161 Family support team leader jobs

We’re looking for someone inspirational, approachable, open-minded, with great communication skills and a genuine passion for supporting people experiencing mental health difficulties, their families, friends and their carers to live their best lives.

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

As our current CEO prepares for retirement, we are looking for someone new to lead our organisation with the kindness and professionalism we’re known for.

For more than 30 years, Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind has supported people across the Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Local Authority areas and the Hywel Dda University Health Board region.

Mental health challenges affect people from all walks of life, and the need for accessible, person-centred support continues to grow. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, and other long-term mental health difficulties remain some of the most common health issues faced by individuals, families, and communities.

Compassionate, local mental health support can make a meaningful difference, we help people build resilience, maintain independence, and find hope during difficult times.

Across the UK, many people experience significant impacts on their daily lives, relationships, and wellbeing because of mental health problems. The wider effects on families, carers, and support networks can also be profound, highlighting the importance of early help, ongoing support, and community-based services.

Who we’re looking for:

• We’re looking for an experienced, confident and compassionate leader who can balance people, purpose and performance.
• You will be responsible for implementing the organisation’s strategy, as set by the Board of Trustees, leading staff and volunteers, overseeing services and finances, and ensuring strong governance and compliance.
• You’ll need strong knowledge and understanding of NHS and Local Authority structures, as well as health and social care legislation in Wales.
• You will maintain our welcoming, inclusive culture while planning for the future by identifying opportunities, building new partnerships and income streams, managing risk, and ensuring the charity’s financial sustainability.
• You will be a great listener, ensuring that our community feels heard. You will amplify their voices locally, regionally and nationally. These views will also inform the design, development and delivery of all our high-quality services

Application Resources

For Job Role specifics and more about us please see our CEO Recruitment Pack

Application Instructions

Ready to lead?

If you are interested in becoming Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind’s next permanent Chief Executive Officer, please complete our application form and attach your CV. The application form can be found on our website.

For Full Application Instructions and more about us please see our CEO Recruitment Pack

Closing date for this role will be at 12:00 midday on 30/09/26

Interviews for this role will be held on week commencing 19/10/26

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Head of Engagement is a strategically significant and high-impact role within the Philanthropy team, responsible for leading and developing Impetus’ engagement programme across both volunteering and pro bono support.

At Impetus, volunteering refers to opportunities for employees of our donor firms to engage directly with the young people supported by our portfolio partners, helping to inspire, motivate and broaden horizons through meaningful interactions.

Pro bono support is a core element of our capacity-building approach and a key way in which we strengthen the organisations we back. It involves skilled volunteers and partners contributing professional expertise to address strategic challenges and opportunities within our charity portfolio, helping to build capability, resilience and long-term impact.

The Head of Engagement will shape the strategic direction and lead the delivery of a high-quality programme of volunteering and skilled pro bono support, creating meaningful outcomes for portfolio partners while delivering engaging and rewarding experiences for supporters. The postholder will ensure that engagement opportunities align with Impetus’ investment priorities and organisational objectives, respond to donor interests, and maximise impact for the young people and charities we serve.

The role combines strategic leadership, relationship management, programme innovation and operational oversight. Working closely with colleagues across Philanthropy and Investment, and engaging regularly with Public Affairs and senior leaders, the Head of Engagement will build, steward and deepen relationships with a wide network of corporate partners, major donors, and highly skilled volunteers.

The postholder will also lead and develop the Engagement team, comprising the Engagement Manager and Engagement Officer, fostering a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture that enables exceptional delivery, continuous improvement and professional growth.

As a key member of the Philanthropy leadership team, the Head of Engagement will play a central role in expanding and strengthening Impetus' supporter network, developing innovative opportunities for supporters to contribute their time and expertise, and ensuring our volunteering and pro bono programmes continue to evolve in response to the changing needs of young people, charities and partners.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape and grow a critical area of Impetus’ work, harnessing the expertise, networks and commitment of supporters to help more young people from disadvantaged backgrounds succeed in school, work and life.

