We support people to share their time and skills to help others and tackle big challenges in their communities. 

• We remove barriers to volunteering and social action, making it easier for people who don’t always get the chance to take part. 

• We listen to and amplify voices that aren’t always heard, helping volunteers and communities influence change. 

• We help volunteers beyond their first experience, offering training, support, and pathways to new opportunities. 

• We connect businesses with communities, creating meaningful employee volunteering projects. 

• We show the impact of volunteering and social action, proving how it changes lives for the better. 

Our promise to volunteers 

We are always looking for new ways for volunteers to make a difference. We bring people together across generations and backgrounds to learn from each other and create change. At the same time, we make sure that all our volunteers are trained, supported, and valued, so they feel confident in what they do. 

It’s a brilliant time to join us. We’re evolving, growing our impact, and shaping a future where everyone can take part and feel they belong.  

Job purpose:

The Ipswich Project Manager is the primary people and operational leader for delivery staff within the Ipswich Social Action team, part of the wider social action portfolio at Volunteering Matters. The role is responsible for ensuring the safe, compliant, and high-quality delivery of social action programmes in the Ipswich area that enable individuals and communities to speak up, influence change, and take collective action on issues that matter to them. 

This is a time limited role with a strong emphasis on establishing new project delivery and maintaining and developing existing delivery and practice within the team. This will involve building a clear understanding of new and existing delivery models, supporting the integration of staff and projects into the new programme delivery, and identifying risks, gaps, and opportunities to develop further prospective delivery going forward. A key part of the role will be identifying opportunities to integrate all local activity into the#iwill Movement Town of Social Action work, and maximising opportunities to develop social action across all age groups. The postholder will also work closely with local funders and delivery partners to ensure they are fully engaged and involved in local program planning and delivery.

The role does not hold direct budget responsibility or lead a single programme. Instead, it provides strong people management, operational oversight, task management, and compliance leadership, alongside generating insight and recommendations to shape the future development of social action across the Town of Social Action.  

Our Values & Way of Working 

In all that we are guided by our values: Empowering, Inclusive, Compassionate, Positive & Straightforward.  

Diversity & Inclusion   

Volunteering Matters welcomes all applicants and are keen to ensure our team reflects the diversity of the UK and the communities we serve. We encourage applications from disabled, LGBT and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, along with candidates with any protected characteristics and from disadvantaged groups.   

Disability Confident & Reasonable Adjustments 

We guarantee to interview anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the role. Please provide evidence in your application, which demonstrates that you meet the level of competence required in the Job Description under skill and experience. To be considered for a guaranteed interview or to discuss any reasonable adjustments during the process, please state this in your cover letter.  

 Benefits   

Our employee benefits reflect our culture which is built on an approach of full flexibility with accountability, and designed to let you make your most positive contribution; we offer: 

• Flexible Working by Default (re hours & place of work)  

• Unlimited Annual Leave  

• Employee Pension scheme  

• Life Assurance  

• Cycle to Work Scheme  

• Season Ticket Loan  

• Employee Assistance Programme  

• Enhanced sick and family leave.   

• Lifestyle Discount Scheme   

We are also open to discussing job share applications.  

GDPR Statement   

If you apply for a role with us, we will retain your contact details including your name, address, email address and phone number to help us manage your application for up to six months.  We will not use your personal data for any other purpose or share it with any third party. You can contact us at any point to update your personal information or ask us to delete it from our records.     

Policy on AI-Generated Applications  

Applications are accepted on trust, and we expect all submissions to reflect the applicant’s own words, experiences, and motivations. While tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) may support the application process, applications should not be generated wholly by AI.  

 To Apply   

Please send an updated, complete CV and cover letter via the Charity Job Apply button above. In your application clearly state which role you are applying for. In the cover letter please demonstrate how you would fulfil the role requirements, what previous relevant achievements you have (both in life and at work), what skills & experience you can offer, and what you believe you can contribute to Volunteering Matters.   

We welcome applications from everyone, but please note that if we receive an extremely large number of responses, we may close this advert early to fully consider applications. We encourage you to apply promptly so you don’t miss the opportunity to join our community.   

Right to Work in the UK 
Please note that while we hold a license to sponsor employees on a skilled worker visa, the number of applications we can make each year is very limited. Unfortunately, this role does not meet the criteria for sponsorship, therefore, you must already have the right to work in the UK to be considered for this position. 

If you have any questions about current vacancies, the recruitment process, or need support, our team is here to help. You can contact us directly by emailing and a member of the team will get back to you as soon as possible. 

