Grant manager jobs in south wimbledon, greater london

Communications Officer 

The Bikeability Trust 

30 hours a week until 31 March 2026 

Remote, home-based role 

Up to £32,000 per annum (pro rata) 

About the role 

Reporting to the Head of Marketing and Communications, the Communications Officer supports the delivery of effective communications across the cycling industry and within Trust-led projects. As part of a collaborative team, you’ll contribute to a variety of initiatives, with a particular focus on maintaining and developing The Bikeability Trust’s industry website and newsletters for stakeholders and partners. 

You’ll be responsible for producing clear and engaging content, updating toolkits and resources, and supporting communications across different departments and projects as needed. 

This role involves communicating with a range of audiences—including grant recipients, training providers, instructors, and commercial partners—adapting your tone and messaging accordingly. You’ll offer guidance to colleagues and partners, help monitor the effectiveness of communications, and work closely with the wider team to support the Trust’s overall communications needs. 

The Bikeability Trust 

The Bikeability Trust’s purpose is to ensure that all cycle training is delivered to a gold standard, inspiring everyone to cycle with competence and confidence.   

We are:  

• Expert: The Trust has successfully administered the Bikeability programme on behalf of government since 2018, delivering high-quality delivery guides and instructor training, and our workforce has thousands of years combined experience teaching people to cycle.  

• Inspiring: Every rider completes our training feeling able, confident and motivated to cycle safely on the roads for short journeys. Transforming the traditional image of cycling to an everyday, everyone activity.    

• Quality focussed: Our instructors deliver high-quality, consistent and standardised cycle training. We aim to ensure that every rider achieves the same outcomes to the same standard, taking into account their individual capabilities, including special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).  

• Inclusive: We take action to reduce barriers to participation, support underrepresented groups and ensure that anyone who wishes to access Bikeability cycle training is able to do so, and cycling is seen as an activity for all.   

• Efficient: Our delivery programme offers value for money and is delivered in an economic, proportional and efficient way.  

• Influential: We share our evidence of the impact of cycle training across a variety of sectors (transport, education, environment, health, leisure, etc) and work collaboratively with stakeholders, partners and commercial organisations to achieve our vision and influence behaviour change.  

You will be responsible for 

• Creating, delivering and maintaining industry website 

• Creating and co-ordinating content for the monthly industry newsletters, regular commercial partner newsletter and any other B2B e-communications 

• Creating innovative, engaging and accessible content 

• Liaising with colleagues, the industry and general public to create stories and case studies 

• Supporting the wider team with project and department communications 

• Using monitoring tools to provide insight and measurement of communication activities 

You will bring the following to our team 

• An understanding of external communication channels and strategies 

• Exceptional writing and editing skills with the ability to create accessible content 

• Experience of creating, updating and maintaining website content, using Wordpress 

• Experience of creating informative and motivating newsletter content, using Campaign Monitor 

• Experience of project management   

• Ability to monitor and evaluate impact 

• Ability to communicate complex information in a clear and easy-to-understand way 

• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail 

• Confidence working both in a team and in a remote environment 

• Ability to be flexible, and a proactive and collaborative mindset 

General responsibilities 

• Assist with responding to enquiries from the hello@ Bikeability email

• Recognise the need to be flexible when working for a small organisation and carry out other duties that may be required 

• Provide editorial advice to maintain high-quality communications standards 

• Commitment to personal continuing professional development

• Take on any other tasks as agreed with line manager 

The package 

The Bikeability Trust offers the successful candidates a competitive salary and: 

• Bikeability cycle training

• Generous contributory pension scheme 

• 38 days annual leave for full time members of staff (including public holidays) 

• Employee Assistance Programme
   
  We value staff and a range of experience at the Bikeability Trust, so the person specification is a guide to the skills. We encourage diverse applicants and transferable skills 

Sense International are currently recruiting for a Fundraising Officer to join their Fundraising team. This permanent opportunity will work on hybrid basis from our office in King's Cross, London, working 37.5 hours per week.

The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering and growing income to support the charity’s mission. Working closely with the Senior Trusts Funding Manager, you will help implement fundraising plans across multiple income streams, including trusts and corporate foundations, events and individual giving.

As a key member of the Fundraising Team, you will work closely and collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation, including programmes, communications and finance. Your excellent communication and relationship-building skills will be essential as you identify and assess partnership opportunities and ensure these are effectively passed to the relevant fundraising leads for cultivation and development as well as having ownership yourself in developing a portfolio of donors.

Key Responsibilities

• Prospecting and researching new trusts and corporate donors who align with Sense International’s mission and can support our work.
• Writing compelling grant applications and proposals to new potential donors.
• Working with the programmes team and Senior Trusts Manager to draft compelling funding reports for donors.
• Track and report on income, KPIs, and donor engagement activity.
• Support the delivery of our Big Give fundraising campaign to grow income and individual donor engagement.
• Manage our small group of eventers including London and Paris Marathons.
• Work with colleagues across fundraising, communications, programme delivery and finance to ensure consistent messaging and reporting.
• Supporting with other adhoc duties that may arise as requested by the CEO and Associate Director, including supporting other members of the Sense International team.

Manage an unrestricted annual mailing to small trusts and foundations to secure target 

Key skills and experience

• Experience in a fundraising, communications, or marketing role.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Demonstration of developing excellent proposals, reports and supporter communications.
• Excellent organisation and prioritisation skills.
• Ability to use own initiative.
• Be able to communicate and work collaboratively with a range of stakeholders and colleagues
• Ability to operate in a fast paced, multi-stakeholder environment – comfortable working across a diverse range of issues and campaigns simultaneously. 

For a full job description and person specification, please see the link on the left hand side of the page.

About Sense International

Sense International is the only international non-governmental organisation dedicated to supporting people with deafblindness and their families around the world. Sense International supports programmes in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Romania, Peru, India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. 

