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Our guests arrive having been told, in a hundred different ways, that they are a problem to be managed. Our radical welcome is the opposite of that — and we are looking for someone to help us sustain it.

Kairos Housing grew out of a shared vision between local churches in Blackburn with Darwen. Our mission is to show the love of Jesus as we provide sanctuary, build community and seek justice.

The people we house have often been sleeping on park benches, sofa-surfing, or staying somewhere unsafe. Some have had an asylum claim refused and cannot work, rent or claim benefits. Others have just been granted refugee status and days to leave Home Office accommodation. We offer a home, and walk with them until they can stand on their own.

Our welcome means saying welcome home and meaning it — a safe place, a bed, community, support and belonging. Not hostility, and not even tolerance. We publicly challenge the hostility our guests face and speak up for a fairer system as part of our mission.Everything in this job about compliance, rent collection and record-keeping exists as so we can provide that radical welcome.

The role

We need someone to take on the day-to-day running of Kairos Housing. 

What you'll be working on

• You'll oversee our properties — maintenance, repairs, standards and compliance — as we grow from five homes to seven.
• You'll manage rental income and housing benefit applications from start to finish.
• You'll line manage two part-time colleagues and our volunteers, and coordinate the support our guests receive.
• You'll hold hard conversations with our guests around: arrears, house rules, and occasionally asking someone to leave.
• You'll build partnerships with councils, contractors and other charities, and work with our CEO and trustees on the charity's growth.
• You'll hold our Christian ethos — leading staff prayer and devotionals, building partnerships with local churches, and being available for prayer when asked.

This job is for you if…

• you have a heart for social justice and for people rebuilding their lives
• you are well organised and can hold a lot at once without dropping things
• you build good working relationships easily, inside and outside your own team
• you are calm in difficult situations and can say hard things with kindness
• you are confident with records, figures and computer systems, or ready to learn
• you can travel between our properties across Blackburn and Darwen

You do not need a housing background. If you arrive with relevant operations or housing experience, we would expect to appoint at or near the top of the range. If you have the values and transferable skills but not the technical knowledge, we will train you — including a fully funded housing qualification with paid study leave.

Key details

Office based at Church House, Blackburn Cathedral grounds, with the option to work from home occasionally, and regular travel to our properties. 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday (This is not an on-call role). Responsible to the Board of Trustees.

Benefits: 25 days holiday plus statutory holidays; 3% employer pension; full mileage; funded qualification and paid study leave; reflective supervision and peer support.

It is an occupational requirement of this post that the postholder is a practising Christian, in accordance with Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010. Our guests come from many faiths and from none, and are never expected to share ours.

A driving licence valid in the UK and access to a vehicle are essential, and an Enhanced DBS check is required. We cannot sponsor visa applications.

We shortlist blind, and guarantee an interview to anyone meeting the essential criteria who identifies as disabled or has first-hand lived experience of the UK asylum or immigration system.

How to apply

Download the recruitment pack and application forms from our website and return them to our recruitment inbox. We would be glad to have a chat or show you round first — please get in touch.

Closing date: 11.59pm on Sunday 27 September 2026. Interviews will be held in October.

Context

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

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

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

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

Job Summary

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

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

Please note that while this vacancy is for a 28 hours per week position, we would welcome applications from candidates seeking fewer than 28 hours per week where this can be accommodated within service needs. The minimum hours we would consider are 17.5 hours (2.5 days) per week. 

Job Purpose

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

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Day to day duties:

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

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

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

· Complete Statutory Carers Assessments.

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

Weekly/ monthly duties:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

· To meet regularly with line manager for supervision.

This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS Check. 

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

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

About the role:

Ready to lead a service that changes young lives? Youth Concern is looking for an experienced manager to lead our busy Drop-in Centre and support a dedicated team committed to helping young people across Aylesbury Vale. Help us shape our charity’ next chapter as we prepare to move to new premises in 2027. You will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the Drop-in Centre, ensuring that young people receive high-quality, accessible support in a safe and welcoming environment. Working closely with staff, volunteers and partner agencies, you will oversee service delivery, support organisational development and play a key role in our exciting plans to relocate to new premises in 2027. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about improving outcomes for young people and shaping the future of an essential community service.

Place of work is flexible (to suit us and the successful candidate, approx 2 days a week from home, 3 days a week working from the Drop-in Centre). Our Drop-in Centre in open to young people Tuesday-Saturday including two evenings. This role can be flexible and can be worked Monday-Friday with occasional evening and weekend work.

Benefits:

• 25 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays per annum plus 1 day's leave on your birthday

• Mobile phone and laptop

• Pension

• 24/7 employee support from Health Assured

• TOIL policy

• Monthly supervision and training

Interviews will take place on Monday 14th and Tuesday 15th September 2026.

