Complex needs worker jobs in Milton keynes
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
ABOUT THE CLINK CHARITY
The Clink Charity, founded in 2009, aims to prevent and reduce reoffending through training, rehabilitation, and support. We deliver hospitality and horticulture training behind the prison walls and in the community by creating an environment where our students are supported to gain the skills, confidence and qualifications they need to rebuild their lives.
Since that time, we have trained approximately 5,000 people in prison and delivered 2,600 City & Guilds qualifications in a variety of hospitality and food courses.
What makes The Clink so unique is our post-release support and mentoring programme that rehabilitates an offender back into society through assistance with health and mental health issues, housing, employment, family connections and friendships.
The charity operates an award-winning fine-dining restaurant open to the public inside HMP Brixton, training kitchens in the prison estate, horticulture projects at HMP Send and HMP Erlestoke, a commercial bakery in Brixton, and a bespoke delivery service, Catered by Clink.
Additionally, Clink Events is our social enterprise catering business with food produced by the women in HMP Downview and also in an additional kitchen at Herne Hill and then served by alumni on front of house at some of the best venues in London including: the Guildhall, the Science Museum, Cutty Sark, Kew Gardens and the Camden Roundhouse. In 2024, across 218 events, The Clink fed 36,000 people.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Support and Employment Worker will provide a high quality and responsive mentoring and advocacy service which creatively addresses the needs and risks of our students and graduates to enable them to avoid further offending and to obtain and maintain employment upon release.
Our students and graduates will come from multiple prison sites across the London and the South East region, so careful diary management, logistical planning and travel are key components of the role.
This is a flexible role, mostly based at HMP Brixton, but will also include travelling between
HMP Downview and HMP Send multiple prisons and our Clink Training Café site in Herne Hill, with some working from home and managing a community caseload of graduates who have been released.
The Support and Employment Worker will develop action plans with each student in prison to support them in obtaining employment upon release and also in developing independent living skills to work towards their long-term goals and aspirations.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As a Support and Employment Worker at The Clink, you are responsible for:
•Mentoring, supporting and being the point of contact for students and graduates as they transition from our hospitality and horticulture training programmes in prison and in the community for up to 12 months.
•Working with and supporting people in prison and students prior to and after release from prison, or from graduation in our community café, to empower them in finding and maintaining accommodation, employment and a drug-free, offence-free lifestyle.
•Building relationships with Clink Chef Trainers, HMPPS Resettlement and Employment Teams, HMPPS Officers and Governing Teams in the prison and all parties invested in the training, support and employment of our learners.
•Working with students and graduates to identify their needs and risks, and to identify short and long-term goals.
•Motivating and engaging students and graduates and to provide practical and emotional support.
•Liaising with employers to secure opportunities for our students and for continuity of employment for graduates upon release.
•Supporting people dealing with drug and alcohol problems and to make referrals to other services as required.
•Undertaking risk assessments for each student, to recognise changes in risk level and take appropriate action.
•Maintaining case records and report on students' progress to external agencies and for our own Clink records on Clink Connect, our CRM system.
•Working in partnership with the team to enhance overall delivery of the service.
•Maintaining a professional approach that enhances the reputation of the charity.
DESIRABLE SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE
- Experience of prisons and/or the criminal justice system. This can be lived experience.
- Experience of working with a variety of client groups both in custody and in the community, including men, women and 16-25-year-olds.
- Experience of working with young people in gangs and/or at risk of exploitation and county lines.
- Experience of working with neurodivergent people and those with disabilities and additional needs.
- Experience and skill in using a trauma informed approach with vulnerable people who present a risk of harm, including knowledge of mental health issues, drug and alcohol use and offending behaviour.
- Experience in setting up a strong employer network and using this to support our graduates into employment post-release.
- Experience referring to other services and using a multi-agency approach.
- A level of numeracy sufficient to carry out tasks such as budgeting with clients, calculating benefit entitlements and understanding rent arrears.
- An understanding of safeguarding issues and PREVENT Duty and the ability to assess risk in consultation with line manager.
- Some knowledge of the benefits system and ability to deal with housing agencies and landlords
- Driver with clean licence.
