Employability manager jobs in East of england

For more than 140 years, the Forces Employment Charity has helped the military community succeed beyond service – building careers, shaping futures, and living with purpose. Last year, we provided dedicated and specialist employment and justice support to over 23,000 people to create careers and long-term stability.

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Are you a passionate leader with a commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community? We’re looking for an experienced and driven individual to lead and shape our national employment support service, helping veterans and their families build meaningful and sustainable careers.

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This is a unique opportunity to lead a high-performing team, influence strategy, and make a real difference across the UK.

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Brief role description

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The Programme Manager plays a pivotal leadership role in delivering the Forces Employment Charity’s Ex-Forces Employment Charity Programme. This programme provides regionally-based, comprehensive employment support to all who have served in HM Armed Forces, ensuring personal and locally informed guidance for veterans seeking employment or career change.

Working closely with the Director of Veterans and Families Employment, the Programme Manager drives operational excellence, strengthens service consistency across the UK, and represents the charity’s employment offer in the devolved nations. They ensure that our national network of Advisors is supported, empowered, and aligned to strategic goals, enabling the very best outcomes for the veteran community.

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It’s essential that they have experience managing multi-site or national teams, alongside a strong understanding of employment support or careers guidance. They will be confident working with a range of stakeholders, able to use data to inform decisions, and an excellent communicator. Strong IT skills and a genuine commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community are also key.

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Ideally, they will bring experience from the veterans or employability sector, along with some understanding of devolved nation policy or frameworks such as safeguarding or vocational training.

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This role requires an Enhanced DBS check.

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Interested? Want to know more about the Charity? Check our website.

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Eager to know more the role? Have a look at the Job Description.

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What’s in it for you? Check out our Benefits.

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Have we convinced you to apply? If so, submit your CV and Covering Letter by closing date Wednesday, 6 May 2026.

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Please note: Applications will be reviewed and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert; therefore, we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible. If you are an internal applicant, please ensure you have made The People Team aware before applying.

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We are committed to equal opportunities and improving the working lives of our staff by fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone, including those with disabilities, can thrive, develop, and achieve their full potential. We actively encourage applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and ensure reasonable adjustments are made to support candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.

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We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process.

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#LI-DNI

This is a challenging and rewarding position within a friendly and fast-paced charity, with clear growth amibitions and a determination to make a real impact on the employment prospects of young people with the most barriers to entering work.

You will bring ambition, ideas, clarity and consistency to income generation functions across the organisation. You will lead on bid-writing, as well as relationship building, cultivation and stewardship of local and national grant makers.

You will also help to develop new income streams for the charity, including building and mobilising a network of supporters and donors, to drive individual giving, sponsorship and fundraising activities.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

Experience

•A track record (over three years) of securing income from trusts and foundations.

• A track record of securing income through individual giving and fundraising activities.

• Managing the full funding cycle, from prospect research, through to relationship stewardship and reporting.

• Managing a pipeline of multiple funders and donors.

• Managing multiple deadlines and a varied pipeline.

• Use of data and CRM systems to manage and track activity.

• Implementation of digital fundraising campaigns and donor journey tracking (desirable).

• Working within the education, charities and/or the voluntary youth sector (desirable).

Skills

• Exceptionally strong writing skills, with the ability to produce compelling funding applications and funder reports.

• Engaging communication skills, with the ability to adapt language and messaging to different platforms and audiences.

• Excellent numeracy and budget building skills.

• Accuracy and meticulous attention to detail.

• Very strong relationship-building and communication skills.

• Creativity with the ability to make connections between themes and pull together engaging content to feed into fundraising activities.

• Highly organised, with an attention to detail.

• Excellent project management skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.

Attitude

• Positive and solution focussed.

• Self-assured, with a ‘can-do’ approach and the confidence to bring ideas to the table.

• Thrives in a fast-paced and busy environment.

• Self-motivated and able to work independently.

• Welcomes feedback, with a desire to continuously improve and develop.

• Passionate and enthusiastic about improving young people’s lives.

• A commitment to our organisational values - empowerment, collaboration, reliability, quality, and learning.

