Customer service assistant jobs

Job Title: Assistant Shop Manager

Salary: £11,544 per annum (pro-rata of full time equivalent £28,860)

Team: Teddington

Hours: Part Time, 15 hours per week

Contract Type: Permanent

Location: Teddington Shop, 8QZ TW11

About the role

Your key purpose will be to have the responsibility for running a shop that raises funds for the organisation while also delivering a positive experience for customers, donors and volunteers. This role blends retail management, people leadership and charity governance.

About you

This role requires experience of charity retail, preferrable in a supporting or managerial role.

You will have an ability for resilience and being adaptable, showing a commercial awareness whilst reflecting the charities ethics.

You will need to show you are fair, patient and empathetic leader.

There may occasionally be opportunities to support other nearby stores for holiday or sickness cover, but this would be discussed and agreed in advance.

Please see the attached job description for more information about this opportunity at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

What we offer

In return you will receive a competitive salary along with a range of benefits, which include:

Pension scheme

• NHS Pension Scheme (for eligible employees) or our stakeholder pension scheme, with up to 7% employer contributions

Annual leave

• 27 days plus Bank Holidays rising with length of service
• 2 weeks paid sabbatical leave after 5, 10 and 15 years’ service

Contractual benefits

• Generous sick pay scheme
• Enhanced maternity, adoption, and paternity leave pay
• Flexible working arrangements
• Death in service benefits
• Reimbursed professional membership fees
• Eye care
• Employee referral scheme
• Blue Light discount card

Health and wellbeing

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Occupational Health
• Mindfulness sessions
• Mental Health First Aiders

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all our staff to share this commitment. Also, we are committed to equal opportunities and consider all applicants to be in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Employment is subject to receipt of satisfactory references and a DBS check.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is committed to inclusion and diversity in everything we do. We know that getting things right is critical for us to live our organisation’s values: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Excellence.

We are always trying to improve our way of working to be more inclusive and equal. Our vision is for Shooting Star Children’s Hospices to be a place where people of all backgrounds, groups and communities feel welcomed to work and volunteer.

Anticipated Closing Date: 18/09/2026

Job Title: Assistant Shop Manager

Salary: £17,316 - £23,088 per annum (pro-rata of full time equivalent £28,860)

Team: Twickenham

Hours: Part Time, 22.5 - 30 per week

Contract Type: Permanent

Location: Twickenham Shop, 4BW TW1

About the role

Your key purpose will be to support the successful day to day running of our brand new Twickenham shop, making this an exciting opportunity to be part of a new role from the very beginning. Working alongside the Shop Manager, you will help maximise sales, deliver excellent customer service, and lead and support a team of volunteers to create a welcoming and engaging shopping experience. You will play an important role in processing and merchandising donations, promoting Gift Aid, maintaining high shop standards, and ensuring the shop operates efficiently and in line with relevant policies and procedures.

About you

This role requires experience of supporting the management of a retail environment, including knowledge of customer service, cash handling, stock management, and health and safety practices. You will be organised, proactive, and confident working in a busy setting, with the ability to motivate and support volunteers, prioritise competing demands, and build positive relationships with customers and colleagues. Strong communication, IT, and organisational skills are essential, along with a flexible approach and a willingness to work weekends as part of a rota.

Please see the attached job description for more information about this opportunity at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

What we offer

In return you will receive a competitive salary along with a range of benefits, which include:

Pension scheme

• NHS Pension Scheme (for eligible employees) or our stakeholder pension scheme, with up to 7% employer contributions

Annual leave

• 27 days plus Bank Holidays rising with length of service
• 2 weeks paid sabbatical leave after 5, 10 and 15 years’ service

Contractual benefits

• Generous sick pay scheme
• Enhanced maternity, adoption, and paternity leave pay
• Flexible working arrangements
• Death in service benefits
• Reimbursed professional membership fees
• Eye care
• Employee referral scheme
• Blue Light discount card

Health and wellbeing

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Occupational Health
• Mindfulness sessions
• Mental Health First Aiders

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all our staff to share this commitment. Also, we are committed to equal opportunities and consider all applicants to be in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Employment is subject to receipt of satisfactory references and a DBS check.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is committed to inclusion and diversity in everything we do. We know that getting things right is critical for us to live our organisation’s values: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Excellence.

We are always trying to improve our way of working to be more inclusive and equal. Our vision is for Shooting Star Children’s Hospices to be a place where people of all backgrounds, groups and communities feel welcomed to work and volunteer.

