Community advocate jobs

Victim Support is recruiting for an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) to support high risk victims of domestic abuse living in Central Bedfordshire. This is a full time role on a fixed term contract for 6 months from start date, this may be extended subject to funding. Hybrid working is available for this role.

Do you want to make a difference every day? Do you want to contribute to change & improvement for those who need it?

Do you have resilience & adaptability? Can you work effectively with a focus on customer service and care?

If yes, then we'd love to hear from you…..

What we offer:

At Victim Support we believe in attracting & retaining the best people and offer a competitive rewards & benefits package including:

• Flexible working options including hybrid working
• 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays, rising to 33 days plus Bank Holidays
• An extra day off for your birthday & options to buy or sell annual leave
• Pension with 5% employer contribution
• Enhanced sick pay allowances, maternity & paternity payments
• High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment & leisure discounts
• Access to our financial wellbeing hub & salary deducted finance
• Employee assistance programme & wellbeing support
• Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes
• Cycle to work scheme & season ticket loans
• Ongoing training & support with opportunities for career development & progression

About the role:

We are looking for an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA). This is a full time role on fixed term contract for 6 months. Hybrid working would be available for this role. The aim of this role is to support victims of domestic abuse, who are deemed as at high risk, who live in Central Bedfordshire. This role will be part of our other wider specialist services covering Bedfordshire.

As an IDVA you will be:

• Providing a high quality support and advocacy service to victims of domestic abuse.
• Managing a caseload; identifying and assessing risks and needs, providing a tailored crisis intervention service trough individual safety planning, advocacy, emotional and practical support.
• Working with other agencies and advocating on behalf of service users in order to help them access services to keep them safe.
• Working within a multi-agency framework consisting of partners as well as MARAC and other local partnerships to offer a coordinated response to domestic abuse.
• Promoting the service and raise awareness of domestic abuse through the delivery of training

You will need:

• Experience of working in support and advocacy with victims of domestic abuse is advantageous
• To be able to prioritise work and deal with competing or conflicting demands/needs and interests and promote organisation interests and values.
• To ideally hold a SafeLives IDVA accreditation, relevant degree, vocational qualification or relevant experience of delivering a service and working with domestic abuse victim's/service users in a statutory, voluntary or community work setting.

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.

About Us:

Victim Support (VS) is an independent charity providing a range of specialist services to people who have been affected by crime across England and Wales. We work towards a world where there are fewer victims but who have stronger rights, better support and a real influence in the Criminal Justice System. Everyone at VS is driven by our Vision Ambitions and Values to play their part in making a difference for those who experience crime and traumatic events. Working for VS gives you the opportunity to play a key role in a national charity providing high quality services to victims and witnesses and being a vital force for change.

Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.

Victim Support strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.

As part of our commitment to the Race at Work Charter we particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.

If you have a disability, a learning difficulty such as dyslexia or a medical condition which you believe may affect your performance during any aspect of our selection process, we'll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform at your best.

How to apply:

To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website, and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria.

We looking forward to hearing from you.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date. If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.

We Are Family is hiring!

We Are Family is an extraordinary peer support community for adopters and prospective adopters. We’re there for parents throughout their adoption journey. Online and in person, our parents’ groups, events, resources, podcasts and talks offer mutual support, information and inspiration to adopters and those considering adoption. We are the leading peer support community for adopters  across Greater London and the Home Counties, and offer digital-membership nationally; we have ambitions to scale our in-person services provision significantly over the coming years. You can find out more about us here.

As Community Programme Manager, you’ll join our independent adoption support charity, oversee our volunteer, peer support and event provision.

This is an excellent opportunity for a highly organised ‘self-starting’ individual with experience of working with user-run communities. You will use your strong relationship-building skills to proactively engage WAF members and volunteers, to continue providing peer-led support and to create new opportunities for adopters to connect across the UK.

Key Details:

Role type: Permanent

Reports to: Head of Operations

Direct Reports: You will work closely in partnership with our Associates & Volunteers

Working Pattern:  2.5 days / 18.75 hours per week, including occasional evening and on-site work.

Salary: £30-35K FTE

Location: Remote / Home-working; this role can be based anywhere within the UK with periodic meetings and visits, mainly to London / South East, at least quarterly.

Perks of Working at WAF:

· Become a part of a personable, visionary team creating positive impact on a daily basis

· Flexible working

· Home Working Allowance

· Occasional in-person working in London; travel and lunch expenses covered

· Competitive salaries with room for growth

· Professional development opportunities

· Seasonal socials

ROLE DESCRIPTION:

Key responsibilities include: 

• Engagement with our Members
• Supporting our Volunteers
• Managing our Peer-led Groups and In-Person Activities
• Overseeing our Peer Support Training and Supervision
• Nurturing Partnerships
• Delivering Impact
• Contributing to Communications
• Championing our Advocacy efforts
• Collaborating with our Board and Committees

Person Specification: 

ESSENTIAL

• Demonstrable experience coordinating / managing multiple projects or programmes
• Experience of working with beneficiaries and / or volunteers
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Skills in identifying and prioritising workload with the ability to work to deadlines and budget
• Comfortable working independently, operating good judgement on when to seek guidance and support
• Strong IT and / or aptitude to learn software skills (see below)
• Resourceful and adaptable
• Empathetic and supportive
• A ‘hands-on’ and collaborative mindset

DESIRABLE

• Lived experience / interest in supporting those connected with any of the following: early trauma, adoption, the care system, advocating for people from underserved communities.
• Lived experience / interest in supporting families
• Experience of working within a peer support network
• Experience of co-producing projects with beneficiaries / volunteers
• Experience with using multiple software packages (We work across the following software – training provided as necessary: G Suite, MS Office, Zoom, Trello, WordPress, Mailchimp, Canva, Buzzsprout, Google Analytics).