About Us

For over 21 years, The Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre has offered free, holistic support to anyone in our community affected by cancer through complementary therapies, talking therapies, art, and our supportive community.

In 2025 alone, we had 1,911 individual visits and 1,021 therapy sessions - entirely through the dedication of our volunteer team. We are currently renovating our new centre, and we want to use it to reach further into our community than ever before. This is the first paid role in our history.

About the Role

As our first Executive Director, you will be the single point of accountability between our Board of Trustees and the day-to-day operation of the Centre - working alongside our (voluntary) Centre Manager and (voluntary) Volunteer Manager to support their roles, not duplicate them. You'll lead our strategy delivery, guide the charity's move into its new home, and oversee a service redesign informed by a fresh programme of visitor, volunteer and community research.

About You

You already know how to do this job - you've held a senior, accountable position in a charity or comparable organisation and can bring that experience from day one. You're confident reporting to a board of trustees, comfortable getting things done, and able to win the trust of a highly experienced, long-standing volunteer team through competence and credibility, not authority alone.

Key Activity Areas

• Financial management – budgeting, financial controls, and reporting to the Board and Treasurer

• Governance & best practice – supporting trustees to discharge their statutory duties; maintaining the policy suite and risk register

• HR & people leadership – supporting our entire volunteer and therapist team; communication is key to our volunteers

• Fundraising – write and lead on a fundraising strategy, implement new funding streams and be the ‘face of Pickering’ – local networking will be essential

• Change management – leading the transition to our new centre and evolving service model with care and consultation

• Compliance – safeguarding, health and safety, GDPR, and other regulatory requirements

Qualifications - Desirable

All the below are not necessary qualifications but would assist with this role:

• CIPD qualification, or equivalent hands-on HR experience

• A recognised governance qualification (e.g. Chartered Governance Institute) or completion of a charity leadership programme or similar

• Financial management experience – a qualification would be useful but not essential

• Safeguarding lead training

Experience and Competencies — Essential

• Senior leadership experience with genuine authority and accountability in a charity or comparable mission-led organisation

• A track record of reporting to and working with a board of trustees or non-executive directors

• A track record of leading organisational change, with evidence it was genuinely adopted

• Sound financial literacy - budgets, management accounts, financial controls, dealing with auditors

• Working knowledge of safeguarding, risk management and regulatory compliance

• Excellent written and verbal communication, including board-level reporting as well as the ability to speak in public

• Experience making a leadership role pay for itself, through income generation, cost savings, or both

• A genuine, demonstrable commitment to Pickering's mission

Experience and Competencies — Desirable

• Fundraising experience across grants, trusts, community fundraising and corporate partnerships

• Experience within the cancer support, wider healthcare, or hospice sector

• Lived experience of cancer, personally or through supporting someone close to you

• Experience leading a refresh of a brand or a rebrand, service redesign, or physical relocation of services

• Familiarity with Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding local community

Safeguarding

This role involves working with adults who may be vulnerable by virtue of serious illness. The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory reference checks before appointment, and will act as, or oversee, the charity's designated safeguarding lead.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Pickering is committed to equal opportunity for all and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. A copy of our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy is available on request.

How to Apply

Please apply by Sunday 6 September 2026. Interviews are expected to take place w/c 14 September 2026.

Mental Health and Counselling Project Worker

Two roles available

Location: Hub based (Peterborough & Huntingdon or Peterborough & Wisbech)

Hours: Full time (35 hours) or Part time (22.5-30 hours)

Salary: £28,000-£31,000 per annum/pro rata

Duration: Permanent

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Closing date: 14th September

Interviews to be held week commencing 21st September

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Centre 33 is an ambitious and growing charity based across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. We offer a range of high-quality services to young people aged up to 25, including information and support on a “drop in” basis, mental health services, counselling, housing and financial advice, sexual health support and support for young carers.

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You will work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team in Centre 33’s Someone to Talk to Service to provide excellent, safe, responsive and impactful counselling support to young people aged 13-25 who are experiencing a range of mental health and emotional difficulties. Your role will include undertaking ‘first contact’ sessions and follow up calls with young people and delivering short-term counselling to a caseload of young people. You will be confident assessing and managing risk and Safeguarding concerns and making onward referrals or liaising with other professionals as appropriate. You will support the wider work of the team, and the continuous development of the service. You will also represent and promote needs of young people/Centre 33 in relevant networks or initiatives.

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You will work to Centre 33’s values of being young person-led,collaborative, inclusive and striving for excellence.