The Sense International team provides strategic leadership to the Sense International global family and supports global programmes and fundraising in addition to day-to-day support on operations including finance and human resources. Additionally, the Director of Sense International is line manager to the Regional Director of East Africa, who overseas programmes and operations in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania and she also line manages the Director of Sense International Romania and the Director of Sense International Peru.  The Director of Sense International also sits on the boards of Sense International Kenya, Sense International Uganda, Sense International Tanzania, Sense International Romania and Sense International Peru. 

To apply

Please use the link below to complete your application. Managers will use your application to shortlist candidates for interview; in relation to the Personal Specification. Therefore, it is very important you complete this section thoroughly.  We would recommend that you read the job description and person specification before applying.

Please note to avoid disappointment, we advise you to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close posts at any time.

No agency submissions please: any submissions without prior authorisation from the Sense Recruitment Team will be treated as our own and as such no fee will be payable.

Sense is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all employees to share this commitment. Therefore, all offers of employment, where appropriate, are subject to a DBS check; level dependent on the nature of the role.

For this role we particularly welcome applications from candidates from underrepresented ethnic minority backgrounds and candidates with disabilities. Sense is committed to equality of opportunity, and to promoting and celebrating the diversity of staff, volunteers and the people we work with. Everyone's contribution is valued and we ensure they're given the opportunity to realise their potential. We welcome applications from talented people from all sections of the community who share our values and belief that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential.

About Citizens Advice Camden

We are a well-respected local charity with more than 85 years’ experience of delivering free, independent and impartial information, advice and casework services which meet the changing needs of local residents. Our aims are to provide the independent, impartial, confidential and free advice people need for the problems they face and to improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives.

 We target our services at the most vulnerable in our community. Our client profile closely matches local indices of deprivation with most of our clients coming from the most deprived wards in the borough. We identify trends to ensure our services remain agile and able to respond to changing and emerging advice needs.

​​About Our Community Advice Team

​Our Community Advice service is at the heart of our work—delivering generalist advice through face-to-face, telephone, video, and digital channels. The team ensures that people in Camden can access support across a wide range of issues including benefits, housing, employment, and more. We are proud of our strong volunteer base and the collaborative environment that supports both clients and advisers.​

​About the Role

As Advice Supervisor you will be a key member of our Community Advice team, supervising and contributing to the delivery of our core service. You will help ensure we provide a quality advice service to Camden residents across face-to-face, telephone, video channels and other digital developments and ensure the targets, outputs and outcomes of all the generalist advice contracts and/or grant agreements are met.

​​Ideally, you will already be an experienced Advice Supervisor; however, we will consider offering this role as a development opportunity if you are an experienced Generalist Adviser wanting to progress your career. You will need to have experience in delivering high quality generalist advice and casework and be able to demonstrate the potential to support others with varying levels of experience to do the same.

Closing date for applications: 9.00am Wednesday 23 July

​Interview date: week commencing 28 July​​

​Interviews will be held on Zoom.

​Citizens Advice Camden is an equal opportunities employer. We encourage applications from all sections of the community.

​The successful candidate will be required to provide documentary evidence of their right to work in the UK.

Who we are

Chefs in Schools is a young, ambitious charity that’s rapidly growing. Our mission is to improve kids' health, through improving school food & food education. Working in areas of high deprivation, we support and train schools and their kitchen teams to serve the best, freshest and tastiest food possible, alongside meaningful food education. We share our learning and resources freely, aiming to inspire and enable others to follow our lead.

We’re backed by some of the biggest names in food and have ambitious targets to ensure every child has access to incredible school food and food education, setting them up for life with the skills and knowledge to feed themselves well.

About you and the role

This is a pivotal role, at a pivotal moment for us. We are entering a critical growth phase, which includes rapidly expanding our own operations and managing significant external partnership. As Head of Finance & Systems, you will be accountable for ensuring we have the right systems and structures in place to grow at pace without detriment to good governance.

The purpose of this role is to lead on our finance strategy, and ensure all of our systems, reporting and processes are helping to drive forward the charity and deliver on our objectives at scale. You will work closely with the Chief Executive and Directors to ensure that financial planning is effective and supported by accurate data analysis. You will report directly to Trustees as required and ensure that the highest standards of transparency and probity are maintained. 

You will be joining the team during a period of growth in the size and complexity of our delivery. We currently have 24 employees and anticipate growing significantly in the next twelve months. You will have a crucial role in shaping our systems and processes to ensure we can scale effectively, both our existing programmes and a new membership-based programme that is in development. We’re looking for an experienced finance professional with an interest in effectively using technology and systems to drive efficiency, without compromising on accuracy or compliance. 

You will oversee all financial administration, ensuring this is carried out proficiently and in line with all legal and regulatory requirements, including ultimate responsibility for ensuring that all statutory filings are made accurately and on time. Your role will also encompass ensuring that we operate within legal & regulatory frameworks and stay up to date with changes in relevant legislation.

The responsibilities, skills and experience listed below are intended to give you an idea of what we need for this role. If you don’t meet every requirement, but feel as though you would be able to work with us to deliver the majority of them, we would urge you to apply anyway. We are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, and for us the most important ‘experience’ is passion for our mission. You may be just the right candidate for this, or other roles.  

We want to get to know you at the interview and understand we can do this best if you’re at ease. We’re an inclusive employer and work hard to create a welcoming working environment for everyone, including appointing a neurodiversity champion to help us identify how we can make our work environment work for everyone. If you need adjustments to the interview process please let us know.

As we work with children & young people, an offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and DBS clearance, in line with our safeguarding policy.  

Key responsibilities:

• Developing a comprehensive financial strategy that supports the delivery of the charity’s objectives and activities

• Developing our systems strategy, including reviewing suitability of our current systems (Quickbooks for accountancy, Beacon CRM, PLEO for expenses management, Survey Monkey for data collection etc. ) and ensuring optimal use of systems, maximising automation, and using AI where appropriate.