To Apply:

If the opportunity to join an exciting, rapidly growing charity appeals to you as someone able to make a valuable contribution, we would love to hear from you!

Please download our full application pack for further details and instructions on how to apply.

Deadline to apply: Midnight at Sunday 23rd November 2025
Start Date: ASAP

Please note that applications are received and reviewed on an ongoing basis, therefore an early application is advised.

Further information can be found via our website.

One of the great strengths of We Are Family is that we are volunteer and member driven, and we represent a diverse community of adoptive parents. We particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to ensure that the organisation can benefit from this diversity of experience.

Communications and Community Engagement Officer

Contract: Part-time | 21 hours per week.

Salary: £20,540 per annum (Actual)

Kingston Carers' Network (KCN) is an independent charity providing information, advice, advocacy and support to unpaid carers of all ages who are caring for someone with an illness, disability or substance misuse problem.

We are looking for a dynamic and creative individual with a passion for communications and social change. We are currently supporting over 4000 carers, including over 800 young carers, who are caring for a relative or friend with a disability, illness, mental health problem or substance addiction. The successful candidate will have the ability to build and cultivate relationships with local organisations, as they will be managing our various social media channels. Recent experience of working in a communications role within the charity or public sector is essential.

Benefits include: 

• 4% matched pension contribution,
• flexible hours,
• hybrid working,
• and enrolment in the Carers Trust training programme.

This post is subject to a basic DBS check.

Closing date: 5:00 pm on Monday 3rd November 2025.

Interviews: Wednesday 12th and 19th November.

Kingston Carers’ Network, registered charity number 1151456

Job Title:                     Case Worker – CAPSA Services (Culturally Appropriate Peer Support and Advocacy)  

Reports to:                  CAPSA Team Manager

Geographic focus: Lambeth

Salary:£30,500

Hours of Work: 37.5 per week (flexible working available)

Duration:1 Year Contract (with a potential to extend)

Benefits:26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, pension contribution, Employees' Assistance Programme.

Purpose of the role

The CAPSA (Culturally Appropriate Peer Support and Advocacy) Worker role has been specifically designed to support Black people using the secondary mental health system. As a CAPSA Worker, you will provide both Generic Mental Health Advocacy and Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA) to eligible individuals, including people detained under the Mental Health Act(MHA) 1983/2007, conditionally discharged restricted patients, those under Guardianship, and those on Community Treatment orders, as well as individuals considered for section 57 treatments.

You will play a key role in ensuring that the perspectives of Black service users are recognised and respected, addressing their unique and multiple needs, and promoting access to advocacy for all eligible individuals. You will raise awareness of advocacy, rights under the MHA, and the CAPSA service among professionals, individuals, and agencies.

In addition to direct advocacy, you will contribute to service development by supporting an effective administration system and helping evaluate the impact of advocacy for both service users and commissioners.

As part of CAPSA’s race-led approach to systems change, you will also help challenge systemic racism in mental health services, embed culturally competent practice, and promote equitable care within South London and Maudsley NHS Trust (SLaM).

Job summary

Black Thrive Lambeth has developed a co-designed, culturally appropriate peer support and advocacy service (CAPSA) on behalf of the Living Well Network Alliance (LWNA). CAPSA provides support to Black community members with mental health needs through peer support and advocacy, led by individuals with lived experience or lived understanding of mental health challenges. The service creates a space where experiences are respected, accepted, and valued equally.

The role involves building positive relationships with Black service users; offering one-to-one and group advocacy; supporting self-advocacy; gathering and sharing information to inform decision-making; and preparing monitoring reports and feedback. Advocates ensure that the views, wishes, and needs of Black service users are heard and acknowledged, addressing the impact of racism within traditional mental health services.

Duties and responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

Advocacy & Support for Black Service Users

• Work with individual Black service users to provide culturally informed advocacy, support, and representation to assist them in decision-making related to their care, treatment, and legal status.
• You will manage a caseload of up to 10 clients.
• This will consist of weekly meetings with clients and supporting them around their care in the mental health system, this will be both within inpatient services and CMHTs (Community Mental Health Teams) as well as in the community.
• Support Black service users in developing and maintaining their cultural identity by identifying strengths and advocating for culturally relevant mental health interventions.
• Develop trusting relationships with Black service users within appropriate boundaries to help them express their mental health needs.
• Assist service users in preparing for meetings, attend appointments with them if required, and advocate on their behalf where needed.
• Provide information and updates on the progress of advocacy issues and ensure clients understand proceedings.

Culturally Informed Peer Support & Recovery

• Use lived experience and cultural understanding to promote positive self-esteem and recovery through a culturally informed peer support model.
• Provide practical guidance to Black service users, and where appropriate, their carers, on self-care, resilience strategies, and managing mental health within a race equality framework.
• Promote service user involvement by empowering individuals to communicate their culturally lived experiences and mental health needs to professionals.
• Challenge peer support models, stigma, and discriminatory practices that fail to recognise the cultural needs of Black service users.