We are Hestia. We make a difference.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Support Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex Needs Team in Kingston.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

As a Support Worker, you will provide person-centred support to individuals with mental health and complex needs, helping them to build independence, maintain their wellbeing and achieve their personal goals. You will work closely with service users and partner agencies to develop and review support plans, promote community engagement, support access to health, education and employment opportunities, and ensure accurate record keeping while contributing to a safe and positive environment.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

Essential: Experience of supporting people with a range of needs, strong communication and relationship-building skills, the ability to undertake support planning and risk assessments, good IT skills for maintaining accurate records, and a sound understanding of safeguarding and promoting independence.

Desirable: Knowledge of mental health, dual diagnosis and substance misuse services, understanding of welfare benefits and housing legislation, experience working with external agencies, and a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Senior Recovery Worker to play a pivotal role in our Hounslow Safe Space, Mental Health Crisis Alternative Service. 

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

In this role, you will take a leading position within a dynamic mental health crisis and early‑intervention service, managing a diverse caseload while providing skilled de‑escalation, robust risk assessment and coordinated multi‑agency support. You will guide and empower service users to engage with community services, while also offering day‑to‑day leadership to Recovery Workers, Peer Support Workers and volunteers, ensuring consistent, high‑quality practice. Acting as shift lead when required, you will make informed, real‑time decisions to maintain safe and effective service delivery. A key part of the role involves supporting student placements, contributing to learning plans and offering reflective supervision. You will work closely with the Service Manager and Area Manager to monitor performance, contribute to audits and quality reviews, and drive ongoing service development. You will also play an active role in recruitment, onboarding and volunteer integration, and represent the service in partnership forums, strengthening pathways with local crisis teams and community organisations to ensure continuity of care and smooth transitions for service users.

Please notes this role required you to work from 2pm - 10pm, including weekends and bank holidays. 

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

You'll bring solid experience supporting people with mental health difficulties, dual diagnosis, and complex needs, along with the confidence to manage complex cases and work collaboratively with a range of services to keep people safe. You'll be someone who has supported or guided colleagues, peer workers, or students, and who's comfortable contributing to co‑produced activities and working in fast‑paced, crisis‑focused environments. A strong grounding in mental health, trauma‑informed practice, and the realities faced by people accessing crisis and community services is essential, as is a working knowledge of key legislation and safeguarding responsibilities. You'll also bring a deep belief in recovery, strengths‑based practice, and partnership working, alongside clear, adaptable communication that helps you connect with service users, professionals, and the wider community.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested

Documents

Housing Management Worker

You will be joining a very tight-knit and supportive team that works tirelessly to ensure some of the most vulnerable individuals in the borough are well-cared for.

Location: Lambeth - Lambeth YP Assessment Time Out

Salary: £29,336 per annum

Closing Date: 05 July, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

Make a real difference as a Housing Management Worker at our service in Lambeth. You’ll take the lead in managing safe, high-quality accommodation for young people at risk of homelessness—driving standards across repairs, voids, rent collection, and compliance while working closely with landlords, contractors, and support teams to keep services running smoothly.

We’re looking for someone with housing or supported accommodation experience who brings strong tenancy management knowledge, confidence with welfare benefits, and a proactive, solutions-focused approach. You’ll work directly with young people with complex needs, using a strengths-based, psychologically informed approach to help them sustain tenancies, reduce arrears, and build independence.

Join an inclusive, values-driven organisation where your work has real impact. With ongoing training, support, and a strong team culture, you’ll help create safe homes, empower young people, and deliver services that truly change lives.

Please note that this job opportunity is offered as a full-time (37.5 hour per week), permanent role.

KEY DELIVERABLES

• You will always ensure the safety and wellbeing of clients in the service, including using Safeguarding and emergency alert procedures as applicable.

• You will advise all prospective or new tenants/residents of their rights and responsibilities under their tenancy/license agreement.

• You will be responsible for ensuring that repairs are undertaken to a high standard, within an appropriate time frame and represent value for money.

• You will be responsible for ensuring that accommodation units are well maintained in accordance with the management agreement and for bringing them quickly into management to minimize void loss.

• You will prepare short reports on arrears, voids, and repairs for the service manager, Depaul’s central services and commissioner meetings as required.

• You will be responsible for ensuring that all common parts and grounds of Depaul managed properties are in good maintenance order and adhere to Depaul Health and Safety requirements.