Anticipated closing date: 20/09/2026

Please note that vacancies may close at any time once a sufficient number of applications has been received. Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis, so we encourage early applications to ensure full consideration for the role.

Job Title: Bank Retail Assistant

Salary: £16.65 per hour

Directorate: Retail

Hours: Part Time, as required

Contract Type: Bank

Location: Across our shops and distribution unit serving North Surrey and SW London

About the role

As a Bank Retail Assistant, you will step in to support the running of the shop as required, including taking the lead in the absence of the Shop Manager or Assistant Managers. In these situations, you will supervise and support a team of volunteers to maximise sales and deliver an excellent customer experience. You will help ensure the shop is well-presented, safe, and operates efficiently, maintaining high standards in line with legal requirements and Shooting Star Children’s Hospices (SSCH) policies and procedures.

Please note: This role requires travel across the Shooting Star retail network, with locations across Surrey and South West London, as well as our Distribution Unit. You must be able and willing to work across multiple sites to support operational and staffing needs. Flexibility is essential, as occasional weekend working may also be required.

About you

You are a proactive and organised individual with the confidence to lead a team in the absence of the Manager or Assistant Manager. This role requires experience of working in a retail and/or charity retail environment, along with supervising or coordinating teams, ideally including volunteers. You will bring strong leadership and communication skills, enabling you to delegate tasks effectively, motivate others, and create a positive, inclusive working environment. You are passionate about delivering excellent customer service and confident in handling queries and complaints in a professional manner, ensuring a safe and welcoming shop environment at all times.

You will also have an ability to work in a fast-paced environment, managing competing priorities while maintaining attention to detail. You will ensure donations are processed efficiently, stock is well merchandised, and financial procedures are followed accurately. With a flexible, hands-on approach, you thrive on supporting others and are committed to driving shop performance and maintaining high standards in line with policies and procedures.

Please see the attached job description for more information about this opportunity at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

What we offer

In return you will receive a competitive salary along with a range of benefits, which include:

Health and wellbeing

• Mental Health First Aiders

Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all our staff to share this commitment. Also, we are committed to equal opportunities and consider all applicants to be in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Employment is subject to receipt of satisfactory references and a DBS check.

Equality, diversity and inclusion
Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is committed to inclusion and diversity in everything we do. We know that getting things right is critical for us to live our organisation’s values: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Excellence.

We are always trying to improve our way of working to be more inclusive and equal. Our vision is for Shooting Star Children’s Hospices to be a place where people of all backgrounds, groups and communities feel welcomed to work and volunteer.

Anticipated closing date: 18/09/2026

Please note that vacancies may close at any time once a sufficient number of applications has been received. We therefore recommend submitting your application as early as possible.

Team: Retail 

Location: Skipton Superstore (Opening November 2026!) 

Work pattern: 14 hours per week on a rota basis 

Salary: Up to £9,345.68 per annum 

Contract: Permanent 

We are the UK’s largest cat welfare charity. All over the country, our passionate employees, volunteers and supporters are using their kindness and expertise to make life better for millions of cats and the people who care for them. 

Will you join us and make life better for cats? 

Responsibilities of our Assistant Shop Manager (Superstore): 

• Cats Protection is launching its first Superstore format, offering customers an exciting destination for both fashion and home. With a significantly larger footprint than a traditional charity shop, the Superstore will provide an enhanced shopping experience, a wider product range, and greater opportunities to raise funds for cats and kittens in need. 

• As Assistant Shop Manager, you will support the successful day-to-day running of the Superstore, leading volunteers, driving stock generation, delivering excellent customer service, and deputising for the Shop Manager to help maximise sales and drive performance. 

About the retail team: 

• Our retail operation consists of over 80 charity shops 

• Each of our shops has its own charm and personality due to our dedicated volunteers and colleagues. From vintage jewellery and jigsaws to harps and handbags, whether our customers are looking for that 'must have' item or simply a 'missing piece'. 

What we’re looking for in our Assistant Shop Manager: 

• Demonstrable experience of working in a retail environment, ideally within a fast-paced, high-volume or multi-department operation.

• Good understanding of sales targets, budgets and key performance indicators, with the ability to contribute effectively to their achievement.

• Experience of cash reconciliation and financial controls, with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. 

• Ability to motivate, support and manage a team of employees and volunteers.

• Competent IT skills, including the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, email and retail systems.