- IT literate - will need to maintain records about our students on our in-house CRM system and complete assessments for HMPPS.
- Able to adopt a supportive, confident and motivating approach to the client group.
- Willing to engage in training and development of your own knowledge and skills.
- Able to pass a prison security clearance.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
- Confident and resilient personality, with the strength of character to work in complex prison settings and with highly vulnerable people.
- Perseverence and tenacity — a desire to see our students be successful and to advocate strongly on their behalf which often requires a relentless optimism.
- Highly organised and efficient person - able to juggle multiple responsibilities, manage your own time and schedule, and be a consistent source of support for our beneficiaries.
- A strong networker - your key responsibility will be to manage stakeholders in the prison, in probation, in other third sector support groups, and with employers to advocate for our students to have the chance of quality employment outcomes.
- An assertive communicator - you will need to be patient, kind and compassionate and to communicate with our students with sensitivity and clear expectations.
REPORTING LINES MANAGEMENT EXPECTATIONS
You will report directly to the Support Lead for London and the SE, the Executive Leadership Team, but also work closely with the Operations team in the prisons and related Clink project leads in the community.
GENERAL CLINK CHARITY INFORMATION
All staff are expected to:
- Comply with all current legislation
- Comply with all prison operational policies
- Comply with The Clink Staff Handbook
- Undertake such other duties within the scope of the post as may be requested by your Manager
Special Requirements:
- Must be able to pass prison security vetting process to be able to draw keys.
- Must have a valid driving licence .
Benefits:
- 28 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Company pension scheme
- Free meals on duty when based in a restaurant or visiting for business
HOW TO APPLY
If you would like to apply for this post, please send your CV and a supporting statement (maximum 2 sides of A4) to Lizann Barnwell.
In your supporting statement you should ensure that you try to address the desirable criteria set out in the person specification for the role. Make sure you give evidence which shows how you meet the criteria, not just telling us that you did it.
Interviews will be arranged on a rolling basis for this role, so early applications are encouraged. The deadline for applications is Friday 6 Feb at 0900.
We do not send individual acknowledgment of applications due to the high volume we receive, and we will only contact candidates who are shortlisted for an interview. If you do not hear from us within two weeks of the closing date, your application has not been successful on this occasion.
If you would like an informal chat about this role, we can offer a call with a member of The Clink Team. Even if you feel you do not meet some of the criteria listed above, we would still welcome applications from passionate candidates who are keen to make a difference.
Appointment process
Applicants who have demonstrated that they meet the desirable criteria set out in the person specification will be contacted and interviews arranged on a rolling basis.
Interview
If you are shortlisted for interview, you will be invited to a selection process. A panel of two or more, including the recruiting manager conducts all interviews. If there are any special arrangements associated with the selection process e.g. tests or presentations, you will be informed accordingly.
Interview outcome
If you are invited to attend an interview, you will be informed either verbally or in writing of the outcome. The successful candidate will have the decision confirmed in writing as an offer of employment. Unsuccessful candidates will be offered the opportunity for feedback.
References
If you are successful in your application, you are asked to provide us with the details of two referees. We only contact referees with your permission after an offer of employment has been made.
All offers of employment are conditional upon the receipt of references that are satisfactory to The Clink Charity, verification of right to work in the UK and where applicable, verification of qualifications and Disclosure and Barring Service (where required).
Personal information
The personal information that you have supplied will only be used for recruitment and selection purposes. You should refer to the Privacy Notice on our website, which sets out how The Clink Charity will deal with the personal and sensitive data you have provided in your application form and supporting information.
EDI
We welcome all applicants and are keen to enhance our team to reflect the diversity of the UK and the communities we serve. We would like to encourage applications from disabled people, those from LGBTQIA+ and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds and those experiencing other forms of marginalisation, as they are underrepresented at this level. In addition, as this role works directly with people in prison and those at risk of offending, those with lived experience are encouraged to apply.
Accessible recruitment
The Clink Charity is committed to making our recruitment process and workplace accessible to all. If you are an applicant with a disability and/or have any specific needs or adjustments that you would like us to consider, at application, interview, or appointment stage, please make us aware in your application.