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You will be working primarily from our Peterborough and Huntingdon hub but may be required at times to travel to other hubs within Cambridgeshire.

The Salvation Army is committed to serving others without discrimination and sharing the good news with them - these mission priorities will be at the centre of this new role. The Community Mission Coordinator will coordinate the existing busy programme with a strong team of volunteers and develop new initiatives.

Working specifically in Staple Hill, a diverse community, the current programme includes: drop-ins, food store, Employment Plus, Bible study groups, mid-week worship, coffee morning, toddler group, lunch club and an extensive range of seasonal activities. The candidate will also have scope to develop new initiatives, identifying needs and utilising available resources.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, passionate and highly motivated person with strong organisational skills; able to lead activities, coordinate volunteers and employees, manage administration tasks and network with other local groups and agencies.

This role has an occupational requirement that the successful candidate must be a committed and practising Christian, actively involved in their own church and will be in sympathy with the doctrines of, and supportive of, the purposes and the aims and objectives of The Salvation Army. 

In order to complete your application please download and read the job profile and any other attachments.

In the job profile you will find the criteria required for the role please make sure that you address this in your supporting statement as this forms the basis of our shortlisting.

Appointment will be subject to satisfactory references, a criminal record check (DBS: a satisfactory Enhanced DBS Disclosure Check of the Adult workforce and an Enhanced DBS with Barred List check of the Child Workforce) and evidence of your Right to Work in the UK in line with Home Office requirements.
As we are not a licensed sponsor, applicants must already have the right to work in the UK.

The Salvation Army actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential, and we welcome applications from a wide range of candidates, including those with criminal records. 

We reserve the right to close this advert earlier if we feel that we have received sufficient applications.

Promoting equality in the workplace and as a disability confident leader scheme employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet all the minimum essential criteria for the vacancy.

Benefits:
25 days annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata for part-time) a contributory pension scheme; an employee assistance programme.

Working hours: 35 hours per week; including one Saturday a month if possible, otherwise some level of flexibility. 28 hrs will also be considered. 

Closing date: Tuesday 22nd September 2026.

Are you passionate about supporting women to overcome challenges and make positive changes in their lives? Do you want to use your skills, experiences or lived experience to help empower women facing adversity?

If so, St Giles Trust is looking for Women’s Alliance Volunteers to join our new Women’s Alliance Service across York and North Yorkshire.

About the service

The Women’s Alliance Service is a partnership between St Giles Trust, Waythrough and Changing Lives, providing gender-responsive and trauma-informed support to women across York and North Yorkshire.

Working from Women’s Centres in York and Scarborough, alongside community-based drop-in sessions, the service provides holistic support to women facing a range of challenges. Through a partnership approach, women can access a wide range of support in one place, helping them to build stability, confidence and positive futures.

About this volunteer opportunity
As a Women’s Alliance Volunteer, you will work alongside experienced Caseworkers to support and empower women to stabilise their lives, build confidence and work towards their individual goals.

This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in a supportive environment while making a real difference to the lives of women in your community.

What you’ll be doing

• Support women accessing the service through drop-in sessions and activities

• Help create a welcoming and inclusive environment within the Women’s Centres

• Work alongside Caseworkers to provide encouragement, mentoring and practical support

• Support women to identify positive goals and make informed choices

• Build positive relationships with clients, staff and partner organisations

• Follow safeguarding, health and safety and organisational policies and procedures

• Participate in training, supervision and reflective practice opportunities

What we are looking for

• Understanding of the possible issues faced by females involved in, or at risk of becoming involved in, the criminal justice system

• A knowledge and understanding of providing support, advice and advocacy to vulnerable clients and the ability to communicate this knowledge in a variety of ways

• Good written and communication skills, including familiarity with form filling, letter writing and advocacy and following instructions

• Ability to develop positive working relationships with other staff, volunteers, managers, and other professionals within the community

We actively encourage applications from people with lived experience of challenges such as homelessness, substance misuse, debt, involvement with the criminal justice system, domestic abuse, exploitation or other forms of adversity.

We recognise the value that lived experience brings and welcome applicants who can use their experiences positively to inspire and support others.

What we will do to support you
We are committed to helping our volunteers succeed and develop. You will receive:

• A full induction programme

• Ongoing training and development opportunities

• Regular supervision and support

• Reflective practice sessions to build your confidence and skills

• Opportunities to gain valuable experience within a supportive and professional environment

We are an equity and inclusion confident employer. We welcome all applications, and we particularly encourage applications from people of the global majority (black, brown, multi- heritage) and those who identify as disabled, neuroexpansive, neurodiverse, with any protected characteristics and/or social barriers or challenges. We value the empowering and informative impact that all lived experiences and diversity of thought can offer the organisation.

