Counselling jobs in taunton, somerset

RABI is the farmers charity.

RABI supports farming people across England, Wales and NI with expert, one-to-one practical, financial and emotional help, all year round. From confidential advice and mental health support to direct financial assistance, their tailored services respond to the unique challenges of farming life.

At the heart of RABI’s mission is a commitment to strengthening resilience; helping farming people feel valued, supported and better equipped to navigate uncertainty and change. RABI is working to close the farming wellbeing gap and build a future where farming people can thrive.

Over the past 25 years alone, RABI has delivered almost £250 Million in direct financial support to the farming community, whilst the charity’s professional counselling service has provided 11,500 free sessions to farming people since 2022. RABI’s wrap-around support services continue to evolve, reaching more people year on year.

RABI is on a journey to help shape a future farmers deserve.

Key Purpose:

To work as part of a team that provide high quality casework and grant applications to farming people that come to RABI for support.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide high quality information, advice and guidance in an empathetic and professional manner.
• Conduct a holistic needs assessment for each service user according to their individual circumstances.
• Manage a caseload of beneficiaries working with each service user to establish the most appropriate sources of support and agree an action/support plan with them.
• Collation of evidence for grants applications, checking that essential criteria have been met and progressing applications to the next stage of RABI’s internal grants process.
• Provide a face-to-face service when there is an over-riding need to do so by visiting service users.
• Collaborate with other agencies/service providers who can offer additional support options.
• Liaise with partners, ensuring that agreed actions are followed up.
• Log and communicate details of cases in a timely and accurate manner to ensure that records are up to date and the wider team has the information they need to provide support.
• Explore, assess and escalate any safeguarding concerns according to the RABI safeguarding policy.
• Contribute constructively to the development of the Service Delivery team and function, for the benefit of service users.
• Work constructively and collaboratively to solve problems with the support of colleagues.
• Be an ambassador for Service Delivery internally within RABI and with external organisations.
• Demonstrate commitment to Safeguarding, Equality and Diversity and Health and Safety promoting a safe and inclusive environment.

Person Specification:

Essential

• Fluent Welsh language speaker.
• Experience providing services to vulnerable service users, listening and supporting in a non-judgemental way.
• Knowledge and insight into state benefits and complementary support services (whether national/local/statutory agencies.)
• Strong ability to manage a diverse caseload effectively, prioritising competing demands to include keeping excellent case records.
• Excellent communication skills, being able to establish rapport and build trust quickly.
• The ability to build a practical plan alongside a service user and adapt approach to different circumstances and personalities.
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, particularly in complex situations
• Knowledge of data protection principles and how to apply them.
• Knowledge or experience of safeguarding best practice.
• Excellent IT software skills and aptitude to adapt to new systems and processes.
• Flexible, resilient and solution focussed working with sensitivity and integrity.
• Collaborative, constructive, and solution focussed.
• Ability to work flexibly, depending on the needs of the team and of service users.

Desirable

• Farming background or knowledge of the farming community environment.
• Experience providing support remotely.
• Relevant qualifications in health and social care.

Other

Use of own car, ability to travel to support service users / attend meetings.

This role profile is not exhaustive and is subject to review in conjunction with the post holder according to future developments at RABI.

Early applications are encouraged for this position as shortlisting and interviews will take place on a rolling basis. We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a suitable application prior to the deadline.

Benefits

• Enrolment to Nest on commencement of employment and then opportunity to join RABI’s group pension scheme with Standard Life where RABI make contributions equivalent to 10% of your basic salary, provided you make a personal contribution of 5%.
• Life assurance from day one.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme.

RABI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and aims to ensure that all employment practices secure equality of opportunity and that no prospective or current employee receives less than favourable treatment at RABI as a result of their sex, sexual orientation, age, race, religion, belief, ethnic origin, disability, marital, or for any other reason which cannot be shown to be justifiable. Our recruitment process strives to ensure that individuals are selected only based on their relevant skills, experience, qualifications and abilities.

REF-223 903

Position title: Health and Wellbeing Lead

Reports to: Head of Shed Development and Sustainability

Direct reports: None currently

Location: Remote (with regular travel)

Key stakeholders: UKMSA Volunteers, Sheds and Shedders, Head of Shed Development and Sustainability and team, Head of Volunteering

Salary: Level 3 – £30,000-£35,000

As Health and Wellbeing Lead, the purpose of your role will be to work with volunteers and colleagues to support Sheds and Shed Networks to improve men’s health and wellbeing across the UK. This work is within the context of informal, peer-led, self-determined spaces, where the emphasis is on activity not health prevention, which suits many men and works well for them.

This role involves engaging directly with Sheds and Shed Networks, supporting them to foster partnerships with local health and social care organisations, as well as supporting local health and social care organisations to understand and engage effectively with Men’s Sheds in their area.

You will work with volunteers, colleagues and external experts to gather and share accurate, accessible and relevant resources, information and case studies related to men’s health and wellbeing with Sheds and Shed Networks. This will include developing and engaging with digital health tools, information and training, as well as taking an empowering and capacity building ‘train the trainer’ approach to the design and delivery of all training and workshops related to men’s health and wellbeing.

You will work closely with the Head of Volunteering to support volunteers to promote the role of Men’s Sheds in preventative and community-based health locally and will work with colleagues to support volunteers to actively contribute to promoting the role of Men’s Sheds in preventative and community-based health at a national level. 

You’ll be the main contact for volunteers, Sheds and Shed Networks for all things related to Sheds and men’s health and wellbeing.

Key responsibilities:

1. Sheds and Shed Networks

· Be the main point of contact for all Sheds and Shed Networks for all things related to Sheds and men’s health and wellbeing – ensuring you are approachable, responsive and consistent.

· Empower volunteers and colleagues to support Sheds and Shed Networks to foster partnerships with local health and social care organisations.

· Empower volunteers, colleagues and the wider Shed community to support local health and social care organisations to understand and engage effectively with Men’s Sheds in their area.