WHAT WE OFFER

• £40,891 per annum

• 28 days leave (inc. 3 days between Christmas and New Year)

• 2 volunteering days

• 1 life event day

• Matched pension contributions (up to 6%)

• Flexible working (our core business hours are 10am to 3pm)

• Life insurance (5 x annual salary)

• Canada Life WeCare employee support package

This is a challenging and rewarding position within a friendly and fast-paced charity, with clear growth amibitions and a determination to make a real impact on the employment prospects of young people with the most barriers to entering work.

This position will bring clarity, consistency and impact to marketing and communications across the charity. The focus will be to raise our profile, tell our story, and articulate our impact, to help to build meaningful relationships with diverse partners and stakeholders.

With a resonsibility for marketing, communications, brand management and stakeholder engagement events, the postholder will take a joined-up approach across digital, media, events and stakeholder communications, ensuring our brand is consistently represented, and our work reaches and engages the right audiences.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

Experience 

• A track record (over three years) of successfully delivering in a similar or related role. 

• Delivery of high quality, effective communications across digital and print channels. 

• Creation of compelling and accessible digital and print resources and materials. 

• Management of website content and social media channels, implementing strategies and approaches to raise profiles and boost engagement .

• Engagement and liaison with local and nation al media publications.

• Writing, editing and proofreading to a very high standard. 

• Management and planning of stakeholder engagement events and activities .

• Management of high-profile Ambassadors and advocates (desirable).

• Implementation of campaigns, to drive engagement and system s change (desirable).

• Working within the education, charities and/or the voluntary youth sector (desirable).   

Skills 

• Excellent digital and design skills, with the ability to create compelling, professional and accessible resources, reports and promotional materials. 

• Engaging written communication skills, with the ability to adapt language and messaging to different platforms and audiences. 

• A flexible approach with the ability to identify the best social, digital and print channels for a wide variety of messaging, and monitoring effectiveness through accessing, collating and analysing data.

• Creativity with the ability to make connections between themes and pull together engaging content to feed into communications. 

• Exceptional communication skills, able to speak confidently with young people, professionals, funders and senior business stakeholders. 

• Highly organised, with an attention to detail, excellent project management skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.   

Attitude 

• Positive and solution focussed.

• Self-assured, with a ‘can-do’ approach and the confidence to bring ideas to the table. 

• Thrives in a fast-paced and busy environment. 

• Welcomes feedback, with a desire to continuously improve and develop. 

• Passionate and enthusiastic about improving young people’s lives. 

• A commitment to our organisational values, of empowerment, collaboration, reliability, quality, and learning.

WHAT WE OFFER

• £40,891 per annum

• 28 days leave (inc. 3 days between Christmas and New Year)

• 2 volunteering days

• 1 life event day

• Matched pension contributions (up to 6%)

• Flexible working (our core business hours are 10am to 3pm)

• Life insurance (5 x annual salary)

• Canada Life WeCare employee support package

Do you believe every young person deserves the chance to dream big about their future? At MyBigCareer, that belief drives everything we do.

We're a small but mighty charity supporting young people aged 11–18 from underserved communities across London and the North East, helping them build the knowledge, confidence and connections to thrive in the world of work. Since 2013 we've supported over 20,000 young people through personalised careers guidance, coaching and employability programmes, working alongside schools, corporate partners and a network of more than 300 inspirational volunteers.

The role

This is a dual-focus role sitting right at the heart of how we deliver our impact. You'll lead our volunteer programme nationally; recruiting, training and supporting the coaches and volunteers who deliver our programmes, while also overseeing programme delivery across our London partner schools.

On the volunteer side, you'll manage the full volunteer journey from recruitment and DBS checks through to training, engagement and retention, and act as our organisation's DBS Lead. On the delivery side, you'll coordinate and deliver MyBigCareer programmes in London, acting as a key relationship holder for school partners and ensuring young people receive consistently high-quality careers guidance and employability support.

This is a hands-on role for someone equally comfortable with strategic coordination and direct delivery, who thrives in a close-knit, values-led small team.

About you

You'll bring experience in volunteer management, programme coordination or a similar role, ideally in the charity or education sector. You'll be a confident communicator, a natural relationship builder, and someone who cares deeply about equity and social mobility.