What we can offer you: 

• range of health benefits 

• 26 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service 

• Salary Finance, which empowers you to take control of your financial wellbeing 

• and much more, which you can learn about

Interested? Here’s how to apply: 

Application closing date: 6th September 2026

Virtual interview date: TBC 

Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment. Please note, applications received after the closing date may not be responded to. 

If successful, your recruitment journey will include: 

1. Anonymised application form 

1. Virtual interview via Microsoft Teams 

1. In person if successful at teams interview stage 

Please note, the process may change slightly dependent on application numbers. We will inform you of any relevant changes. 

Please emailif you require any adjustments to be made for you to complete your application or to participate in the recruitment journey 

This role requires a basic DBS check 

Team: Retail 

Location: Skipton Superstore (Opening November 2026!) 

Work pattern: 35 hours per week on a rota basis 

Salary: Up to £23,364.20 per annum 

Contract: Permanent 

We are the UK’s largest cat welfare charity. All over the country, our passionate employees, volunteers and supporters are using their kindness and expertise to make life better for millions of cats and the people who care for them. 

Will you join us and make life better for cats? 

Responsibilities of our Assistant Shop Manager (Superstore): 

• Cats Protection is launching its first Superstore format, offering customers an exciting destination for both fashion and home. With a significantly larger footprint than a traditional charity shop, the Superstore will provide an enhanced shopping experience, a wider product range, and greater opportunities to raise funds for cats and kittens in need. 

• As Assistant Shop Manager, you will support the successful day-to-day running of the Superstore, leading volunteers, driving stock generation, delivering excellent customer service, and deputising for the Shop Manager to help maximise sales and drive performance. 

About the retail team: 

• Our retail operation consists of over 80 charity shops 

• Each of our shops has its own charm and personality due to our dedicated volunteers and colleagues. From vintage jewellery and jigsaws to harps and handbags, whether our customers are looking for that 'must have' item or simply a 'missing piece'. 

What we’re looking for in our Assistant Shop Manager (Superstore)

• Demonstrable experience of working in a retail environment, ideally within a fast-paced, high-volume or multi-department operation.

• Good understanding of sales targets, budgets and key performance indicators

• Experience of cash reconciliation and financial controls, with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. 

• Ability to motivate, support and manage a team of employees and volunteers.

• Competent IT skills, including the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, email and retail systems.

What we can offer you: 

• range of health benefits 

• 26 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service 

• Salary Finance, which empowers you to take control of your financial wellbeing 

• and much more, which you can learn about

Interested? Here’s how to apply: 

Application closing date: 6th September 2026 

Virtual interview date: TBC 

Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment. Please note, applications received after the closing date may not be responded to. 

If successful, your recruitment journey will include: 

1. Anonymised application form 

1. Virtual interview via Microsoft Teams 

1. In person if successful at teams interview stage 

Please note, the process may change slightly dependent on application numbers. We will inform you of any relevant changes. 

Please emailif you require any adjustments to be made for you to complete your application or to participate in the recruitment journey 

This role requires an enhanced DBS check (including the Children's Barred List). 

Team: Retail

Location: Skipton Superstore (Opening November 2026), please note this is not a remote based role 

Work pattern: 14 hours per week to include each Monday 

Salary: Up to £9,345.68 per annum

Contract: Permanent

We are the UK’s largest cat welfare charity. All over the country, our passionate employees, volunteers and supporters are using their kindness and expertise to make life better for millions of cats and the people who care for them.

Will you join us and make life better for cats?

Responsibilities of our Retail Online Hub Assistant:

• The succesful candidate will be responsible for processing  and listing donations on the donated online hub  to maximize our donated online income stream

• You will work collaboratively with shop management and volunteers to deliver a robust operation and positive customer experience

About the Retail team:

• Our retail operation consists of over 80 charity shops

• Each of our shops has its own charm and personality due to our dedicated volunteers and colleagues. From vintage jewellery and jigsaws to harps and handbags, whether our customers are looking for that 'must have' item or simply a 'missing piece'. 

What we’re looking for in our Retail Online Hub Assistant:

• experience of listing and selling items on online platforms (Professional or personal).

• good IT skills and confident using MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).

• ability to communicate effectively with employees written and verbal at all levels within and outside of the organisation.

• self-motivated with a flexible, positive, and resilient attitude.

What we can offer you:

• range of health benefits

• 26 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service

• Salary Finance, which empowers you to take control of your financial wellbeing

• and much more, which you can learn about

Interested? Here’s how to apply:

Application closing date: 7th September 2026 

Virtual interview date:TBC 

Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment. Please note, applications received after the closing date may not be responded to.