2. Information and resources

· Work with volunteers, colleagues and external experts as part of the UKMSA Advisory and Guidance Group to continuously gather, develop and update relevant resources, information and case studies related to men’s health and wellbeing. Regularly share clear and accessible information and resources with Sheds and Shed Networks.

· Work with volunteers, colleagues and external experts as part of the UKMSA Advisory and Guidance Group to build knowledge and understanding of relevant organisations and services related to men’s health and wellbeing. Regularly share clear and accessible information about organisations and services with Sheds and Shed Networks.

· Work with Sheds and volunteers to gather case studies and develop resources highlighting Sheds that demonstrate innovation and best practice in the field of health and wellbeing.

3. Training and workshops

· Work with volunteers, colleagues and external partners to develop an empowering train the trainer model to enable Shed Leaders and Shedders to plan, deliver and evaluate training and workshops related to men’s health and wellbeing.

· Work with volunteers, colleagues and external partners to co-design and deliver training and workshops related to men’s health and wellbeing at UKMSA events.

· Support peer-to-peer learning amongst Sheds and Shed Networks through regional events, online forums, and learning networks.

4. Digital health and wellbeing

· Work with volunteers and colleagues to test and empower Sheds and Shed Networks to use digital platforms for hybrid training, remote participation, or digital inclusion efforts.

• Work with volunteers and colleagues to utilise and adapt data tools (e.g. CRM, health analytics and dashboards) for monitoring health and wellbeing related outcomes and for reporting impact.

5. Monitoring and Reporting

· Work with volunteers, Sheds and Shed Networks to collect and report data in relation to men’s health and wellbeing to demonstrate the role and impact of Men’s Sheds in preventative and community-based health.

· Work with volunteers, colleagues, Sheds and Shed Networks to contribute to relevant evaluation and research projects relating to Sheds and men’s health and wellbeing.

6. Stakeholder Engagement

• Work with volunteers to build relationships with local and regional health, community, and voluntary sector organisations.
• Represent UKMSA at relevant networks, events, and conferences.
• Contribute to the planning and delivery of the annual Shedfest and other key events, coordinating and supporting volunteer involvement in relation to men’s health and wellbeing.
• Work with colleagues, including the CEO, to build effective working partnerships across the UK men’s health sector  

Key expertise required:

• Knowledge, skills and experience in men’s health and wellbeing.
• Some knowledge of how to effectively improve men’s health and wellbeing in the Shedding context, and a willingness and interest in working with volunteers to develop and share expertise in this area.
• An understanding of the importance of taking an empowering train the trainer approach to planning, delivering and evaluating training and workshops related to men’s health and wellbeing.
• Ability to build relationships with local and regional health, community, and voluntary sector organisations, and to support others to do so.
• Skilled at actively collaborating with volunteers and subject matter experts.
• Confident communicator - able to build rapport, deliver training, and manage sensitive conversations.

· Strong relationship builder - able to connect with people, build trust and maintain long term engagement.

· Willing, able and confident to travel to meet volunteers and attend Shed events regularly.

· Confident working with data and systems - including CRM tools and digital tools.

· Proactive and creative - always looking for ways to improve how things are done.

· Self-motivated and able to manage your own workload without needing close supervision.

· An understanding of the nuances and limitations of how Sheds can support health and wellbeing

What success looks like:

• Strong, collaborative relationships established between Sheds, Shed Networks and local health and community partners.
• Demonstrable improvements in the health and wellbeing of Shedders through supported activities and case studies.
• Volunteers, Sheds and Shed Networks feel empowered and equipped to deliver activities that support mental and physical health.
• Health and care organisations view Men’s Sheds as trusted, valuable partners in preventative health and social prescribing pathways.
• Resources, training, and support materials are well-received, practical, and widely adopted in Sheds and across Shed Networks.
• Clear and impactful reporting informs and supports UKMSA’s work at a national level.

This job is not:

• An expert, clinical or therapeutic health role—you will not be expected to deliver personal care, therapy, or counselling.
• Solely office-based or desk-bound—this is a varied, outreach-focused role that involves relationship-building, travel, and hands-on support.
• Focused only on one region—this is a national role, requiring awareness of regional variations across the UK.
• A short-term fixer—you’ll be building capacity and confidence in communities for long-term sustainability, not quick fixes or prescriptive solutions.

This job description is intended to outline the general responsibilities and expectations of the role. It may be reviewed and updated as the organisation evolves, and from time to time you may be asked to take on other reasonable tasks that fall outside this scope - we’re a small team, and flexibility is part of how we work.

Closing date: 9th October 1200 hrs
Interview: 17th October

We are seeking a new Finance and Administration Officer following the retirement of a long-serving team member. A key member of the SLA central office team, the Finance and Administration Officer plays a vital role in ensuring smooth financial operations and providing essential administrative support for our membership. This role is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, book-keeping and effective day-to-day financial operations, producing financial reports using our CRM (IMIS) and XERO, in addition to administration support.

You will be experienced in financial and administration operations of a charity or similar , with an AAT qualification or matching worked experience. Familiarity with XERO will be an advantage. You will be able to bring understanding of cashflow and financial analysis of figure, working with accountants as required.

You will also have excellent customer service skills and be able to work effectively with all stakeholders from our members, to funders to suppliers. You will be determined and have an excellent eye for financial and administrative detail. Your duties will include general administration and:

Financial operations and record-keeping

• Manage day-to-day financial transactions and maintain accurate records of all SLA accounts and petty cash; book-keeping
• Process and record all incoming payments, including foreign cheques (into bank account)
• Monitor cashflow and expenditure, keeping track of spending
• Pay invoices upon approval and ensure timely monthly payments (e.g. pensions, HMRC)
• Handle creditor and supplier communications and resolve related issues
• Monitor and follow up on overdue payments with a focus on membership payments

Invoicing and income tracking

• Issue and track membership and subscriber invoices and reminders
• Keep office team informed of payment statuses
• Prepare sales, cost, and profit reports for SLA publications
• Conduct annual publications stock take

Payroll and reporting

• Liaise with the accountant on salary payments; process salary BACS payments
• Support year-end financial reporting by providing necessary documentation to accountants
• Produce regular financial reports and analysis as required
• Supporting preparation of budgets, working with accountants as required

