Community engagement and volunteer support worker jobs

22.5 hours per week / £28,330 per annum, pro rata / permanent / working onsite on a seven-day rolling rota, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

YMCA DownsLink Group is the leading charity for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. We offer safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice.

We believe that every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside them to make that happen.

We are here for children and young people, many of whom face multiple challenges and need our support.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections – guide us in all our actions.

Our 16+ Older Looked After Young People (OLYP), Care Leavers and Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC) services delivers specialist 24-hour supported accommodation where young people are supported to acquire the necessary skills in preparation for living independently, safely explore their increased freedom of choice and develop responsibilities associated with adulthood, whilst still having the appropriate level of support from an experienced team.

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

We are looking for a Supported Housing Support Worker to join our Ewhurst Road, Crawley team, who will hold a caseload of residents and meet with them weekly to build a support plan. 

Main areas of responsibilities are:

Housing:

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

Coaching and Engagement:

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

General:

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

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

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

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

Experience and Knowledge:

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

Skills and Abilities: 

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

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 9 August 2026 at midnight. 

PLEASE NOTE: We are unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorship for this role, so applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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

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

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

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

Our Charity: 

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

About the role: 

This role involves providing information, support and advice, particularly around welfare benefits, housing and learning disabilities, to Carers through one-to-one appointments, case work, and group facilitation. 

Key Responsibilities Include: 

• Providing advice and advocacy on welfare benefits and housing. Minimum of 3 days a week.

• Providing information, support and advocacy to Carers of people with Learning Disabilities. 

• Facilitation of the Learning Disability Carers Peer Support Group. 

• Recording and maintaining accurate case records, adhering to AQS standards.

• Managing your own case load. 

Essential Requirements Include: 

• Experience of, or ability to provide one-to-one support, information, advocacy and advice, including welfare benefits. 

• Experience of or ability to facilitate peer support groups in person and online. 

• Ability to deliver training and information sessions. 

• Strong listening and questioning skills. 

• Ability and commitment to work on own initiative and as part of a team.

• The ability to balance and prioritise a busy and varied workload. 

• Developed IT skills with experience using Microsoft packages. 

• Clear verbal and written communication skills in English. 

Please see the job description and person specification for a full list of responsibilities and requirements.

Benefits of working for Wandsworth Carers’ Centre: 

• Hybrid on completion of induction period with a minimum 60% office based

• Friendly team and working environment 

• Annual leave starts at 31 days increasing to 36 days plus bank holidays

• Contributory company pension, 

• Ongoing training and development opportunities

• Employee assistance program offreing 24/7 support

If you're committed to working in the voluntary sector and want to be part of a diverse team that makes a real difference to people’s lives, this role is for you! 

Wandsworth Carers’ Centre is an inclusive employer, committed to the continued development of a diverse workforce.

This is an exciting opportunity for a community engagement professional who wants to help tackle fuel poverty, reduce energy-related inequality and support a more inclusive, sustainable future.

As Outreach Officer, you will work with a diverse and supportive team to strengthen access to Selce’s energy advice services across Greenwich, Lewisham, Bromley and Bexley. You will plan, deliver and adapt outreach activity that engages voluntary sector organisations, frontline workers and residents who are in, or at risk of, fuel poverty. This will include workshops, pop-up events, community publicity and the development of strong referral networks across South East London

The Role:

· Work closely with the Energy Advice and Outreach teams to deliver a joined-up approach to community engagement.

· Plan, organise and deliver energy advice workshops, pop-up stalls, energy cafés and other community-based events.

· Build and maintain strong referral pathways with voluntary, community and public sector organisations, and train frontline workers to identify and refer residents who may benefit from Selce’s support.

· Develop positive partnerships with community centres, local organisations and other stakeholders to reach residents who are in, or at risk of, fuel poverty.

· Keep local organisations and residents informed about Selce’s services through newsletters, direct contact and community-level publicity.

· Maintain constructive relationships with funders, partners and key stakeholders, representing Selce professionally at public-facing events.

· Carry out other duties within the scope of the role and support wider organisational priorities where required.

Person specification

Essential skills, experience and qualities

· Experience of community engagement, outreach, participation or partnership work, ideally with voluntary, community or public sector organisations.

· Confidence delivering workshops, presentations, pop-up stalls or other public-facing activities for a range of audiences.

· Ability to build trusted relationships with community organisations, frontline workers, residents and local partners.

· Understanding of the barriers that can prevent people from accessing advice or support, particularly people experiencing fuel poverty, financial pressure or other forms of disadvantage.

· Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to adapt messages for residents, partner organisations and frontline workers.

· Good organisational skills, including the ability to plan events, coordinate activity, keep accurate records and follow up referrals or partnership actions.

· Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while also managing your own workload and priorities.

· A flexible, positive and practical approach to solving problems and responding to changing project needs.

· Good attention to detail and understanding of confidentiality, data protection and consent when working with residents, partners and publicity materials.

· Confident user of Microsoft Office and willing to learn new digital systems used for service delivery, monitoring and reporting.

· Commitment to Selce’s aims of tackling fuel poverty, reducing inequality and supporting a fairer, greener energy system.

Desirable skills, experience and knowledge

· Knowledge of domestic energy efficiency, fuel poverty, retrofit, community energy or related advice services.