If successful, your recruitment journey will include:

1. anonymised application form

1. virtual interview

Please note, the process may change slightly dependent on application numbers. We will inform you of any relevant changes.

Please emailif you require any adjustments to be made for you to complete your application or to participate in the recruitment journey. 

Introduction

Holy Trinity Church Leicester (HTL Church) are looking for a coffee house assistant manager to support the development and growth of King’s Coffee House (KCH), set in the shared entrance of the HTL building.

Our vision is to be the first point of contact between the church and the city - providing excellent food and drink, with a friendly customer experience and serve the community.

Role Description

Working under the café manager, the assistant manager is responsible for developing and growing the ministry of King’s Coffee House, assisting the management of the daily operations and volunteer teams.

The assistant manager shares responsibility for recruiting, training, and motivating the volunteer team to provide excellent customer service and represent HTL Church well to the community.

Job Specification

• Manage day-to-day operations of the coffee house, including opening and closing.
• Recruit and train volunteers in drinks/food preparation, proper use of coffee and catering equipment, and customer service.
• Where needed, create rotas and communicate with volunteers, including building a volunteer community.
• Ensure all Food Hygiene and Health and Safety procedures are followed in the café areas (including cleaning of equipment, café area, and checking bathrooms).
• Ensure all cash register transactions are accurate and that cash is securely handled and recorded.
• Assist the manager with product development including reviewing and revising menus and pricing.
• Enable the team to deliver excellent customer service, building the confidence and enjoyment of the volunteers and their sense of team.
• Nurture friendly relationships with customers to increase loyalty and grow the reputation of the coffee house, and HTL Church.
• Assist the manager with design and execution of marketing and social media campaigns (supported by the HTL media team).

Person Specification

Essential

• Understanding of the requirements of successful coffee shop management.
• Experience of leading volunteers and ability to delegate.
• Excellent communication skills with proven ability to manage a team.
• Personable and able to create a welcoming and friendly environment.
• Highly motivated, able to work on their own initiative, while serving the overall purpose of King’s Coffee House.
• Good administrative, maths, and IT skills.
• A problem solver with capacity for creative and strategic thinking.
• Reliable and trustworthy.

Desirable

• Experience of working in a coffee shop environment.
• Experience of working/volunteering in both a church and a secular setting.
• Additional Certification (training will be provided where this is missing)
o Food Hygiene level 3
o First Aid at Work
o Manual Handling
• Basic understanding of safeguarding and health and safety principles (training will be provided).

Further Information

This role holds a Genuine Occupational Requirement for an active and committed Christian faith under the 2010 Equality Act, Part 1, Schedule 9.

HTL Church is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. This post is subject to acceptable pre-appointment checks.

Application Process

If you wish to apply for this role, please email a covering letter and a CV to Alan Schwarzenberger PCC Secretary by 1pm on Monday 14 September 2026. The letter should cover:

• Why you feel called to this position
• How you believe you fulfil the requirements of the person specification
• How you share the vision and values of HTL Church and King’s Coffee House

If shortlisted, you will receive an invitation to interview to be held in person on the morning of Monday 21 September 2026

Ecommerce & Trading Assistant

We’re looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Ecommerce & Trading Assistant to support our growing commercial retail operation. This is a varied and hands-on role, ideal for someone who enjoys working with products, systems, and people, and wants to help raise vital funds for Helen & Douglas House.

You’ll be involved in everything from sourcing new goods/bought in goods and preparing stock to coordinating with our logistics & shop teams and ensuring our online customers receive a smooth and positive shopping experience, on ecommerce platforms like eBay.

Key Responsibilities:

• Product Sourcing, Preparation & Listing
  • Assist in sourcing new goods
  • Prepare items for listing including photographing stock
  • Support with writing accurate and appealing product descriptions
• Stock Management
  • Accept and check deliveries of donated and new goods
  • Barcode and organise stock
  • Pick and pack items for dispatch

• Logistics & Coordination
  • Liaise with the logistics team to ensure timely dispatch and delivery
  • Help maintain accurate stock records and inventory systems
• Team Support
  • Work closely with our amazing commercial team to support our ecommerce operation and our portfolio of shops
  • Contribute ideas to improve efficiency and customer experience

Skills & Experience:

• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills
• Experience with ecommerce platforms – eBay and/or other resale platforms
• Experience of the circular economy/sustainable fashion/second hand market
• Experience in buying or visual merchandising, customer service experience
• Good written communication and basic photography skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Passion for retail, charity work, and creative storytelling.