Community Engagement & Stakeholder Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with key stakeholders and community members to develop a culturally informed advocacy and peer support model.
• Establish regular advocacy ‘drop-ins’ on wards and in the community, ensuring accessibility for Black service users.
• Signpost service users to culturally relevant community, inpatient, and online resources, as well as mainstream and specialist services.
• Liaise with, and when necessary, challenge NHS professionals, care teams, and local authorities to ensure due process and cultural competence in service delivery.
• To maintain a level of professionalism in all spaces always.

Role Expectations

• Maintain confidentiality, respect service users’ right to privacy, and ensure their dignity is always upheld.
• Keep accurate and timely records of advocacy and peer support work, providing regular verbal and written reports to the line manager.
• Attend team meetings, participate in one-to-one supervision, group supervision sessions, and complete mandatory training in peer support and other job-related areas.
• Raise safeguarding concerns following organisational policies and procedures.

GENERAL

• To attend and participate in meetings held by the CAPSA team and other bodies as required.
• To maintain records of hours worked and to complete accurate expense returns.
• To foster and develop an equality and diversity approach within the role, in line with Black Thrive’
• To promote the service through the distribution of publicity materials, liaising with statutory and voluntary services, and, where appropriate, through the media and presentations to local groups within the agreed company policies.
• To promote the role of advocates both within the Living Well Network Alliance (LWNA) and externally.
• To work well as part of the team in a way that promotes inclusivity and respect in a supportive environment.
• The above is not an exhaustive list of duties, and you will be expected to perform different tasks as necessitated by your changing role within the organisation and the overall business objectives of the organisation.

Qualities Required

Each quality is marked as either E (Essential) or D (Desirable).

Experience (E/D)

1. Understanding and/or experience of mental health legislation and the Mental Health journey process in numerous settings – E
2. Lived experience of racism or discrimination in wider society and in the provision of mental health services – E
3. Experience of identifying and meeting the needs of individual people – E
4. Experience and ability to develop and maintain relationships with various stakeholders – E
5. A commitment to working in an anti-racist and anti-oppressive way – E
6. Confidence in challenging stigma and discrimination within structural settings – E
7. Experience of working in an advocacy or healthcare setting – D

Knowledge and Skills (E/D)

1. Understanding and knowledge of assessment of needs – E
2. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work with people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences – E
3. Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including via telephone, in person, over video link, and through presentations, demonstrating confidence and assertiveness – E
4. Emotional resilience and the ability to cope with sometimes challenging people and environments – E
5. Ability to work flexibly to meet varying demands on the service – E
6. Good organisational skills, including timekeeping and ability to travel to different locations – E
7. Excellent computer literacy and a good working knowledge of Microsoft Office – E
8. An understanding and awareness of The Equality Act 2010 – E
9. Ability to act calmly and respond professionally to distress, disturbance, and unpredictability – E
10. Ability to work independently on own initiative and prioritise workload while working as part of a team – E
11. Commitment to learning through work-based learning and mandatory training – E
12. Knowledge of mental health legislation such as MHA 1983/2007, MCA 2017 – D
13. Understanding of the specific role, purpose, and responsibilities of an Independent Mental Health Advocate – D
14. Knowledge and/or awareness of safeguarding issues – D
15. An additional language (e.g., Portuguese, French, etc.) – D
16. Qualifications in Peer Support / Advocacy – D

We welcome applications specifically from Black people of African and Caribbean heritage, as the statutory requirement of the Equality Act 2010, Advance Equality in Mental Health 2020 and Parent Carer Race Equality Framework 2020, in order to address the importance of Black employee safety. These posts are therefore restricted to Black applicants under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9 and Part 1.

An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required. Still, we will treat applicants with a criminal record fairly and not unreasonably discriminate because of a conviction or other information revealed.

If you’re someone who can turn compassion into action through inspiring, well-run events, this is the role for you!

As Community and Corporate Events Manager, you’ll take ownership of our events calendar, designing and delivering a range of engaging, purposeful, and high-impact events that support our mission and generate essential income.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and manage fundraising events, such as sponsored sleep-outs, our flagship annual ball and community events
• Develop new event ideas that inspire community engagement and increase income
• Oversee all logistics budgets, suppliers, venues, health & safety, volunteers
• Work closely with our frontline team to ensure lived experience and service member stories are at the heart of our events
• Lead on social media and marketing for the Charity
• Promote events through our digital channels, press, and local networks
• Build relationships with local businesses, sponsors, schools, churches, and individuals to grow participation and support
• Analyse and report on event performance, learning and adapting to grow our reach
• Stakeholder relationship building – local councillors, dignitaries, politicians and key influencers

Who We're Looking For

• Proven experience managing events, ideally in a fundraising, nonprofit, or community context
• Creative, strategic, and organised, you know how to juggle multiple projects and stay on top of details
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team
• Passionate about tackling homelessness, social inequality, and supporting people in crisis
• Willing to work occasional evenings/weekends as needed for events
• Full UK driving licence and access to a reliable vehicle insured for business use.
• Ability to travel across Calderdale and occasionally further afield for events, meetings, and partnership activities.

We have an exciting opportunity for an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor covering the Tamworth Area to join the New Era team working 37.5 hours per week. The role will focus on the identifying risk and meeting the needs of those affected by domestic abuse. The role will be covering the Tamworth area but travel pan Staffordshire will be required.