Please ensure you submit a Cover Letter/Supporting Statement. You should ensure that you try to address the desirable criteria set out in the person specification for the role. Make sure you give evidence which shows how you meet the criteria, not just telling us that you did it.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Can you inspire, energise and motivate young people aged 9–18?
Do you want to make a genuine difference while being part of a supportive, values-driven team?
If so, we’d love to hear from you!
One YMCA Youth Clubs provide safe, inclusive spaces where young people can socialise, build confidence, and develop skills for life. We are looking for a Youth Development Worker to support the delivery of engaging youth work sessions and contribute to the growth of our youth offer, including the opening of new clubs in Bedford town centre.
The Role
Reporting to the Senior Youth Development Worker, you will support the planning and delivery of a range of youth work activities. This is a hands-on role working directly with young people, helping to create welcoming, fun and meaningful sessions that reflect the YMCA Youth Work Strategy and Principles.
This is an ideal opportunity for someone passionate about youth work who wants to develop their skills in a supportive environment. Training and ongoing support will be provided.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the planning, delivery and evaluation of youth work activities for young people aged 9–18
- Deliver a range of youth work activities, including centre-based sessions, outreach, school-linked programmes, mentoring and digital engagement
- Build positive, trusted relationships with young people, offering encouragement, guidance and support
- Assist with projects and new youth club development in Bedford town centre
- Maintain accurate records of attendance, engagement and outcomes to support monitoring and reporting
- Promote safeguarding, equality, inclusion and positive behaviour in all aspects of delivery
About You
You don’t need to be fully qualified - what matters most is your enthusiasm, reliability, and commitment to young people.
You will be:
- Passionate about supporting children and young people
- Confident engaging with young people in group settings
- Willing to learn and develop your youth work skills
- Able to work as part of a team and follow safeguarding procedures
- Experience working with young people (paid or voluntary) is desirable but not essential.
Hours and Contract
- Part-time role
- 10 hours per week, paid on a monthly salaried basis
- Working pattern includes evenings and weekends, with most sessions taking place after school
Additional Information
- Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK (no visa sponsorship available)
- This role may require a Basic or Enhanced DBS check following a conditional offer
- Applications will be reviewed as received, so early application is encouraged
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: At One YMCA, we are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and aim to create a working environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
Accessibility & Adjustments: We are happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. Please let us know if you need any support to apply or attend an interview.
Registered Charity
101 - 500
One YMCA's mission is to create supportive and energizing communities where young people can belong, contribute, and thrive.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
One YMCA provides housing, health, wellbeing, children’s, youth and community services across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. We are committed to helping people reach their full potential and strengthening communities through inclusive, high-quality programmes.
Are you an experienced youth worker ready to take the next step in your development?
Do you enjoy leading sessions, supporting colleagues, and shaping meaningful opportunities for young people?
We are seeking a Senior Youth Development Worker to support the development and delivery of One YMCA’s Universal Youth Work provision in Bedford.
The Role
Reporting to the Youth Work Coordinator, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality youth work for young people aged 9–18. You will lead engaging sessions, support and supervise sessional youth workers, and contribute to the growth and development of One YMCA’s youth work offer in line with the YMCA Youth Work Strategy.
This is a hands-on role combining direct youth work, team support, and partnership engagement. You will help ensure young people feel safe, included, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, deliver and evaluate inclusive youth work sessions for young people aged 9–18
- Lead sessions and act as a positive role model for young people
- Support and supervise sessional youth workers during delivery
- Build and maintain positive relationships with partners, schools and external agencies
- Maintain accurate records to monitor attendance, engagement and outcomes
- Contribute to the development and expansion of One YMCA’s youth work offer, including partnership and funding opportunities
- Promote safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion in all areas of work
About You
You are passionate about youth work and committed to making a positive difference in young people’s lives. You are confident leading sessions, supporting others, and working collaboratively as part of a team.