· Experience giving energy advice or supporting residents with energy, housing, financial inclusion, welfare or cost-of-living issues.

· An energy advice qualification, such as NEA Level 3, or willingness to work towards relevant accreditation.

· Experience using CRM systems or similar tools to record referrals, monitor activity and support project reporting.

· Experience producing newsletters, social media content, flyers or other communications to promote services and engage communities.

· Experience coordinating volunteers, community champions or peer-led outreach activity.

· Good influencing or negotiation skills, with the ability to work constructively with funders, partners and other stakeholders.

· Ability to communicate in another community language spoken locally.

About South East London Community Energy

South East London Community Energy (Selce) was founded in 2014 by people in Greenwich and Lewisham who wanted to help create a clean, fair and affordable energy future.

Over the past decade, we have developed projects that tackle inequality, reduce carbon emissions and support communities at different points in the energy system.

To date, we have built 12 solar arrays on community buildings in South East London and helped 11 buildings improve the efficiency of their lighting systems. We are also developing new share offers to support further lighting upgrades and solar installations on community buildings.

We have supported well over 4,000 households with their energy bills and are now helping homeowners make their homes more energy efficient through the Love Lofts and Future Fit Homes pilot programmes.

About Our Energy Advice Services

Almost one in ten households cannot afford to heat their homes adequately. Our energy advice team provides practical, impartial support to households struggling with fuel bills. This includes advice on reducing energy costs, accessing discounts and grants, changing energy use, fitting small energy-saving measures such as low-energy light bulbs and draught proofing, and securing funded home improvements such as loft or cavity wall insulation and heating upgrades.

Benefits:

25 days annual leave (pro rata)
4% employer pension contribution
Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) for agreed evening and weekend work

This is an exciting opportunity for a community development professional who cares about tackling energy-related issues and working towards a more inclusive and sustainable future. We recognise that an effective engagement is a key component in ensuring the households at-risk of or in fuel poverty are able to access impartial energy advice. 

As Outreach Team Lead, you will work with a diverse and supportive team. Ideally you will be locally based covering Greenwich, Lewisham, Bromley and Bexley, with a strong interest in community engagement, working knowledge of energy advice and climate breakdown. Your role will be to deliver an outreach program in order to engage voluntary sector organisations and residents in or at-risk of fuel poverty through workshops, outreach events and community level publicity. Your role will also include maintaining and creating referral networks with voluntary sector organisations across SE London as well as supporting the Energy Advice Delivery and Partnerships Manager to adapt the outreach program to meet the needs of our funded projects, as well as those of our partners and local community.

The Role

· Lead and coordinate Selce’s energy advice outreach activity across Greenwich, Lewisham, Bromley and Bexley, ensuring delivery is inclusive, well organised and aligned with funder requirements.

· Work closely with the Energy Advice Team and Outreach Team to provide a joined-up approach to engagement, referrals and service delivery.

· Plan, organise and deliver energy advice workshops, pop-up stalls, energy cafés and other community-based events.

· Build and maintain strong referral pathways with voluntary, community and public sector organisations, and train frontline workers to identify and refer residents who may benefit from Selce’s support.

· Develop positive partnerships with community centres, local organisations and other stakeholders to reach residents who are in, or at risk of, fuel poverty.

· Keep local organisations and residents informed about Selce’s services through newsletters, direct contact and community-level publicity.

· Maintain constructive relationships with funders, partners and key stakeholders, representing Selce professionally at public-facing events.

· Line manage, train, mentor and support Outreach Officers, promoting consistent quality, confidence and good practice across the team.

· Monitor outreach activity, referral data and project progress using Selce’s CRM and other agreed systems.

· Analyse data and prepare clear weekly, monthly and quarterly reports for funders, managers and the Selce Board.

· Identify opportunities to improve outreach delivery so that activity responds to community needs, partner feedback and project requirements.

· Support the Energy Advice Delivery and Partnerships Manager with wider service development and other duties appropriate to the scope of the role.

Person specification:

Essential skills, experience and qualities

· Strong presentation, facilitation and public-facing communication skills, with the confidence to engage residents, partners and community groups.

· Ability to build, maintain and develop community-level partnerships and referral networks.

· Excellent organisational and coordination skills, including the ability to manage events, monitor activity and meet project deadlines.

· Accurate record-keeping and data management skills, with the ability to use CRM systems or similar tools to track progress and evidence impact.

· Excellent written communication skills, including the ability to produce clear reports, updates and publicity materials.

· Competence in Microsoft Office applications and confidence using digital tools for day-to-day work.

· Good understanding of data protection, confidentiality and media consent processes.

· Experience of working with diverse communities, including people who may face barriers to accessing advice or support.

· Experience of working with voluntary and community sector organisations, local authorities or other public sector partners.

· Ability to adapt to changing project needs, solve problems constructively and respond positively to challenges.

· Self-motivated and collaborative, with a methodical, systematic and detail-focused approach to work.

· Willingness to undertake training and development in line with the needs of the role and the organisation.

Desirable skills, experience and knowledge

· Experience in a communications, participation, community development or outreach role, particularly within the voluntary, community or public sector.

· Knowledge of domestic energy efficiency, fuel poverty, retrofit, community energy or related advice services.

· An energy advice qualification, such as NEA Level 3, or willingness to work towards relevant accreditation.