• You will be responsible for maintaining Health and Safety standards in the premises and a point of information for clients regarding Health and Safety.

• You will facilitate the fair allocation of letting accommodation in accordance with Depaul’s Policy and Procedures.

• You will work with the keyworkers and clients to collect rents and service charges and hold responsibility for the accurate reporting of rental income, voids and allocations to Depaul’s finance team.

• You will liaise with local Housing Benefit Teams, Social Service Departments or other authorities regarding individual rental income claims.

• You will work proactively with keyworkers and clients to develop personal payment plans to support clients not to incur rental debt.

• You will be the first point of contact for landlord queries and contractors.

• You will support and facilitate the work of the volunteers who add value to the work that we do.

• You will contribute to making the environment a positive place to work for all staff, volunteers, and students.

• You will undertake further duties as commensurate to the role identified by your line manager.

• Demonstrate a commitment to client involvement by advocating client involvement opportunities, for example by actively promoting the Voice of Depaul to clients and attending residents meetings when appropriate.

• You will attend training as appropriate to your development to support you in your role.

• You will form an integral part of the team and as such attend team meetings when required.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR FROM YOU

When completing your application form please address all the points set out below.

• Experience of working within a supported and/or social housing setting

• An understanding and commitment to working in an assets based way

• An understanding of the needs of people experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, substance use, or leaving care.

• A knowledge and understanding of housing management

• A knowledge and understanding of welfare benefits

• Good literacy, numeracy and IT skills

• Able to demonstrate clear understanding of safeguarding requirements and procedures

• A commitment to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

• Commitment to promoting an environment which has the highest regard for the Health and Safety of others.

• Personal and professional integrity

• High level understanding of professional boundaries and ability to maintain boundaries

• Effective collaborative working

• Ability to effectively reflect on own practices for ongoing learning and development

• Respect for the values and ethos of Depaul and its founding partners.

What You’ll Receive

· Tailored training and development

· Flexible working options where suitable

· 26 days annual leave, rising with service

· Family friendly leave policies

· Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%

· Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access

· Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more

· Cash health plan for you and your family

· Death in service benefit

· Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About Depaul UK

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.

About the role

We are now seeking an experienced and compassionate People and Wellbeing Manager to join us on an interim basis and help lead us through an exciting period of organisational development.

This is a newly established role created as part of our growth journey. Historically, HR responsibilities have sat within our Operations function, but as the organisation has expanded, we recognise the need for dedicated HR leadership to strengthen our people practices, wellbeing offer, and organisational culture.

This is a hands-on role that will lead our HR, wellbeing, recruitment, learning and development, and people culture activity.

You will act as a trusted and impartial point of contact for staff, freelancers, and sessional workers while helping us embed sustainable HR systems, processes, and ways of working that will support the organisation into its next phase.

About The Music Works

The Music Works is a Gloucestershire charity that transforms young lives through music. We’re specialists in working with young people in challenging circumstances to help them reach their full potential in music, in learning and in life. We work with over 3,000 young people a year in schools and our four community studios in Gloucester, and the Forest of Dean. Our approach is youth-led, with young people involved at every stage of planning and delivery.

Please note: The deadline for this post has been brought forward to 7pm on Wednesday 1st July as we've received so many strong applications. Thank you to everyone who has applied so far. 

We are looking for a Weekenders Journey Guide to support prospective Weekend Foster Carers from their first conversations with Now Foster through to the next stages of the recruitment and assessment journey.

This is a highly relational, candidate-facing role. You will be one of the main people helping applicants understand what Weekenders is, explore whether it is right for them, stay motivated through the process, and feel supported to take the next step.

Introductory conversations (our ‘intro chats’) will be a core part of the role. You will speak with people who are curious about fostering, but who may also feel unsure, nervous or are still working out whether they can foster. Your role will be to bring warmth, clarity and momentum: helping people feel welcomed, informed and confident, while also making sure the right people progress at the right pace.

You will use Now Foster’s digital platform (a bespoke CRM system) to manage the candidate journey, track progress, record key information and help the team understand where applicants are getting stuck or moving forward. You will play an important role in making sure we are attracting the right leads, supporting them well, and learning how to improve the journey as we grow.

This role would particularly suit someone with experience of fostering or working in fostering. It could also suit someone from a related background who is deeply motivated by innovation in this area and excited by what fostering could look like if it were designed around children, carers and relationships.