Do you want to make a difference every day? Do you want to contribute to change & improvement for those who need it?

Do you have resilience & adaptability? Can you work effectively with a focus on customer service and care?

If yes, then we'd love to hear from you…

What we offer:

At Victim Support we believe in attracting & retaining the best people and offer a competitive rewards & benefits package including:

• Flexible working options including hybrid working
• 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays, rising to 33 days plus Bank Holidays
• An extra day off for your birthday & options to buy or sell annual leave
• Pension with 5% employer contribution
• Enhanced sick pay allowances, maternity & paternity payments
• High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment & leisure discounts
• Access to our financial wellbeing hub & salary deducted finance
• Employee assistance programme & wellbeing support
• Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes
• Cycle to work scheme & season ticket loans
• Ongoing training & support with opportunities for career development & progression

About the role:

This role will work across Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent, but will be based in our Stafford office. Hybrid working is considered following our mandatory six month probationary period. Travel across the whole of Staffordshire will be required.

As an IDVA you will be asked to:

• Provide a pro-active, high quality, frontline service to victims of domestic abuse through on-going risk assessment, individual safety planning, advocacy, emotional and practical support.
• Work within a multi-agency framework consisting of the MARAC and local partnership responses to domestic abuse to keep safety central to all services for victims of domestic abuse
• Promoting the service and raising awareness of issues arising, minimising barriers and improving access to support

You will need:

• Experience of providing support those affected by domestic abuse
• Experience of undertaking need and risk assessments and creating safety plans
• Experience of the MARAC and other partnership processes
• Experience of multi agency working

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.

About Us:

Victim Support (VS) is an independent charity providing a range of specialist services to people who have been affected by crime across England and Wales. We work towards a world where there are fewer victims but who have stronger rights, better support and a real influence in the Criminal Justice System. Everyone at VS is driven by our Vision Ambitions and Values to play their part in making a difference for those who experience crime and traumatic events. Working for VS gives you the opportunity to play a key role in a national charity providing high quality services to victims and witnesses and being a vital force for change.

Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.

Victim Support strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.

As part of our commitment to the Race at Work Charter we particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.

If you have a disability, a learning difficulty such as dyslexia or a medical condition which you believe may affect your performance during any aspect of our selection process, we'll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform at your best.

How to apply:

To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria.

We look forward to hearing from you.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date.

If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.

We have an exciting opportunity for an Safe Accommodation Independent Domestic Violence Advisor to join the New Era team working 37.5 hours per week. The role will focus on the identifying risk and meeting the needs of those affected by domestic abuse. The role will be Pan Staffordshire and travel across Stoke on Trent and Staffordshire is essential.

Do you want to make a difference every day? Do you want to contribute to change & improvement for those who need it?

Do you have resilience & adaptability? Can you work effectively with a focus on customer service and care?

If yes, then we'd love to hear from you…

What we offer:

At Victim Support we believe in attracting & retaining the best people and offer a competitive rewards & benefits package including:

• Flexible working options including hybrid working
• 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays, rising to 33 days plus Bank Holidays
• An extra day off for your birthday & options to buy or sell annual leave
• Pension with 5% employer contribution
• Enhanced sick pay allowances, maternity & paternity payments
• High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment & leisure discounts
• Access to our financial wellbeing hub & salary deducted finance
• Employee assistance programme & wellbeing support
• Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes
• Cycle to work scheme & season ticket loans
• Ongoing training & support with opportunities for career development & progression

About the role:

This role will work across Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent, but will be based in our Stafford office. Hybrid working is considered following our mandatory six month probationary period. Travel across the whole of Staffordshire will be required.

As an IDVA you will be asked to:

• Provide a pro-active, high quality, frontline service to victims of domestic abuse through on-going risk assessment, individual safety planning, advocacy, emotional and practical support.
• Work within a multi-agency framework consisting of the MARAC and local partnership responses to domestic abuse to keep safety central to all services for victims of domestic abuse
• Promoting the service and raising awareness of issues arising, minimising barriers and improving access to support

You will need:

• Experience of providing support those affected by domestic abuse
• Experience of undertaking need and risk assessments and creating safety plans
• Experience of the MARAC and other partnership processes
• Experience of multi agency working

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.

About Us:

Victim Support (VS) is an independent charity providing a range of specialist services to people who have been affected by crime across England and Wales. We work towards a world where there are fewer victims but who have stronger rights, better support and a real influence in the Criminal Justice System. Everyone at VS is driven by our Vision Ambitions and Values to play their part in making a difference for those who experience crime and traumatic events. Working for VS gives you the opportunity to play a key role in a national charity providing high quality services to victims and witnesses and being a vital force for change.

Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.

Victim Support strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.

As part of our commitment to the Race at Work Charter we particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.

If you have a disability, a learning difficulty such as dyslexia or a medical condition which you believe may affect your performance during any aspect of our selection process, we'll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform at your best.

How to apply:

To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria.

We look forward to hearing from you.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date.

If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.

The Hepatitis C Trust runs national projects where peers draw on their lived experience of drug use, criminal justice systems and hepatitis C to support others . We are now recruiting for a new and exciting role to join our Cardiff & Vale of Glamorgan team. 