· Experience of giving energy advice or supporting residents with financial, housing, energy-related or welfare issues.

· Experience of facilitating workshops, community groups or participatory activities that support positive community outcomes.

· Experience of coordinating volunteers, supporting peer-led activity or working with community champions.

· Experience using social media, newsletters, digital communications or design tools to promote services and engage communities.

· Good influencing and negotiation skills, with the ability to work constructively with a wide range of partners and stakeholders.

· Ability to communicate in another community language spoken locally.

About South East London Community Energy

South East London Community Energy (Selce) was born in 2014, when a group of people living in Greenwich & Lewisham became so concerned about climate change that they decided to come up with a formula that would help to create a clean and just energy future. 

Throughout our first ten-years, we have set up projects that address inequality and seek to reduce our collective carbon footprint at different points in the energy systems.

To date we have built 12 solar arrays on community buildings in SE London and 11 buildings’ lighting systems to be more energy efficient.  We are opening share offers this year for further lighting system upgrades and solar arrays on community buildings. 

We’ve helped well over 4000 house holds with their energy bills and we are pleased to now be able to help homeowners make their homes more energy efficient through the Love Lofts and Future Fit Homes pilot programmes.

About Our Energy Advice Services

Almost one in ten households cannot afford to heat their homes adequately. Our team of energy advisors provide practical guidance and support to households who are struggling to pay their fuel bills. They advise clients about how to reduce their fuel bills by switching suppliers or accessing discounts or changing behaviour or by fitting small practical energy-saving measures such as low energy light bulbs and draft proofing. They also support the householder to access funded home energy improvements such as loft, cavity wall insulation or heating upgrades.

Benefits:

25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
4% employer pension contribution
Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) for agreed evening and weekend work
Flexible and hybrid working

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Part Time Advocacy Support Worker with the delivery of our Community One-to-One Advocacy project.

The Project Worker / Advocacy Assistant will work closely with the Project Manager to deliver a high-quality, person-centred Community One-to-One Advocacy service across the Royal Borough of Greenwich. Supporting the day-to-day delivery of the project, the postholder will help ensure that project objectives, outcomes, and timescales are achieved in line with organisational policies and funder requirements.

The postholder will work directly with individuals with learning disabilities, autistic people, and other vulnerable adults to help them understand their rights, access services, overcome barriers, and improve their independence and wellbeing. They will also support the Project Manager with community outreach, volunteer coordination, partnership working, monitoring and evaluation, and maintaining accurate records to ensure the effective delivery and ongoing development of the project.

About Katherine Low Settlement   

Katherine Low Settlement is a busy, local charity that has been serving Battersea and the wider Wandsworth community since 1924. We are dedicated to building stronger communities and enable people to challenge and find ways out of poverty and isolation.   

We run a range of our own community services to support local older people and children, young people, and their families from refugee communities. We campaign for social change. We incubate and support other charities and social businesses to thrive. Each week we work with 30+ charities and community groups supporting more than 1,000 people. 

About the Role

The Lead Youth Worker plays a key role in shaping, coordinating and delivering high-quality youth provision within the Future Foundations programme at KLS. Reporting to the Head of Future Foundations, this role combines hands-on youth work with leadership, coordination and safeguarding responsibility, ensuring that children and young people are supported through safe, inclusive and engaging activities that promote their personal, social and educational development.

You will lead on the planning, delivery and evaluation of homework clubs, youth activities, trips and holiday programmes, while line-managing and supporting two Youth Workers and supervising interns and volunteers. You will work closely with families, schools, community partners and colleagues across KLS to provide joined-up, responsive support for young people. This is a people-centred leadership role requiring strong safeguarding practice, excellent organisational skills, and the ability to build trusting relationships. You will champion youth voice, promote positive behaviour and inclusion, and contribute to continuous improvement through reflection, data and learning.

Interviews are expected to take place during the week commencing 3 August 2026.

Key Responsibilities 

Youth Club & Holiday Programme 

• Lead the planning, delivery and evaluation of the youth club for newly arrived young people, within Future Foundations, ensuring sessions are safe, inclusive, engaging and developmentally appropriate. 

• Develop session plans and programmes that support young people’s learning, wellbeing and confidence, using participatory and youth-led approaches. 

• Lead the delivery of the weekly youth club, including wellbeing activities, workshops and targeted interventions for newly arrived young people. 

• Lead the planning, coordination and delivery of school holiday provision, including half-term, Easter and summer programmes, ensuring appropriate staffing, safeguarding and risk management arrangements are in place. 

• Work closely with the youth caseworker to encourage engagement and participation of young people at Southfields Academy International Department with the youth club. 

Safeguarding, Behaviour & Inclusion 

• Ensure all practice aligns with safeguarding policies and supports young people’s personal, social and educational development. 

• Maintain accurate safeguarding records, risk assessments and incident reports. 

• Lead on behaviour management and restorative approaches, supporting staff, volunteers and young people to resolve issues constructively

• Deliver safeguarding briefings and provide ongoing guidance and support to volunteers and interns. 

• Promote a culture of safety, inclusion, respect and positive behaviour across all activities. 

People Management & Support 

• Line-manage and support two youth workers through regular supervision, mentoring, appraisal and performance management. 

• Support with supervising interns, including managing timetables, providing guidance and coordinating with KLS colleagues. 