Essential experience and skills include:

• Experience managing or coordinating volunteers, ideally in a charity, education or community setting
• Experience coordinating or delivering programmes or projects with multiple stakeholders
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities
• Confidence delivering workshops, training or presentations to groups
• Sound understanding of safeguarding principles
• Competent with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace and CRM systems

Desirable:

• Experience in or with schools or education settings
• Experience as or supporting a DBS Lead
• Knowledge of or connections to London communities
• Lived experience of the inequalities faced by the young people we support

Our values

Compassion First. Dream Big. Empower Others. Act with Purpose. It's really important to us that whoever joins us lives and works by these values and is at their best working collaboratively in a small, mission-driven team.

The details

• Salary: £30,000–£32,500 FTE (pro rata for part time)
• Permanent contract, full time (37hrs) or part time (minimum 30hrs) considered
• Hybrid; home-based with at least weekly travel to London and occasional UK travel
• 27 days annual leave + bank holidays + Christmas closure
• Target start date: August 2026
• Enhanced DBS check required

We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of the inequalities faced by the young people we support, and from those with existing knowledge of or connections to London communities.

Closing date: 13th May 2026 1st round interviews: w/c 1st June | 2nd round: w/c 8th June

This is more than a management role—it’s an opportunity to create a vibrant ecosystem for young entrepreneurs.

You’ll take ownership of the centre, embedding it in the local community while supporting young people (18–30) to start and grow their businesses. From building partnerships to mentoring founders, you’ll be at the heart of real social impact.

We’re looking for a self-starter who thrives on responsibility, can work independently, and brings energy, ideas and leadership to everything they do.

Growing Enterprise in the Community

• Build strong partnerships with local organisations and stakeholders
• Create a collaborative network that champions youth enterprise
• Raise awareness and position the hub as a go-to space for start-ups

Recruiting & Supporting Clients

• Lead outreach and recruit aspiring entrepreneurs
• Provide pre-start advice and guide business planning
• Manage applications, referrals and waiting lists

Delivering Business Support

• Offer ongoing mentoring and practical business advice
• Connect clients with local businesses, professionals and mentors
• Support employability and enterprise development pathways

Running the Hub

• Oversee day-to-day operations and facilities
• Host tours, meetings and events
• Ensure a welcoming, professional and inspiring environment

Reporting & Performance

• Monitor KPIs including occupancy and business success rates
• Maintain accurate records and reporting for trustees
• Manage rent processes and contribute to financial sustainability

Budget & Compliance

• Manage budgets and support fundraising activity
• Ensure Health & Safety standards are implemented and upheld

Launch It Kent is an independent charity based in Sheerness Kent. The charity is supported through a social franchise by Launch It who have been operating for over 25 years and manage 7 enterprise centres across the UK.

The Programme Manager role is suited to someone with experience delivering youth development programmes, ideally focused on employability, and who is passionate about supporting young people to succeed in the world of work. As a key frontline member of LTSB’s team, the programme manager will work closely with colleagues across the organisation, including the Programmes and Employment teams and employer partners, to support young people throughout their journey.

Programme Managers are responsible for delivery across specific LTSB hub cities and regions and are required to travel to support delivery in those areas.

Job Title: Pathways Advisor 
Salary: £17,500 (0.5 FTE) 
Location: Northeast/ Yorkshire/Northwest
Contract Type: Part-Time, fixed term (2-years) 
Reports To: Regional Manager 
Service Area: The Skill Mill 
Place of Work: Remote with the expectation of some regional travel

 

About The Skill Mill 

The Skill Mill is a multi-award-winning social enterprise providing employment opportunities for young people aged 16–18 involved in the criminal justice system. We deliver environmental and community improvement projects that build skills, improve life chances, and reduce reoffending. 

Young people aged 16-18 will be employed by The Skill Mill for 6-months, working in small cohorts of four, under the direct supervision of a dedicated Supervisor. During this period, the programme integrates practical skills training, offering short courses and on-the-job instruction in areas like environmental management, construction, and recycling, using tools such as trimmers and lawnmowers. The goal is for participants to achieve recognized qualifications like the CSCS card and an AQA Level 2 qualification, all while receiving comprehensive support, in collaboration with youth offending services. 

Following the six-month employment phase, young people receive three months of dedicated support designed to facilitate their transition into new employment, training, or educational opportunities. This support includes individualised assistance with career development and job progression, practical aid such as creating action plans, crafting CVs, and practicing interview skills. Furthermore, The Skill Mill advocates for young people facing significant barriers to employment, ensuring they receive tailored guidance to secure their next steps. 