 Event financial administration

• Manage financial aspects of SLA events, particularly the annual conference (e.g., exhibitors, sponsors, and delegates)
• Process and record staff/trustee expense claims
• Support with bookings accommodation and travel for Board meetings

To be successful in this role you should demonstrate:

• Strong experience in financial and office administration
• Knowledge of accounting principles  
• Experience of working with XERO or similar
• Experience of using CRM systems (ideally IMIS)
• Experience of working for a small charity and / or membership association
• Accuracy, numeracy, attention to detail
• Ability to manage own workload, prioritise and meet competing deadlines
• Excellent customer service manner
• Being a team player

The Association is a UK wide organisation, working mostly remotely. Working patterns can be negotiated and we welcome applicants from all over the UK. We strongly encourage candidates of all different backgrounds and identities to apply. Each new role provides us with an opportunity for us to bring in a different perspective, and we are always eager to diversify our team. The SLA is committed to building an inclusive, supportive place, where you can do brilliant and rewarding work.

To apply please send a one page covering letter and CV with the job title in the subject line by 30th September.  Applications without a covering letter will not be considered. No agencies please.

Due to the volume of applications we cannot provide individual feedback. We really appreciate your interest. If you haven’t heard from us within one week of the deadline, it means we’ve moved forward with other candidates on this occasion. We encourage you to apply again in the future. Please note we may close recruitment early should the right candidate be identified.

WHO WE ARE

Animal Equality is an international animal protection organisation working with society, governments and companies to end cruelty to farmed animals. Animal Equality has offices in the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, Italy, Spain, Mexico, Brazil and India.

Animal Equality releases investigative materials captured from inside factory farms and slaughterhouses, exposing the conditions that farmed animals face around the world. We publish our findings on television, in newspapers and online. We routinely secure mainstream media coverage, including on the BBC, ITV, Sky News, The Times, The Guardian, The New York Times and many more.

Animal Equality also advocates for political change. Our current campaigns include a UK ban on foie gras imports, increased enforcement of existing animal protection laws, legal protections for farmed fish, and Government subsidies for transitioning towards a plant-based food system.

We focus on farmed animals because of the scale and severity of the issue. More than a billion animals are confined and killed for human consumption every year in the UK. Farmed animals also often suffer in some of the worst ways: pigs typically endure painful mutilations, many chickens die of heart attacks, fish are confined in underwater cages, and some farmed animals are victims of deliberate abuse and neglect. But the problem is solvable! By utilising effective campaigning strategies, Animal Equality is having an impact for animals around the world and building a future where all animals are respected and protected and are no longer exploited for human consumption.

Animal Equality UK’s current key campaigns include:

• Strengthening enforcement of animal protection laws.
• Halting the expansion of Scotland’s salmon farming industry.
• Achieving a ban on foie gras imports.
• Securing species-specific slaughter legislation for fish.
• Inspiring the public to eat plants, not animals.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking a talented storyteller and strategic communicator to join our busy, dynamic, and focused team of professional activists as a Copywriting Coordinator. With a natural flair for persuasive writing and a background in direct response marketing, you will craft powerful narratives that expose the reality of animal farming, inspire action, and mobilise financial support for our life-saving mission.

You will be responsible for creating compelling content across print and digital platforms – from fundraising appeals and newsletters to blogs, campaign pages, and supporter journeys. Combining creativity with analytical rigour, you will ensure every piece of copy both engages hearts and delivers measurable results. You will proudly champion Animal Equality’s tone of voice, supporting fellow team members to apply our messaging to their copy.

This is a pivotal role in growing Animal Equality UK’s reach, deepening supporter relationships, and driving the income we need to achieve lasting change for farmed animals.

The Copywriting Coordinator will report to the Executive Director and work closely with team members across our UK and international teams.

JOB DESCRIPTION

• Be a brand champion: Develop engaging, accurate, and impactful copy that embodies Animal Equality’s tone and mission, sharing the experiences of farmed animals with donors and potential supporters.
• Deliver multi-channel content: Produce persuasive copy for appeals, newsletters, websites, campaign pages, blogs, magazines, impact reports, and petitions, ensuring timely and budget-conscious delivery.
• Support fundraising growth: Write powerful long-form and short-form content that motivates supporters to give and meaningfully engage with our work, enabling Animal Equality to expand our impact for animals.
• Content planning: Work with Campaigns, Marketing, and Communications teams to align content with upcoming exposés and campaign actions, ensuring maximum reach and supporter engagement.
• Collaborate with the team: Synthesise complex briefs into digestible, engaging, and emotive content while collaborating with team members to ensure Animal Equality’s content reaches its full potential through amplification, SEO, and multi-channel repurposing.
• Engage supporters: Lead focus groups and supporter calls to understand motivations and feedback, tailoring communications to strengthen loyalty and impact. Ensure communications are tailored to supporters’ needs, motivations, and advocacy journeys.
• Stay topical and creative: Monitor trends and news stories relevant to animal protection, responding quickly with fresh content that connects to our campaigns.
• Data-driven optimisation: Track, test, and analyse the performance of Animal Equality’s copy (open rates, click-throughs, donations, etc.), producing regular reports and using insights to refine future content.
• Represent Animal Equality’s culture: Support Animal Equality’s life-saving work by producing high-quality output, embracing and representing the organisation’s culture principles proudly at all times, and supporting our philanthropic efforts.
• Take on ad-hoc tasks, as requested by your line manager.

ABOUT YOU

You are a forward-thinking communicator with exceptional writing skills and a passion for advocating for animals with impact. You thrive in a fast-paced environment, balancing resilience and creativity with strategic and data-led decision-making. You are self-motivated, organised, and able to multitask, working on several briefs simultaneously.

You actively seek constructive feedback and use it to continuously improve your work. You show ownership and a growth mindset that is focused on improving the world for farmed animals. Knowledge of farmed animal issues and alignment with Animal Equality’s mission is a must, as is professionalism, adaptability, and discretion.