• Constantly seeking to develop and improve the organisation’s financial systems, policies and procedures to promote dynamic, best practice and up-to-date application of tools, systems and approaches

• Leading and developing the Finance and Office Manager and ensuring effective support from the external book-keeping team.

• Lead on creation of the annual budget, working closely with Directors.

• Advising the Chief Executive, team and Trustees, ensuring that benefits and risks of decisions are fully considered and fit with the overall financial strategy

• Oversee sound financial administration, management and governance across the organisation, ensuring robust financial controls in place and operating effectively.

• Provide leadership and guidance to all things finance related, providing mentoring and support to the team, and coaching on financial awareness. 

• Accountability for monitoring that the organisation’s services are, and will, run to budget, supporting budget holders and reporting promptly on risks 

• Have ultimate oversight of the external audit and production of the statutory accounts, supported in delivery of this by the Finance & Office Manager

• Oversee production of management accounts and bespoke financial reports, including accurate forecasting, incisive analysis and accessible narrative commentary, ensuring decision-makers have the information they need. 

• Forecasting cash flow and managing the treasury position.

• Support the Partnerships & Impact team and Programme Managers with financial inputs to funding proposals and ensure restricted funds are used in compliance with grant conditions.

• Oversight of finance, governance and basic HR administration, supporting the Finance and Office Manager with high profile or complex queries, seeking specialist advice on financial or compliance matters as required

• Ensuring GDPR compliance across the organisation

• Leading an effective risk management process.

• Ensuring the organisation’s compliance with charity law, in accordance with the Charity Commission in England & Wales and all financial reporting requirements.

Skills & experience:

• You have interest and belief in our mission, to improve kids’ health through improving food and food education in schools

• You have full or partial qualification through an accredited accountancy body 

• You have experience in a senior finance role (e.g., Director, Head of) in any sector, and some experience within a finance function in the 3rd sector (in particular familiarity with Charities SORP and experience of administering restricted funds).

• You have experience of audit

• You enjoy a mix of leadership and rolling up sleeves to get hands on 

• You take a pragmatic and dynamic approach to robust financial management

• You can turn complex and dry data, into clear and engaging narrative 

• You have project managed the implementation of new systems (accountancy / CRM / data) and have a good awareness of new technologies

• You are organised, methodical, strong on detail, and able to map out deadlines and plan ahead 

• You are skilled in leading a team and building rapport with people, and strike a balance between being supportive and challenging 

Benefits

You would be joining a friendly, supportive team who works hard but believe in a healthy work/life balance. We were voted one of CODE Hospitality’s happiest places to work in 2024. We seek a diverse range of perspectives, skills, experience and knowledge. Joining a small, collaborative team means you’ll be able to contribute to and draw on various projects and strategic insights.

We offer 33 days of holiday per year including bank holidays, 3 additional office closure days over the Christmas period as well as wellbeing days over the summer school holidays.  We also have a Cycle to Work scheme, hybrid working, enhanced parental leave, and free access to the CODE app for discounted restaurants & hospitality venues. We are committed to developing our team and will support you with relevant training opportunities including £250 towards elective training and development of your choice.

We also offer Bupa Dental Insurance, Income Protection Insurance, as well as access to the Aviva Smart Health Platform which offers health benefits including free rapid access online GP appointments, free counselling and wellbeing support.

Application process

In line with our commitment to ensuring a fair and unbiased recruitment process, we invite candidates to answer a series of questions related to their day-to-day job. Please follow this link to answer the questions and submit your application along with your CV.

We recommend that you develop your answers offline and copy them in when you’re ready to ensure you don’t lose your work if interrupted.

Your answers will go through our sifting process: all answers will be anonymised, randomised and then reviewed by a panel of reviewers. A long list of candidates will then additionally have their CVs reviewed. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a 30 mins online interview. Successful candidates will be invited to attend a second, in-person interview at our office in Brixton, London.

Expected duration of this application process: 7 weeks

First interviews will be held on Thurs 14th Aug.

Second interviews will be held on Weds 20th Aug. 

We are looking to recruit an Assistant Registrar to join our team based in London. You will join us on a full-time, permanent basis. In return, you will receive a competitive salary of £32,780.70 per annum.

This is a Hybrid role.

The Royal Air Force Museum is a national museum, a Government non-departmental public body (NDPB) and a registered charity, with two sister sites at London and Midlands. Our purpose is to share the RAF story, past, present and future – using the stories of its people and our collections in order to engage, inform and inspire. Our Vision is to inspire everyone with the RAF story – the people who shape it and its place in our lives.

We have two public sites (London and Midlands) and a stored collection (Stafford). Our trading company and active fundraising supplement Grant in Aid which comes through the Ministry of Defence.

The Royal Air Force Museum is a Carbon Literate organisation and as such promotes Carbon Literacy.

Purpose of the Assistant Registrar role:

As our Assistant Registrar, you will contribute towards administering the legal and logistical aspects of collections management for outward and inward loans, the maintenance of the Accessions Register, and coordinating regular auditing checks

Key responsibilities of our Assistant Registrar include:

• Support in the development and maintenance of Collection policies, procedures, and standards
• Ensure that full, proper, and legal documentation of all Museum transactions concerning Collection material is implemented in accordance with Museum policy and procedure
• Assist in the administration and monitoring of the documentation, handling, and transportation of objects in support of curatorial activities
• Help provide advice and training for Museum staff and volunteers on Collections Management
• Act as courier, both virtually and in person, when assigned, for the transportation of objects nationally and internationally
• Keep abreast of changes in government legislation and museum standards relating to Collections Management, by examining current practice in other institutions, by engaging with mutual interest groups and implement improvements as necessary
• Support the wider team in aiding the successful delivery of collections related activities such as exhibitions, touring exhibitions and public events
• Ensure appropriate insurance/indemnity cover is in place for all objects on loan to and from the Museum
• Support with exhibition and touring logistics, including devising loan agreements, obtaining condition assessments and arranging packing and transport or objects
• Ensure location tracking of objects is kept up to date throughout the loan process
• Undertake loan inspections for current and potential outward loans
• Contribute towards the development and maintenance of Collection records, including the Accession Register and documentation systems
• Support in the analysis of CMS data, including research into provenance and copyright status in order to ensure accuracy, conformity with Cataloguing Rules, Collections Management policy and procedure