Purpose of the Role:

To support young people aged 16+, particularly those involved with The Skill Mill programme, by delivering tailored, person-centered pathways into education, training, and long-term employment. The postholder will act as a trusted advisor, helping young people overcome barriers, build confidence, and transition successfully into sustainable opportunities with partner organisation and local employers. 

Support for young people from the Pathway Advisor will begin in the 6-month employment phase, with liaison with the young person, Supervisors and Commercial Sales Manager, to begin to build relationships, understand aspirations and identify potential opportunities. 

After the 6-month employment phase, key support will transition from the Supervisor to the Pathway Advisor role, with 3-months of person-led support offered to prepare for, enter, and sustain further employment, training, or educational opportunities. Support will be tailored to each young person’s needs and is likely to be a combination of remote/ in-person throughout the 9-months. 
 

Key Responsibilities 

• Deliver intensive 1:1 employability and progression support to young people on The Skill Mill programme, focusing on post-placement career development, training and sustained employment outcomes.  

•  Work in partnership with Youth Justice Services and employer networks to identify and promote routes into education, apprenticeships, employment and volunteering.  

• Co-produce personalised action plans with young people, based on individual strengths, goals and support needs, reviewing progress and adapting interventions as required.  

• Provide practical employability support including CV development, interview preparation, job search guidance, and workplace readiness.  

• Build trusted, motivational relationships with young people using a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach.  

• Act as a key link between young people and partner organisations, including employers, training providers, FE colleges and specialist support services.  

• Advocate for young people with complex or multiple barriers to ensure equitable access to opportunities and remove systemic obstacles.  

• Maintain accurate records, track progress, and contribute to outcome reporting for funders and commissioners.  

• Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion, recognising barriers such as discrimination, offending history, housing instability and mental health needs.  

• Collaborate closely with Youth Justice caseworkers, internal teams, local authorities, and external agencies to deliver coordinated, wraparound support.  

• Stay informed on labour market trends, skills pathways, and funding opportunities to enhance progression options for young people. 
   

Person Specification 

Essential Criteria: 

• Experience providing employability and progression support to young people, with a focus on accessing education, training, and sustained employment. 

• Strong understanding of the challenges faced by young people with offending histories. 

• Excellent interpersonal and motivational skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport quickly. 

• Ability to design and deliver effective action plans that lead to employment, training, or further education outcomes. 

• Knowledge of local labour market, training providers, and employability services. 

• Proficient IT skills and ability to maintain accurate case records and outcomes data. 

• Ability to work independently and manage a dynamic caseload. 

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in employment and service delivery. 

• A flexible and collaborative approach to partnership working. 

Desirable Criteria: 

• Direct experience working with The Skill Mill or similar social enterprise programmes. 

• Lived experience of youth justice, care, or NEET pathways. 

• Knowledge of trauma-informed practice. 

• Experience collaborating with employers or brokering placements. 

• Knowledge of relevant legislation (e.g., safeguarding, GDPR). 

• Familiarity with case management systems or youth work platforms. 

• Qualification in careers guidance, youth work, or coaching. 

• Understanding of supported employment models (e.g., IPS, Youth Hubs). 
   

Additional Requirements:

• Enhanced DBS check required. 

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings/weekends. 

• Travel between partner sites or outreach locations may be required. 
   

How to Apply: 

The Skill Mill is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of background. 

To apply please send a CV and cover letter setting out your experience, qualifications and how you meet the requirements of the person specification.

What if your career in youth work could sit at the intersection of sport, safety, and genuine transformation? Fight for Peace is looking for a Youth Work Manager who knows that the real work happens in the relationships — and has the experience to prove it.

This is a senior leadership role for someone who understands the realities facing young people in inner-city communities, and who is ready to lead a team that meets them where they are — every evening, every session, every conversation that counts.

Fight for Peace has spent over two decades using boxing and martial arts as a gateway to something bigger, education, employability, personal development, and a real shot at a different future for young people aged 7–25 in East London. As our Youth Work Manager, you'll be the person responsible for making sure the youth work at the heart of our Academy is outstanding.