You must have a minimum of three years’ experience in copywriting or a directly related field, with a proven ability to design and deliver content for successful fundraising. Experience of Pardot, Grav and/or WordPress is a plus.

You will be based remotely in the UK. In addition to monthly meet-ups, some travel within the UK may be required for demonstrations, meetings, and events. While not common, occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary to support campaigning activities. Any additional hours worked and agreed with your Manager can be reclaimed as TOIL.

BENEFITS

• Holiday entitlement equal to 33 days per year (including standard public holidays).
• Personalised employee assistance programme (EAP): An Animal Equality-funded benefit that offers employees confidential counselling and advice on a wide range of work and personal issues. The programme offers several services, such as a 24/7 confidential helpline and expert cognitive behavioural therapy.
• Flexible hours, with the option to start between 8am and 10am and finish between 4pm and 6pm.
• Able Futures Support: The service is a nine-month, practical and confidential support service for employees whose circumstances or mental health may impact their wellbeing or work. Employees can work with a mental health professional to deepen their understanding of how their mental health may impact them and build coping skills and resilience to thrive at work.
• Yearly stipend to access learning and development resources to help employees further grow their personal and professional skills.
• A free vegan lunch every month at the Animal Equality monthly meetups.

APPLY NOW

For more information and to apply, please visit our vacancies page.

Closing date: 5.00pm on Friday 19th September 2025.

WHO WE ARE

Animal Equality is an international animal protection organisation working with society, governments and companies to end cruelty to farmed animals. Animal Equality has offices in the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, Italy, Spain, Mexico, Brazil and India.

Animal Equality releases investigative materials captured from inside factory farms and slaughterhouses, exposing the conditions that farmed animals face around the world. We publish our findings on television, in newspapers and online. We routinely secure mainstream media coverage, including on the BBC, ITV, Sky News, The Times, The Guardian, The New York Times and many more.

Animal Equality also advocates for political change. Our current campaigns include a UK ban on foie gras imports, increased enforcement of existing animal protection laws, legal protections for farmed fish, and Government subsidies for transitioning towards a plant-based food system.

We focus on farmed animals because of the scale and severity of the issue. More than a billion animals are confined and killed for human consumption every year in the UK. Farmed animals also often suffer in some of the worst ways: pigs typically endure painful mutilations, many chickens die of heart attacks, fish are confined in underwater cages, and some farmed animals are victims of deliberate abuse and neglect. But the problem is solvable! By utilising effective campaigning strategies, Animal Equality is having an impact for animals around the world and building a future where all animals are respected and protected and are no longer exploited for human consumption.

Animal Equality UK’s current key campaigns include:

• Strengthening enforcement of animal protection laws.
• Halting the expansion of Scotland’s salmon farming industry.
• Achieving a ban on foie gras imports.
• Securing species-specific slaughter legislation for fish.
• Inspiring the public to eat plants, not animals.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Animal Equality’s campaigns have driven Parliamentary debates, legal victories, policy shifts, corporate commitments, mainstream media coverage, and inspired thousands of individuals to change their diets.

We are seeking a creative, driven, and strategic Campaigns Coordinator to deliver our current high-impact campaigns with a view to exposing the cruel animal agriculture industries, influencing decision-makers, and mobilising the public to create lasting change for farmed animals.

Working closely with team members, the Campaigns Coordinator will design and deliver imaginative campaigns while working in alignment with the organisation’s wider mission: to end factory farming. The role requires initiative, creativity, tenacity, and a solutions-focused mindset, as well as the discipline to execute projects effectively and professionally.

The Campaigns Coordinator will report to the Campaigns and Public Affairs Manager and work closely with others across our UK and international teams. You will play a key role in coordinating and inspiring volunteers and external stakeholders.

JOB DESCRIPTION

• Campaign delivery: Drive Animal Equality’s high-impact campaigns, bringing the plight of farmed animals into the public consciousness. Plan, coordinate, and implement imaginative and effective campaign actions that influence policy-makers, businesses, philanthropists, and the public. Produce clear, compelling, and engaging campaign resources.
• Stakeholder management: Build and maintain strong relationships with decision-makers, experts, regulators, allied organisations, and members of the public to strengthen campaign outcomes.
• Volunteer mobilisation: Grow and energise our Animal Protectors network through training, regular newsletter communication, and opportunities for online and in-person action.
• Peaceful protest coordination: Organise creative, non-violent demonstrations and direct actions that advance campaign objectives and attract media coverage.
• Research and uncovering malpractice: Conduct desk-based research, including FOI requests and collaboration with academics, to uncover questionable industry and regulatory practices, and inform evidence-based campaigns.
• Uncover scandals through desk-based research: Using Freedom of Information requests, conducting research, working with academics, and liaising with concerned members of the public, support the release of exposés that demonstrate the reality of animal agriculture.
• Media generation: Work with Animal Equality’s Marketing and Communications teams to design noteworthy content, ensure strong campaign narratives, and maximise media exposure.
• Support our digital campaigning work: Work alongside colleagues in our international Marketing and Communication Departments to engage the public through our multi-channel communication strategy. Assist with the development of content for our website, social media, YouTube and other platforms to successfully share plans and updates in relation to Animal Equality’s campaign priorities.
• Project management: Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines, budgets, and objectives are met.
• Campaign evaluation: Monitor, measure, and report on campaign impact, adapting tactics as needed to ensure effectiveness.
• Policy oversight: Stay informed about relevant political and legislative developments to identify opportunities and risks for our campaigns.
• Represent Animal Equality’s culture: Support Animal Equality’s life-saving work by producing high-quality output, embracing and representing the organisation’s culture principles proudly at all times, and supporting our philanthropic efforts.
• Support with other ad hoc duties, as requested by your line manager.

ABOUT YOU

You are a professional, confident, and resilient campaigner who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is committed to Animal Equality’s objectives. You are adaptable, with excellent interpersonal skills, and a positive outlook. You are curious, creative, and agile, able to think outside the box and solve problems. You can move seamlessly between big-picture strategy and on-the-ground delivery, bringing fresh ideas and relentless energy to every project.