You will have:
- Experience delivering youth work (paid or voluntary)
- Confidence leading group sessions and supporting small teams
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- An understanding of inclusive and safeguarding-led practice
- A Level 3 Youth Work qualification, or willingness to work towards one (essential)
Hours and Contract
- Part-time role
- 18 hours per week, salaried on a monthly basis
- Working pattern is flexible but will include evenings and weekends, with most delivery taking place after school
Additional Information
- Interviews will be held on a rolling basis, so early application is encouraged
- Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available)
- This role may require a Basic or Enhanced DBS check, subject to a conditional offer
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: At One YMCA, we are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We actively promote equality of opportunity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, communities, and experiences.
Accessibility & Adjustments: We are happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. Please let us know if you require any support to participate fully.
Registered Charity
101 - 500
One YMCA's mission is to create supportive and energizing communities where young people can belong, contribute, and thrive.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for an exceptional, value-driven candidate who can hit the ground running as our Legal Education Officer, working closely with the Director and the rest of our small and dynamic Right to Remain team.
The person must be someone who understands the Right to Remain ethos and is prepared to bring their whole self to our organisation. Needless to say, the role requires an impeccable grasp of the asylum and immigration system and its operation on the ground, including how it impacts our community of people seeking asylum, refugees, migrants, their families, friends and allies. It requires an ability to help and guide our community to navigate the complex and hostile asylum and immigration system.
You will be working closely with the Director and the rest of our small and dynamic Right to Remain staff team: another Legal Education Officer based in Leeds (generally) covering the North, the Organiser based in Manchester leading our mighty These Walls Must Fall, and the Engagement Officer based in London. In particular, the post holder will be closely coordinating their work with another Legal Education Officer in Leeds. The post holder is also expected to be already embedded in the local and regional asylum and migration field, familiar with its dynamics and able to tap into their existing relationships and connections with local groups and actors.
We are proud of Right to Remain’s unique and bold approach that really believes in collective power. We are focused on building knowledge, radical solidarity and the power of our community. We show up authentically at work and for our community, always giving our 100%. We are determined and calm amidst the crisis and chaos of the world. We know that now is not a ‘business as usual’ time, and we need to meet the moment as the anchor organisation for the migration justice movement. That comes with a lot of responsibility but we also carry it with lightness. We want our new team members to be similarly passionate, ambitious and compassionate.
With the rest of the team, you will be responsible for maintaining, developing, and increasing usage of our highly popular and accessible resources about the asylum and immigration system, most notably the Right to Remain Toolkit. You will deliver interactive workshops on the legal system for people navigating that system as well as professionals and volunteers. You will engage with our network of community groups to ensure that we are apprised of developments on the ground and we are communicating important changes to these support groups. You will also work with the Director and other colleagues to develop and deliver specific public legal education projects, when necessary. You must have outstanding communication skills and the ability to engage with a wide range of audiences, in a manner that reflects Right to Remain’s mission and values.
Registered Charity
6 - 10
Right to Remain is a national migration justice organisation, creating a world where everyone can exercise their right to remain where they need to be
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you have what it takes to be part of the Walking With The Wounded team? We have a fantastic opportunity for a Financial Controller with experience of running the day-to-day financial operations of a dynamic charity. We are an ambitious charity with ambitious goals that needs a Financial Controller to support the charity in achieving these goals. If your attitude matches this, you will find a perfect home within our Finance team.
This is a broad role that will include a wide range of responsibilities. The Financial Controller is responsible for managing the daily and weekly tasks of the Finance team, as well as periodic tasks that are less frequent. These tasks include (but are not restricted to) all aspects of bank and cash, raising of invoices, generating BACS payments, all Finance input into payroll, VAT returns, Gift Aid claims and response to ad hoc queries from our front-line staff. The Financial Controller managers one Finance Assistant and reports into the Head of Finance. The Head of Finance leads on budget setting, forecasting and monthly / quarterly / annual reporting, and the Financial Controller will support where needed. The Financial Controller will also be the lead contact with external auditors following year end.
The tasks outlined here and in the job description will not remain static and can be tailored to the experience of the successful applicant, therefore this role is ideal for someone who is looking for a challenge and to develop their skills in a supportive and dynamic environment.