You'll lead our youth workers, shape our programmes, and act as our primary safeguarding lead within primary interventions. This isn't a hands-off management role, you will be present in the Academy at least four evenings a week, visible to young people and staff alike, and actively involved in the delivery of life-changing work.

What you'll own:

You'll take the lead on designing, developing, and quality-assuring our youth work offer, including programmes like Man Talk and Lutadoras, our gender-specific personal development groups, as well as youth leadership initiatives and open-access evening services. Working alongside our Sports Manager and MEL team, you'll ensure every programme has a clear theory of change, measurable outcomes, and personal development woven into its core.

Safeguarding sits at the very centre of this role. You'll be the named lead for safeguarding across primary interventions, responsible not just for managing individual concerns, but for building a culture where every member of staff is vigilant, confident, and fully trained. You'll know your way around Working Together to Safeguard Children, contextual safeguarding, and trauma-informed practice, and you'll bring that knowledge to life in how the team works every day.

You'll also manage a team of youth workers, recruiting, developing, and holding them to high standards through regular one-to-ones, team meetings, and a genuine investment in their growth. Many of our youth workers are young people themselves who have come through our programmes, and supporting their professional development is a privilege that comes with this role.

What we're looking for:

You'll have a strong track record in youth work, ideally in an inner-city or community setting where the issues of violence, exploitation, and social inequality are not abstract concepts but lived realities for the young people you work with. You'll hold a recognised youth work qualification at Level 3 or above, and have experience acting as a designated safeguarding lead or equivalent.

You'll be a confident leader, a skilled relationship-builder, and someone who genuinely thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Above all, you'll believe without reservation that every young person has the potential to succeed, and you'll bring that belief into work with you every single day.

The details:

• Salary: £37,000 – £42,000
• Location: Fight for Peace Academy, Woodman Street, London E16 2LS
• Academy presence required a minimum of four evenings per week, including Friday evening rota cover

An enhanced DBS check and recognised safeguarding qualification will be required. Right to work in the UK is essential.

Fight for Peace is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We particularly welcome applications from individuals with lived experience of the communities we serve.

Are you a facilities professional who wants their work to genuinely matter? This is your chance to be the backbone of one of London's most impactful youth organisations — where the building you manage is the foundation for changing young lives.

Fight for Peace is looking for an exceptional Facilities Manager to take full ownership of our Academy in Royal Docks, East London — a vibrant, purpose-built space where young people aged 7–25 come to box, train, learn, and grow.

This isn't a role for someone who wants to sit behind a desk raising purchase orders. As our Facilities Manager, you'll be the person who makes the Academy hum, from keeping us legally compliant and structurally sound to leading capital projects, managing a network of contractors, and making sure every corner of the building reflects the ambition and energy of the community it serves.

You'll have real ownership. You'll have a say in the facilities budget, shape the annual maintenance plan, and play an active role in our team. When something needs doing, you'll have the authority and the trust to get it done.

What you'll be leading:

The Academy is a busy, multi-use space — and no two days are the same. You'll oversee everything from day-to-day maintenance and statutory compliance to major refurbishment projects (including an ongoing changing rooms development). You'll manage our cleaning team, oversee IT infrastructure, run our room hire offer, and work with the income generation team to grow commercial use of the space. Health and safety sits at the heart of this role — you'll be our lead on fire safety, EICR, legionella, asbestos, and everything in between, maintaining a compliance register that is always audit-ready.

Safeguarding is central to how we operate. You'll ensure the physical environment supports a safe and welcoming space for young people, and that every contractor who steps through our doors is properly vetted.

What we're looking for:

You'll bring solid, hands-on experience in facilities, estates, or building management — ideally in a community, education, or sports setting. You'll know your way around a PPM schedule, a compliance register, and a contractor negotiation. You'll be organised, dependable, and the kind of person who spots a problem before it becomes one.

Just as importantly, you'll believe in what we do. Fight for Peace was founded on the idea that every young person regardless of their background deserves the chance to fulfil their potential. The Facilities Manager plays a direct role in making that possible every single day.

The details:

• Salary: £37,000 – £40,000
• Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Saturday
• Location: Fight for Peace Academy, Woodman Street, London E16 2LS

A NEBOSH or IOSH qualification is desirable but not essential, we're more interested in what you've done than what's on paper. An enhanced DBS check will be required prior to appointment.