You actively seek constructive feedback and use it to continuously improve your work. You show ownership and a growth mindset that is focused on improving the world for farmed animals. Knowledge of farmed animal issues and alignment with Animal Equality’s mission is a must, as is professionalism, adaptability, and discretion.

You must have a minimum of three years’ experience in campaigning, advocacy, or directly related fields, with a proven ability to design and deliver successful campaigns.

You will be based remotely in the UK. In addition to monthly meet-ups, some travel within the UK may be required for demonstrations, meetings, and events. While not common, occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary to support campaigning activities. Any additional hours worked and agreed with your Manager can be reclaimed as TOIL.

BENEFITS

• Holiday entitlement equal to 33 days per year (including standard public holidays).
• Personalised employee assistance programme (EAP): An Animal Equality-funded benefit that offers employees confidential counselling and advice on a wide range of work and personal issues. The programme offers several services, such as a 24/7 confidential helpline and expert cognitive behavioural therapy.
• Flexible hours, with the option to start between 8am and 10am and finish between 4pm and 6pm.
• Able Futures Support: The service is a nine-month, practical and confidential support service for employees whose circumstances or mental health may impact their wellbeing or work. Employees can work with a mental health professional to deepen their understanding of how their mental health may impact them and build coping skills and resilience to thrive at work.
• Yearly stipend to access learning and development resources to help employees further grow their personal and professional skills.
• A free vegan lunch every month at the Animal Equality monthly meetups.

APPLY NOW

For more information and to apply, please visit our vacancies page.

Closing date: 5.00pm on Friday 19th September 2025.

Role Summary

Join our team and help us improve public sector food across the UK with our School Plates and new Hospital Plates programmes. We're looking for a passionate and driven Chef Trainer to support schools and hospitals in delivering healthier and more sustainable menus.

The programmes continue to go from strength to strength. Through School Plates, we currently support over a third of all UK local authorities, catering for more than 12,000 schools and feeding over 1.25 million children daily. To date, we have been responsible for swapping over 50 million school meals from meat-based to meat-free or plant-based. We're now expanding our successful model into the health sector with our new Hospital Plates programme, bringing the same positive change to patient and staff menus.

Are you a skilled chef trainer with a passion for improving public food? Can you match our ambition? You'll be using your culinary expertise to train catering teams in both schools and hospitals, provide menu advice, and get involved with recipe development and culinary education. You will also run cooking workshops for pupils in secondary schools, inspiring the next generation to get excited about plant-based food. You will also build and manage relationships with our catering partners, helping them deliver delicious and sustainable meals. This is a UK-wide role and will require travel to different sites.

We’re looking for someone to join our team for 3 days a week but are open to applicants looking for flexible working hours, including, potentially, 4 days a week.

Job Details

Job Title: Chef Trainer - School Plates & Hospital Plates 
Reporting to: Programme Manager, UK
Location: Remote (home-based with travel across UK) 
Hours: 21-28 hours per week (0.6-0.8 FTE)
Salary: £32,000 per annum pro rata (based on 1.0 FTE) 

 

Responsibilities

As our Chef Trainer & Programme Support, you'll be a key player in developing and delivering our School Plates and Hospital Plates programmes. You'll use your culinary expertise and passion for food system change to create resources, train professionals, and engage with our partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Recipe Development & Training: You'll co-lead the creation, testing, and development of new plant-based recipes for our school and hospital programmes, and lead on developing ‘grab-and-go’ and internationally inspired options for secondary schools. You'll also plan and deliver training sessions, including in-person and online workshops, and create e-learning courses for caterers.

• Programme Development & Support: Work closely with programme managers to develop and refine the strategy for our initiatives. This includes supporting pilot programmes, measuring their impact, and creating bespoke catering resources for our partners.

• Stakeholder Engagement & Communication: Represent our organisation at events and in meetings, providing expert catering advice and information on our programmes. Collaborate with our communications manager to create engaging content, including recipes and videos for our website, e-learning platform and social media.

• Education & Outreach: Partner with our education manager to plan and co-deliver secondary school cooking workshops. These sessions will teach pupils basic plant-based culinary skills that align with the National Curriculum as well as inspire the next generation to choose plant-forward options and learn about the impact of their food choices in a positive way.

• Inspire Catering Teams: Your role is to build and maintain relationships with catering partners, providing expert catering advice and practical recipe suggestions. You'll work with them directly on pilot programmes, offering bespoke support to inspire positive menu changes. You'll also provide essential administrative support for our programmes and help create and deliver presentations to promote our work to a wider audience.

Qualifications

    Essential

• Experienced in planning and delivering cooking workshops to groups.

• Experience of working in a culinary setting and developing recipes with a strong interest in plant-based recipes.

• Excellent communication skills and be a confident and engaging educator.

• Flexible and agile approach, with a willingness to be a true team player and fill gaps as needed.

• Proactive with initiative and drive.

• Strong organisational skills.

• Attention to detail.

• Solution-focused and resilient.

• Confident in creating basic spreadsheets and slide decks.

• Ability to work well under pressure and manage time effectively in a fast-paced and small but fast-growing non-profit work environment.

• Ability to work well unsupervised with experience of working in remote teams with a reliable internet connection.

• Passionate about food systems change.

• Alignment with our vision and mission.

• Based in the UK and able to attend meetings, events, and training to represent the team and programme across the UK.

• Willing to travel across the UK for workshops and events. 

Desirable

• Experience of working within school and/or hospital food. 

• Experience of food photography and creating recipe content for social platforms or online courses. 

• Experience of managing projects.

• Experience of liaising with local authorities, schools, or other public sector bodies.

• Experience in the field of nutrition, including an interest in plant-based nutrition.

• Experience of working in the food, health or environmental sector.

• Experience of using customer relationship management (CRM) systems (training will be provided).

Benefits of working with us

• Generous annual leave entitlement - 25 days per year, with an additional day granted at the start of each calendar up to a maximum of 30 days (plus bank holidays)

• A strong organisational focus on personal development, with a designated training budget.

• Provision of a work laptop.

• Flexible, trust-based working arrangements and home-office arrangements.