For an informal discussion please contact Marc Brady, Head of Finance.
Registered Charity
51 - 100
Walking With The Wounded deliver employment, mental health & care coordination programmes to veterans & their families in collaboration with the NHS.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
One YMCA provides housing, health, wellbeing, children’s, youth and community services across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. We are committed to helping people reach their full potential and to strengthening communities through inclusive, high-quality services.
Are you passionate about youth work and ready to lead and shape provision for young people aged 9–18?
Can you inspire, motivate and support young people while coordinating engaging, safe and impactful youth programmes?
One YMCA Youth Clubs provide welcoming and supportive spaces where young people can build confidence, develop life skills, and feel a strong sense of belonging. We are now seeking a Youth Work Coordinator to lead the development and delivery of our Bedford Town Centre Youth Clubs.
The Role
As Youth Work Coordinator, you will take a lead role in the planning, coordination and delivery of youth clubs and activities. You will be responsible for setting up and developing new sessions, coordinating day-to-day delivery, supporting youth workers and volunteers, and ensuring high-quality youth work practice in line with the YMCA Youth Work Strategy and Principles.
You will also work closely with local partners, schools, and community stakeholders to strengthen engagement and create positive opportunities for young people. This is a hands-on role combining direct youth work, outreach, and leadership responsibilities.
The role includes working 2–3 days per week after school, with some evening work required. Additional daytime hours are allocated for planning, coordination, partnership working, and administration, bringing the total to 37.5 hours per week.
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate and deliver centre-based and outreach youth work sessions
- Lead the development of new youth clubs and activities
- Support, mentor, and coordinate youth work staff and volunteers
- Build positive relationships with young people aged 9–18
- Work collaboratively with local partners and stakeholders
- Ensure safeguarding, health and safety, and quality standards are met
- Contribute to planning, monitoring, and evaluation of youth provision
What We’re Looking For
- Experience in youth work or a related field (paid or voluntary)
- A strong commitment to inclusive, young person–centred practice
- Ability to coordinate sessions and support a small team
- Strong communication, organisational, and partnership-working skills
- Willingness to undertake a Level 3 or Level 6 qualification in Youth Work (essential)
- An understanding of both outreach and centre-based youth work
What We Offer
- Opportunity to accrue up to 5 additional days of leave
- Paid training and tailored learning and development opportunities
- Free 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme (including counselling and GP access)
- Employer contributory pension scheme
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and compassionate leave
- Health and wellbeing initiatives
- Employee discount scheme (brands, travel, groceries, and more)
Additional Information
- This is a full-time role (37.5 hours per week)
- Working pattern includes shifts over 7 days, including evenings
- Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK (no visa sponsorship available)
- The role may require a Basic or Enhanced DBS check following a conditional offer
At One YMCA, we actively promote equality, diversity and inclusion and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences.
We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you to our dedicated Youth Work team at One YMCA.
Registered Charity
101 - 500
One YMCA's mission is to create supportive and energizing communities where young people can belong, contribute, and thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
- Accelerate building decarbonisation, support Paris goals & resilient buildings
- Strategic communications leader for new global hub shifting climate narratives
- Europe/UK-based, remote; built environment/climate expertise ideal
The Organisation
The Global Strategic Communications Council (GSCC), hosted by Meliore Foundation and funded by philanthropy, is a network of communications professionals in the fields of climate, energy, and nature. A collaborative network in over 20 countries, across 6 continents, GSCC covers themes including climate science and impacts, food and nature, finance and economics, energy, transport, industry, and multilateral climate processes.
With a focus on media debate and public discourse at the global level, and in major economies across Asia, Europe, Africa, Australia, and the Americas, GSCC supports partners in a variety of sectors and geographies via unbranded strategic communications strategies to support the goals encapsulated by the Paris Agreement.
Decarbonising the built environment is among the most urgent and under-communicated climate imperatives but is often framed as costly, bureaucratic, or politically challenging. To address this, GSCC is establishing a dedicated Built Environment Strategic Communications Hub, within the broader GSCC network. The hub will bring together strategic communications expertise and campaign delivery to support the transition to near-zero and resilient buildings.