Fight for Peace is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.

The Programme Manager role is suited to someone with experience delivering youth development programmes, ideally focused on employability, and who is passionate about supporting young people to succeed in the world of work. As a key frontline member of LTSB’s team, the postholder will work closely with colleagues across the organisation, including the Programmes and Employment teams and employer partners, to support young people throughout their journey.

Programme Managers are responsible for delivery across specific LTSB hub cities and regions and are required to travel to support delivery in those areas.

Please note that in-person interviews will be held on Wednesday 13th May.

Barnet Mencap is a charity based in Finchley supporting people with learning disabilities and autistic people across Barnet. Through our Bright Futures Employment Programme, we support individuals into meaningful employment, training, and long-term independence.

We are looking for a motivated and outcome-focused Employment Officer to join our team.

This role is centred on supporting individuals into sustained employment, managing a caseload of learners, and working directly with employers to create real opportunities.

The Role

You will:

• Manage a caseload of learners and support them into work
• Deliver 1:1 employability support and job club sessions
• Support CV writing, applications, and interview preparation
• Build relationships with employers and identify opportunities
• Support individuals in the workplace where needed
• Track outcomes and maintain accurate records

This is a results-driven role, focused on real job outcomes, not just engagement.

 The Candidate

You will have:

• Experience working with people with learning disabilities and/or autistic people
• Understanding of barriers to employment
• Strong communication and organisational skills
• Ability to motivate and support individuals
• Experience delivering structured support (desirable: employment programmes)

 What We Offer

• 30 days annual leave (pro rata, including Bank Holidays)
• TOIL system and flexible working approach
• Supportive team environment
• Opportunity to be part of a high-impact employment programme

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a covering letter explaining how you meet the criteria on the person specification.

The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service application in line with Section 115 of The Police Act 1997.  

Closing Date: Friday 15th May 2026

Interview Date: We will review applications as they come in and offer interviews to those who meet the criteria. 

Job Title: Pathways Advisor 
Salary: £17,500 (0.5 FTE)
Location: Midlands 
Contract Type: Part-Time, fixed term (2-years) 
Reports To: Regional Manager 
Service Area: The Skill Mill 
Place of Work: Remote with the expectation of some regional travel

About The Skill Mill 

The Skill Mill is a multi-award-winning social enterprise providing employment opportunities for young people aged 16–18 involved in the criminal justice system. We deliver environmental and community improvement projects that build skills, improve life chances, and reduce reoffending. 

Young people aged 16-18 will be employed by The Skill Mill for 6-months, working in small cohorts of four, under the direct supervision of a dedicated Supervisor. During this period, the programme integrates practical skills training, offering short courses and on-the-job instruction in areas like environmental management, construction, and recycling, using tools such as trimmers and lawnmowers. The goal is for participants to achieve recognized qualifications like the CSCS card and an AQA Level 2 qualification, all while receiving comprehensive support, in collaboration with youth offending services. 

Following the six-month employment phase, young people receive three months of dedicated support designed to facilitate their transition into new employment, training, or educational opportunities. This support includes individualised assistance with career development and job progression, practical aid such as creating action plans, crafting CVs, and practicing interview skills. Furthermore, The Skill Mill advocates for young people facing significant barriers to employment, ensuring they receive tailored guidance to secure their next steps. 

Purpose of the Role:

To support young people aged 16+, particularly those involved with The Skill Mill programme, by delivering tailored, person-centered pathways into education, training, and long-term employment. The postholder will act as a trusted advisor, helping young people overcome barriers, build confidence, and transition successfully into sustainable opportunities with partner organisation and local employers. 

Support for young people from the Pathway Advisor will begin in the 6-month employment phase, with liaison with the young person, Supervisors and Commercial Sales Manager, to begin to build relationships, understand aspirations and identify potential opportunities. 

After the 6-month employment phase, key support will transition from the Supervisor to the Pathway Advisor role, with 3-months of person-led support offered to prepare for, enter, and sustain further employment, training, or educational opportunities. Support will be tailored to each young person’s needs and is likely to be a combination of remote/ in-person throughout the 9-months. 
 