Ready to bring your skills to a role that matters? apply now

Job details:

• Hours: 37.5 hours per week
• Location: Oxford (OX4 6JS) 
• Salary: £25,087 per annum
• Closing date: 11st September 2026 at 12 noon 

We reserve the right to close the advert at any time should we receive sufficient applications, therefore weencourageapplicants to apply as soon as possible. 

Please note that everyone working for Helen & Douglas House are required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check. Helen & Douglas House is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We are an equal opportunities employer and value the benefits of a diverse workforce. We positively encourage applications from all areas of the community.

Supporter Care Assistant

Fixed Term Contract | 3 days per week

Are you highly organised, people-focused and confident providing excellent customer service? Do you enjoy helping people feel welcomed, supported and connected?

Scripture Union is looking for a Supporter Care Assistant to join our Mobilisation Team on a fixed term basis. This role plays an important part in helping us care well for our supporters, customers and wider community, ensuring they receive a positive, efficient and engaging experience whenever they connect with us.

About the role

As Supporter Care Assistant, you will act as one of the first points of contact for enquiries and help support the smooth running of our supporter and customer care processes.

You will be involved in:

• Responding to enquiries by phone, email, website and post
• Processing orders, subscriptions, donations and Direct Debits
• Supporting fundraising activity and mobilisation campaigns
• Maintaining accurate records on our CRM system
• Working closely with colleagues and external partners to fulfil orders and communications
• Encouraging engagement with Scripture Union’s ministry and wider work

About you

We are looking for someone who enjoys working with people and takes pride in providing excellent service. You may already have experience in a customer-facing, administrative or supporter care role, or you may be looking to develop your skills further in this area.

You will be someone who:

• Communicates warmly and professionally
• Is organised and able to manage a varied workload
• Has good attention to detail
• Is confident using systems and handling data accurately
• Can work to deadlines and follow processes carefully
• Is supportive of Scripture Union’s mission and values

Invest in our mission, as we invest in you:

Our Benefits:

• 23 days holiday (pro rata) + bank holidays + 5 volunteering days 

• Up to 12% pension contribution 

• Life insurance 

• Free Bible Reading Guides 

• Enhanced family leave 

• Asupportive, faith-filled environment where your work has eternal impact 

Occupational Requirement

Scripture Union is a Christian charity committed to sharing the good news of Jesus with children and young people. Therefore, this role carries an occupational requirement for the successful applicant to be a practising Christian, in accordance with the Equality Act 2010. The successful candidate will be expected to actively support and work in accordance with Scripture Union's Christian ethos, mission and values.

Safeguarding

Scripture Union is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. The successful candidate will be required to undergo a satisfactory Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check as part of our safer recruitment process.

The role

We’re seeking a Fundraising Assistant to join our fantastic Mass Fundraising team! 

This role is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to begin or further develop their career in fundraising within the charity sector. You’ll gain and build on essential skills in supporter stewardship, process delivery and improvement, and creating exceptional supporter journeys, while developing valuable experience that will support your long-term career in fundraising.

• You’ll be the first point of contact for supporters and volunteers, providing excellent stewardship. Dealing with enquiries via email, phone and SMS in an empathetic and efficient manner.  
• You will play an integral role in assisting the fundraising team in the delivery of our supporter journeys, providing data support in all aspects.
• You will develop and build relationships with supporters, ensuing they are thanked in a timely manner.  

About You 

• You will have strong organisational, numeracy and written skills, with an eye for detail
• You will have an ability to effectively plan and prioritise a diverse workload, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing demands within a dynamic environment
• You will demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills across channels including email, phone, SMS and written

If this sounds like you – we’d love to hear from you!

About working for us 

This is a fast-paced and growing organisation that is really committed to making a difference. Being a part of our team is being part of a thriving, positive, dynamic, successful, and welcoming community that is making an impact. We will support you and develop you should you wish this, and you get the opportunity to be involved in activities outside the scope of your immediate role. We care about your health and well-being and your work-life balance, and you will feel that your contribution is valued and matters. 

About us  

Pancreatic cancer is a tough one but we're taking it on. It is tough to diagnose, tough to treat, and tough to research. For too long this disease has been side-lined. We want to make sure that everyone affected by it gets all the help they need. Together we are taking on pancreatic cancer. Underpinning this vision are our three values: 

• Courage
• Compassion
• Community

We cannot achieve our vision without employing people who are committed to our vision, strategy, and values. 