Key responsibilities

Strategy and Leadership 

• Develop and deliver the engagement strategy and operational plan for the pro bono and volunteering functions
• Set and monitor KPIs, targets and budgets for engagement activity in line with organisational frameworks, securing approval from senior leadership where appropriate
• Lead the continued growth and development of volunteering and pro bono activity in alignment with organisational strategy and portfolio partner needs
• Work collaboratively with senior colleagues across Philanthropy and Investment to align engagement opportunities with organisational priorities
• Lead prospecting for the pro bono function, understanding the needs of our Investment Team and portfolio partners, identifying gaps in supporter skills and expertise and onboarding new organisations and specialisms 
• As the organisational lead for volunteering and pro bono engagement, advise senior leadership on engagement trends, sharing insights, learning and volunteering best practice internally and externally
• Lead, develop and coach the Engagement Team, creating a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture and ensuring clear objectives, development opportunities and succession planning 
• Provide guidance, support and oversight of delivery to the Engagement Team, line managing the Engagement Manager and supporting the development of the Engagement Officer

Volunteering programme 

• Lead the strategic development and continuous improvement of a high-quality volunteering programme, ensuring it delivers value for portfolio partners, corporate and donor partners and young people.
• Oversee programme quality and effectiveness across all volunteering activities.
• Build capability and strong relationships with portfolio organisations to support the design and delivery of high-quality volunteering opportunities
• Monitor participation, impact and quality across the volunteering programme, using data and feedback to drive improvements.
• Work closely with account managers in the Philanthropy and Partnerships team to drive and steward donor engagement.
• Develop new models of volunteering in collaboration with the Engagement Team, including governance and trustee pathways, skills-based workshops and intensive challenge clinics.

Pro Bono programme 

• Lead the development of the organisation’s pro bono programme and oversee the delivery of activities, ensuring high-quality support for portfolio partners.
• Set annual pro bono targets (including project value, number of projects, and supporter engagement) and lead the team to deliver on these
• Oversee the maintenance of a strong pipeline of projects from portfolio partners and supporters that meet the needs of portfolio partners.
• Source and cultivate new pro bono supporters, including companies and highly skilled individual professionals.
• Oversee and contribute to business development activity including prospect research, outreach, relationship building and partnership development.
• Steward existing strategic supporter relationships and create compelling supporter journeys that communicate impact and strengthen long-term engagement.
• Work closely with the Investment Team to identify, scope and prioritise pro bono projects, and work with the team to improve quality and impact in project delivery. 
• Ensure an effective team approach to project identification, prioritisation and matching across the programme.
• For select high-priority projects, directly match portfolio partner needs with appropriate supporters, ensuring an effective and high-quality project experience, with support from the Engagement Manager.
• Support select high-priority project kick-off meetings and maintain oversight of project delivery, stakeholder management and follow-up processes.
• Ensure appropriate evaluation processes are in place to capture project impact, supporter feedback and learning.
• Own quality assurance, review programme outcomes and impact data to drive continuous improvement
• Collaborate with the Events team to design and run relevant supporter engagement events.

Relationship Management and Donor Engagement 

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with both new and existing corporate partners, major donors, volunteers, pro bono supporters and charity / sector stakeholders.
• Lead strategic account management of donors and supporters.
• Act as a key Account Manager for strategic engagement partnerships, notably the most high-value Pro Bono relationships.
• Work closely with account managers and senior stakeholders to maximise supporter engagement and long-term partnership opportunities.
• Contribute to the creation of compelling communications and marketing materials that demonstrate the value and impact of engagement activity.
• Represent Impetus externally at meetings, events and networking opportunities building effective and inclusive partnerships.

Operations, Systems and Reporting 

• Oversee the effective administration and operational delivery of the engagement function.
• Ensure accurate data management and reporting through Salesforce and related systems by the Engagement team.
• Maintain oversight of engagement pipelines, financial tracking and programme reporting.
• Lead quarterly reviews and reporting processes through the analysis and presentation of engagement data.
• Develop and improve systems, processes and operational efficiency across the engagement function.
• Ensure all activities comply with organisational policies, procedures and best practice.

Cross-Organisational Working

• Form part of the Philanthropy and Partnerships Leads group to lead and drive performance against fundraising targets and strategy.
• Collaborate closely with the Investment Team to identify opportunities for volunteering and pro bono support, especially driving innovation for both programmes.
• Build strong internal relationships to ensure engagement activity is coordinated and effectively communicated across teams.
• Attend and support Impetus events where required.
• Represent the Philanthropy team on internal projects, working groups and committees.
• Support wider team priorities and contribute to a collaborative and inclusive working culture.

Person specification

Essential

• Excellent relationship management skills with experience across a range of sectors, and track record working productively with senior stakeholders in corporate and charity organisations, including internally.
• Strong business development skills, with experience identifying and developing new relationships, partnerships, and engagement opportunities.
• Experience translating strategic priorities into operational plans, objectives and delivery.
• Strong project and programme management skills, including managing multiple priorities, budgets, timelines and stakeholders.
• Experience and understanding of how to design and implement inclusive, accessible and engaging experiences for a range of audiences, including young people and corporate supporters.
• Experience managing line reports or leading teams including coaching, supporting and enabling others to deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Strong analytical and organisational skills.
• Ability to identify opportunities, solve complex problems and contribute innovative and creative ideas.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences internally and externally through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• A collaborative and flexible working style with the ability to work cross-functionally.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Impetus.
• A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Experience working in, or closely with, the charity, youth, education or employment sectors.