Key Responsibilities 

• Deliver intensive 1:1 employability and progression support to young people on The Skill Mill programme, focusing on post-placement career development, training and sustained employment outcomes.  

•  Work in partnership with Youth Justice Services and employer networks to identify and promote routes into education, apprenticeships, employment and volunteering.  

• Co-produce personalised action plans with young people, based on individual strengths, goals and support needs, reviewing progress and adapting interventions as required.  

• Provide practical employability support including CV development, interview preparation, job search guidance, and workplace readiness.  

• Build trusted, motivational relationships with young people using a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach.  

• Act as a key link between young people and partner organisations, including employers, training providers, FE colleges and specialist support services.  

• Advocate for young people with complex or multiple barriers to ensure equitable access to opportunities and remove systemic obstacles.  

• Maintain accurate records, track progress, and contribute to outcome reporting for funders and commissioners.  

• Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion, recognising barriers such as discrimination, offending history, housing instability and mental health needs.  

• Collaborate closely with Youth Justice caseworkers, internal teams, local authorities, and external agencies to deliver coordinated, wraparound support.  

• Stay informed on labour market trends, skills pathways, and funding opportunities to enhance progression options for young people. 
   

Person Specification 

Essential Criteria: 

• Experience providing employability and progression support to young people, with a focus on accessing education, training, and sustained employment. 

• Strong understanding of the challenges faced by young people with offending histories. 

• Excellent interpersonal and motivational skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport quickly. 

• Ability to design and deliver effective action plans that lead to employment, training, or further education outcomes. 

• Knowledge of local labour market, training providers, and employability services. 

• Proficient IT skills and ability to maintain accurate case records and outcomes data. 

• Ability to work independently and manage a dynamic caseload. 

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in employment and service delivery. 

• A flexible and collaborative approach to partnership working. 

Desirable Criteria: 

• Direct experience working with The Skill Mill or similar social enterprise programmes. 

• Lived experience of youth justice, care, or NEET pathways. 

• Knowledge of trauma-informed practice. 

• Experience collaborating with employers or brokering placements. 

• Knowledge of relevant legislation (e.g., safeguarding, GDPR). 

• Familiarity with case management systems or youth work platforms. 

• Qualification in careers guidance, youth work, or coaching. 

• Understanding of supported employment models (e.g., IPS, Youth Hubs). 
   

Additional Requirements:

• Enhanced DBS check required. 

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings/weekends. 

• Travel between partner sites or outreach locations may be required. 
   

How to Apply: 

The Skill Mill is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of background. 

To apply please send a CV and cover letter setting out your experience, qualifications and how you meet the requirements of the person specification.

Job Title: Pathways Advisor 
Salary: £17,500 (0.5 FTE) 
Location: South of England / London
Contract Type: Part-Time, fixed term (2-years) 
Reports To: Regional Manager 
Service Area: The Skill Mill 
Place of Work: Remote with the expectation of some regional travel

About The Skill Mill 

The Skill Mill is a multi-award-winning social enterprise providing employment opportunities for young people aged 16–18 involved in the criminal justice system. We deliver environmental and community improvement projects that build skills, improve life chances, and reduce reoffending. 

Young people aged 16-18 will be employed by The Skill Mill for 6-months, working in small cohorts of four, under the direct supervision of a dedicated Supervisor. During this period, the programme integrates practical skills training, offering short courses and on-the-job instruction in areas like environmental management, construction, and recycling, using tools such as trimmers and lawnmowers. The goal is for participants to achieve recognized qualifications like the CSCS card and an AQA Level 2 qualification, all while receiving comprehensive support, in collaboration with youth offending services. 

Following the six-month employment phase, young people receive three months of dedicated support designed to facilitate their transition into new employment, training, or educational opportunities. This support includes individualised assistance with career development and job progression, practical aid such as creating action plans, crafting CVs, and practicing interview skills. Furthermore, The Skill Mill advocates for young people facing significant barriers to employment, ensuring they receive tailored guidance to secure their next steps. 

Purpose of the Role:

To support young people aged 16+, particularly those involved with The Skill Mill programme, by delivering tailored, person-centered pathways into education, training, and long-term employment. The postholder will act as a trusted advisor, helping young people overcome barriers, build confidence, and transition successfully into sustainable opportunities with partner organisation and local employers. 