Benefits & Culture
- Build and manage a new team of international climate communications professionals across Europe and Asia.
- Huge growth potential. Collaborates with the global climate network and ecosystem partners.
- Competitive remuneration, generous holidays.
- Full time 24-month fixed-term contract with possible renewal subject to performance and funding.
- Global, remote, ideally in Europe, work/visa sponsorships and relocations are not provided.
The Role
Reporting to GSCC’s global Network Director, this role provides vision, leadership and direction to a new global initiative dedicated to accelerating the decarbonisation of buildings. While the initial focus is Europe and India, the role is explicitly designed to scale into a truly global function, requiring a leader with a strong international outlook and experience. The Hub's initial strategy will focus on key countries including United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, France, Spain, and India, working in close collaboration with partners to create public demand, political will, and market momentum for action.
Your purpose is to establish the Hub as the leading strategic communications resource on the built environment, translating technical building decarbonisation agendas into compelling stories that resonate with the public, policymakers, and markets. You will:
- Shape and implement the overall vision and strategy of the Hub.
- Build, manage, and develop a high-performing, cross-cultural team of up to 7 communications professionals in the initial phase, fostering strong collaboration across countries, disciplines, and political contexts.
- Identify policy issues to shift via strategic interventions for maximum impact.
- Oversee effective national campaigns, ensuring they are achievable and evidence-based.
- Manage the budget, financial reporting, and stakeholder relationships.
Skills Required
You have significant expertise in impactful, strategic communications/campaigns, which includes team leadership experience. Ideally you have demonstrated expertise in climate change, the built environment/housing, or energy transition, in collaboration with civil society organisations, policymakers, business associations, and media.
The role requires a proven ability to build trust, alignment, and performance across culturally diverse teams and partners, operating across multiple political, institutional, and media contexts.
The strategic communications campaigns you have designed and delivered have influenced public or political debate at national or international level and you have strong geopolitical knowledge and networks in at least one of GSCC’s key UK/Europe locations. You also bring:
- Leadership of campaigns, media, and digital teams across European geographies, with experience collaborating across global markets.
- Strong geopolitical nous and political strategy expertise to influence change.
- Budget management (€1M min), compliance, and reporting experience.
- Ability to operate successfully — and lead others effectively — in complex, dynamic, political, and cross-cultural contexts.
- Excellent English communication skills: a European language is a plus.
If you are a skilled strategic communications leader in Europe, with the decarbonisation expertise to drive the visibility, ambition, and action needed to place buildings at the centre of the climate transition, then please apply by submitting a CV and cover letter, responding to the skills and experience required, quoting # 1408448.
Alternatively, request a full information package call Lois Freeke in Melbourne on +61 (0) 3 8080 8978 for a confidential discussion.
Please note there is no formal closing date for this role, if you are interested, we would encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
NGO Recruitment values equitable recruitment practices and is committed to representing candidates reflective of the diverse organisations and communities we work with. We welcome and encourage applications from all backgrounds, ages, and identities, and are happy to adjust our recruitment process to support accessibility needs. If you are interested in this position and have most of the skills or experience we are looking for, please go ahead and apply.
Thank you!
Medical Detection Dogs trains dogs to save lives.
We train specialist dogs to detect the odour of human disease, providing life-saving alert assistance dogs to people with complex health problems across the UK and collaborating with NHS Trusts and other researchers and Universities both in the UK and internationally to advance the early diagnosis of disease.
We have an exciting new opportunity to join this innovative charity that is a world-leader in its specialist field.