• Work with the Head of Volunteering and youth team to recruit, support, train and develop volunteers and interns, ensuring they understand their responsibilities and contribute safely and confidently to activities 

• Coordinate workloads across the youth team, ensuring staff, volunteers and interns are appropriately supported, work safely and maintain consistent standards of practice.

Youth, Family & Community Engagement 

• Build strong, trusting relationships with young people and their families, ensuring clear communication and inclusive engagement. 

• Liaise with families/carers to share information about activities, expectations and support needs. 

• Build and maintain effective relationships with local youth organisations, schools and partner agencies. 

• Represent KLS at relevant meetings, forums and community events. 

• Refer young people and families to internal casework, advice or external services as appropriate. 

Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting 

• Support the Head of Future Foundations with monitoring outcomes, collecting feedback and using data to improve programme quality. 

• Maintain accurate records, including registers, consent forms and monitoring data. 

• Contribute to internal and external reporting, including funder and trustee reports. 

• Contribute evidence, case studies and monitoring information to funding applications, reports and evaluation processes. 

• Ensure the voices, experiences and ideas of young people inform programme development, decision-making and evaluation. 

Resources, Budgets & Planning 

• Monitor expenditure and manage resources, equipment and activity budgets in line with agreed financial procedures. 

• Ensure effective use of resources and value for money across youth provision. 

• Support the planning of annual programmes of activity in collaboration with colleagues, young people and families. 

Collaboration & Organisational Contribution 

• Work closely with colleagues across Future Foundations to provide high-quality, joined-up support. 

• Coordinate the School Years Working Group, supporting colleagues to share learning, collaborate effectively and deliver consistent, high-quality programmes across Future Foundations.

• Communicate effectively across teams to enhance service delivery and organisational learning. 

• Participate in supervision, appraisals, training and reflective practice. 

• Work in line with KLS’s values, policies and procedures at all times. 

Person Specification 

Essential Experience 

• Experience of working with refugee communities and/or children and young people and/or other vulnerable groups, with a strong focus on placing participants’ needs at the centre of service planning and delivery. 

• Experience of planning, delivering and contributing to reporting for projects within the voluntary or community sector (preferably with refugee or sanctuary-seeking communities). 

• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain high professional standards. 

• Experience of working sensitively with young people affected by mental health challenges and past trauma, with an empathetic, non-judgemental approach and the ability to build supportive but appropriately boundaried relationships. 

• Up-to-date knowledge of best practice in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and the ability to apply this in practice. 

• Confident IT skills, including use of the Microsoft Office suite, email, internet-based tools and social media. 

• Commitment to KLS’s mission, vision and values. 

• Passion for social justice, education and championing the strengths of families from refugee and sanctuary-seeking communities. 

Desirable Experience 

• Demonstrable experience of managing and supporting volunteers. 

• A recognised qualification in youth work, teaching or a related field. 

• Experience of monitoring and evaluating projects, including collecting evidence of impact and contributing to reports for funders. 

• Ability to communicate in another language, particularly Arabic, Somali, Farsi, Amharic and/or Tigrinya. 

• Knowledge of Battersea, Wandsworth or similar local communities. 

Other Requirements

• Willingness to work evenings - Monday or Tuesday evenings are a requirement and occasional Wednesday and Thursday evenings 

• Enhanced DBS check required (to be undertaken upon appointment) 

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

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

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

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

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage effectively with young people, families, colleagues and partner organisations. 

• Ability to motivate, support and encourage young people to build confidence, skills and aspirations. 

• Ability to work effectively as part of a small team, while also working independently, using initiative. 

Further Information  

• Katherine Low Settlement is committed to equal opportunities.

• All offers to work at Katherine Low Settlement are subject to two satisfactory references, which is standard KLS policy applicable to all roles. KLS also ask for an enhanced DBS check.

• You will adhere to matters of confidentiality concerning this role and the KLS team.

• An induction is given to new staff, which includes sharing our policies and procedures relevant to this post.

• There is a 6-month probation period for this role.   

Are you ready for a new challenge?

Do you have a passion for working with young people, helping them grow in confidence, discover their strengths, and explore new opportunities? If so, we'd love to hear from you!

Location

This is a hybrid role, combining work from home with work in the local Harlow community. 

Negotiable, up to 30 hours per week, including some evening work (fixed term until 31st March 2027)

About the Role

The Barnardo's Co-op Partnership is an exciting and innovative programme aiming to support more than one million young people to build positive futures.

Our Sedgemoor for our Future service is co-designed with young people and centred around a welcoming, inclusive youth space where young people can feel safe, connected, and empowered to take part in meaningful experiences.

Using a youth work approach, we support young people to:

• Build positive relationships and develop a strong sense of belonging
• Grow in confidence, resilience, and self-esteem
• Take part in a wide range of activities, including creative, practical, and food-based sessions
• Explore issues that matter to them and have their voices heard
• Develop teamwork, communication, and essential life skills for the future

Session Details

You must be available to lead the following weekly sessions:

• Tuesdays – Harlow, 12.15pm-4pm - schools based session
• Wednesdays – Harlow, 12.00-1.30pm- school based session. 6pm-8pm youth club session

As part of your role, you will plan and deliver engaging, youth-led sessions in a variety of settings, including community venues and schools. You will build trusted relationships with young people, create inclusive spaces that meet diverse needs, and support them to achieve positive outcomes.