What we are looking for in our Assistant Registrar:

• Degree level qualification or equivalent experience in a museum or heritage environment
• Practical experience in museum documentation and collections management
• Experience in the use of Collections Management systems, including Collections Management databases, and literate in Microsoft packages
• Experience in an assistant registrar or documentation/collections officer post in a museum or heritage organisation
• Knowledge of UKRG reports and the Government Indemnity Scheme, and the processes involved in administering the scheme
• Experience in undertaking and coordinating storage audits within a heritage organisation
• Knowledge of Collections Management standards and able to demonstrate practical experience of their application in a heritage environment
• Experience handling a wide variety of object types and in moving, packin,g and transporting museum objects
• Knowledge and experience in the logistics of transporting museum objects

Closing date for applications: 27 July 2025
Interviews will take place on: 06 August 2025

If you think you have what it takes and want to be part of this exciting journey, please visit the jobs page on our website for further information. Join us in delivering our purpose and achieving our vision, ensuring that the Royal Air Force’s story continues to enrich and inspire current and future generations. We would love to hear from you.

Community Based/Home Working - Hampshire

Permanent, Full Time

Circa £30,000 plus competitive benefits

Do you want to make a difference?

The RAF Benevolent Fund is the leading welfare charity for the RAF. Every year we make a real difference to over 40,000 people who benefit from our services. Working at the Fund is more than sitting at your desk ad in this role you will have the opportunity to be part of our RAF Family.  Alongside helping our beneficiaries, we also get to hang out with Spitfires and Typhoons, take part in a Dambusters bike ride, attend events like Royal Ascot, the Chelsea Flower Show, and the Bomber Command Memorial Service. Every day you will make a difference and play your part in changing the lives of others and helping people in the RAF Family get through the toughest of times.

It doesn’t matter how long someone served or when. If they were part of the RAF, they and their family are part of our RAF Family. We will always be here to support them when they need it most.

Join the RAF Family and play your part in making a difference.

Do you want to play a part in what we do?

People are at the heart of what we do. Together we:

· Help reduce social isolation and loneliness among veterans. 

· We support ill or injured men and women to have a safe place to call home, a home that meets their specific needs.

· We fund youth services on stations to provide clubs and activities for the children of serving personnel who move every few years.

· We provide grants to help with the cost of living. But this is just a few of the ways we help.

We are seeking an individual to raise awareness of the Fund’s welfare offer amongst social welfare agencies across the West Midlands but also, crucially, to help address the issue of social isolation and feelings of loneliness experienced by some members of the RAF Family.

The post holder will be working with socially isolated individuals to identify meaningfully enriching opportunities to reduce feelings of loneliness, some of whom may have complex and challenging welfare needs, to develop actions plans and coordinate support to overcome any barriers preventing successful connection into these enriching opportunities, assisting them by identifying appropriate support from within the RAF Benevolent Fund and the wider statutory and military charity sector.

The successful candidate will have experience of working in a social welfare role supporting individuals, have strong people and relationship-building skills, as well as empathy with or understanding of the issues affecting the Armed Forces community. Individuals with a social prescribing or working aged veteran support background are encouraged to apply.

This is a community-based position working from home but covering Hampshire, Wiltshire and West Sussex, delivering both remote and face to face support. The candidate must have their own vehicle to use to travel around these regions.  Occasional travel to London will be required.  The successful candidate for this role will need to be Enhanced DBS checked and prove they have the right to work in the UK.

To apply, please click on this link and send your CV, together with a cover letter detailing why you believe you are suitable for this role, providing examples of how you meet the job profile when you apply through our recruitment portal.

The closing date for applications is Tuesday 29th July 2025, 5.00pm.  Interviews will be held on Week commencing 4th August 2025.

A copy of the Fund’s Candidate Privacy Notice can be found on our website. As an equal opportunities employer, the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership. The Fund takes safeguarding seriously, and appropriate background checks will be completed. You can find out more about our commitment to safeguarding on our website. The RAF Benevolent Fund follows Safer Recruitment practices as it strives to ensure that everyone who comes into contact with the Fund will be protected from harm. The successful candidate for this role will need to be Enhanced DBS checked and prove they have the right to work in the UK. We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join the Fund.

The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund is a Registered Charity (No. 1081009).

Location: London, Hybrid/Remote (Occasional presence in the London office required)

Hours: Full-Time or Part-Time (5 days or 4 days a week)

Remuneration: £65,000 - £70,000 per annum, depending on experience

Contract: 11 months fixed-term contract (Parental Leave Cover)

Start Date: 22 September 2025

About FILE

The Foundation for International Law for the Environment (FILE) is a not-for-profit philanthropic organisation working to accelerate legal action on climate change. 

Through grant-making and in-house legal expertise, we empower our partners to deliver strategic, innovative legal interventions and we support lawyers in their own countries to bring their own cases. 

Legal action can unlock the systemic changes in finance, policy and social systems needed to protect all of us from climate change. The power of the law is both direct (changing policy and practice) and indirect (signalling the wider shifts taking place across these systems).

FILE is a ‘regrantor’ - this means we do not bring legal action in our own name. We receive grants from our philanthropic donors and make onwards grants to partners who align with FILE’s charitable aims and purposes. We do not seek to make any profit from our activities either in a relevant financial year or in the longer term.