As part of an experienced team, this role will promote hepatitis C awareness, blood borne virus testing and referral to treatment, for people living with hepatitis C. The role will support volunteer peers and increase the project’s reach to underserved communities. You’ll be providing vital harm reduction interventions including needle, syringe and naloxone provision across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.

We value creativity, innovation, and compassion. We encourage applications from people with lived experience. Full support, coaching and training will be given. 

We have an exciting opportunity for an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor covering the Stoke Area to join the New Era team working 37.5 hours per week. The role will focus on the identifying risk and meeting the needs of those affected by domestic abuse. The role will be covering the Tamworth area but travel pan Staffordshire will be required.

Do you want to make a difference every day? Do you want to contribute to change & improvement for those who need it?

Do you have resilience & adaptability? Can you work effectively with a focus on customer service and care?

If yes, then we'd love to hear from you…

What we offer:

At Victim Support we believe in attracting & retaining the best people and offer a competitive rewards & benefits package including:

• Flexible working options including hybrid working
• 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays, rising to 33 days plus Bank Holidays
• An extra day off for your birthday & options to buy or sell annual leave
• Pension with 5% employer contribution
• Enhanced sick pay allowances, maternity & paternity payments
• High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment & leisure discounts
• Access to our financial wellbeing hub & salary deducted finance
• Employee assistance programme & wellbeing support
• Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes
• Cycle to work scheme & season ticket loans
• Ongoing training & support with opportunities for career development & progression

About the role:

This role will work across Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent, but will be based in our Stafford office. Hybrid working is considered following our mandatory six month probationary period. Travel across the whole of Staffordshire will be required.

As an IDVA you will be asked to:

• Provide a pro-active, high quality, frontline service to victims of domestic abuse through on-going risk assessment, individual safety planning, advocacy, emotional and practical support.
• Work within a multi-agency framework consisting of the MARAC and local partnership responses to domestic abuse to keep safety central to all services for victims of domestic abuse
• Promoting the service and raising awareness of issues arising, minimising barriers and improving access to support

You will need:

• Experience of providing support those affected by domestic abuse
• Experience of undertaking need and risk assessments and creating safety plans
• Experience of the MARAC and other partnership processes
• Experience of multi agency working

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.

About Us:

Victim Support (VS) is an independent charity providing a range of specialist services to people who have been affected by crime across England and Wales. We work towards a world where there are fewer victims but who have stronger rights, better support and a real influence in the Criminal Justice System. Everyone at VS is driven by our Vision Ambitions and Values to play their part in making a difference for those who experience crime and traumatic events. Working for VS gives you the opportunity to play a key role in a national charity providing high quality services to victims and witnesses and being a vital force for change.

Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.

Victim Support strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.

As part of our commitment to the Race at Work Charter we particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.

If you have a disability, a learning difficulty such as dyslexia or a medical condition which you believe may affect your performance during any aspect of our selection process, we'll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform at your best.

How to apply:

To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria.

We look forward to hearing from you.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date.

If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.

CAAS is an amazing organisation, supporting ADHD and autistic individuals, their families, and the community around them.  We are in a great position, with stable funding, an experienced team of around 40 staff, and a new strategy that is inspiring and impactful.  We are looking for a kind and effective leader to join us as our next CEO, and keep CAAS thriving into the future. 

As CEO, you will have the confidence and the expertise to deliver on our vision of changing perceptions to reduce stigma and break down barriers, bringing strategic leadership experience, a high level of organisational ability, self-motivation and self-discipline. You will have a passion for extending our reach and will demonstrate experience in delivering strategy, leading effective teams and building relationships within our community. 

To apply, you need to submit a completed application form alongside a supporting statement of no more than 2 sides of A4, detailing how you meet the requirements of the role.  Deadline to apply is by 10am on Monday 17th November, but feel free to reach out to our current CEO, Kay D'Cruz, for an informal chat about the role if you'd like to find out more.

More details about the job and additional information about the person specification can be found in the job description and in our recruitment pack, but in summary the key responsibilities of the role are:

Strategic Leadership: Deliver CAAS’s strategy, fulfil our legal obligations, evaluate and improve performance, report on progress, ensure CAAS remains well positioned for the future

Operational Leadership: Ensure robust systems, processes and policies, assess and manage organisational risk, build sustainable delivery mechanisms, oversee effective digital, communications and fundraising activity, maintain our case for support and tender for and manage contracts

People & Culture: Foster positive working cultures, promote staff wellbeing, ensure staff are focussed on delivering CAAS mission, drive staff development

External Relationships: Influence and advocate for change, act as lead ambassador for CAAS with funders, professionals and other stakeholders

 We are looking for candidates who:

• Have a passion for, and commitment to, our work
• Have a track record of effective working at a senior leadership level, building supportive external relationships and driving positive internal cultures, based on compassion and a drive for excellence
• Are action-orientated, adaptable and flexible in the pursuit of impact
• Can juggle multiple and competing demands, and thrive in a busy, varied environment
• Enjoy ensuring robust governance and compliance
• Have strong written and verbal communication skills; are a persuasive and passionate communicator with excellent interpersonal skills
• Are warm, inclusive and approachable, an actively listener and neuro-affirmative

Further information is available on our website. 

We want kind and empathic people to work at Refuge, who believe in equality, diversity, and inclusion, are experts in their area of knowledge, want to make a positive difference and improve the lives of the women and children we support.