You do not need to be a qualified social worker, but you do need to be emotionally mature, reflective, organised and comfortable working closely with a social work-led team. You will need to understand safeguarding, and be confident holding thoughtful conversations with prospective carers.

What You’ll Be Doing

Supporting candidates through the journey

• Acting as a consistent, warm and encouraging point of contact for prospective Weekend Foster Carers.

• Carrying out intro chats with people who have expressed interest in the Weekenders programme.

• Helping candidates understand the Weekenders programme, what the role involves, and what the journey looks like.

• Supporting candidates to reflect on whether Weekenders is right for them.

• Keeping candidates engaged, informed and motivated as they move through the process.

• Helping people overcome practical barriers where appropriate, while being honest and clear about expectations.

• Making sure candidate communication feels relational, timely and values-led.

Helping the right people progress

• Helping identify candidates who are ready to move forward, as well as those who may need more time, more information or a different route.

• Support candidates to progress, pause or close, as advised by our fostering service colleagues.

• Using strengths-based and motivational approaches to help candidates reflect on their motivations, support networks and capacity.

• Working closely with social work colleagues to escalate questions, concerns or safeguarding issues appropriately.

• Supporting candidates to prepare for training, home visits and assessment stages.

• Helping ensure the process is clear, efficient and supportive.

Supporting groups, events and community activity

• Supporting information events, training sessions and candidate-facing events.

• Co-delivering sessions with social workers and other colleagues.

• Helping create a welcoming community for people exploring Weekenders.

• Supporting socials and community-building activity for applicants and approved Weekend Foster Carers.

• Helping candidates connect with the mission and feel part of something meaningful.

Administration, data and follow-up

• Keeping candidate records, notes and next steps up to date on Now Foster’s digital platform.

• Using Google Workspace, Trello and other tools to access key documents and manage your workload. 

• Making sure no candidate falls through the cracks.

• Supporting data capture so the team can understand what is working and where candidates are getting stuck.

• Helping improve templates, messages, prompts and workflows for the candidate journey.

• Supporting home visit admin and logistics where needed.

Contributing to innovation and learning

• Gathering feedback from candidates to help improve the journey and bringing this insight from candidate conversations into team discussions.

• Helping the team understand what motivates people to become Weekend Foster Carers, what worries them, and what helps them move forward.

• Supporting testing and iteration of new candidate journey approaches.

• Helping us build a process that is warm, efficient, inclusive and effective.

• Contributing to a new model of fostering that is relational, ambitious and designed around children and young people.

You’ll Thrive in This Role If You Are

• Warm and relational – able to build trust quickly and make people feel welcome.

• Emotionally mature – able to have thoughtful conversations about motivation, care, family life and uncertainty.

• A strong communicator – clear, encouraging and confident across phone, video calls, emails and written updates.

• Motivational and strengths-based – skilled at helping people see their potential while also being honest about what fostering involves.

• Organised and proactive – able to manage a busy candidate journey, track next steps and keep people moving.

• Tech-savvy – comfortable using digital platforms, Google Workspace and Trello.

• Confident in your judgement – able to decide when someone should progress, pause or close, while knowing when to seek advice.

• Safeguarding-aware – able to recognise when something needs to be escalated and comfortable working within clear safeguarding processes.

• Reflective and curious – interested in learning what works and improving the candidate journey over time.

• Comfortable with ambiguity – happy working in a small, growing charity where things are evolving.

• Committed to better outcomes for children and young people – motivated by Now Foster’s mission and the potential of Weekenders.

Experience We’re Looking For

Fostering experience would be highly beneficial. For example, this could include experience as a foster carer, working in fostering, supporting foster carers, working with fostering services, or working in a closely related part of children’s social care.

We are also interested in people with experience in:

• Volunteer management

• Children’s social care or youth work

• Community work

• Social prescribing

• Mentoring or coaching

• Recruitment, onboarding or candidate support

• Relationship-based support roles

Most importantly, we are looking for someone who understands the importance of relationships, can guide people through a meaningful decision-making process, and is excited by the possibility of building a different kind of fostering journey.

Bonus Points For

• Lived experience of the care system or fostering.

• Experience working directly with prospective or approved foster carers.

• Experience using motivational interviewing, coaching or strengths-based approaches.

• Experience supporting people through an application, recruitment, assessment or onboarding journey.

• Experience delivering or supporting information sessions, preparation groups, training or community events.

• Experience working remotely or in a flexible, fast-moving team.

An interest in innovation, service design or changing how fostering works.
 