Desirable

• In depth understanding of the corporate donor and philanthropy landscape.
• Experience in corporate fundraising or donor engagement, in particular with the financial services and investment sectors.
• Significant experience overseeing either a large corporate volunteering programme or a pro bono programme (e.g. 50+ projects).
• Experience working with Salesforce.
• Expertise in evaluation or impact measurement.
• In-depth understanding of the education and/or youth employment sectors in the UK.

About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

Our Values

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

Our employee benefits

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.

You will need to:

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 28th September 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

Would you like to make a lasting difference in the lives of children affected by domestic abuse? Join an award-winning trauma recovery service provider that is passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of children and families.

Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) is a lifeline for children healing from the trauma of domestic abuse and we’ve expanded our service into Oxfordshire.

We are looking for a Service Lead and a Support Worker to join our team on a fixed term contract to help guide children and families on their healing journey.

Position: Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) Service Lead

Fixed term 12 months, full time – 37 hours per week, weekdays

Location: Oxford or Reading with frequent travel. Role covers casework activity across Oxfordshire.

Salary range: £35,502 to £43,389 per annum

Position: Bounce Back for Kids (BB4K) Support Worker

Fixed term 9 months, part time – 18.5 hours per week, weekdays.

Location: Oxford with frequent travel. Role covers casework activity across Oxfordshire area including Cherwell, West Oxfordshire and the wider Oxfordshire area.

Salary range: £13,254 - £16,199 pro-rata per annum (full time equivalent range £26,508 to £32,397 per annum) 

About the roles:

As a Service Lead you willplay a significant role in supporting children and families affected by domestic abuse, some of your key responsibilities will be to:

· support our families through providing outreach support

· deliver group work for children and parents

· provide 1-2-1 sessions to children and families most in need

· lead a dedicated team of Support Workers

· ensure BB4K activities are planned, coordinated and deliver effectively and manage caseload across the team

As a Support Worker you willplay a significant role in supporting children and families affected by domestic abuse, some of your key responsibilities will be to:

· complete assessments to understand the needs of families

· deliver group work for children and parents

· provide 1-2-1 sessions to children and families most in need

· support our families through providing outreach support

About you:

A successful Service Lead will have professional expertise in the field of domestic abuse and hold a qualification or professional experience in social care or childcare support work.

You’ll be experienced at managing a team with effective interpersonal skills to collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders and colleagues. You’ll also have experience of working with vulnerable parents and/or children in a range of community settings and adept at delivering groupwork programmes.

A successful Support Worker will need a good understanding of domestic abuse and the impact on children and families (or an interest in working in this field), with experience of delivering groupwork programmes for vulnerable parents and/or children.

If this sounds like you please visit our website and apply today to join a collaborative and dedicated team who are part of something truly meaningful.

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those with personal lived experience of domestic abuse or from underrepresented communities, who meet the essential role requirements.

For an informal discussion about the roles please see contact details for Luke Pepperell BB4K Manager on our website.

Closing date: Midday on Thursday 10 September 2026

Early applications are encouraged as we may review and appoint on an earlier basis if a successful candidate is secured.

Other roles you may have experience of could include:Family Support Worker, Family Key Worker, Children’s Support Worker, Domestic Abuse Support Worker, Domestic Abuse Key Worker, Recovery Worker, Assistant Support Worker, IDVA Independent Domestic Violence Advocate, ISVA Independent Sexual Violence Advocate, Family Support Team Leader, Family Key Worker Team Leader, Family Support Manager, Children’s Support Team Leader, Children’s Support Manager, Domestic Abuse Support Team Leader, Domestic Abuse Support Manager etc.

Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do at PACT. We have robust measures and best practices in place to safeguard and protect the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we take pride in maintaining outstanding safeguarding standards.

Anyone joining our team is subject to PACT’s safer recruitment pre-appointment enquiries, including a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS). The role description provides information on what our safer recruitment enquiries include and the level of DBS required to work in the role.

All opportunities with PACT are based in the UK.

Mind In Enfield and Barnet combines over 50 years of experience to improve peoples mental health in Enfield, Barnet and beyond. We are led by lived experience and driven by a passion to support and protect people’s mental health in ways that they want.