At Pancreatic Cancer UK (PCUK) our ambition is to create an inclusive working environment that reflects the communities and audiences that we engage with and where everyone can be their true selves, where they feel respected, championed, heard, and supported.  We want our workforce to achieve their potential, understand their contribution and feel proud of their impact by creating a culture and organisation that is genuinely inclusive by advancing equality, diversity, inclusion, and belonging through our policies and practices. 

We believe diversity drives great outcomes by encouraging the different points of view that come from a diverse workforce. We want to hear from and engage with people whose experience of dealing with this disease may be very different depending on their individual circumstances and background. We can think of no better way to do this than by making sure this role fully represents our intent; therefore, we are especially keen to consider applications from suitable applicants who consider themselves to be in areas that appear underrepresented within the charity sector. 

Safeguarding

PCUK is committed to safe and fair recruitment processes that safeguard and protect those we work with, support and serve. We make sure all our staff are selected, vetted (DBS/Criminal record checks where appropriate), trained, and supervised fairly and to a high standard so that they can provide safe, effective and compassionate care. Where we work with volunteers, we extend the same support in order to ensure that they are working within our ethos and standards.

Hybrid-working: 

Our London office is a place to connect, collaborate and celebrate with colleagues, we recognise that flexibility around where you work is just as important. We are currently working hybrid with a minimum of 2-3 days in the office. 

How to apply 

• You can download the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of the role on our website's advert. If you have any questions about this role that we’ve not answered, please get in touch with Georgie Eaton (contact details are on our website's advert).
• To apply, please complete the online application form, setting out why you are interested in the role and how you meet the person specification criteria. This information will be used to select candidates for interviews. 
• You will need to have the right to work in the UK as we are not able to provide sponsorship for this role.
• Please note that interviews will be held in person on 15th September

No agencies/sales call please – as a charity we work hard to keep our costs down and therefore will not be engaging agencies to support this recruitment. 

Are you passionate about helping Disabled people live independently? Do you enjoy solving problems, building relationships and providing practical advice that makes a real difference?

At Equal Lives, we're looking for an Independent Living Adviser to join our Suffolk Independent Living Service. This rewarding role supports people who use Direct Payments and personal budgets to arrange and manage their own care and support, giving them greater choice, control and independence.

You'll provide information, advice and guidance on a range of topics including Direct Payments, support planning, recruiting and employing Personal Assistants, and managing support arrangements. You'll work closely with individuals, families, professionals and community organisations to help people achieve positive outcomes and live independently.

We're looking for someone who:

• Is passionate about equality, empowerment and the Social Model of Disability.

• Has excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

• Can manage a varied workload and respond to enquiries in a professional and person-centred way.

• Has experience or knowledge of HR, recruitment, employment practices or supporting people to employ staff.

• Is confident using IT systems, including Microsoft Office applications.

• Can work independently whilst contributing positively to a wider team.

• Has a full, clean driving licence and is willing to travel across Suffolk.

• Knowledge of Direct Payments, personal budgets or independent living services would be beneficial, but training will be provided on our specific services.

Why work for Equal Lives?

Equal Lives is a user-led disability rights organisation working across Norfolk and Suffolk. We are passionate about removing disabling barriers, promoting independent living and ensuring Disabled people have choice, control and equal opportunities.

This is an opportunity to build meaningful relationships, support people to take control of their lives, and be part of a team committed to making a lasting difference in our communities.

Salary: £25,877.80 rising to £26,357.15 per annum after 6 month probation period

Contract Type: Permanent, Full time

Hours and working pattern: 08:30 to 16:30, Monday to Friday 

Location: Office based during probation with possibility of hybrid working after this.

Office location: IP City Centre, Bath Street, Ipswich, IP2 8SD

Some travel is required for visiting service users in their homes or other locations, so a full and clean driving license is required.

Key Dates 

Closing date: 2nd September 2026 (midday)
Shortlisting: 3rd September 2026

Interviews: 16th September 2026 at IP City Centre, Ipswich

Summary 

Please note: For full details and how to apply please view the Recruitment with the link provided.