St Giles will guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria set out in the Job Description for the vacancy.

This role requires a basic DBS check.

For queries,or require further support,please contact [email protected]

Closing date: 18th Sept 2026 at 9am. Interviews: 06th Oct 2026.

6 x Vacancies Available

We are looking for six client-focused Support Time Recovery Workers to join our new Wigan Crisis Space service, supporting local residents experiencing emotional distress and mental health challenges.

Wigan Crisis Space is a new service providing a safe space for those in distress and struggling with unwanted thoughts and feelings. Looking to improve mental health and wellbeing, we connect individuals to a range of services to reduce low mood, anxiety and loneliness, develop new skills and ensure their voice is heard.

Our STR Workers provide low-level calming interventions and one-to-one support to help people identify the causes of their emotional distress and put in place a support plan that includes signposting and referrals to other appropriate organisations and services.

The ideal candidates will have an awareness of mental health conditions, experience of building strong relationships with people and excellent listening skills. The ability to develop trust with those accessing the service is key to supporting them to achieve their recovery goals and desired outcomes.

Main Responsibilities

• Develop trusting relationships and provide short-term one-to-one appointments that offer practical and emotional support.
• Carry out initial ‘getting to know you’ conversations, working with individuals to plan their support and achieve the goals and outcomes that are important to them.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of local services and organisations that can provide support to improve wellbeing.
• Ensure regular and robust case recording and risk management in line with quality standards.
• Complete referrals to ensure people accessing Wigan Crisis Space have the appropriate support networks around them.
• Support and facilitate group activities that promote wellbeing and recovery as part of our prevention agenda.

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave (pro rata for part-time employees), increasing by one day each April up to a maximum of 30 days, plus bank holidays.
• Up to 6% matched pension contributions.
• Flexible working arrangements, with the right to request flexible working from day one.
• Enhanced paid sick leave and family leave provisions.
• Eye care vouchers and winter flu jab vouchers.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

Role Details

• Salary: Starting at £25,221 FTE per annum, rising to £27,780 FTE per annum (£14,314.62 to £15,766.02 per annum for 21 hours per week). 
• Location: Wigan Crisis Space, Crompton Street, Wigan, WN1 1YP. Office-based and wheelchair accessible.
• Hours: Part-time, 21 hours per week. The role includes evening and weekend working on a rota basis.

Find Out More

Interested in learning more about Wigan Crisis Space and what it's like to work within the service?

We are holding an informal online drop-in session where you can meet the Service Manager and Operational Manager, learn more about the role and the service, and ask any questions you may have before applying.

• Date: Tuesday 1 September 2026
• Time: 10:30am
• Location: Online via Microsoft Teams
• Joining details are available on the Family Action vacancy webpage.

No booking is required. We would be delighted to meet anyone interested in joining the team and learning more about the service.

About Family Action

Wigan Crisis Space is delivered by Family Action, a national charity that works from the heart of local communities. For more than 150 years, we have supported people through change, challenge and crisis, providing practical, emotional and financial support to families, children, young people and adults across the UK.

We are a forward-looking, ambitious and people-focused organisation, committed to continuous improvement, mutual respect and excellence in all we do.

How to Apply

• Click the Apply button below. You will be redirected to the Family Action vacancy webpage to complete your application.
• Closing Date: Sunday 6 September 2026 at 11:59pm.

Interview Dates

In-person interviews are scheduled to take place on 16 and 17 September 2026.

For Direct Queries

If you would like to discuss any aspect of the role, the selection process or flexible working requests, please visit the Family Action vacancy webpage for the hiring manager's contact details.

Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to building a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We particularly encourage applications from people from ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ candidates and disabled candidates.

We are happy to consider reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace. Candidates with a disability are welcome to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme and request priority consideration for interview, provided they meet the essential criteria for the role.

To help remove financial barriers to working with us, we will reimburse reasonable travel costs for candidates invited to attend an interview in person.

Birmingham and Solihull Women’s aid have for over 40 years supported women and children with services around domestic violence and abuse. Could you be a part of our team as we continue our mission to end domestic violence and abuse? 

The region’s leading charity in tackling violence against women and girls, BSWA offers a helpline, webchat, drop in and and community support as well as emergency accommodation in six refuges across the area.

Projects supports women in the criminal justice system, in healthcare settings, and throughout the community, offering support to women and children experiencing domestic violence. Alongside this, we also have colleagues offering training and consultancy to businesses and health and social care professionals alike, raising awareness on gender based violence issues.