The Head of Families and Children’s Services will provide senior leadership and strategic direction across services that support families, parents, children, and young people. The role will ensure delivery of high-quality, evidence-based interventions that promote wellbeing, strengthen family resilience, and safeguard vulnerable children.

This postholder will oversee Perinatal Coaching, Crisis Outreach, Family Hubs, and Parenting Programs, embedding a culture of excellence, innovation, and partnership working to achieve meaningful outcomes for families.

This is a part-time position across 21 hours per week, (Monday to Friday 9-5).

Based at Head Office in Fore Street, Edmonton N9 0PD

Please see full attached job description.

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.

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.

As our Associate Director of Children’s Services, you have a key role to play in the leadership, operational management, and strategic direction of Chestnut Tree House. We are looking for an individual who shares our passion for excellence, innovation and continuous improvement. Whether through clinical leadership, service development, strengthening quality standards or supporting our workforce, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant contribution to our future.

At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to kindness, respect, integrity and collaboration. We want every colleague to feel valued, supported and empowered to reach their full potential while delivering the very best outcomes for those in our care.

As a leader within Southern Hospice Group, you will:

• Lead the planning, performance and delivery of Children’s services, holding accountability for quality, patient outcomes, financial control, income and contract compliance.
• Build and sustain strong partnerships with commissioners and system partners, developing and negotiating proposals that expand service reach and impact.
• Lead service improvement and innovation and share learning across the organisation.
• Provide visible, values-led people leadership, creating a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement across all teams.

You'll be

• Passionate advocate for babies, children and young people
• Child and family centred
• Significant experience in children's palliative/end of life care or children with complex care needs
• Compassionate but accountable leader
• Strategic but operationally grounded
• Professional curiosity, always seeing ways to innovate and improve
• Track record of effective performance management across quality, workforce, operations and finance
• Effective communicator, able to influence and build strong teams
• Experience of leading and supporting teams through change
• Builds effective relationships with key stakeholders across the group and externally
• Confidence in financial leadership, including budget management, income generation and commercial decision making.
• Proven ability to influence and partner with commissioners and system stakeholders
• Highly developed people leadership skills, with the ability to engage, motivate and develop the workforce and build strong teams.

The Seafarers’ Charity is the leader in maritime welfare grant-making. For over 100 years we have led the way in supporting those who work at sea.

We are looking for an Individual Giving and Legacy Lead who will play a key role in building meaningful, long-term relationships with supporters, helping them feel connected to The Seafarers' Charity's mission and the difference their generosity makes to seafarers and their families.

Through thoughtful engagement, excellent stewardship and a deep understanding of supporter motivations, the role will develop meaningful supporter journeys across individual giving, legacy giving, in-memory giving and other supporter-led income streams. By creating positive experiences that foster trust, loyalty and advocacy, the postholder will strengthen long-term support for the charity and contribute to sustainable income growth.

Join a passionate committed team with a lead role in driving forward social justice through community-led action and partnership development!

You will work in alliance with the Community Savers Leadership and key partners to support creative organising for gender, housing, climate, and economic justice across Manchester neighbourhoods. This role is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund (Reaching Communities).

You will need:

• A deep understanding of the context for facilitating community action and community-led development projects in areas experiencing long term and intersecting inequalities.
• The ability to maintain a positive ‘can do’ attitude while negotiating complex and potentially obstructive political or relational dynamics.
• Skills & experience in the following areas: community-led action; advocacy; campaigns, fundraising, communications, leadership development, brokering partnerships, equality diversity and inclusion, conflict resolution, safeguarding.

Role summary: You will work with the Community Savers Leadership and key partners on the strategic development of community action, projects, and partnerships that reduce health inequalities and promote social justice. This will include networking and building relationships with existing and potential statutory and non-statutory partners; bringing in appropriate expertise to achieve community-led development projects; direct support for community action such as community-led research projects and partnerships; community mapping, visioning and action planning; supporting reflection and evaluation; and sharing learning widely. You will also supervise the coordination support provided to affiliated groups and leaders by our Community Action Coordinator (Manchester); ensuring a community-led process underpins leadership and associational development.

Please download the application pack for further information and a full job description noting that this is a 0.6% FTE 3-year fixed term contract (actual salary pro rata).

Note that Community Savers is a majority women-led and transinclusive movement. Membership is open to anyone of any gender identity and community action aims to benefit all people in the areas where we work. Leadership and governance structures seek to celebrate and amplify the voices of working class women.