This is an opportunity to join Refuge as an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate to supporting women and children who are impacted by domestic violence. You will work closely with victims of domestic abuse from the point of crisis, to provide high quality independent advocacy and support to survivors of domestic abuse at the highest risk and their children.

As part of this role, you will be required to participate in an out-of-hours on call rota.

This post is restricted to women due to the nature of the role. The Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies.

Closing date: 9.00am on 10 November 2025

Interview date: 17 November 2025

We have an exciting opportunity for 2 x Senior Independent Domestic Violence Advocates to join the DRIVE team in London, working 37.5 hours a week.

Do you want to make a difference every day? Do you want to contribute to change & improvement for those who need it?

Do you have resilience & adaptability? Can you work effectively with a focus on customer service and care?

If yes, then we'd love to hear from you…

What we offer:

At Victim Support we believe in attracting & retaining the best people and offer a competitive rewards & benefits package including:

• Flexible working options including hybrid working
• 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays, rising to 33 days plus Bank Holidays
• An extra day off for your birthday & options to buy or sell annual leave
• Pension with 5% employer contribution
• Enhanced sick pay allowances, maternity & paternity payments
• High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment & leisure discounts
• Access to our financial wellbeing hub & salary deducted finance
• Employee assistance programme & wellbeing support
• Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes
• Cycle to work scheme & season ticket loans
• Ongoing training & support with opportunities for career development & progression

About the role:

This role is based in London with Hybrid working.

As a Senior IDVA you will be:

• The main purpose of the job is to effectively manage and develop a high quality, innovative and pro-active domestic abuse service for victims and their children, including those at highest risk. Also you will need to ensure that the service prioritises the safety, security and dignity of service users and their children.
• The job would also include you being lead in crisis situations and to provide advice and guidance on safeguarding issues and information sharing concern
• Work within a multi-agency framework consisting of the MARAC and local partnership responses to domestic abuse to keep safety central to all services for victims of domestic abuse.
• Develop your team and address their individual development/performance needs, set individual and team objectives and undertake annual appraisals.

You will need:

• To be successful in this role, you will need to have an excellent understanding of domestic abuse, including the impact on victims and their children, and the legal and practical remedies available to these clients.
• Knowledge and understanding of safeguarding practice and legislation relating to equal opportunities and diversity, inclusivity, safeguarding and risk assessments.
• Experience managing the delivery of domestic abuse services and managerial experience will also be necessary as well as having a thorough understanding of IDVA work.
• A proven ability to confidently use various IT systems including Case Management, Microsoft Office, Zoom, Outlook and other online applications/platforms.
• You would also need to hold a SafeLives IDVA training certificate, a relevant degree, a vocational qualification or have equivalent experience.
• An enhanced criminal record check and police vetting is required for this role. 

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for further details.

About Us:

Victim Support (VS) is an independent charity providing a range of specialist services to people who have been affected by crime across England and Wales. We work towards a world where there are fewer victims but who have stronger rights, better support and a real influence in the Criminal Justice System. Everyone at VS is driven by our Vision Ambitions and Values to play their part in making a difference for those who experience crime and traumatic events. Working for VS gives you the opportunity to play a key role in a national charity providing high quality services to victims and witnesses and being a vital force for change.

Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.

Victim Support strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.

As part of our commitment to the Race at Work Charter we particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.

If you have a disability, a learning difficulty such as dyslexia or a medical condition which you believe may affect your performance during any aspect of our selection process, we'll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform at your best.

How to apply:

To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria.

We look forward to hearing from you.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date.

If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.

Mind BLMK works across our communities to support positive mental health and wellbeing. Working closely with a range of partners, we offer a number of activities from our wellbeing centres and local venues to make a difference to the mental health and wellbeing of people in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes, and our aim is to make sure that no-one has to face a mental health problem alone.

Community Navigator (SPA) – Mental Health
Post no: 651
Salary: £24,667.47 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 37 hours per week, (Monday to Friday, 09.00 - 17.00)
Location: Eaglestone Health Centre, Milton Keynes

This role is an opportunity to work for Mind BLMK as part of the Milton Keynes NHS mental health service for someone with experience working in health, social care or information and advice, in direct contact with service users.

Working alongside colleagues from Central Northwest London Foundation Trust (CNWL) this role will provide referral management to and from Secondary Services. This will include signposting patients to statutory services including talking therapies and wider community based & voluntary sector support.

The role also includes answering calls through the NHS 111 Mental Health Option whereby you will be required to assess risks in real time and appropriately managing the call, escalating when necessary.

The Community Navigator will work as part of the team to deliver on the aims and objectives of the Mental Health Hub whilst representing the Voluntary and Community sector with the NHS.