We seek like-minded women to join our enthusiastic team of workers, all of us passionate about the vital and valuable work we do to support women and children who have experienced domestic abuse, and tackling the wider issues of violence against women and girls. 

Key Responsibilities:

· To assist the refuge manager in the day-to-day running of the young women’s refuge

· To ensure a high-quality standard of service in the refuge

· To develop and deliver a front-line service offering support, advice and guidance to young women, and their children, living in the refuge

Experience Required

Of providing practical and emotional support to young women and children affected by domestic violence

Of offering advice and information and advocating for service users on a range of issues including homelessness, benefits, legal, social welfare issues etc

Of developing and maintaining effective working relationships with external agencies

Of working within safeguarding guidelines to protect and promote the well-being of children and vulnerable adults

BSWA is a Disability Confident Employer. We want everyone to have equal chance at being considered for our jobs. 

These posts are covered by a Genuine Occupational Requirement (Schedule 9; Equality Act 2010) and women only need apply.  

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is at 12 noon on Wednesday 9th September. Interviews will take place weeks commencing 21st and 28th September

What you will do as part of our team

• Providing a specialist advice and advocacy service to the homeless guests of our services, which include partner day centres and night shelters through the winter season.
• Employing creative thinking and practices to ensure that guests are supported and motivated to achieve their goals.
• Attending appointments with guests occasionally when needed
• Referring and signposting guests to accommodation providers, health services and other relevant internal and external support services, as necessary
• Maintaining good communication with the Managers of our partnered Drop-in Centres, Glass Door colleagues and local statutory and non-statutory services.
• Attending meetings with the casework team, external service providers and partner organisations when required
• Collating statistics and outcome measurements of the casework service for both internal and external use
• Maintaining a wel-organised and easily accessible administration system for the casework programme in line with relevant legislation (e.g. GDPR)
• Managing a small casework budget
• Undertaking any other duties, as required by the charity

Person specification

Essential

• At least one year experience of working one-on-one and assessing the needs of homeless people or similar disadvantaged client groups
• Empathetic attitude to homeless and vulnerably housed people
• Up-to-date knowledge of the welfare issues and legislation affecting homeless people
• Knowledge of relevant support services available to homeless people, particularly in West London
• Confident approach to, and experience of, dealing with challenging behaviour
• Ability to maintain good relationships with colleagues and external service providers
• Highly organised with strong time-management skills
• Ability to keep clear and up-to-date case records
• Experience and competent in MS Office packages
• Ability to work independently and take the initiative to make important decisions
• Flexible and supportive team member with excellent communication skills
• Ability to adhere to and implement Health & Safety, HR and operational policies
• Understanding of and commitment to Equal Opportunities
• For night shelter caseworkers, willingness to work a minimum of one evening per week
• This post will require an enhanced DBS check prior and during employment

Desirable

• Ability to speak Polish, Romanian or other Eastern European languages
• Experience of working alongside volunteers

Are You Passionate About Equality and Advocacy? Ready to Empower Others? Want to Drive Change? We are thrilled to announce 1 full-time opportunity for a dedicated Independent Advocate to join our vibrant team in Liverpool and Warrington. Our team delivers Independent Advocacy within Secure Services across Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust. As an Independent Advocate, you will provide crucial support to vulnerable adults facing significant health and social care challenges.

This role involves providing advocacy, participating in drop-ins, and offering tailored support to a diverse group of service users with complex needs. Your work will empower vulnerable adults, helping them navigate and access necessary mental health care and treatment, advocating for their needs and ensuring their voices are heard and acted upon.

You'll deliver persuasive verbal and written representations on their behalf, collaborate with a wide variety of professionals, and take directed actions to address clients' issues. This role demands a flexible attitude, excellent communication, and the ability to handle sensitive information confidently.

You’ll be working proactively in Secure Hospital settings, abiding by security protocols. Relevant training will be provided during a robust induction.

On successful completion of a 3-month probationary period, you will be given the opportunity to complete the Independent Advocacy Practice (IAP) qualification inc. the IMHA Module.

Hours of Work: Full-time hours are 37 hours, working between Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.

Location: Office based at a variety of sites across Liverpool and Warrington. (Applicants must live within the area and have the ability to travel to different Mersey Care sites)

Starting Salary: £25,877.80 per annum.

Contract type: Permanent

Independent Advocate Requirements:

• Strong communication and time management skills to successfully work remotely.
• Excellent IT skills, including the use of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel, and the ability to learn software packages such as client management databases.
• Attention to detail to ensure accurate recording of records and reporting to meet tight deadlines.