• Career development support

• Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental and adoption pay

• Compassionate animal companion leave

• Employee Assistance Programme including counselling

• Access to 24/7 virtual GP Service

• Mindfulness support via a free Headspace account for you and up to 5 friends or family members

• Access to the Wisdom app with exclusive perks and discounts

• Membership to the OpenUp platform

• We are a workplace that encourages everyone to bring their whole selves to work. We are an inclusive workplace for our diverse employees around the world.

• And, last but not least, become part of a great team and work with us towards a world where everyone chooses delicious and healthy food that is good for all humans, animals, and our planet!

When?

Application deadline: 5th October 2025
Start date: November 2025

Application process and timeline 

Please submit your application using our online form including your CV and cover letter. By submitting your application you agree that your personal data will be processed by and shared with our UK entity (ProVeg C.I.C.) and German entity (ProVeg e.V.). 

The recruitment process consists of two rounds: 1): an online trial task; 2): an interview with the Programme Manager and Director. 
 

• Application deadline: 5th October 2025

• Online trial task: sent to longlisted candidates by 10th October 5pm, to be completed by 12 October at 5pm 

• Interviews: take place on 21st and 22nd October 2025

• Start date: November 2025

WHO WE ARE

Animal Equality is an international animal protection organisation working with society, governments and companies to end cruelty to farmed animals. Animal Equality has offices in the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, Italy, Spain, Mexico, Brazil and India.

Animal Equality releases investigative materials captured from inside factory farms and slaughterhouses, exposing the conditions that farmed animals face around the world. We publish our findings on television, in newspapers and online. We routinely secure mainstream media coverage, including on the BBC, ITV, Sky News, The Times, The Guardian, The New York Times and many more.

Animal Equality also advocates for political change. Our current campaigns include a UK ban on foie gras imports, increased enforcement of existing animal protection laws, legal protections for farmed fish, and Government subsidies for transitioning towards a plant-based food system.

We focus on farmed animals because of the scale and severity of the issue. More than a billion animals are confined and killed for human consumption every year in the UK. Farmed animals also often suffer in some of the worst ways: pigs typically endure painful mutilations, many chickens die of heart attacks, fish are confined in underwater cages, and some farmed animals are victims of deliberate abuse and neglect. But the problem is solvable! By utilising effective campaigning strategies, Animal Equality is having an impact for animals around the world and building a future where all animals are respected and protected and are no longer exploited for human consumption.

Animal Equality UK’s current key campaigns include:

• Strengthening enforcement of animal protection laws.
• Halting the expansion of Scotland’s salmon farming industry.
• Achieving a ban on foie gras imports.
• Securing species-specific slaughter legislation for fish.
• Inspiring the public to eat plants, not animals.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking a highly organised, detail-oriented Operations Officer to play a central role in ensuring the smooth running of Animal Equality UK’s internal operations and supporter services.

This is a varied role covering administration, finance, data management, supporter care, and event coordination. You will be the first point of contact for many of our supporters and stakeholders, providing excellent service while supporting team members across all departments.

The ideal candidate will be proactive, solutions-focused, and comfortable balancing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment. You will have a ‘can-do’ attitude and a calm and professional demeanour, thrive on problem-solving, and take pride in ensuring that systems and processes run efficiently behind the scenes.

JOB DESCRIPTION

• Culture and internal support: Act as a culture ambassador, upholding Animal Equality’s values of professionalism, resilience, accountability, and compassion. Strengthen communication between teams and ensure effective use of project management tools. Identify and lead process improvements with guidance from the Operations Manager.
• Supporter and donor care: Serve as the first point of contact for supporter queries via phone, email, post, and social media. Provide excellent donor support, including thanking donors, resolving payment issues, and sending mailings. Maintain supporter and volunteer records accurately in CRM systems and ensure compliance with GDPR.
• Finance and reporting: Process expenses, supplier payments, and support budget forecasting. Assist with Gift Aid claims, monthly data uploads, and finance reports. Prepare scheduled reports and presentations to track progress against objectives.
• Team processes: Support recruitment processes, including application handling, interview coordination, and onboarding/offboarding schedules. Ensure smooth induction for new staff and manage equipment, training resources, and access.
• Events and operations: Assist with the organisation of internal training, team meet-ups, and supporter events. Support health and safety measures for team members and volunteers at peaceful protests, undertaking risk assessments and first aid training. Manage stock and campaign materials, fulfil supporter requests, and oversee mailing logistics.
• Data and systems: Conduct database cleansing and maintain accurate supporter, volunteer, and executive records.
• Represent Animal Equality’s culture: Support Animal Equality’s life-saving work by producing high-quality output, embracing and representing the organisation’s culture principles proudly at all times, and supporting our philanthropic efforts.
• Support with other ad hoc duties, as requested by your line manager.

ABOUT YOU

You are a reliable, proactive, and solutions-focused team player who takes pride in creating order and efficiency. Embracing Animal Equality’s culture principles and reinforcing them proudly, you balance meticulous attention to detail with a flexible, positive, level-headed approach and are motivated by helping the organisation succeed for farmed animals.

You actively seek constructive feedback and use it to continuously improve your work. You show ownership and a growth mindset that is focused on improving the world for farmed animals. Knowledge of farmed animal issues and alignment with Animal Equality’s mission is a must, as is professionalism, adaptability, and discretion.

You must have a minimum of one year’s experience in operations, administration, project management, or a related role. With exceptional communicational and time-management skills, you are comfortable balancing competing priorities and will bring a friendly, professional attitude at all times. Adaptable and solutions-focused, you are confident when learning new technologies.

You will be based remotely in the UK. In addition to monthly meet-ups, some travel within the UK may be required for demonstrations, meetings, and events. While not common, occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary to support campaigning activities. Any additional hours worked and agreed with your Manager can be reclaimed as TOIL.