Service Delivery

• Work within the NHS Mental Health SPA (Single Point of Access) Team to review and process referrals received from GP Practices and other sources including those to be subsequently triaged and assessed by mental health practitioners.
• Actively call patients with a view to assisting them through the process and making their onward appointments into community or secondary care service providers.
• Support the hub to signpost patients and direct them to appropriate services including secondary care, the local Voluntary and Community sector services and activities that support the patients’ wider determinates of their mental health and wellbeing.
• Answer calls, ensure sufficient phone cover, respond to messages/voicemails, provide administrative support to the Mental Health SPA for all services and deal with queries in a sensitive and timely way liaising with clinical or team lead as is appropriate.
• Monitor service inboxes during core office hours, responding to any queries professionally providing helpful information.
• Monitor and action tasks within SystmOne and maintain records of all activities carried out, i.e. outbound calls, calls received, archiving any received correspondence.
• Build good working relationships with the voluntary and community sector, relevant services and activities to ensure signposting pathways are kept up to date as well navigating and developing the setup of new signposting pathways through networking.
• Provide clinical and non-clinical information in appropriate chronological templates to other services.
• Carry out health and safety responsibilities as directed by Managers in line with Mind BLMK’s H&S policies, procedures, and guidance (risk assessments, reviews, reporting, safeguarding, incidents/accidents, premises).
• To bring VCSE experience, knowledge and culture into an NHS team.

Entitlements/benefits:

• 25 days (pro rata) Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays (pro rata)
• Auto-enrolment NEST pension scheme (employer contributes 3%, employee contributes 5%)
• Optional Health Plan
• Discounts available through Blue Light Card & Tickets for Good
• In-house and external Learning and Development as appropriate for the role.
• Flexible Working On request (in line with Mind BLMK policy on Right to Request Flexible Working)

If you have a passion for working in mental health and possess the required skills, we would love to hear from you.

Closedown: 5pm on Tuesday 11th November 2025 
Please note: We reserve the right to close this advert early if enough suitable applicants apply.
Start date: ASAP

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.

Mind BLMK has been committed to the Mindful Employer charter and the Disability Confident Employer Scheme since 2008.

Please note: Mind BLMK follows Safer Recruitment practices and we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Therefore all our roles are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

No agencies please.

Citizens UK 

Citizens UK is the UK’s biggest, most diverse and most effective people-powered alliance. We bring communities and local organisations together to work on issues that matter; from campaigning for zebra crossings on dangerous roads, to reforming the immigration system, to the Living Wage campaign. We have a track record of winning change through hundreds of local and national campaigns. We know everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. We believe that through developing local leaders, we can drive nationwide change and create community-led solutions to big and small problems.

Our community sponsorship work fits within our ‘Migrants and Refugees’ theme of work, which combines place-based and multi-issue organising through our Migrants and Refugees Organising (MARO) team, and effective national campaigns, alongside the pioneering community sponsorship of refugees. Staff joining Sponsor Refugees are joining a thriving team that works collaboratively with the wider Migrants and Refugees theme. 

About

This is a rare opportunity to combine strategic leadership, policy influence, and grassroots impact. As Head of Community Sponsorship, you’ll be at the forefront of one of the UK’s most inspiring community movements. Citizens UK played a pioneering role in bringing community sponsorship of refugees to the UK and now leads national programmes helping hundreds of people find safety, belonging, and a new start.

You’ll oversee national delivery of our sponsorship work, manage a talented cross-functional team, and shape the future of the UK’s refugee resettlement system. From working with community organisers and local groups to engaging senior policymakers and funders, your leadership will help grow a movement that places compassion, collaboration, and lived experience at its heart.

We’re looking for a mission-driven leader who can think strategically, build partnerships, and inspire others, someone who believes that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things when they act together. If you’re ready to help shape the next chapter of the UK’s refugee welcome story, we’d love to hear from you.

Purpose 

At Citizens UK, our organisers and project staff work within communities to develop leaders, strengthen organisations, campaign for change and organise across difference. There are various project roles and operational, communication, finance and HR roles that support the organisation and project staff and organisers to deliver on this mission and work. This work is rewarding and can be challenging; it requires a personal commitment to inclusion, a willingness to listen and disagree respectfully, and an interest in working in an organisation where our staff, member institutions and leaders will come from a diversity of backgrounds and often hold views that may be very different from our own. More information about how we operate within this context and build trusted relationships across difference can be found on our website and is covered in induction. Onboarding and navigating this relational culture, and type of work, is supported by line managers and further training. 

Citizens UK has played a pioneering role in introducing and developing community sponsorship of refugees in the UK. In response to the Syrian refugee crisis, it called for a Canadian-style scheme in 2015, which led to the UK government launching its own programme in 2016. Citizens UK was instrumental in shaping the policy and later established the Sponsor Refugees programme in 2017 Through training, advocacy, and coordination, it has helped hundreds of local groups welcome refugee families. In 2022, Citizens UK expanded its work by launching the Communities for Ukraine programme, matching Ukrainian refugees with UK hosts and most recently has run Communities for Afghans, resettling dozens of refugees. Throughout, it has combined grassroots mobilisation with national advocacy to build a sustainable, community-led model of refugee resettlement. 

Main Responsibilities 

As Head of Community Sponsorship at Citizens UK you will lead the complex strategic and operational delivery of the Sponsor Refugees programmes. This currently includes funded work to deliver a second phase of the Communities for Afghans programme to welcome 125 Afghan refugees as well as oversee the development of influencing work around the UK Government’s forthcoming sponsorship reform agenda. The post-holder will oversee a cross-functional team, ensuring that goals around refugee resettlement, host and sponsor recruitment, and strategic partnerships are met. This includes managing project performance through effective monitoring and evaluation, aligning operations with the organisation’s business plan, and integrating teams to deliver impactful results. The role also involves coordinating outreach to grow the network of hosts and community sponsorship groups, while embedding refugee voices in strategic planning and promoting meaningful community engagement. 