Support for young people from the Pathway Advisor will begin in the 6-month employment phase, with liaison with the young person, Supervisors and Commercial Sales Manager, to begin to build relationships, understand aspirations and identify potential opportunities. 

After the 6-month employment phase, key support will transition from the Supervisor to the Pathway Advisor role, with 3-months of person-led support offered to prepare for, enter, and sustain further employment, training, or educational opportunities. Support will be tailored to each young person’s needs and is likely to be a combination of remote/ in-person throughout the 9-months. 
 

Key Responsibilities 

• Deliver intensive 1:1 employability and progression support to young people on The Skill Mill programme, focusing on post-placement career development, training and sustained employment outcomes.  

•  Work in partnership with Youth Justice Services and employer networks to identify and promote routes into education, apprenticeships, employment and volunteering.  

• Co-produce personalised action plans with young people, based on individual strengths, goals and support needs, reviewing progress and adapting interventions as required.  

• Provide practical employability support including CV development, interview preparation, job search guidance, and workplace readiness.  

• Build trusted, motivational relationships with young people using a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach.  

• Act as a key link between young people and partner organisations, including employers, training providers, FE colleges and specialist support services.  

• Advocate for young people with complex or multiple barriers to ensure equitable access to opportunities and remove systemic obstacles.  

• Maintain accurate records, track progress, and contribute to outcome reporting for funders and commissioners.  

• Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion, recognising barriers such as discrimination, offending history, housing instability and mental health needs.  

• Collaborate closely with Youth Justice caseworkers, internal teams, local authorities, and external agencies to deliver coordinated, wraparound support.  

• Stay informed on labour market trends, skills pathways, and funding opportunities to enhance progression options for young people. 
   

Person Specification 

Essential Criteria: 

• Experience providing employability and progression support to young people, with a focus on accessing education, training, and sustained employment. 

• Strong understanding of the challenges faced by young people with offending histories. 

• Excellent interpersonal and motivational skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport quickly. 

• Ability to design and deliver effective action plans that lead to employment, training, or further education outcomes. 

• Knowledge of local labour market, training providers, and employability services. 

• Proficient IT skills and ability to maintain accurate case records and outcomes data. 

• Ability to work independently and manage a dynamic caseload. 

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in employment and service delivery. 

• A flexible and collaborative approach to partnership working. 

Desirable Criteria: 

• Direct experience working with The Skill Mill or similar social enterprise programmes. 

• Lived experience of youth justice, care, or NEET pathways. 

• Knowledge of trauma-informed practice. 

• Experience collaborating with employers or brokering placements. 

• Knowledge of relevant legislation (e.g., safeguarding, GDPR). 

• Familiarity with case management systems or youth work platforms. 

• Qualification in careers guidance, youth work, or coaching. 

• Understanding of supported employment models (e.g., IPS, Youth Hubs). 
   

Additional Requirements:

• Enhanced DBS check required. 

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings/weekends. 

• Travel between partner sites or outreach locations may be required. 

How to Apply: 

The Skill Mill is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of background. 

To apply please send a CV and cover letter setting out your experience, qualifications and how you meet the requirements of the person specification.

Steel Warriors was established in 2017 to rethink how knife crime is tackled by turning a symbol of violence into one of strength and resilience. We transform the lives of marginalised young people by recycling knives seized by the police into outdoor calisthenics gyms and create positive change in communities. We provide classes at our five outdoor gyms across – Lambeth, Tower Hamlets, Newham, Haringey and Enfield – and deliver programmes in schools (including pupil referral units), youth and sport clubs, and in Brixton Prison. Our coach mentors deliver high quality, inclusive calisthenics sessions alongside mentoring and employability sessions

The Head of Programmes and Safeguarding role combines strategic leadership with strong operational oversight. The postholder is responsible for leading the design, development and scaling of high-quality services, supporting their team to perform effectively, and ensuring that programmes deliver meaningful outcomes for participants. They will work closely with colleagues, delivery partners, funders, young people and board members to drive programme development aligned with the organisation’s strategy, theory of change and ultimate goal of young people being safer, healthier and feeling more connected and positive about the future. The role requires an exceptional organiser and team leader able to manage a range of priorities, coordinate people and systems effectively, and maintain high standards across delivery areas.