Role overview

This is an exciting opportunity to take a senior role in FILE’s high-performing fundraising team and secure support from some of the world’s leading foundations working in climate.

FILE is seeking an ambitious and experienced Philanthropic Partnerships Lead to lead relationships with significant funders and play a critical role in shaping and advancing FILE’s ambitious fundraising strategy. The Philanthropic Partnerships Lead will take the lead across a portfolio of existing donors and seek new funding opportunities from major philanthropic foundations.

The Philanthropic Partnerships Lead will work closely with the Head of Philanthropic Partnerships and FILE leadership to shape fundraising and donor stewardship strategies and drive fundraising success. They will be comfortable operating at the most senior level externally to devise and deliver excellent donor experiences, and adept at navigating complex internal environments.

This is a high-profile position, building out FILE’s successful fundraising team. In a highly collaborative and dynamic environment, there is real potential for the right candidate to shape and grow the role to become a fundraising leader at FILE. The Philanthropic Partnerships Lead will have the opportunity to work with major global philanthropies and to take a key role in supporting the future direction of a highly ambitious organisation. We are looking for a candidate who is passionate about the power of philanthropy and excited to make an impact in a fast-paced high-growth environment.

Key Responsibilities will include:

Donor relationship management and stewardship

The Philanthropic Partnerships Lead will lead on several significant funder relationships, co-ordinating internally with FILE Leadership, the Head of Philanthropic Parnterships and strategic experts to devise and deliver excellent stewardship and donor experiences.

This will include:

• Setting donor strategy and creating and managing bespoke donor stewardship plans and communications
• Leading externally in face-to-face and virtual meetings, events and engagements and managing complex donor relationships across multiple stakeholders and workstreams
• Leading on key relationship touchpoints including performance and strategy reviews
• Liaising across internal cross-functional teams to plan and co-ordinate donor engagement at multiple levels
• Leading on proposals, donor impact reports, budgets and other key outputs

Cultivating new funder relationships

Securing new support is a critical organisational priority and the candidate will have the opportunity to forge new relationships with major funders.

Alongside FILE leadership and the Head of Philanthropic Partnerships, they will be responsible for identifying and progressing new pipeline opportunities and become the fundraising lead for specific thematic areas and initiatives.

This will include:

• Devising and delivering bespoke cultivation strategies for key donor prospects
• Devising new funding propositions and strategies for high-priority areas and new strategic initiatives
• Working with FILE leadership and strategy leads to delivering engaging cultivation, including through meetings, calls and written materials
• Actively progressing opportunities through the fundraising pipeline and leading on proposal development for target opportunities

Providing strategic support to the Head of Philanthropic Partnerships and leading cross-organisational projects and initiatives

The Philanthropic Partnerships Lead will provide strategic counsel to the Head of Philanthropic Partnerships to develop and implement the wider fundraising strategy and take the lead on strategic initiatives such as:

• Designing and implementing an approach to communications planning and delivery, including through the creation and management of key communications content
• Designing, scoping and initiating new donor engagement products and experiences for most senior stakeholders
• Shaping donor engagement priorities and communications for FILE leadership

Key Competencies and Person Specifications

• The ideal candidate will be a senior relationship and stakeholder manager with demonstrable experience working in philanthropy, high-value funding or other senior relationship management roles.
• They will have extensive experience working in complex cross-functional roles with excellent influencing skills and strategic acumen.
• They will have experience in securing and managing 7 figure funding relationships and be confident working at the most senior level externally.
• They will have significant knowledge and experience in the foundation/ philanthropy sector, ideally in the climate or environmental space.
• The candidate will thrive in fast-paced environments, and be adept at managing complex and multi-level relationships both internally and externally.
• They will have excellent written and verbal communication skills and be confident in leading on compelling proposals and pitches, turning complex and technical information into engaging donor content and experiences.
• The candidate will be highly organized, demonstrate strong project management skills and be comfortable balancing a varied and demanding workload.
• They will have a passion for global environmental issues, particularly climate change and biodiversity loss, and an affinity with FILE’s values.

Location

We are advertising this role for candidates based (and with the right to work) in the UK or the Netherlands.

Therefore, please note that this role will be advertised in multiple locations, but we are only hiring for one position. Please apply to the job post for your preferred location.

Working for FILE

FILE is a collaborative community of individuals who share a passion for climate, nature, and justice. We bring together knowledge and experience to support our mission.

Our people are empowered to lead their work both individually and as part of a wider team in order to make impactful change. As a relatively young organisation with the ambitious mission to change global systems, our roles are ideally suited to those who are highly strategic, flexible and adaptable, and open to growing in line with the Foundation.

FILE is committed to challenging inequality and values diversity, equity and justice in all areas of life. Our mission, work and impact is global, with staff and partners from across the world and a range of lived experiences. We firmly believe that we are strengthened by the diversity of our partners and staff.

At FILE, we actively work to create an inclusive culture where colleagues feel welcomed, heard and supported to succeed and thrive.

How FILE supports its staff

FILE is committed to creating a workplace that supports our staff to do their best work and develop professionally. FILE offer a generous annual leave policy and additional time-off work to support wellbeing. Amongst other benefits, FILE offers private healthcare and a contribution to a pension scheme.

FILE is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and encourage candidates who can contribute to the diversity of our team to apply.
Join us in making a tangible difference in the fight against climate change by creating spaces where diverse voices come together to drive impactful solutions.

Applications

Please apply on our website and upload your CV and Cover Letter. This role is open for applications immediately. If you are interested, we encourage you to submit your application as early as possible. The role will close on the 23rd of July. The first interviews will be held the week commencing on the 4th of August. 

Diversity & Inclusion

As an equal opportunity employer, FILE is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership.

We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join FILE.