Desirable:

• Previous experience in advocacy, information and advice, or a similar role within health, social care, or the voluntary sector.
• Previous experience of working in secure hospital settings and a thorough understanding of abiding by security protocols and managing risk.
• Demonstrable experience working with vulnerable adults.
• Working knowledge of public and voluntary organisations.

Benefits:

• 25 days annual leave + Bank Holiday (Rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service) with the option to buy or sell up to 5 days leave + your birthday off as an additional holiday day after 1 years’ service!
• Discretionary shutdown days at Christmas with up to 4 additional days leave.
• 1 Community Leave Day per annum.
• Cash Wellbeing Healthcare Plan which covers Optical/dental/alternative therapy and more!
• Auto enrolment Pension plan
• Death in service cover.
• Bike to work scheme.

Meet the Organisation: Who We Are and What We Do

At POhWER, we are committed to empowering individuals and enabling their voices to be heard. We provide advocacy and information services to support people in making effective decisions about their health and social care. Our team is dedicated to listening, exploring options, and taking action to meet our clients' best interests.

Think you are the perfect fit for this Independent Advocate role? Don't wait, click apply now!

Closing Date: 5PM, Friday 13th September 2026

Interview Date: 22nd / 23rd September 

An Enhanced DBS check will be conducted for this position.

We're proud to support our colleagues from the armed forces signing the Armed Forces Covenant in August 2024.

Successful applicants will need to obtain business insurance for their own vehicle.

POhWER is an equal opportunities employer, holder of the Investors in People Silver award, and a member of the MINDFUL EMPLOYER scheme. We are a level 2 Disability confidence scheme employer, and disabled applicants who meet all the essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview.

POhWER is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities, and particularly welcome candidates from groups currently underrepresented in our workforce. Our goal is to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. This includes, but is not limited to, people with disabilities, women, men, Black, Asian and other racially minoritised people, LGBTQ+ who are currently under-represented in our workforce.

To help embed inclusion for all, from day one, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee networks to support people from different backgrounds.

2 x Vacancies Available

We are looking for two passionate Team Leaders to join our new Wigan Crisis Space service and support local residents experiencing emotional distress and mental health challenges.

Wigan Crisis Space is a new service providing a safe space for those in distress and struggling with unwanted thoughts and feelings. Looking to improve mental health and wellbeing, we connect individuals to a range of services to reduce low mood, anxiety and loneliness, develop new skills and ensure their voice is heard.

As a Team Leader, you will combine strong leadership skills with a caring and supportive approach. You will have a good understanding of mental health and the impact it can have on people's lives, alongside the ability to lead and develop a team delivering high-quality support.

You will have a proven track record of working effectively with individuals and their families, contributing to service development, and supporting colleagues to learn and grow. You will be a self-starter who is confident in helping to shape and develop a new provision within the local community.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead and line manage a small team of Support Time Recovery (STR) Workers to deliver a safe, effective and responsive service.
• Support STR Workers with goal setting, safety planning and interventions, providing guidance and advice on safeguarding matters and working closely with the Service Manager on complex cases.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of local services and organisations that can provide support to improve wellbeing.
• Ensure regular and robust case recording and risk management in line with quality standards.

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave (pro rata for part-time employees), increasing by one day each April up to a maximum of 30 days, plus bank holidays.
• Up to 6% matched pension contributions.
• Flexible working arrangements, with the right to request flexible working from day one.
• Enhanced paid sick leave and family leave provisions.
• Eye care vouchers and winter flu jab vouchers.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

Role Details

• Salary: Starting at £28,884 FTE per annum, rising to £31,698 FTE per annum (£23,419.45 to £25,701.08 per annum for 30 hours per week). 
• Location: Wigan Crisis Space, Crompton Street, Wigan, WN1 1YP. Office-based and wheelchair accessible.
• Hours: Part-time, 30 hours per week. Working late afternoons and evenings, with weekend working on a rota basis.
• Contract: Permanent.

Find Out More

Interested in learning more about Wigan Crisis Space and what it's like to work within the service?

We are holding an informal online drop-in session where you can meet the Service Manager and Operational Manager, learn more about the role and the service, and ask any questions you may have before applying.

• Date: Tuesday 1 September 2026
• Time: 3:00 pm
• Location: Online via Microsoft Teams
• Joining details are available on the Family Action vacancy webpage.

No booking is required. We would be delighted to meet anyone interested in joining the team and learning more about the service.

About Family Action

Wigan Crisis Space is delivered by Family Action, a national charity that works from the heart of local communities. For more than 150 years, we have supported people through change, challenge and crisis, providing practical, emotional and financial support to families, children, young people and adults across the UK.

We are a forward-looking, ambitious and people-focused organisation, committed to continuous improvement, mutual respect and excellence in all we do.