Individual giving

• Achieve a personal income target from small to mid-level donors including through our supporter scheme, campaigns and POS donations
• Take responsibility for HOME’s low to mid-level supporter programme, ensuring strong stewardship and donor retention, and consistent delivery of supporter scheme benefits, including a year-round programme of events – supported administratively by the Development Assistant
• Deliver consistent recruitment and upgrade activity for the programme, supported administratively by the Development Assistant and making use of automation
• Be responsible for delivering donation campaigns, including planning, writing copy and training the Customer Service Team (CST) in making the ask. Collaborate with the Marketing Team to promote campaigns on social media and by email
• Take ownership of HOME’s legacy scheme, including promotion and stewardship
•  Research potential donors and work with the wider team in delivering the strategy for recruiting them
• Work closely with the Development Assistant and the Marketing Team to oversee all supporter communications, including scheduling and writing content

Benefits: 25 days plus bank holidays, option to purchase additional leave, birthday day off, employee assistnance scheme, discounted theatre tickets when available, limted home working, flexible working requests, and more.

The Ada Lovelace Institute (Ada) is looking to hire an Executive Assistant to provide dedicated support to our Director. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced EA to play a pivotal role in the smooth day-to-day running of Ada's Director's office, working at the heart of a small, mission-driven organisation dedicated to ensuring that data and AI work for people and society.

Between late November/ early December 2026 and July 2027, the Director will be on maternity leave. During this period, the role will support two Co-Directors, who will be covering the Director's responsibilities between them. This will call for particular dexterity and adaptability. It is also an excellent opportunity to help shape and refine approaches to the smooth running of a senior office, pivoting to support the Director on her return.

You will provide high-quality executive support across diary and inbox management, correspondence, and briefing preparation, ensuring the Co-Directors are well prepared and well represented in all their engagements. You will coordinate Senior Leadership Team (SLT) meetings and communications, ensuring key outcomes and decisions are shared clearly across the team, and triage external invitations and requests to ensure they align with organisational priorities. The role also carries responsibility coordination of the Co-Director travel.

The role will be managed by Ada's Head of Operations and Strategic Development, working closely with the Operations Administrator and members of the Senior Leadership Team to support a well organised, supportive, and inclusive working environment.

About you

You are an experienced Executive Assistant or Diary Administrator who thrives on keeping a busy office running smoothly, and who is energised by the prospect of supporting more than one senior leader through a period of change. You have:

• Significant experience providing executive support, including complex diary management and correspondence, to a senior leader or executive in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience acting as a first point of contact for senior leaders, managing external relationships with professionalism and discretion.

• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to problem-solve, coordinate multiple moving parts, adapt to shifting priorities, and maintain accuracy under pressure.

You'll bring flexibility and good judgement to working across two Co-Directors during this period, along with the discretion to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately. You'll enjoy building trusted working relationships across a small team and take pride in providing a consistently high standard of support, whoever you're working with on a given day.

For further information about the role, please click through to the vacancy listing on our website.

About us

The Ada Lovelace Institute is an independent research institute funded and incubated by the Nuffield Foundation since 2018.

Our mission is to ensure data and artificial intelligence work for people and society. We do this by building evidence and fostering rigorous debate on how data and AI affect people and society. We recognise the power asymmetries that exist in ethical and legal debates around the development of data-driven technologies and seek to level those asymmetries by convening diverse voices and creating a shared understanding of the ethical issues arising from data and AI. Finally, we seek to define and inform good practice in the design and deployment of AI technologies.

The Institute has emerged as a leading independent voice on the ethical and societal impacts of data and AI. We have built relationships in the public, private and civil society sectors in the UK and internationally. Please find details of our work here.

Our research takes an interconnected approach to issues such as power, social justice, distributional impact and climate change (read our strategy to find out more), and our team have a wide range of expertise that cuts across policy, technology, academia, industry, law and human rights.

We value diversity in background, skills, perspectives and life experiences. As part of the Nuffield Foundation, we are a small team with the practical support of an established organisation that cares for its employees. 

Further information and how to apply

For further information about the role, please click through to the vacancy listing on our website. The closing date for applications is 09:30am (BST) on Wednesday 9th September 2026.

The successful candidate should be available to start in October or November 2026. 

We are committed to inclusive working practices and during the application process we commit to: 

• As a Disability Confident employer, we will offer an interview to a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the essential criteria for the job

• making any reasonable adjustments – for example providing documents in different formats, arranging for a sign language interpreter for interviews etc 

• reimbursing reasonable travel costs (and any childcare or care costs) for interviews where in-person attendance is required 

Our benefits package includes: 

• Genuine flexibility - we are open to requests for part-time hours, compressed working weeks, or job shares. 

• 28 days holiday per annum and all public holidays, with the option to buy or sell up to 5 days (prorated for part time staff). 