BENEFITS

• Holiday entitlement equal to 33 days per year (including standard public holidays).
• Personalised employee assistance programme (EAP): An Animal Equality-funded benefit that offers employees confidential counselling and advice on a wide range of work and personal issues. The programme offers several services, such as a 24/7 confidential helpline and expert cognitive behavioural therapy.
• Flexible hours, with the option to start between 8am and 10am and finish between 4pm and 6pm.
• Able Futures Support: The service is a nine-month, practical and confidential support service for employees whose circumstances or mental health may impact their wellbeing or work. Employees can work with a mental health professional to deepen their understanding of how their mental health may impact them and build coping skills and resilience to thrive at work.
• Yearly stipend to access learning and development resources to help employees further grow their personal and professional skills.
• A free vegan lunch every month at the Animal Equality monthly meetups.

APPLY NOW

For more information and to apply, please visit our vacancies page.

Closing date: 5.00pm on Friday 19th September 2025.

You’ll be at the heart of ensuring families caring for children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions receive the best possible support.

About the Role

As Lead Kentown Family Service Co-ordinator, you will:

• Oversee and support Family Service Co-ordinators across Lancashire, Cumbria, and Greater Manchester.
• Ensure families receive consistent, high-quality support through home visits, events, and online services.
• Co-ordinate complex referrals and help families access financial and practical assistance.
• Build partnerships with health, education, and voluntary sector organisations to widen support for families.
• Support data collection, reporting, and service improvement to strengthen our work and measure impact.

About You

You will bring:

• Experience working with children, young people, or families with complex needs in health, social care or voluntary settings.
• Strong organisational skills to co-ordinate services across multiple regions.
• Experience supporting or supervising staff or volunteers.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build trusted relationships with families and professionals.
• A commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, and delivering family-centred support.

Together, the charities Sands and Tommy’s have formed a Joint Policy Unit (JPU) focussed on achieving policy change that will save more babies’ lives during pregnancy and the neonatal period and on tackling inequalities in loss, so that everyone can benefit from the best possible outcomes.

The JPU’s mission is to secure policy change that will reduce rates of miscarriage, stillbirth, pre-term birth and neonatal death, and to work to eliminate inequalities in these outcomes.

While there is widespread agreement on the need for change to improve the safety of maternity and neonatal services, what that change looks like is not clear.  To save more babies’ lives we believe that a continued focus is required, and that governments should set new commitments to reduce perinatal mortality and preterm births, focused on matching the best-performing countries in Europe.

This role will be crucial to the continued success of the JPU unit; leading, shaping and coordinating all the unit’s work. 

We are looking for an independent and assertive problem-solver, a policy expert who can manage multiple priorities, take the initiative, lead the national conversation and is as excited as we are about taking the helm of this venture for both of our organisations.

The successful candidate will need to have a substantial track record of effectively leading and implementing national policy and influencing programmes, driving change and achieving the desired impact.

You will have considerable experience across research, data analysis, policy development, public affairs and communications.  Additionally, you will be well-versed in research and data management, including analysing complex data and evaluating policy developments.

Experience of being a member of a senior management team with successful, significant and relevant management and leadership experience is also essential.

You will be joining us at a time that holds the greatest potential for fundraising in our history, following the launch of the UK Government’s Delivery Plan for ME and initial findings of the DecodeME genetics study (co-led by Action for ME) in Summer 2025. 

Building on our charity’s already established level of support from major donors, you will provide exceptional relationship management to existing donors alongside growing our network of high value supporters.

Working closely with the CEO, alongside managing a portfolio of donors and prospects ensuring excellent stewardship, you will support our Breakthrough-ME Group (a group of high net worth and highly networked individuals). There is an established level of support from major donors at Action for ME so this is a role that will require exceptional relationship management to retain our current valued supporters while growing this crucial area of fundraising. 

This would be an ideal role for an experienced philanthropy professional seeking to work for a small but ambitious charity, helping us to achieve our mission to improve the lives of all people affected by ME – better meeting their needs today while taking action to secure change for tomorrow.

Key duties

Major Donor Fundraising

• Successfully develop and implement the philanthropy strategy to secure and maximise funds from high value individuals for Action for ME achieving annual income of £250k+

• Set plans and budgets which will deliver income through major gift fundraising and philanthropic giving through family trusts and foundations, including quarterly forecasting.

• Manage a portfolio of prospects and donors at the £5k to £100k level, to develop and maintain strong and long-standing partnerships

• Work closely with the Director of Fundraising and Development and other colleagues to ensure that plans and activities for fundraising from high value individuals are integrated into the overall fundraising strategy and plan for significant growth.

• Be responsible for our Breakthrough-ME Group with high quality proposition development.  Contribution to Group fundraising activities with a specific focus on ensuring their networks support pipeline growth for future fundraising.

• Lead the delivery of our biennial fundraising gala dinner, maximising income and new opportunities from attendees.

• Develop engaging and inspiring opportunities to steward and cultivate support creating a calendar of activities including events, presentations, approaches, networking and meetings.

• Utilise the CRM database (Raisers Edge) to provide the data required to strategise your approach to philanthropy, monitor progress and provide a high-quality donor experience.

• Ensure utilisation of insight & data, producing management information data to inform planning and strategy development.

• With the Director of Fundraising & Development, create inspiring cases for support and resulting propositions with clear budgets and outcomes.

• Create adequate systems and processes to support the major donor programme.

• Undertake and manage research into prospects and major donors, preparing for approaches and presentations and briefing senior leadership and trustees for donor meetings and events.

• Develop and maintain relationships with donors, a wide range of staff and volunteers from trustee level down.

• Provide regular feedback and internal reporting to line management.

• Work with other fundraisers to ensure that all fundraising opportunities and leads are followed up – particularly in corporate, community and trust fundraising.

• Work with Trustees, the Chief Executive and members of the Leadership Team to develop relationships with major donors.

• Self-administrate including managing your own diary and meetings, keeping accurate and up to date records of activity

• Occasional travel to London, Bristol & events

Other duties

• To positively promote the work and activities of Action for M.E. at all times.

• To contribute to the team’s overall, ongoing and annual planning and budgeting.

• To undertake any other reasonable activity in line with the responsibilities of the post as requested by the Director of Fundraising and Development, Chief Executive or any other senior Action for ME management.

• Act as an advocate for the Charity and its work.

• To work in accordance with Action for ME’s values of collaboration, equity and empathy.