About Us

Now Foster is a team of innovative social workers, designers, and entrepreneurs on a mission to change fostering in the UK.

We bring together social work, service design, public sector transformation and lived experience to create better outcomes for children and young people. Our overarching vision is to transform the fostering system by bringing many more wonderful people into it as foster carers, so that children and young people have the relationships, stability and support they need to thrive.

You will be joining a small, ambitious and passionate team, alongside our trustees, freelancers and advisors, all of whom play an active part in shaping our work. We partner with local authorities and not-for-profits who share our values and are ready to embrace change. As a registered charity, everything we do is driven by purpose, not profit.

About Weekenders

Weekenders is Now Foster’s flagship programme. It pairs children and young people in foster care with inspiring adults who can offer guidance, stability and encouragement on a regular basis. It is about showing up, making a difference, and being that person a young person can count on.

The programme is growing quickly. We are scaling Weekenders across London and beyond, testing new ways to support applicants, local authorities and independent social workers, and building the operational foundations needed for long-term growth.

A core part of this growth is making sure that people who are interested in becoming Weekend Foster Carers receive the right balance of warmth, encouragement, information and challenge as they move through the journey. That is where the Journey Guide comes in.

Working Pattern and Location

This role is offered at 4 to 5 days per week, with a salary of £34,000 pro rata.

The role can be based anywhere in England, with occasional travel to our Weekender delivery areas. Our Weekenders team is currently based across London and Manchester, and our wider organisational team is based in Oxford. Most work will be home-based, but there will be some in-person meetings, events, training sessions or bi-monthly co-working days.

The role will involve some work outside standard office hours. This is likely to include:

• Around one weekend day per month, which you would take back as time off during the previous or following week.

• Some evening work, for example around one information event per month.

• Some evening intro chats with prospective foster carers, where this helps people engage with the process.

We work flexibly and will support the successful candidate to manage their time in a sustainable way.

Safeguarding

Now Foster is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

This role will involve contact with prospective carers, rather than direct work with children and young people. However, you will need to understand safeguarding, work within Now Foster’s safeguarding processes, and escalate any concerns appropriately.

This role will require an enhanced DBS check.

What’s In It For You

Joining Now Foster means being part of something different. We are small, ambitious and innovative, and you will play a key role in helping Weekenders grow.

You will be close to the people exploring whether they could become Weekend Foster Carers, and your work will directly shape whether they feel supported, confident and ready to take the next step.

You will join a supportive, collaborative and values-led team. We work hard, care deeply about what we do, and are building something bold and lasting: a new way of fostering that blends social work, design, technology and relational practice.

We will provide the tools and technology you need, cover agreed travel and expenses, and support you to work flexibly within the rhythm of the programme.

How to Apply

Please send us your CV and a short cover letter explaining:

1. Why you are interested in Now Foster and the Weekenders programme.

2. The experience you would bring in supporting, guiding or motivating people.

3. Any experience you have of fostering, working in fostering, children’s social care, community work, volunteer management or similar.

4. What excites you about innovation in fostering and what fostering could look like.

5. Your availability, including whether you are looking for 4 or 5 days per week and when you could start.

You must have the right to work in the UK.

We recognise that some candidates may use generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT, to support the preparation of their application. While this is acceptable, applications must remain an authentic reflection of your own experiences and motivations. We ask candidates to let us know if and how they used AI as part of the recruitment process.

Our Commitment to Equality

Now Foster is committed to being an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, identities and experiences.

Recruitment and selection decisions are made on the basis of fair, objective and transparent criteria. We will also make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process to ensure accessibility for all candidates.

Please Note: We are hoping to appoint as soon as possible and will close recruitment once we find the right person so candidates are advised to submit an application as soon as they are able.

Independent Living Advisor (Self-Directed Support Service)
Salary: £30,000 per annum
Hours: 35 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Location: Action on Disability, Mo Mowlam House, Clem Attlee Court, London, SW6 7BF

The Organisation

Action on Disability (AoD), founded in 1979, is one of London’s leading Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisations. As we believe in the social model of disability, our values and principles embrace inclusive and accessible ways of working both internally and in all our activities, seek the participation and contribution of our members, and encourage and respect diversity.

The organisation is a medium sized charity with a Board of Trustees (at least 75% is disabled trustees), 20 staff and a strong ad hoc staff and volunteer base including many with direct experience of disability – all of whom are passionate about removing the barriers that disabled people face.

AoD provides five key services. These are: Youth, Employment, Welfare Benefits, Independent Living and Our Place.