You will also contribute to community engagement, develop creative approaches to reaching young people across Harlow, and support ongoing evaluation through reflective practice and outcome recording.

What We're Looking For

• Experience working with children, young people, and families
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures, with experience applying this in practice
• Excellent listening and communication skills with a diverse range of children, young people and families
• Creativity and confidence in designing inclusive workshops and group sessions
• Good written and IT skills to accurately record case notes
• Flexibility to adapt to the needs and interests of young people

Interested and want to know more? Please contact Robyn Dunn, Children's Service Manager - Please refer to website via job link for contact details 

When applying, please refer specifically to the Person Specification and Job Description, explaining how your skills and experience meet the requirements.

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date. We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

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.

Living Wage Foundation

The Living Wage movement began in 2001, after Citizens UK brought together communities in East London to discuss poverty and low pay. The campaign grew in momentum and soon required a mechanism to recognise employers who wanted to join the movement, which saw the establishment of the Living Wage Foundation in 2011.

Still part of Citizens UK today, the Living Wage Foundation continues to work with community organisations to make sure the voices of both workers and businesses are part of the Living Wage movement. We now work with over 16,000 employers, benefitting half a million people and winning over £3bn of better wages for people who need it most. 

Citizens UK works with a broad base of institutions across the political spectrum. At the Living Wage Foundation, we take the same deliberately broad-based approach and accredit all organisations who pay the real Living Wage to their directly and indirectly employed staff and are committed to tackling in work poverty.  As a team we work across a range of industries and sectors to achieve this mission. We seek pragmatic coalitions to progress specific campaigns, and partnership around a particular issue such as Living Wage, does not imply an endorsement of broader purpose and policies. We are a non-partisan organisation and work with partners across the political spectrum to advance our mission.

Purpose

The Living Wage Foundation is seeking an experienced and driven Senior Media and Communications Manager to join our team for a 12-month contract. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly organised and proactive communications professional with a strong background in media relations, public messaging, and team leadership. The ideal candidate will be experienced and confident in working to tight deadlines, responding to last-minute changes, and prioritising competing demands in a high-profile environment. They will be motivated to amplify the Living Wage Foundation’s mission of tackling low pay and insecure work.

The postholder will lead all media, messaging, and external affairs work, developing and implementing a proactive media strategy that supports our mission and key campaigns, such as Living Wage Week and the annual Rates announcement. As a skilled media professional, you will oversee all communications outputs, ensuring consistency and strategic alignment, while delivering media training and refining key messaging to maximise reach and impact. 

In this role, you will be instrumental in advancing our political engagement efforts, building cross-party support and working with political leaders, mayoral teams, and other key stakeholders to promote our initiatives. You’ll manage two direct reports (Events Manager and Media Manager) who each hold line management responsibilities, and you will play a critical role within our Senior Management Team, collaborating closely with the Head of Communications to shape the overall direction of our communications work. This role will work closely with Citizens UK colleagues, including the Citizens UK communications team on cross-organisational priorities.  You will report to the Head of Communications.

As a senior leader, you will be responsible for managing and allocating part of the communications team budget, expanding team capacity, and driving the team’s effectiveness. In collaboration with other senior managers, you will help foster a culture that values creativity, innovation, and strategic impact.

Main Responsibilities

Contribute to CUK mission and its strategic objectives:

• Provide strategic oversight of the organisation’s media strategy, ensuring it aligns with broader organisational, communications, and campaign goals, and establish clear processes for evaluating its success.

• Work alongside other Senior Managers across Citizens UK on cross-organisational activity including through the Senior Management Group

• Support the Living Wage Foundation’s Political Engagement Strategy by building and sustaining cross-party support for the organisation’s mission and objectives.

Situational awareness and research:

• Lead regular updates on key audiences, tracking positions on issues of interest and ensuring the team is fully informed.

• Guide the team in proactive media monitoring, enabling timely responses to significant developments.

• Collaborate with the Senior Research Manager to conduct and commission impactful research, driving media campaigns that effectively reach and engage target audiences.

Strategy development:

• Work alongside other Senior Managers in the Communications Team to shape and guide the overall communications strategy.

Lead on all media and messaging outputs, including developing high-quality materials, coordinating media events, and delivering media training.

Reputational & risk management:

• Develop and manage the organisation’s risk register, offering strategic oversight and serving as a primary contact for crisis communications.

• Manage and respond to reactive media enquiries promptly, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s values and objectives.

• Draft key messages and FAQs for media interviews and public responses, and advise senior leadership on sensitive media or reputational issues.

• Represent the Living Wage Foundation effectively in senior stakeholder interactions and participate in out-of-hours press duties when needed.

Materials development and dissemination:

• Oversee the Media Team in producing engaging press releases, blogs, opinion pieces, and media briefings to elevate the Living Wage Foundation’s profile and the voices of workers and employers within the Living Wage movement.

• Ensure media outputs and communications reflect the organisation’s values and uphold a consistent voice.

• Create and refine key messaging for public communications, including FAQs and response guides.

Social media and website

• Ensure consistency in messaging and alignment across all media and digital platforms in collaboration with the wider communications team.