In addition to project leadership, the Head of Community Sponsorship will drive organisational development by fostering collaboration, developing sustainable funding strategies, and ensuring alignment with Citizens UK’s broader migration and transformation goals. They lead relationship management with senior stakeholders, policy makers, and funders, and support the creation of campaigns and resources to expand public awareness and support for community sponsorship. With responsibilities spanning staff management, communications, and external representation, the role is key to shaping Citizens UK’s refugee resettlement strategy and sustaining its national impact. 

Working as the Head of Community Sponsorship for Citizens UK, initially reporting to the Director of Communications and External Affairs, your main responsibilities will include: 

Contribute to Citizens UK and Project Strategic Objectives 

• Demonstrate ability to initiate and lead large-scale, national-level community sponsorship programmes that reflect and advance Citizens UK’s mission. 

• Develop and implement strategic approaches that integrate community organising with refugee resettlement policy influence. 

• Build and grow innovative that centre lived experience and drive systemic impact. 

Build and Manage Projects & Achieve Work Targets Effectively 

• Oversee multiple complex projects with national reach, ensuring targets on refugee resettlement, host recruitment, and strategic partnerships are achieved. 

• Develop and manage project workplans, KPIs and budgets, ensuring delivery to time, standard, and impact goals. 

• Establish systems for performance tracking, evaluation, and continuous improvement across project streams. 

Learning, Expertise, Wellbeing & Inclusion 

• Lead the team in learning and reflective practice, ensuring up-to-date expertise on sponsorship policy, refugee needs, and civic engagement models. 

• Act as a senior expert in sponsorship strategy; coach and mentor staff and partners, and facilitate learning across departments and projects. 

• Influence and lead the integration of equity, wellbeing and refugee voice into strategic decisions and delivery frameworks. 

Develop and Manage External Relationships 

• Lead high-level relationships with national and senior stakeholders, including government departments (e.g. Home Office), delivery partners and civil society institutions. 

• Build and manage partnerships that advance sponsorship reform and position Citizens UK as a sector leader. 

• Ensure stakeholder experience is consistently excellent and take the lead on resolving reputational risks or tensions. 

Communications 

• Act as a senior spokesperson for Citizens UK’s sponsorship work in the media, at public events, and in government or civil society forums. 

• Lead the design and implementation of a high-profile communications strategy to influence narratives on refugee welcome and community leadership. 

• Ensure communications align with ethical storytelling principles and amplify sponsor and refugee voices responsibly. 

Develop and Manage Internal Relationships 

• Lead and develop high-performing cross-functional teams, with clear expectations, direction, and collaboration structures. 

• Effectively line manage senior staff and foster shared leadership culture across sponsorship and Citizens UK teams. 

• Contribute to senior leadership structures, including strategic planning processes and transformation initiatives. 

Generate Income and Resources 

• Initiate and grow significant and sustainable income streams to fund Citizens UK’s sponsorship work. 

• Develop and lead high-value funding partnerships with trusts, foundations and strategic donors. 

• Demonstrate strong budget oversight and ensure effective use of financial and human resources in sponsorship delivery. 

Personal Specification 

(D) Desirable, (E) Essential 

Qualifications 

Degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field such as migration, social policy, international development, or community organising (D) 

Management or leadership qualification, or relevant CPD in project or programme management, public policy, or team leadership (D) 

Experience 

Proven experience in leading complex, multi-stakeholder programmes related to refugee resettlement, community organising, or social impact (E) 

Demonstrable track record of strategic leadership in a charity or community-focused setting (E) 

Experience of managing cross-functional teams to deliver against ambitious organisational goals (E) 

Experience of developing and sustaining strategic partnerships with civil society organisations, local authorities, or government departments (E) 

Experience of designing and implementing systems for monitoring, evaluation, and learning to track progress and report to funders and or government stakeholders (D) 

Demonstrable experience of driving collaborative campaigns or outreach efforts that engage diverse communities (E) 

Key skills and knowledge 

Strong leadership and team coordination skills – able to motivate, direct, and support multidisciplinary teams across multiple workstreams (E) 

Excellent project and performance management skills – able to set strategic priorities, delegate effectively, and ensure accountability (E) 

In-depth knowledge of refugee resettlement systems, community sponsorship models, and UK migration policy, including recent developments affecting Afghan and Ukrainian pathways (E) 

Outstanding written and verbal communication – confident in producing compelling cases for support, policy communications, and public messaging (E) 

Ability to design and deliver stakeholder engagement strategies, with a clear understanding of influencing policy and public opinion (E) 

Skilled in developing and managing strategic partnerships with funders, policy-makers, and community groups (E) 

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills – able to assess complex challenges, identify risks, and implement effective solutions (E) 

Personal qualities & values 

A mission-driven leader with a passion for refugee rights, community empowerment, and social justice (E) 

Politically astute and able to navigate relationships with stakeholders from civil society, government, and grassroots communities (E) 

Collaborative and people-centred, able to work constructively across teams and with volunteers, refugees, and community leaders (E) 

Committed to embedding refugee leadership and lived experience into programme design and delivery (E) 

Resilient, adaptable, and able to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced and evolving policy environment (E) 

Comfortable working within an accountable team culture – open to feedback, reflective practice, and continuous improvement (E) 

Willingness to work occasional evenings or weekends, and to travel when necessary to support programme delivery (E)