Location: Global Lumos role based in the UK 

Location type: Hybrid

Reporting to: Chief Programmes and Advocacy Officer

Annual salary: £90,000 – £100,000 GBP

Closing date: Monday, 12th October, 9:00 am CET

Background

Lumos Foundation works to realise every child’s right to a family by transforming care systems around the world. Our vision is a world in which all children grow up in safe and loving families within supported communities.

Founded in 2005 by author J.K. Rowling, Lumos partners with governments, civil society and young people with lived experience to transform care systems globally and advocate for family-based solutions that help children thrive. We ensure that families receive the support they need to stay together or reunite, and that children grow up in family-based settings such as foster or kinship care, not institutions.

Despite clear evidence of the harms of institutionalisation, more than five million children worldwide continue to live in institutions. And a much larger number of children are at risk of family breakdown and separation – those living in poverty, experiencing domestic violence and abuse, and living in countries affected by conflict.

We are ambitious for children’s safety. In the next ten years, Lumos will enable 500K children in care to return to family-based care, while preventing ten million more children from experiencing family breakdown and separation – so that they can thrive in their own families. Working with local, national, and global partners, Lumos supports government-led transformation of childcare systems across Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America- driving systemic and sustainable change.

Lumos’ ambition for children is significant and will require the organisation and its partners to work in new ways – with a pace, drive and urgency that this moment demands – and that children everywhere deserve.

Lumos’ success will continue to be based not just on what we do, but on how we do it – our values. We embrace collaboration. We strive for excellence. We show respect. We always care. And we are passionate. We are Lumos.

Purpose of role

We are looking for an exceptional programme leader to help us achieve our ten-year ambition. The Director of Programme Delivery leads Lumos' global programme portfolio, ensuring the organisation delivers high-quality and impactful programmes that contribute to sustainable systems change for children and families. The role is responsible for translating organisational strategy into effective delivery, strengthening programme quality and performance, and supporting Country Directors in achieving measurable results.

The postholder will also lead the continued evolution of Lumos' programme delivery model, strengthening localisation and national leadership, building organisational learning and evidence, and developing innovative approaches that extend Lumos' impact and influence beyond traditional country office structures. 

Reporting to the Chief Programmes and Advocacy Officer, the role provides strategic and operational leadership across Lumos' global programme portfolio.

Primary responsibilities

The job holder will have the following key responsibilities: 

Deliver a high-performing global programme portfolio

• Lead the continued translation of Lumos’ Ten-Year Ambition into clear programme and country priorities, plans, budgets and delivery approaches.
• Lead the global programme portfolio, ensuring high-quality implementation, measurable results and clear accountability for performance, financial stewardship and donor commitments.
• Maintain clear oversight of performance, organisational health and risk, and ensure ambition is matched by the people, as well as the funding and organisational capacity required to deliver it.

Continuing to strengthen our country leadership

• Lead, coach and develop Lumos’ Country Directors, strengthening national leadership and building clear accountability for programme, financial, people and organisational performance.
• Help country teams evolve into influential national and regional centres of expertise in care reform and systems change.
• Develop pathways towards greater national ownership, autonomy and localisation, while strengthening collaboration and learning across countries and regions.

Evolve how Lumos delivers impact at scale

• Lead the continued evolution of Lumos’ programme delivery model, turning strategic ambition into practical approaches, clear accountabilities and effective ways of working.
• Develop models combining sustained country engagement, nationally led partnerships and other approaches capable of supporting sustainable systems reform.
• Help Lumos increase its impact and geographical reach without relying solely on establishing traditional country-office structures.

Make evidence central to how we work

• Hold senior accountability for programme quality, monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning across the global portfolio.
• Continue to strengthen Lumos’ ability to demonstrate system-level change, using credible evidence and data to understand what works and how successful approaches can be adapted or scaled.
• Ensure evidence and learning from delivery, inform programme strategy, advocacy, partnerships, fundraising and future investment.

Lead across the organisation and beyond

• Work closely with Finance, People & Operations, Safeguarding, Safety & Security and other specialist functions to ensure programmes are effectively supported, responsibly managed and delivered safely.
• Champion meaningful participation and leadership of children, young people and people with lived experience across programme design, delivery and learning.
• Act as a senior organisational leader and member of the Executive Team, working closely with the Chief Programmes and Advocacy Officer, representing Lumos with governments, partners and funders, and contributing programme and country perspectives to wider organisational decisions.