External relationships (including media and press)

• Lead employer case study development, identifying and preparing Living Wage employers to speak to media and champion a real Living Wage.

• Drive stakeholder engagement efforts, cultivating valuable relationships with Living Wage employers, campaign partners, and media contacts.

• Build and maintain relationships with journalists across print, digital, and broadcast media to secure quality coverage.

• Collaborate with the Public Engagement Team to draft emails, speeches, speaker notes, briefings, and press notices for political engagements.

• Strengthen and maintain broad cross-party support for the Living Wage agenda.

Campaign & events management

• Provide a link between Events team and Senior Leadership Team to ensure efficient decision-making around key events.

• Lead on media and messaging elements of agreed comms-led campaigns.

Internal comms & knowledge management

• Oversee the development and maintenance of a comprehensive press database, mapping key media contacts and publications in line with the Living Wage Foundation’s objectives.

Internal relationships

• Work closely with the Senior Digital and Communications Manager to guide and oversee team initiatives.

• Provide line management and development support to the Media Manager and Events Manager.

Learning, expertise & DEI

• Lead media training sessions for LWF staff and Living Wage employers, enhancing their confidence and effectiveness in media engagements.

• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the LWF and Citizens UK, including communications and DEI teams, to develop and implement ethical storytelling practices, ensuring lived experience is represented responsibly, inclusively, and in line with organisational guidance.

• Contribute to a positive and inclusive team culture.

• Ensure accessibility is embedded across communications and events, working with relevant teams to implement best practice and organisational guidance.

Person Specification

(D) Desirable, (E) Essential

Experience

· Proven experience and a strong understanding of the UK media landscape, with experience building relationships with journalists and securing high-quality media coverage. (E)

· Experience in line managing and leading a team. (E)

· Demonstrated experience in managing sensitive reputational issues, including risk assessment and crisis communications. (E)

· Skilled in leveraging real-life stories and case studies to drive engagement, including experience in leading media training for spokespeople. (E)

· Strong track record in designing and executing high-impact communications strategies that achieve measurable results. (E)

· Experience of working collaboratively across teams and influencing senior stakeholders to achieve shared objectives. (E)

· Experience of working with a range of voices and perspectives, including community, worker or lived experience storytelling. (D)

Key skills and knowledge

• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce and edit clear, engaging content suitable for media, digital and public audiences. (E)

• Competence in using social media platforms to engage audiences effectively, understanding their role in broader media strategies. (D)

• Proficiency in evaluating campaigns and media outputs, with the ability to derive insights that inform future strategies. (E)

• Strong interpersonal skills for building effective relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders, including political audiences. (E)

• Solid understanding of the political landscape and public affairs, with experience engaging cross-party stakeholders (E).

Personal qualities & values

• An enthusiasm for media and communications, coupled with a strong commitment to the mission of the Living Wage Foundation. (E)

• Ability to lead, support and develop high-performing teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive working environment. (E)

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, with an understanding of how to communicate responsibly and ethically about lived experience. (E)

About the application process

We work within diverse communities bringing people together. In line with our Inclusion value, we would love to see applications from LGBTQIA+ people, people from racialised communities, people living with disabilities and people of faith, all to better represent the communities we work in. We want our employees to have the working conditions that allows them to fully participate, be able to be their best authentic selves and thrive doing so, and we have employee networks to support staff. Even if you don’t quite meet all the required criteria still consider applying, as we invest in our employees and support them to develop the skills and knowledge required to deliver their role.

For questions and reasonable adjustments regarding your application including information in a different format, or our recruitment process, please email us.

Interviews will be held 17th and 18th August.

Guildford Foyer provides 24-hour supported accommodation for up to 33 young people aged 16–25, including those with a range of complex support needs and young people who have arrived in the UK as unaccompanied asylum seekers.

We are committed to providing high-quality, trauma-informed and psychologically informed support that empowers young people to build confidence, develop essential life skills, and work towards their individual goals and aspirations. By creating a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment, we help residents develop the independence, resilience and connections they need to thrive in the future.

Our dedicated team of Support Workers, Night Workers and Bank Workers work alongside residents with compassion and professionalism, providing tailored support, guidance and signposting across areas such as housing, education, employment, budgeting, wellbeing and positive relationships.

Located in the heart of Guildford, the service is well connected to local opportunities and community resources, enabling young people to build meaningful connections and become active members of their community.

Main areas of responsibilities are:

Housing and Compliance

• Support young people to understand and comply with their occupancy agreements, including coaching them to meet house rules and responsibilities as part of preparing for successful independent living.
• Promote a strong rent‑payment and credit culture, encouraging residents to maintain regular payments and understand their financial obligations.
• Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of housing legislation, welfare benefits, and statutory requirements affecting young people, ensuring practice aligns with current housing law and organisational policies.
• Respond promptly and effectively to breaches of agreement, including rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, or property damage, using restorative approaches where appropriate and working collaboratively with the wider team.

Coaching and Engagement

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

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

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

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

Experience and Knowledge

• Experience in housing or supported accommodation, ideally supporting young people with multiple and complex needs.
• Strong understanding of occupancy agreements, rent management, welfare benefits, and tenancy sustainment.
• Ability to manage arrears, ASB, and other non‑compliance issues using appropriate and restorative approaches.
• Good knowledge of housing legislation, safeguarding procedures, and compliance requirements, with the ability to maintain clear professional boundaries.
• Familiarity with statutory and voluntary services available to young people and ability to work proactively with a caseload to support progression towards independent living.