JOB DESCRIPTION

 Job Title:  Internal Auditor 

 Location:  London or Nairobi (with a right to work)

 Reporting to:  Chief Executive Officer (CEO) functional line to the Director of Finance and Operations

Grade and salary  Grade F (in line with national salary scale)  UK - £43,800 per annum , Kenya - Ksh 5,010,684 per annum

Type of position: National (as above)

 Contract terms and hours: Open ended (depending on funding). Full time, 37.5 hours per week  

Background:

Saferworld is an independent international organisation working to prevent violent conflict and build safer lives. We work with people affected by conflict to improve their safety and sense of security, and conduct wider research and analysis. We use this evidence and learning to improve local, national and international policies and practices that can help build lasting peace. Our priority is people – we believe in a world where everyone can lead peaceful, fulfilling lives, free from fear and insecurity. We are a not-for-profit organisation operational in nine countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Saferworld is committed to providing a safe and trusted environment that safeguards our staff, partners and communities. Our organisational integrity is derived from the values and principles that underpin and guide our work.

Saferworld’s staff are at the heart of our work and their skills and expertise ensure we continue to function a leading conflict prevention and peacebuilding organisation. As we evolve and grow, we want to ensure our programmes, research and capacity interventions retain their quality, stay rooted in the voices of people living in conflict, and ensure our staff are motivated and challenged in their work.

The success of our organisation’s mission depends on people. Capitalising on what is unique about individuals and drawing on their different perspectives and experiences will add value to the way we work. Saferworld is committed to the principles of equality of opportunity for all and seeks to promote a positive approach to equality and diversity and within the scope of the relevant legislation, to having a workforce and working environment that is free of discrimination, prejudice, stereotyping, harassment, victimisation and undignified behaviour. We oppose all forms of unlawful or unfair discrimination.

The Internal Auditor role will undertake internal audit assignments, develop country-specific internal audit processes or thematic internal audits and work with our London and global teams to support external audit processes in countries of operation, oversee the global audit register, and with teams across the organisation advance effective financial management performance across the organisation

Job purpose:

Reporting to the CEO and working closely with the Director of Finance and Operations, the post holder will undertake internal audit assignments and compliance reviews aimed at improving Saferworld’s internal systems and processes. The post-holder will also support the development of financial controls and build the capacity of finance and operational teams to implement them effectively.

The role requires a high level of initiative; proven skills and experience in project management; experience working collaboratively with others to achieve our vision; and strong communication and problem-solving skills.

The post-holder will have a successful track record in designing and leading internal audit processes and strengthening control systems, preferable at a complex organisation with multiple country offices/business units.  Additional experience working with offices/partners in/on conflict affected contexts is highly desirable.

Roles and responsibilities: 

Plan and carry out internal audits

• Draw up a yearly Internal Audit Plan based on key risks and an assessment of audit needs and agree it with the CEO in consultation with the Director of Finance and Operations and Director of Policy and Programmes.
• Carry out internal audit assignments across departments, projects, and programmes to assess compliance with financial policies, donor agreements, and statutory regulations, including negotiating terms of reference with relevant system/area owners, preparing reports, presenting the findings to the Senior Leadership, and following up on recommendations.
• Review financial transactions and accounting records, including data from SUN, to ensure accuracy and integrity.
• Support necessary pre-audit preparation work related to external audits (both statutory and project audit) and assist the teams in ensuring smooth audit. 
• Maintain the organisation’s register of grant and project audits, ensuring that audit findings recommendations are clearly documented and shared.
• Monitor the implementation of these recommendations and follow up on corrective actions to ensure timely and effective solution.
• Carry out special investigations, as required by the Saferworld CEO or Senior Operational Team (SOT). 

Strengthening organisational systems and risk controls

• Produce an annual review of the overall effectiveness of Saferworld’s systems of internal control and make recommendations and arrangements for identification and management of risks and produce an annual plan to address these areas.
• Report quarterly to the Senior Operational Team (SOT) on the annual review and plan.
• Attend the governance/Board of Trustees Finance and Audit Committee four times a year and produce a report for the meetings, including feeding back on learnings from internal audits carried out.
• The post-holder must maintain independence and objectivity in carrying out audits and investigations. They have direct access to the Board/Audit Committee when necessary.
• Produce quarterly report for the Board meetings.
• Promote a culture of accountability, transparency and continuous improvement across the organisation.

 Key working relationships

• Director of Finance and Operations
• Director of Programmes & Policy
• Head of People
• Regional Directors
• Head of Governance and Operations
• Finance Business Partners
• Country Directors/Managers
• Country Finance Managers
•  

Scope and accountability

Decision making and limits of authority

• Methods of investigation within assigned internal audits, reviews, findings and recommendations to CEO & Director of Finance and Operations
• Key that the Internal Auditor is seen to be able to provide independent advice, guidance and analysis. 

Financial resources

• Financial responsibilities primarily about auditing financial management practices and processes

Other resources

• Audit investigations data and reports, internal audit plan, guidance and tools for supporting effective risk assessment and risk management – works globally
• Contribute to the implementation and effective use of financial systems (works globally)

People management

• Capacity building country finance managers in relation to financial systems and processes.
• Capacity building staff and partners in relation to risk assessment and management

Legal, regulatory and compliance responsibility

•  Key internal role in ensuring compliance with financial policies and procedures (internal) and financial regulations (external), and in identification on risks/noncompliance issues for addressing 

Person specification 

Knowledge

• Excellent understanding of internal audit principles and methods and risk identification and management
• Auditing or accounting professional qualification (e.g. ACCA, CPA, CA, CIMA or Certified Internal Auditor with active membership status) and sound knowledge of accounting procedures, principles and systems
• Good understanding of and experience using SUN system will be an advantage

Experience

• Extensive experience in the internal audit function in a large/medium-sized NGO or similar complex organisation 
• Experience of undertaking a variety of audit related, research/ evaluation and project management work
• Familiarity with donor-funded project audits (FCDO, EU) and related compliance requirements
• Experience in working with programme teams (particularly in different country settings), sharing learning from audits, and supporting implementation of recommendations
• Experience in training or mentoring staff on compliance, internal controls, and financial procedures.