What success looks like

• Exceptional delivery - a high-quality global portfolio delivering measurable results with strong financial, organisational and donor accountability.
• Strong country leadership - confident and accountable Country Directors with the authority, capability and support to lead effectively.
• A delivery model built for scale – stronger, locally led approaches and new ways of working that enable greater impact and geographical reach.
• Countries as centres of expertise - national teams increasingly leading systems change, generating evidence and sharing expertise across regions.
• Evidence that drives impact - credible learning about what works, informing programme improvement, influence, investment and future growth.

Profile

The following offers an aspirational view of our ideal candidate profile; however, we encourage applications from candidates with a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, especially those from underrepresented groups. 

Experience

• Significant senior leadership experience within an international organisation.
• Experience overseeing complex multi-country programmes.
• Experience leading senior programme or country leaders.
• Experience translating strategy into delivery and measurable results.
• Experience managing donor-funded programmes, grants and significant budgets.
• Experience leading programme or organisational change.
• Experience operating in international development, humanitarian or related sectors.
• Experience overseeing programmes delivered through different organisational and partnership models desired.
• Experience managing major institutional grants, such as those funded by government or multilateral donors desired.
• Experience supporting localisation or the transition of country operations towards greater national leadership and ownership desired.
• Experience coaching senior leaders desired.

Skills and qualifications

• Expert knowledge of programme management and programme delivery.
• Strong understanding of programme cycle management, including financial management, risk management, monitoring and evaluation.
• Knowledge of donor-funded programme management, compliance and reporting.
• Ability to provide strategic leadership while maintaining strong operational oversight and accountability.
• Excellent relationship-building and influencing skills.
• Knowledge of systems change and approaches to achieving sustainable impact at scale desired.
• Understanding of different international delivery models, including country offices, national organisations and programmes co-created with local partners desired.
• Knowledge of the international funding environment and major institutional donor requirements desired.
• Understanding of children’s rights, care reform or a related field desired.

Personal traits desired

• Strategic thinker with strong delivery focus.
• Collaborative and empowering leadership style.
• Strong interpersonal and networking skills.
• Credibility and authority to influence and direct senior leaders.
• Emotionally intelligent and able to build relationships.
• Commitment to Lumos' mission and values.
• Curious and open to testing new delivery models and ways of working desired.

Additional Information

Alongside the opportunity to contribute to a truly life-changing mission, you’ll enjoy excellent benefits, a supportive and inclusive culture, and a genuine commitment to your personal and professional development. Some of the benefits we offer include

• 30 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays. 
• Enhanced family-friendly leave (maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental) and enhanced sick pay. 
• Hybrid and flexible working. 
• Competitive employer pension scheme. 
• Learning and development opportunities. 
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for confidential wellbeing support and advice. 

Safeguarding Statement

Lumos is committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk and expects all staff, associates and volunteers to uphold our safeguarding and PSEA standards. We have zero tolerance for abuse, bullying, harassment and sexual exploitation, and all appointments are subject to appropriate screening, checks and references.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Lumos is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and to creating a workplace where everyone is valued, respected and able to contribute. We celebrate the diversity of our global teams and are committed to challenging discrimination and promoting inclusion in everything we do.

Our Values

• We embrace collaboration. 
• We strive for excellence.
• We show respect.
• We always care.
• We are passionate.

To apply for this role, please submit a copy of your CV/resume and a cover letter outlining your interest in the role and how you fulfil the requirements set out in the job announcement Please ensure you send your CV and Cover letter in the following format: full_name_CV_org_name_role and full_name_role_CL.

Please note: to ensure the security of your application and to ensure that your data complies with GDPR, applications via email will not be accepted.

·The deadline for applications is Monday 12th October, 9:00 am CET ·

Upsall International actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. In recruiting candidates, we seek candidates with the proven skills required, irrespective of race, gender, religion or belief, age, disability, or sexual orientation.

About the role

As Head of Research and Evaluation, you will be responsible for the development and delivery of our research and evaluation strategies. This work will help us to understand and provide insight into the challenges and difficulties faced by families with disabled children, the quality of services we provide and the difference our support makes for the families we serve.

You will ensure that the voice of families is at the centre of our research and evaluation approach to help shape existing and new programmes and services, and our policy and public affairs work.

If you join us, you’ll be:

• Leading the continued development and implementation of Family Fund’s research and evaluation strategies.
• Developing and overseeing our evaluation and service quality frameworks, including our Theory of Change outcomes measurement framework.
• Championing the ‘voice of families’, embedding their lived experience at the heart of our research.
• Managing and delivering high-quality research and evaluation projects/initiatives.
• Producing accessible, engaging, and impactful research outputs for a variety of audiences.
• Promoting the use of innovative and participatory research methodologies.
• Presenting and disseminating research findings internally and externally, including at events, conferences, and through publications.
• Developing and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders and representing Family Fund in strategic research partnerships, networks, and advisory forums.
• Commissioning external research and evaluation where appropriate, ensuring quality, value for money.
• Maintaining oversight of the team’s input to government/ funder reporting, ensuring timely and accurate submissions aligned to contractual and organisational requirements.
• Providing visible, hands-on leadership and line management to the Research and Evaluation Team.