AoD’s Independent Living Service

The Independent Living Service (Self-Directed Support Service) is a new service that will provide support to Direct Payment users within the borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. The service will enable disabled people to have genuine choice and control over the way in which they lead their lives.The post-holder will be working alongside disabled people to enable them to have more choice and control over their care and support needs.

Purpose of Post

To work with individuals, their family and friends (where appropriate) to provide them with information, advice and assistance to enable them to access and manage a Direct Payment

(DP) and recruit and manage a Personal Assistant (PA).

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Support to individuals employing their own Personal (care) Assistant (PA) or engage an agency to deliver care and support.

1. Provide information and advice on becoming an employer and the role of the Personal Assistant.
2. Ensure that the client understands their legal obligations and responsibilities of being an employer.
3. Work with clients to: set up a profile on the Find-a-pa website, advertise and recruit a Personal Assistant, create a personalised job description and specification identify the level of experience and training requirements needed for the role.
4. Advise and help to calculate the PA’s salary and on costs (full training provided).
5. Support the client through the interview process and where necessary sit in during interviews.
6. Support individuals to reference, check legal status and where necessary DBS their support worker.
7. Support individuals to set up an induction plan for their PA and enable them to identify training needs.
8. Support the client to complete payroll and insurance documentation.
9. Work with the client to draw up a Statement of Particular (contract) for the employed PA (templates provided).
10. Encourage DP employers to take a lead in all employment issues. Information on where to seek advice e.g. ACAS, Fish and Premier Care helpline will be given and clients will be encouraged to use them.
11. Ensure that the individual has a back-up plan for emergencies.
12. Encourage DP employers to be assertive and proactive with their Personal Assistants.
13. Work with agencies to set up support for clients who may not wish to employ a PA directly.

Ongoing support to individuals in receipt of Direct Payments

1. Providing advice on employment issues.
2. Support individuals to solve practical problems e.g. lateness of staff, change of needs.
3. Support individuals to recruit again if necessary.
4. Assist individuals to re-look at budgets, training and job descriptions as they change over time.
5. Assist individuals to ensure that they continue to manage their Direct Payment or budget.
6. Support individuals to make informed choices.
7. Meet with the DP Support Group on a regular basis.
8. Assist in the development of training and other resources to support employers to manage their DP and their PA relationships.
9. Develop links and professional relationships with Social Work teams to support a healthy level of referrals.

For all work:

• Work in a person-centred way.
• Comply with AoD’s agreed policies and procedures.
• Participate in the wider development of the service and contribute to service improvement as required.
• Be computer literate and administratively self-supporting.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties as identified by the Self-Directed Support Service Lead or line manager.

Special requirements

• Ability to travel within the London borough of Hammersmith and Fulham.
• Some attendance at meetings and events outside of normal office hours will be required.

Person Specification

To be considered for this role, candidates must have:

• Good standard of education.
• Experience of recruiting volunteers or staff.
• Knowledge of employment law.
• Understanding of social care and Direct Payments legislation.
• Experience/knowledge of supporting individuals to recruit and manage employees.
• Experience of working with clients with support needs.
• Experience of using a person-centred approach.
• Ability to think creatively and to come up with solutions.
• Ability to gather and assess information efficiently.
• Numeracy skills and knowledge of budgeting.
• Ability to use Word and Excel packages to a high standard.
• Ability to work under pressure, and to tight deadlines.
• A flexible approach and able to work on own initiative
• Good communication skills including interpersonal, written, presentational and spoken.
• Ability to guide in a sensitive way
• Ability to assess and match skills and personalities to individual needs and preferences.
• Commitment to the Social Model of Disability and to promote choice, independence, rights and inclusion.
• Understanding of and commitment to the aims of the organisation.
• Excellent practical understanding of the need for confidentiality.
• An understanding of equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice

Desirable qualities

• Experience of working with disabled people
• Lived experience of disability

Closing Date: Friday 10th July 2026
N.B. we reserve the right to close this vacancy early and/or begin interviewing before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.
Early applications are therefore encouraged.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

The successful candidate will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check.

We welcome applicants from all walks of life.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we actively encourage applications from Disabled people and people with long term health and mental conditions. We operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme in that we will guarantee an interview to all Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post. Please state in a cover letter if you wish us to consider you for this guaranteed interview scheme.

AoD is a Living Wage Foundation registered employer and all of our employees, casual workers and contractors are paid above the London Living Wage.

No agencies please.