Senior Communications Officer
Salary: Banding Level 3 £31,000 - £35,000
Contract: Permanent / Working hours: Full time
Location: Taunton, Somerset - Opportunity for Hybrid working

As Senior Communications Officer, you will be working closely with the Head of Marketing Communications to help plan, create and deliver, with the help of specialists across teams, the Trust’s annual communication plan.

You’ll be responsible for leading communications projects, campaigns and day-to-day activities. You will be delivering creative content and marketing across a range of platforms - both digital and offline –that support the Trust’s Wilder 2030 strategy and showcases the Trust’s work. This will result in bringing nature’s story to life in order to expand the charity’s reach into new and wider audiences and bringing new supporters on board.

You will be able to think creatively, within a fast-paced environment where no day is the same, as well as be comfortable delivering key tasks and mucking in when all hands are needed on deck.

You will be comfortable with the relevant platform analytics to report on progress against agreed key performance indicators.

This senior role is for a highly creative, confident, robust and professional communications individual, who will be working closely with the Head of Marketing Communications and wider team to help plan, create and activate the Trust’s annual communication plan. 

You will:

• Deliver creative communications activities and branded digital content campaigns across the Trust’s key communications channels to increase the Trust’s reach, develop new audiences and convert initial awareness of SWT into measurable engagement/action for nature.
• Devise a plan with tactics to grow the Trust’s key communications channels and digital communities and increase engagement using engaging and dynamic content.
• Provide communications support and project management for a range of exciting projects and campaigns across the whole organisation, liaising with the internal Directorate teams to do so
• Liaise with the central Wildlife Trust (RSWT) team on national campaigns and communications.
• Track analytics and create regular reports detailing effectiveness of communications campaigns and our digital channels.
• Day to day guidance and project oversight for the wider communications team to support them to deliver a high-quality service to the wider organisation and inspire innovation and improvement in all that the team delivers.

Job Description – Key Responsibilities and Tasks

Responsibility 1: Leading Digital Channels 

• Designing and implementation of SWT’s digital and social media content plan (for both paid and organic content) with the support of the Content & Communications Officer, ensuring it complements the Trust’s overall Wilder Somerset 2030 strategic goals and objectives, marketing plans, key campaigns, engagement and fundraising activity. Driving the high performance and growth of SWT’s social channels – ensuring increasing engagement and reach.
• Working with and supporting the Content & Communications Officer to create a calendar of high-quality engaging, range of content for sharing across internal and external marketing communications channels in support of the strategic vision, ensuring consistency in terms of tone of voice, branding, messaging and frequency of communications across all key channels. The Senior Communications Officer’s social media content plan will aim to grow all SWT’s social media and digital communities and increase organic engagement.
• Expanding reach to bring new supporters on board with the Trust’s mission, to get involved with SWT’s work across the county, take action for nature, and to grow membership and income.
• Working closely with the Website & Email Lead to understand and optimise user journeys and conversions between social channels and the website, and providing support and counsel to the Website & Email Lead with regards to the delivery of impactful email campaigns to support key integrated projects, campaigns and core strategy programmes. Also providing support and guidance on ensuring the website is as effective a channel as it should be as a central destination hub for social and digital journeys.
• Liaising with the Wildlife Trust (RSWT) central office to ensure central content and advocacy campaigns are delivered as agreed on local social channels with local messaging and that the Somerset message is clear, with the use of local case studies and stories.
• With the Content & Communications Officer, and liaising with external providers where necessary, providing brand design support for communications collateral, reports, newsletters, brochures, flyers, posters and presentations. Using appropriate software (e.g., Canva, Adobe, InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) for a range of audiences, creating templates where appropriate for internal staff to utilise to deliver small-scale projects independently.

Responsibility 2: Marketing & PR

• Marketing opportunities including a range of channels from print, media, events to paid online adverts.
• Developing strong relationships with local and national journalists and be the lead day-to-day SWT media contact for press enquiries, with the Content & Communications Officer taking on administrative press office tasks and handling some incoming queries.
• Recommending and developing feature ideas for key publications working up ideas with colleagues across the Trust, selling in stories, and coordinating the provision of spokespeople, background information and logistics.
• Working with, and providing guidance to the Content & Communications Officer, creating and distributing targeted press releases or media alerts where appropriate, following up with key media contacts to maximise coverage and amplify SWT’s successes and impact.
• Be alert and responsive to the news agenda, keeping abreast of issues affecting the Trust and identifying PR opportunities and trends on social media that SWT can engage with, whilst also horizon planning for key contentious issues so as to provide PR support during crisis and major issues.

Responsibility 3: Project Management & Reporting

• With excellent project management and coordination skills you will work with internal stakeholders to design, coordinate and deliver bespoke plans to support a range of key projects across the year such as appeals, big events, campaigns and nature recovery projects.
• Working with the team to deliver any relevant communications training or resources to make available to staff.
• Supervising the monitoring and measurement of campaigns and their success, and reporting key KPIs to internal stakeholders on a monthly basis.
• Internal communications - updating the staff portal on Sharepoint with regards to communication assets, training and resources.
• Representing the Communications Team along with others across the Trust as part of the Trust’s project management working group, feeding back on best practice and new innovations that result in a consistent approach to project management. 

We offer fantastic benefits of working for the Somerset Wildlife Trust including:

• 7% employer pension contribution
• Life insurance
• Flexible and agile working
• Wellbeing support – Employee Assistance Program
• Diversity networks through RSWT/TWT
• Paid volunteer days
• Continuous Professional Development opportunities
• 33 days of holiday (25 + bank holidays)
• Staff social calendar and events

The opportunity to make a real and positive difference to nature, communities, and the climate

Closing date: Sunday 21 September 2025

Interested?

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

Somerset Wildlife Trust have an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Plan and are committed to continuing to improve the equality, diversity and inclusion of every aspect of our work; we know we need to engage with everyone to live our values and achieve our goals. We welcome applications from everyone and are happy to discuss any accommodations or arrangements that would make the recruitment process better for you, and the working environment should you be employed.

No agencies please.