Skills and Abilities

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

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 26 July 2026 at midnight. If we find the right candidate sooner than expected, we may close the advert early - so early applications are strongly encouraged.

PLEASE NOTE: We are unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorship for this role, so applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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

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

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

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

Church Engagement & Fundraising Officer

12-month Fixed Term Contract. Full Time, Home-based

Location: London and the South East of England

Salary: £44,500 per annum

About us

Christian Aid exists to create a world where everyone can live a full life, free from poverty. We are a global movement of people, churches and local organisations who passionately champion dignity, equality and justice worldwide. We are the changemakers, the peacemakers, the mighty of heart.

We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, and recognise the value this brings in forming strong, creative and high performing teams. We welcome applications from all sections of the community, and from those with experience from outside of the voluntary sector. And no, you don’t have to be Christian to work here – we encourage people of all faiths and none to apply. We just ask that everyone lives out our values of dignity, equality, justice and love. We value a good work-life balance, so we’re open to part-time and flexible working. We also offer hybrid working for our office-based colleagues. This is a homeworking role and you are expected to be in the London office once a month

About the role

Reporting in to the Church Engagement & Fundraising Advisor, the Church Engagement & Fundraising Officer is a proactive fundraising and church engagement role.

You will be out in churches and communities across London and the home counties, building new relationships, strengthening existing high-value support, and inspiring churches to give, act and pray with Christian Aid.

You will identify and approach prospective churches, pick up the phone to book meetings, speak confidently in church services and local gatherings, and make compelling asks that lead to increased giving and deeper engagement.

This is a remote team to facilitate post holders to be proactively present in local church communities. Much of your impact will come from being out and about: visiting churches, meeting clergy and volunteers, attending local events, speaking at services, and building relationships face to face. You should expect regular travel across London and the home counties, including some evenings and weekends.

We are looking for someone who is energised by being out in the community, not someone looking for a primarily desk-based role.

In this role, success will mean:

• building a strong pipeline of churches and groups with the potential to support Christian Aid;
• securing meetings, speaking opportunities and invitations into church spaces;
• inspiring churches to increase their giving, particularly around appeals and key fundraising moments;
• strengthening relationships with current high-value church supporters so they feel known, thanked and encouraged;
• equipping volunteers and local champions to extend Christian Aid’s reach;
• using insight, data and local knowledge to prioritise the relationships with greatest potential.

A significant part of this role will be proactive new relationship-building. You will not only respond to churches already connected with Christian Aid; you will identify new opportunities, approach churches and leaders, and work creatively to open doors for giving, fundraising, campaigning and prayer.

About you

Who we are looking for:

Essential:

• Demonstrable experience driving fundraising and relationship building.
• Knowledge of church audiences across all denominations.
• Experience of mentoring volunteers to add capacity, skills and aptitude to empower and support them.
• Detailed knowledge of the principles of good donor management or customer care, and understanding of the principles of relationship building.
• Developed communication skills to inspire others to take action and use their skills and resources to fundraise and donate.
• Developed communication skills to communicate complex messages creatively and effectively to diverse audiences.
• An ability to analyse and interpret information and data to prioritise work and achieve results.
• Organisational skills to work under pressure and manage competing priorities to deliver multiple concurrent activities.
• The ability to travel frequently to locations, including some evenings and weekends.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of current fundraising legislation and good practice.
• Knowledge of relevant church networks and denominational structures.
• Ability to effectively portray development messages in a theological context.
• Knowledge of global development issues and Christian Aid’s work.
• Good knowledge of the London and South East geographical region.

This role would suit you if you are a confident relationship-builder who enjoys getting out into communities, opening doors and inspiring people to act. You might come from community fundraising, church engagement, major donor engagement, sales, business development, volunteer mobilisation or a church-facing role with clear fundraising experience.

You will need to be confident talking with churches, meeting ambitious targets, comfortable making asks for financial support, and motivated by helping local communities turn faith, generosity and concern for global justice into practical action.

Further information

At Christian Aid we strive to be an inclusive and diverse employer and recognise the value that this brings in helping to build strong, creative and high performing teams.

We are actively encouraging racialised minorities, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, returning parents or carers who are re-entering work after a career break, people with caring responsibilities, people from low socioeconomic backgrounds, women, and older workers to apply. This is because these groups are under-represented within our teams, especially at senior level, and we recognise and value the contributions members of these groups make to strong, creative and high performing teams. 

We have a strong Christian ethos and we encourage applications from all faiths. Applicants will be expected to demonstrate an understanding of and sympathy with Christian Aid’s faith identity. 

All successful candidates will require a DBS/police check appropriate to the role and location and a Counter Terrorism Sanction check as part of your clearance for commencing your role with us. We also participate in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme.  In line with this Scheme, we will request information as part of the referencing process from job applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment. By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms their understanding of these recruitment procedures.

This role requires applicants to have the right to live and work in the country where this position is based and undertake the role that you have been offered. If you are successful and we make you an offer for the role, we will be required to conduct a right to work check on your immigration status in the UK. We will contact you regarding the documentation you will need to provide to evidence this. 