About you

For this role you will need to have experience in developing and managing research and evaluation strategies, frameworks, activities and production of subsequent products. You will also need to have experience of working in partnership with other organisations, and of resource and budget management.

To be successful in this role, you will need excellent analytical skills as well as sound knowledge of quantitative and qualitative methodology and best practice through the research cycle. You will need to have good writing skills and an ability to communicate effectively with different audiences. You will also need to have the ability to interpret and present research in an accessible and engaging way.

You will be a self and team motivator with excellent communication skills, and the ability to develop and sustain positive relationships with a range of stakeholders. You will be pro-active and driven to succeed.  

About us

Family Fund is a great place to work for great people. We provide a challenging and rewarding working environment where every staff member can make their mark.

We are a values based organisation and we aim to show our values in all that we do. Read our staff stories here, and see how our staff display our values every day.

We commit to inclusion, equity and diversity and we welcome applications from all parts of the community. Family Fund is a Disability Confident Leader. We will invite to interview all disabled applicants who meet the requirements for the role. If you have a disability, and are happy to let us know, please highlight this in your covering letter. We have also signed the Armed Forces Covenant and we welcome applications from the Armed Forces Community.

How to apply

Please read and download the job description. 

When you’re ready to apply, complete the online application and submit a CV and a covering letter.  Your letter will need to explain what skills and qualities you would bring to the team. 

Please note that the successful candidate will be required to complete pre-employment checks that meet the Baseline Personnel Security Standard.  This includes a right-to-work check, a basic check for unspent criminal convictions, and an employment history verification for the last three years.

Join a vibrant and brave grassroots organisation led by Gypsy and Traveller people in West Yorkshire. 

Leeds Gypsy and Traveller Exchange (Leeds GATE) is an established and award-winning civil societyorganisationwith a national profile.

We arerecognisedas being innovative, brave and creative.Our overall aim is to improve the quality of life for Gypsies andTravellersthrough addressing inequalities in homes, health, education, and employment, financial and social inclusion. 

We run a number ofa communityfacing and strategic projects to achieve our aims including advocacy, community development and youth work.Those who access our services and activities are members of Leeds GATE.

Job Purpose: 

Working in Wakefield and Calderdale you will build trusted relationships with Leeds GATE members, residents and families living on the Heath Common local authority site (Wakefield), yards, houses and roadside across the Wakefield district and Calderdale Borough.

Through your relationships you will gain understanding of people’s strengths, interests and hobbies, whilst also building up knowledge of the needs of support, barriers and issues faced by Gypsies and Travellers. 

As a community development worker you will help to develop and create opportunities to engage the community, such as activities and group work, thinking how these can help people to share their ideas, develop their skills, build confidence and empower them, as well as improving  health and wellbeing outcomes to enable better lives. 

An element of hybrid working is supported within this role but it is expected that the majority of work (80%) will be based on sites, outreach and community based events. 

Change how the UK understands and supports bereaved children and families.

This is an exciting time to join Child Bereavement UK.

We are establishing a brand-new Research & Policy function and are looking for an ambitious Public Affairs Lead to help ensure the voices of bereaved children, young people and parents shape policy, practice and public understanding across the UK.

Working closely with the Head of Policy & Research, you will develop and deliver Child Bereavement UK's public affairs, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity, building relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians and sector leaders to drive meaningful change.

You will act as the bridge between research, lived experience and influence, translating evidence into compelling advocacy campaigns, stakeholder engagement opportunities and policy recommendations that make a difference.

This is a rare opportunity to help build a new function, shape our national influence, and ensure the experiences of bereaved children, young people and families are heard where it matters most.

While based remotely, this role has a strong external focus and requires regular travel to London to represent Child Bereavement UK, build key relationships and engage with policymakers, partners and sector networks.

Role Purpose

As Public Affairs Lead you will play a central role in ensuring the voices and experiences of bereaved children, young people, parents and families influence policy, practice and public understanding across the UK.

Working closely with the Head of Policy & Research, you will develop and deliver Child Bereavement UK's public affairs, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity, building relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, sector partners and influencers to drive meaningful change.