JOB TITLE:Regional Assistance Dog Instructor Scotland
LOCATION:Scotland (Central belt, between Glasgow and Edinburgh)
SALARY:£24K - £29K per annum, depending on experience
JOB TYPE: Part time and full time hours considered, with occasional evening and weekend work required
REPORTS TO: Instructor Manager
The Job
We are looking for a passionate and driven person who ideally has previous experience and skills working as an Instructor within an Assistance Dog organisation, who has worked with clients and partnerships. The role includes supporting both clients who have had a MDD dog placed with them and also our own dog applicants with their puppies and young dogs to ensure they receive the highest standard of socialisation and early training in terms of obedience, public access and developing an alert to the applicant’s condition, with the aim to reach an accreditable assistance dog partnership status. It is also will include carrying out client specific and odour training for MDD own dogs, placing these dogs with their new clients and looking after a number of established partnerships. This role would suit somebody residing in the central belt of Scotland, between Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Duties that encompass the role of an Instructor include:
- Be the first point of contact for the allocated partnerships in your area, covering all areas of Scotland. To provide guidance and instruction to applicants who have applied to the charity to have their own dogs considered for the training programme guidance and instruction on handling, behaviour and obedience and odour training as well as newly placed partnerships.
- Alongside the Instructing team, to run puppy classes, public access training, recall sessions in small groups for applicant own dogs that are in line with the charity’s quality standards and in accordance with timescales and targets.
- To also carry out support visits and home interviews for applicants and clients that have been allocated to you.
- Regularly monitor progress of the puppies and partnerships in training in your area and provide detailed, evidenced feedback to Instructor Manager and Head of Assistance Dog Programme.
- To carry out client specific training with any MDD owned dogs that have been matched, including the required odour scent training.
- Instructing, guiding and supporting new assistance dog clients in managing and handling a Medical Alert Assistance Dog effectively, via pre training, placement training and aftercare visits.
- Supporting partnerships in training in successfully reaching an accreditation standard and in maintaining this
- standard throughout the life of the partnership.
- To support a number of established partnerships in the form of aftercare, refresher training and yearly re-accreditations, assisting further afield on occasions as required.
Responsibilities
- To escalate issues and problems to the Instructor Manager as appropriate.
- To assist the Dog Supply Team with carrying out scent assessments on any MDD dogs in socialising as and when required with the support of the Instructor Manager and rest of the Instructing Team.
- To plan, organise and deliver practical and theoretical training to clients, meeting their individual needs in line with agreed standards to include areas such as dog welfare, appropriate handling, commanding and overall management. This will involve working with the parents as Team Leader and child as Client and working with adult clients.
- Assess the team dynamics of the family & balancing the needs of all family members as well as those of the dog.
- Assess the individuals preferred learning style and amending as relevant to aid a client.
- To accompany the client into all regular environments that they will take the dog to, ensuring the dog behaves in an acceptable manner and that the client and others are aware and clear in terms of where they dog should reside and behave for eg public transport, place of work. To complete a check list of environments for any applicant own dogs in training who are on the programme to be assessed within.
- To support and advise clients in transferring the odour training from pot training and recognising alerting behaviours to establish real life alerting.
- To monitor the correct and false alerting percentages of allocated partnerships via data analysis, advising where necessary until the correct alerting levels are achieved.
- To complete comprehensive reports and paperwork for any time spent with applicants or partnerships in training or established. Maintain accurate records by providing verbal and written information with agreed timescales about clients, dogs, applicants and apprentices as appropriate.
- To work alongside allocated partnerships with the aim of the partnership reaching an accredited standard and feeding back to the Instructor Manager and Assistance Dog Programme Manager if there are any concerns that the accreditation cannot be achieved.
- To provide clients with appropriate aftercare services at regular intervals in their own homes in the form of annual visits, support visits or at refresher workshops run at the Centre to agreed standards. This will include continual re-assessment of the dynamics of family and dog, formulating and training on appropriate solutions, as well as offering additional dog training advice.
- To deliver handling days as part of an applicant’s pre training to include ‘Introduction to Assistance Dog’ ‘Advanced Handling’ and Family Handling.
- To scent train and seizure proof advanced dogs in preparation to be partnered with an adult or child client and ensure that applicant own dogs have received this at the earliest opportunity.
- To maintain the ongoing public access training with any advanced dog in scent training that has been allocated to them.
- To provide local support to the growing puppy socialisation scheme, based in and around Perth.
- To provide support to the Charity’s public relations and fundraising functions as required, specifically in your area.
- To act as the ‘contact’ person for the assistance dog programme in relation to training policy procedures with clients and their families, other professional service providers and members of the public. This will include on-going research and development of the project.