Skills

• Strong analytical and quantitative skills
• Skills to build effective, trusting relationships at all levels of the organisation, and ability to influence senior managers and other stakeholders regarding the importance of effective controls
•  Excellent project management skills with experience in planning, organising and delivering audit assignments Excellent facilitation, negotiation, verbal and written communication skills with the ability to write reports and present complex/sensitive information in an understandable way to a range of audiences
• Solution-oriented, pro-active, flexible, a team-player, and responsive
• Strong interpersonal and team-working skills
• Good IT skills, including in MS word and excel 

Other

• A willingness to promote the work of Saferworld and work collaboratively with others
•  Ability to work in a non-partisan manner, sensitive to differences of ethnicity, religion and gender
•  A commitment to learn and be open to new ideas and approaches
•  Demonstrated commitment to principles of transparency, accountability, and honesty
•  Commitment to and compliance with Saferworld’s safeguarding principles
•  Knowledge of applicable laws, donor regulations and statutory reporting requirements in countries where Saferworld operates

Other requirements

Travel will be required for purposes of capacity building, internal audits and investigations, within country offices

Application process 

To apply:  Apply through our vacancy portal on our Saferworld Jobs website

Upload your CV and a covering letter addressing the person specification and why you feel your experience matches the requirements of the role.

Closing date for applications:  23rd July 2025

Opportunity to pioneer work with children of all ages within the local community at an exciting Community Hub. The Rising Generation Pastor will oversee a team of children's and youth workers, supporting them in offering a wide range of groups and events. 

Overall responsibilities include:

- Overseeing all areas of ministry to the rising generation (0 - 18 year olds) within the church and the local community, including holding the overall vision.

- Line managing the youth team including the Assistant Youth Pastor, PAIS Apprentice team leader and Trainee Kids and Families Pastor.

- Engaging with local schools and building on existing relationships.

- Overseeing the rising generation budget and engaging with the fundraising team to seek funding opportunities.

General Duties:

- To find and initiate innovative ways of engaging with children, young people and their families both within the local community and those already engaged with church.

- To work with the Rector, the PCC and rising generation team in growing the St Peter's vision and strategy for reaching the rising generation in our local community and helping them grow as followers of Jesus.

- To oversee the running of a range of different activities and projects for children and young people in the St Peter's Community and Youth Hub.

- Work alongside mission partners such as PAIS and Scripture Union.

- To visit local schools regularly and lead acts of worship within them.

- To lead lunchtime and/or after school activities in schools, including expanding use of our Youth Alpha material.

- To assist in providing chaplaincy as requested within the local schools and to seek opportunities to grow mission.

Safeguarding

- To oversee the Children's and Youth Ministry in a way that follows National Safeguarding Guidelines.

- To respond effectively and appropriately to any safeguarding concerns as they arise, following the safeguarding protocol.

- To build and maintain consistent appropriate relationships with children and young people in person (employed staff or volunteer team members must not engage in exclusive or romantic relationships with young people under the age of 18 or vulnerable adults as this against the law and could result in prosecution).

Person specification:

- Leadership qualities with the ability to manage a team and work with volunteer leaders.

- Clear and effective communicator with people of varying ages and in particular children, young people and parents.

- Ability to work missionally within the local community.

- Ability to come up with creative ideas for engaging with children and young people.

- Developed organisational skills.

- The ability to work using own initiative when required, as well as to work with a team.

- Good pastoral skills with the ability to relate easily and sensitively to a wide range of different people.

- Ability to show resilience and robustness when dealing with challenges and maintain a positive attitude to problem solving.

- Ability to troubleshoot in high pressure situations.

- Computer literate and able to enage with new technologies.

- Abiltiy to work in sympathy with the aims and ethos of the Church of England.

Personal attributes:

- A vibrant faith and love of Jesus which they are excited about sharing

- Reliability

- Flexibility

- Willingness to recieve feedback and seek to learn from it

- Honesty and integrity

- Ability to deal sensitively with confidential information

We believe that prayer and discernment are fundamental to St Peter's achieving it's mission of restoring relationships and transforming lives.  As a staff member you are expected to:

- Attend meetings involving prayer and worship.

- Be committed to St Peter's Mission, values and beliefs.

- Maintain your own spiritual development, discover your gifts/callings and grow in discipleship.

- Live out Christian values as you represent St Peter's externally.

As a church we are committed to the appropriate development of every team member.  Funding will be provided for training and development.

This role carries a Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR) that the successful applicant is a committed Christian and part of the church family.

Accounts Assistant (6 months temp, social welfare charity)

£29-£33k per annum

Civitas Recruitment are delighted to be partnering with a great historic and faith-based organisation to help source their new Accounts Assistant. The organisation provides a wide range of services across its extensive estate. This is a great opportunity to join a dedicated and supportive team working to ensure the smooth financial operations of a large and impactful institution. The role is temporary for 6 months, full-time, Hybrid working in central London.

As a key member of the Financial Accounting team, the Accounts Assistant will be responsible for providing excellent financial support and ensuring compliance with internal policies and procedures. You will manage essential accounting processes including bank reconciliations, accounts payable and receivable, month-end procedures, and contribute to the improvement of financial systems and controls.

Key Responsibilities:

· Collaborate with colleagues to enhance financial accountability and communication.

· Support month-end processes including journals, reconciliations, and timeline adherence.

· Ensure timely and accurate allocation of income and expenditure.

· Manage weekly payment runs and assist with HSBCnet payments.

· Oversee accounts receivables processes, including invoicing and reconciliation.

· Administer payments for rents, grants, stipends, and third-party donations.

· Assist with annual audit preparations and financial controls.

· Monitor finance inboxes and resolve queries efficiently.