How to Apply

• Click the Apply button below. You will be redirected to the Family Action vacancy webpage to complete your application.
• Closing Date: Sunday 6 September 2026 at 11:59pm.

Interview Date

In-person interviews are scheduled to take place on Monday 14 September 2026.

For Direct Queries

If you would like to discuss any aspect of the role, the selection process or flexible working requests, please visit the Family Action vacancy webpage for the hiring manager's contact details.

Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to building a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We particularly encourage applications from people from ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ candidates and disabled candidates.

We are happy to consider reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace. Candidates with a disability are welcome to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme and request priority consideration for interview, provided they meet the essential criteria for the role.

To help remove financial barriers to working with us, we will reimburse reasonable travel costs for candidates invited to attend an interview in person.

Are You Passionate About Equality and Advocacy? Ready to Empower Others? Want to Drive Change? We are thrilled to announce a unique opportunity for a dedicated Culturally Appropriate Independent Advocate to join our vibrant team in Liverpool delivering Independent Advocacy within Secure Services across Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust.

As a Culturally Appropriate Independent Advocate, you will provide crucial support to vulnerable adults facing significant health and social care challenges. You will be actively supporting individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds within Secure Mersey Care Mental Health Hospital sites. This vital role involves providing advocacy, participating in drop-ins, and offering tailored support that respects cultural backgrounds. Your work will empower vulnerable adults, helping them navigate and access necessary mental health care and treatment, advocating for their needs and ensuring their voices are heard and acted upon.

You'll deliver persuasive verbal and written representations on their behalf, collaborate with a wide variety of professionals, and take directed actions to address clients' issues. This role demands a flexible attitude, excellent communication, and the ability to handle sensitive information confidently.

The successful candidates will be expected to have a good understanding and reach within Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic cultures and have a passion for supporting people with minority ethnic backgrounds to access care and treatment for mental health, particularly where there is unmet need. This role will also link in with the Mersey Care Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Leads and support engagement activities.

We would like to encourage applicants who have an ethnic minority background to apply for this role.

Hours of Work: Part-Time: 15 hours, working between Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm

Location: Office based at a variety of sites across Liverpool and Warrington. (Applicants must live within the area and have the ability to travel to different Mersey Care sites)

Starting Salary: Part time salary £10,491.00 per annum (Full-time Salary equivalent - £25,877.80)

Contract type: Permanent

Independent Advocate Requirements:

• Strong communication and time management skills to successfully work remotely.
• Excellent IT skills, including the use of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel, and the ability to learn software packages such as client management databases.
• Attention to detail to ensure accurate recording of records and reporting to meet tight deadlines.

Desirable:

• Previous experience in advocacy, information and advice, or a similar role within health, social care, or the voluntary sector.
• Previous experience of working in secure hospital settings and a thorough understanding of abiding by security protocols and managing risk.
• Demonstrable experience working with vulnerable adults.
• Working knowledge of public and voluntary organisations.

Benefits:

• 25 days annual leave + Bank Holiday (Rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service) with the option to buy or sell up to 5 days leave (pro-rated for part time staff) + your birthday off as an additional holiday day after 1 years’ service!
• Discretionary shutdown days at Christmas with up to 4 additional days leave.
• 1 Community Leave Day per annum.
• Cash Wellbeing Healthcare Plan which covers Optical/dental/alternative therapy and more!
• Auto enrolment Pension plan
• Death in service cover.
• Bike to work scheme.

Meet the Organisation: Who We Are and What We Do

At POhWER, we are committed to empowering individuals and enabling their voices to be heard. We provide advocacy and information services to support people in making effective decisions about their health and social care. Our team is dedicated to listening, exploring options, and taking action to meet our clients' best interests.

Think you are the perfect fit for this Independent Advocate role? Don't wait, click apply now!

Closing Date: 5PM, Friday 13th September 2026

Interview Date: 22nd / 23rd September 

An Enhanced DBS check will be conducted for this position.

We're proud to support our colleagues from the armed forces signing the Armed Forces Covenant in August 2024.

Successful applicants will need to obtain business insurance for their own vehicle.

POhWER is an equal opportunities employer, holder of the Investors in People Silver award, and a member of the MINDFUL EMPLOYER scheme. We are a level 2 Disability confidence scheme employer, and disabled applicants who meet all the essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview.

POhWER is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities, and particularly welcome candidates from groups currently underrepresented in our workforce. Our goal is to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. This includes, but is not limited to, people with disabilities, women, men, Black, Asian and other racially minoritised people, LGBTQ+ who are currently under-represented in our workforce.