- To liaise with and provide support for Volunteers who may operate as part of the aftercare programme provided by the charity.
- To ensure all partnerships are in line with the ADUK regulations with regards to behaviour, obedience and welfare and branding.
- Due to the nature of the role, flexible working hours may be required in some instances to facilitate the effective delivery of the work e.g. working during the school holidays with school age clients.
Other
- Share best practice with colleagues across the charity.
- Any other duties or tasks that are required to ensure the successful running of the Medical Alert Assistance Dog Department and the Charity overall.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- High level of preparation, organisational and co-ordination skills
- Strong and clear teaching and instructing skills
- Experience of running puppy classes and carrying out public access training and recall sessions
- High level of self – motivation and planning
- Approachable, calm and empathetic to children and adults with debilitating and life threatening conditions
- Happy to travel alone within the UK to visit any clients as necessary.
- Happy to be on call at all times for partnerships as and when required.
- Happy to stay away from home and stay in local hotel when the client’s location is too far from your home to travel back.
- Happy and able to have Medical Alert Assistance Dogs in training to reside in their home.
- Good team worker, but equally able to work alone.
- Positive, empathetic and calm attitude
- Able to embrace a constantly evolving organisation
- Flexible
KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
Essential
- Previous Assistance Dog Instructing or Dog Training with puppy socialisers experience
- Knowledge of AD(UK) and ADI regulations
- Law in relation to dogs.
- Knowledge of medical conditions relevant to puppies between 8 weeks and 2 years of age.
- Dog and human psychology.
- Proven evidence and experience of dog handling and training skills
- Previous experience of teaching and instructing
- Sound dog training and dog behaviour knowledge
- IT literacy and report writing skills
- Experience of using Microsoft based programs such as Outlook, Word,
- Excel, Internet Explorer and Power Point, teams, zoom and Microsoft
- Share point for data etc
- Full UK driving licence
- Pass a DBS (CRB) check due to regular contact with children
Preferable
- Knowledge of debilitating medical conditions and understanding of how they can impact people, both physically and psychologically, particularly when they are unstable and fluctuating.
- Previous knowledge of odour/scent training.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- High level of preparation, organisational and co-ordination skills
- Strong and clear teaching and instructing skills
- High level of self – motivation and planning
- Approachable, calm and empathetic to children and adults with debilitating and life threatening conditions
- Happy to travel alone within the UK to visit any clients as necessary.
- Happy to be on call at all times for partnerships as and when required – to include outside standard working hours.
- Able and willing to stay away from home and stay in local hotel when the client’s location is too far from the Centre to travel back.
- If able, possibility of having Medical Alert Assistance Dogs in training to reside in their home through the 6 – 8 week training phase.
- Good team worker, but equally able to work alone.
- Positive, empathetic and calm attitude
- Able to embrace a constantly evolving organisation
- You should be supportive of the charitable aims of Medical Detection Dogs and capable of working as part of a team, as well as able to motivate yourself.
- You should be adaptable and positively embrace change by not only being flexible towards the ideas of others but also putting forward ideas to colleagues. This will involve creativity in problem solving and making appropriate responses to new ideas and unexpected situations.
DIVERITY, EQUALITY & INCLUSION
We are a welcoming, diverse and inclusive charity. Medical Detection Dogs thrives when everyone feels comfortable bringing their best self to work. We celebrate difference, whilst striving to create an environment where colleagues feel respected and valued for their unique potential. We are committed to our values on equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Values & Behaviours
Working at Medical Detection Dogs will be a richly rewarding experience.
Our Values & Behaviours encapsulate who we are, what we stand for and what it will feel like to be part of our team:
- We are respectful.
- We stay positive.
- We strive for excellence.
- We communicate and listen.
- We are ambassadors.
- We are one team.
And of course, we advocate for Medical Detection Dogs whenever we get the chance, and we pride ourselves on our role as ambassadors for the charity.
Finally, the successful candidate will also be expected to:
- Hold a full UK Driving Licence
- Provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the UK.
- Undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
- Work some evenings and weekends
- Be willing to travel to the Centre based near Milton Keynes
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.