You will act as the bridge between research, policy and communications, helping to translate evidence and lived experience into compelling advocacy campaigns, stakeholder engagement opportunities and influencing activity.

Main Responsibilities

 Public Affairs & Policy Influence

· Develop and deliver public affairs plans that support Child Bereavement UK's strategic priorities and policy objectives.

· Use research, evaluation findings and lived experience evidence to identify policy gaps, develop influencing priorities and shape recommendations for decision-makers.

· Translate organisational evidence into clear policy asks and reform proposals for government, parliamentarians, public bodies and sector leaders.

· Identify opportunities to embed evidence and learning within national, regional and local policy frameworks, guidance and professional practice.

· Support the development of long-term influencing strategies that drive systemic change for bereaved children, young people and families.

· Build and maintain relationships with MPs, Peers, government officials, policymakers and key sector stakeholders.

· Coordinate engagement with relevant All-Party Parliamentary Groups, consultations, inquiries and policy forums.

· Support the development of policy briefings, consultation responses and evidence submissions.

· Organise parliamentary events, stakeholder roundtables and engagement opportunities that raise awareness of bereavement issues.

· Work with the Head of Voice & Participation to ensure the voices of bereaved children, young people and parents bereaved of a baby or child are represented at all stages of policy development.

Advocacy & Campaigns

· Lead the delivery of advocacy and influencing campaigns aligned to organisational priorities.

· Ensure advocacy campaigns are grounded in robust evidence, insight and lived experience, with clear objectives for policy and practice change.

· Work with the Head of Policy & Research to translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations.

· Develop stakeholder engagement plans that support campaign objectives.

· Build relationships with partner organisations, coalitions and networks to strengthen collective influence.

· Develop compelling narratives that connect research findings with real-world outcomes and policy solutions.

· Work with colleagues to identify tangible actions that policymakers, practitioners, employers, schools and communities can take in response to emerging evidence.

Stakeholder Engagement

· Develop and maintain stakeholder mapping and engagement plans.

· Build productive relationships with sector leaders, professional bodies, charities, academics and decision-makers.

· Coordinate engagement with strategic partners and external networks.

· Support senior leaders in stakeholder engagement activity through briefings, meeting preparation and follow-up actions.

Research Translation & Communications

· Develop evidence-informed policy asks, implementation recommendations and calls to action that support measurable change.

· Identify opportunities to move research and insight beyond publication and into policy development, service improvement and public discourse.

· Translate research, evidence and lived experience into compelling stakeholder communications.

· Produce parliamentary briefings, policy summaries, position statements and advocacy materials.

· Work closely with the Marketing & Communications team to ensure policy and research activity is effectively communicated to external audiences.

· Collaborate with the PR & Press Lead to identify opportunities to amplify policy and research messages through media and public engagement activity.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Insight

· Monitor and evaluate public affairs, advocacy and stakeholder engagement activity.

· Track policy developments, stakeholder engagement outcomes and influencing opportunities.

· Produce reports demonstrating impact, engagement and progress against objectives.

· Maintain stakeholder databases and records to support organisational relationship management.

Person Specification

Essential

Experience & Knowledge

· Significant experience in public affairs, policy, advocacy, campaigns or stakeholder engagement.

· Experience building relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, public sector organisations or influential stakeholders.

· Understanding of UK political systems, parliamentary processes and policy development.

· Experience developing and delivering influencing or advocacy campaigns.

· Experience producing briefings, consultation responses or policy-focused communications.

· Understanding of how evidence and lived experience can be used to influence decision-making.

Skills

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

· Strong relationship-building and influencing abilities.

· Ability to communicate complex information clearly and persuasively.

· Excellent organisational and project management skills.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

· Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.

Personal Attributes

· Passionate about improving outcomes for bereaved children, young people and parents bereaved of a baby or child.

· Collaborative and relationship-focused.

· Compassionate and emotionally intelligent.

· Proactive, resilient and self-motivated.

· Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and trauma-informed practice.

Desirable

· Passionate about improving outcomes for bereaved children, young people and parents

· Experience within the charity, health, social care or education sectors.

· Knowledge of bereavement, grief, loss or trauma-informed services.

· Experience working with All-Party Parliamentary Groups or parliamentary engagement activity.

· Experience working with research and evidence-based policy development.

· Experience working with lived-experience contributors and ambassadors.

· Understanding of campaigning, coalition building and systems change approach

Recruitment Timetable

Application deadline: 17th September 2026 at midnight

Interview dates: 29th and 30th September on MS Teams

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications for the role before the closing date.