• A salary exchange pension scheme that offers employer contributions of up to 11%. 

• Life assurance scheme. 

• Family leave policies that provide an enhanced level of pay. 

• Cycle to work scheme, loans towards train season tickets and the option to make charitable donations via your pay.

• Regular opportunities for learning and development – including coaching, mentoring, and dedicated reading days for personal development and reflection. 

• Support with your physical, mental and financial wellbeing including an employee assistance provider, a private GP service, personal health reviews with Bupa, a will and funeral planning service and a staff network of trained Mental Health First Aiders. 

• A warm and welcoming workplace culture, with active peer groups and social networks to help you connect and belong.

Overview

We are looking for a permanent Finance Assistant to join our Finance team. The Finance team plays a vital role in supporting the Foundation to make a positive impact and improve health and wellbeing across Lambeth and Southwark.

The Finance Assistant will provide essential transactional finance support, with primary responsibility for maintaining supplier records, processing invoices and expenses, supporting payment runs, completing reconciliations, and maintaining accurate transaction data within the finance system.
 

The role is critical to ensuring that financial transactions are processed accurately, efficiently and in a timely manner, in line with the Foundation’s financial procedures and controls.
 

You will be joining an engaging, collaborative and highly motivated team and will have the opportunity to develop your finance skills and contribute to the continuous improvement of our processes.
 

Reporting to: Finance Manager

Key Responsibilities

Transactional Finance
 

• Maintain accurate supplier records, including validating and updating bank details, contact information and remittance addresses, in line with appropriate controls.
• Monitor the Finance Department mailbox and post in-tray, responding to queries where appropriate and redirecting queries to the relevant colleague when required.
• Process financial transactions, including supplier and customer invoices, staff expenses and credit card expense claims, in accordance with agreed processes, financial controls and deadlines.
• Support the preparation and batching of weekly and ad-hoc payment runs, ensuring that appropriate supporting documentation is attached and transactions are ready for approval.
• Complete bank reconciliations and assist with routine reconciliations of supplier accounts and other control accounts, under the guidance of the Senior Finance Assistant.
• Support the maintenance of fixed asset records, including additions, disposals, depreciation and reconciliations.
• Assist with the preparation and posting of month-end journals, including prepayments, accruals and correcting journals.
• Maintain accurate and well-organised electronic and paper records for all processed financial transactions.
• Ensure that financial records and supporting documentation are maintained in accordance with the Foundation’s policies and procedures.

Reporting, Audit and Team Support
 

• Assist with month-end close processes and provide information and supporting documentation as required.
• Assist with audit and reporting activities by retrieving, preparing and organising relevant financial documentation.
• Provide cover and support across other transactional finance processes during periods of peak activity or colleague absence.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the Finance team and the wider organisation to resolve queries and ensure timely processing of financial transactions.
• Identify opportunities to improve the efficiency, accuracy and effectiveness of finance processes.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Essential

• Good working knowledge of bookkeeping and accounting principles.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
• Experience of processing financial transactions, such as invoices, expenses and payments.
• Strong understanding of the importance of financial controls, accuracy and confidentiality.
• Good numerical and analytical skills.

Desirable

• At least one year’s experience working in a Finance Assistant or similar transactional finance role.
• Experience of month-end processes and month-end close.
• Experience completing bank and/or balance sheet reconciliations.
• Experience maintaining fixed asset records.
• Experience using finance/accounting software, ideally Access Financials.
• Experience using Salesforce.
• Experience working within a charity or not-for-profit organisation.

Skills and Attributes
 

• High level of attention to detail and a strong commitment to data accuracy.
• Strong planning and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to respond professionally to finance queries.
• Proactive, adaptable and willing to take ownership of tasks.
• A collaborative team player who is willing to support colleagues and work across different areas of finance.
• Able to handle confidential and sensitive financial information appropriately.
• Willingness to learn, develop and contribute to the continuous improvement of finance processes.
• Comfortable working independently while knowing when to seek guidance or escalate an issue.

Benefits

• Contributory Pension
• Annual health and wellbeing personal allowance
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and parental leave pay accessible without length of service requirements.
• Health and wellbeing programme that offers optional free yearly health check-ups.
• Support for healthy eating via fruit bowls and onsite lunch facilities. 
• Agile working, flexible hours, and supportive IT kit. 
• Shower facilities and bike lock area. 
• Generous annual leave (27 days + bank holidays)
• Subsidies for glasses
• Employee Assistance Programme