To help embed inclusion for all, from day one, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee networks to support people from different backgrounds.

Job description

This is an exciting time to join Spires and play an integral part in delivering our new Croydon Day Centre, which we are delivering in partnership with Croydon Voluntary Action (CVA) and CAYSH, with the support of MHCLG’s Ending Homelessness in Communities Fund.

About us: Spires is a grassroots South London charity working with people impacted by homelessness to lead lives of greater stability. Our support workers provide non-judgemental and tailored advice and guidance to adults who are currently facing homelessness or are at risk. We support people to secure housing that is sustainable, suitable for their needs, so they leave homelessness behind for good.

Part 1:  The Role

This role sits within our Housing and Homelessness (H&H) team. The post holder’s work will centre around three days a week at the Croydon Day Centre, with two days working in the community, which will include working from our refugee drop-in delivery in partnership with Croydon Refugee Day Centre (CRDC). The post holder will also work at our H&H services in Lambeth and Wandsworth on occasion, and colleagues from those services will also support the running of the Croydon Day Centre. The post holder will work from our Stockwell Office on Wednesdays. 

Part 2: Key duties and responsibilities

Service Delivery & Support

· Welcome and engage service users in a non-judgemental, compassionate manner.

· Provide basic needs support such clothing, and access to a safe space.

· Offer advice, advocacy and signposting on housing, health services and other support agencies.

· Conduct assessments of need and develop personalised support plans.

Case Management

· Maintain accurate, confidential records of interactions and support plans.

· Liaise with housing teams, healthcare providers, social services, and other partners to coordinate support.

· Monitor individuals’ progress and update plans as required.

Centre Operations

· Assist with daily tasks such as setting up service areas, distributing supplies, and managing donations.

· Ensure safeguarding procedures and organisational policies are always followed.

Crisis Support

· Identify signs of crisis, risk, or safeguarding concerns and respond appropriately.

· Support individuals experiencing emotional distress, mental health issues or substance misuse challenges.

General                                                                               

· Be proactive in reviewing and evaluating own performance, and in identifying and acting upon areas for improvement and development.

· Undertaking other duties compatible with the level and nature of the post and/or reasonably required by more senior members of staff, including session cover

· Attend and participate in staff and team meetings and other meetings as required

This job description covers the current range of duties and will be reviewed from time to time. It is Spires’ aim to reach agreement on changes, but if agreement is not possible, Spires reserves the right to change this job description.

Part 3: Person specification

Essential experience

· Working with vulnerable and socially excluded people, particularly people experiencing homelessness or insecure accommodation and associated culture – drugs, alcohol, violence, mental and physical ill-health.

· Managing a caseload, needs assessment, planned support, key working, goal setting and advocacy.

· Experience of challenging appropriately and maintaining clear and appropriate boundaries

· Networking and effectively liaising with specialist service providers or agencies to establish and/or improve access to services for clients   

Desirable experience

· Working with volunteers

· Working in the charity sector and/or a day centre environment

Essential knowledge

· Sound understanding of the issues faced by homeless or vulnerably housed people and the difficulties they experience in accessing services that are fully responsive to their needs

· Good understanding of safeguarding practices in a social care and/or day centre environment

· Good understanding of confidentiality and working with sensitive information

· Working knowledge of health and social care services

Desirable knowledge

· A relevant NVQ2/3 or equivalent qualification in a relevant field.

Essential skills and personal qualities

· Excellent written and spoken communication skills

· Information and relationship management skills

· Ability to effectively manage time, work under pressure and balance competing priorities to meet deadlines

· IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and databases

· Non-judgemental with the ability to empathise

Part 4: Summary of terms and conditions of service

Location: The postholder will be an employee of The Spires Centre. This post is based at

Elmfield House 5 Stockwell Mews SW9 9GX. However, the post holder will be working across Spires’ drop-ins in Lambeth, Wandsworth and Croydon.

Probation: This post is subject to a 6-month probationary period.

Notice: This post is subject to a four-week notice period.

Annual leave: The annual leave entitlement is 35 days per year pro rata, made up of eight bank and public holidays and 27 days annual leave. The 27 days annual leave is normally split between 24 ‘bookable’ days and three closure days that fall between Christmas and the New Year.

Pension: The Spires Centre will contribute 5% of annual salary for those who qualify for our group pension plan.

Other benefits: The Spires Centre will provide life and income protection insurance for those who qualify for our group plans.

Expenses: The role may require travel. Out-of-pocket expenses will be paid when incurred in accordance with our expenses policy.

Safeguarding: The postholder will adhere to The Spires Centre’s safeguarding policy for vulnerable adults. This post is also subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check.