Context

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

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

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

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

Job Summary

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

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

** PLEASE NOTE: The advert as originally posted gave the hours per week as 35 (full time). The role has recently been amended and is now for 28 hours per week. As such the actual salary for this role is now £19,920 (£24,900 pro-rata). **

Job Purpose

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

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Day to day duties:

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

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

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

· Complete Statutory Carers Assessments.

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

Weekly/ monthly duties:

· To work alongside student social workers on placement, providing mentoring, guidance, and shadowing opportunities as appropriate.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

· To meet regularly with line manager for supervision.

This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS Check. 

The post-holder will be required to undertake other tasks as reasonably directed by Management and Senior Management Team, which will usually be commensurate with the skills and experience of the post-holder.

All staff are expected to work within all Gaddum policies and procedures.

We're looking for a compassionate and resilient Night Support Worker to join our Learning Disabilities Service located in Tower Hamlets. No personal care or experience required, just the right values.

£30,784.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Our benefits include:

• Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
• A generous pension - we will contribute up to 8% and life assurance cover up to 3x Pensionable Salary (T&Cs apply)

All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

Working with individuals who present challenging behaviours in a learning disability service involves providing person-centred, proactive support that promotes safety, dignity, and quality of life. Staff focus on understanding the reasons behind behaviours, such as communication needs, sensory sensitivities, unmet needs, or changes in health, and use this understanding to reduce distress and prevent escalation.

What you'll do:

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead.

• Deliver person-centred care based on individual PBS plans developed in collaboration with Look Ahead's PBS service and multidisciplinary teams.
• Support our customers to achieve their personal goals, participate in meaningful activities, and engage in their community.
• Support our customers with personal care, medication and all daily living skills as needed, whilst promoting independence.

About you:

• Warm, friendly, and approachable.
• Team-oriented and socially engaged.
• Calm and resilient.

What you'll bring:

Essential:

• Experience supporting people with learning disabilities/autism/complex behaviours.
• Understanding of PBS or willingness to undertake PBS training.
• Empathy, patience, and strong communication skills.

Desirable:

• NVQ/QCF Level 2 or 3 in Health and Social Care.
• Prior training in PBS, Maybo, Capable Environments, Active Engagement & Support and/or Reducing Restrictive Practices.
• Full UK driving licence.

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:

• We focus on Excellence and innovation.
• We are Caring and Compassionate.
• We are Inclusive and Trusted.
• We work in Partnership and are One-Team.

Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

We are looking for a passionate and motivated Volunteer & Digital Services Coordinator to manage our volunteer programme and our Helpline & Digital Service.

In this role, you will recruit, train, supervise and support all volunteer roles (Helpline & Digital Service, art group and admin volunteers) and develop the volunteering provision at SARA, including organising SARA community events to engage volunteers. You will also have oversight of SARA’s Helpline & Digital Services (helpline, live chat and email service) for survivors of sexual violence. To do this, you will promote SARA’s digital services in Greater Manchester and beyond, develop the digital services procedures, line manage helpline sessional workers, ensure service user confidentiality, safeguard service users using the digital services, coordinate the on-call safeguarding rota for the digital services, identify service user themes, and collect and record all service area data.

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

YMCA DownsLink Group is the leading charity for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. We offer safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice.

We believe that every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside them to make that happen.

We are here for children and young people, many of whom face multiple challenges and need our support.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections – guide us in all our actions.

Gareth Stacey House and Lansworth House are our 24-hour supported housing services in central Brighton and Hove offering high levels of housing-related support for young people aged 16-25 with multiple and complex needs. The services have 15 and 20 bedspaces respectively, with shared communal facilities; the services support young people to manage their daily living activities in areas including finances and budgeting, developing life and work skills, and managing self-care.

We adopt a trauma informed and psychologically informed approach to supporting our residents to help them build essential life skills, identify their goals and work towards aspirations so that they can move on to enjoy fully independent futures.

We are looking for a Supported Housing Support Worker to join our team, who will hold a caseload of residents and meet with them weekly to build a support plan. Main areas of responsibilities are:

Housing and Compliance

• Support young people to understand and comply with their occupancy agreements, including coaching them to meet house rules and responsibilities as part of preparing for successful independent living.
• Promote a strong rent‑payment and credit culture, encouraging residents to maintain regular payments and understand their financial obligations.
• Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of housing legislation, welfare benefits, and statutory requirements affecting young people, ensuring practice aligns with current housing law and organisational policies.
• Respond promptly and effectively to breaches of agreement, including rent arrears, antisocial behaviour, or property damage, using restorative approaches where appropriate and working collaboratively with the wider team.

Coaching and Engagement

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

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

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

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

Experience and Knowledge

• Experience in housing or supported accommodation, ideally supporting young people with multiple and complex needs.
• Strong understanding of occupancy agreements, rent management, welfare benefits, and tenancy sustainment.
• Ability to manage arrears, ASB, and other non‑compliance issues using appropriate and restorative approaches.
• Good knowledge of housing legislation, safeguarding procedures, and compliance requirements, with the ability to maintain clear professional boundaries.
• Familiarity with statutory and voluntary services available to young people and ability to work proactively with a caseload to support progression towards independent living.

Skills and Abilities

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

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 26 July 2026 at midnight. 

PLEASE NOTE: We are unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorship for this role, so applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

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

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

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

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