· Support continuous improvement initiatives within the finance team.

· Provide ad hoc support including project contributions and holiday cover.

Person Specification:

The ideal candidate will have relevant experience in financial accounting and be either AAT qualified or have at least three years of relevant experience. Strong communication skills, excellent organisation, and the ability to work collaboratively and adaptively are essential. Knowledge of Microsoft Excel and financial systems is important. A commitment to the mission and values of the organisation is required.

Please apply directly or contact Civitas Recruitment for a confidential discussion. Early applications are encouraged as we will be reviewing on a rolling basis.

This is a new post and an exciting time to join The BRIT School team, following the rapid growth in our engagement with – and income from - Major Donors, through a programme that includes fundraising events at world-renown venues including Ronnie Scott’s.

Joining us now as Philanthropy Officer, you will be at the start of our efforts to build on this momentum, helping the School to realise ambitions as we launch our new Five Year Strategy.

We are looking for someone who has a passion for the ethos and ambition of The BRIT School. As a member of a focused and growing team, you’ll have the autonomy, responsibility and

freedom to bring your own creativity, drive and skills to the role, and to make an impact… not only on our fundraising ambitions, but on the lives of the young artists we support.

We would welcome candidates who are looking to move into major donor fundraising from other fundraising backgrounds, or relevant sales environments; we're also open to people at the start of their fundraising career. 

We are supportive of - and happy to consider - flexible working arrangements, including hybrid/home working.

The BRIT School is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, which is the bedrock of our ethos and values. 

We look forward to receiving your application, and we hope to meet you soon.

This is a new post and an exciting time to join The BRIT School team, as we continue to build on our successful corporate partnerships programme. 

Joining us now as Philanthropy Officer, you will be at the start of our efforts to build on this momentum, helping the School to realise ambitions as we launch our new Five Year Strategy.

We are looking for someone who has a passion for the ethos and ambition of The BRIT School. As a member of a focused and growing team, you’ll have the autonomy, responsibility and

freedom to bring your own creativity, drive and skills to the role, and to make an impact… not only on our fundraising ambitions, but on the lives of the young artists we support.

We would welcome candidates who are looking to move into corporate fundraising from other fundraising backgrounds, or relevant sales environments; we're also open to people at the start of their fundraising career. We are supportive of - and happy to consider - flexible working arrangements, including hybrid/home working.

The BRIT School is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, which is the bedrock of our ethos and values. 

We look forward to receiving your application, and we hope to meet you soon.

Job Title: Chief of Staff

Location: London or Bath (Hybrid with international travel)

Reporting to: CEO

Salary: Competitive, based on experience

Application Deadline: 1st August 2025

This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and experienced person to join the team at the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF): one of the world's leading non-profit organisations, working at the intersection of environmental conservation and human rights.

About the Environmental Justice Foundation

EJF exists to protect the natural world and defend our fundamental human right to a secure environment. We believe in equity and justice and a need to respect, defend, and empower communities most at risk from habitat loss, biodiversity collapse and global heating. We campaign for environmental justice.

We use hard-hitting investigations, cutting-edge film and photography and strategic, high-level advocacy to secure lasting, systemic change to protect the ocean, wetlands and climate for biodiversity and for people. Our programmes are underpinned by grassroots partnerships and film-led investigations in the Global South, where our dedicated local teams work on complex, challenging issues, speaking truth to power. We partner and support environmental defenders and journalists, providing vital equipment and targeted training in filmmaking, investigations and communications that amplify grassroots voices and build local leadership and resilience to environmental injustice.

The Role

As Chief of Staff to the CEO, you will be a strategic partner and trusted advisor, playing a pivotal role in driving EJF’s mission forward during an exciting period of growth and global impact. You will support and empower the CEO to lead effectively across multiple programmes, geographies, and teams, ensuring the highest levels of operational focus, internal alignment, and mission delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Support: Act as a force multiplier for the CEO, helping to prioritise initiatives, manage high-level projects, and streamline decision-making processes. The role will act as a gatekeeper for the CEO, addressing and balancing competing demands and workloads.

• Executive Coordination: Prepare and arrange briefing documents, talking points, and correspondence. Attend meetings with or on behalf of the CEO and ensure timely follow-ups. Coordinate the CEO’s public and media engagements to ensure he is well-prepared.

• Organisational Alignment: Facilitate communication between the CEO and global teams to ensure alignment on goals, priorities, and values. Provide objective assessments of teams and their efficiency and effectiveness.

• Project Management: Oversee special projects from inception to completion, ensuring they align with organizational strategy and deliver measurable impact. Support for income generation, including grant applications, monitoring and reporting.

• Donor Engagement: Support major donor engagements and high-stakes partnerships.

• Thought Partnership: Serve as a critical sounding board, offering insights and constructive challenge on complex organisational and strategic issues.

About You

• You are highly organized, diligent, intellectually curious, and deeply committed to environmental and social justice.

• You have a strong background in strategy, operations, or executive-level coordination, ideally in a nonprofit, policy, or international development setting.

• You possess exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, and a strong ability to research, synthesise and apply information quickly and to a high standard.

• You are diplomatic, discreet, and thrive in fast-paced, dynamic environments.

• You are proactive, resourceful, and capable of working independently on complex problems.

Desired Experience

• Minimum 7 years of experience in a senior strategic, advisory, or operational role

• Prior experience working with or reporting to C-suite executives

• Understanding of the nonprofit or advocacy sector, preferably in environmental or human rights fields

• Ability to travel internationally if required

What We Offer

• A purpose-driven role where your work will have a real-world impact

• A supportive, mission-led team with a shared commitment to environmental justice

• Opportunities for international engagement and professional growth

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest in the role and how your experience aligns with our mission to the email address provided.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK.

EJF is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity within the workplace.

We’re recruiting!

Give Blood 4 Good is looking for a dynamic and proactive Programme Development Officer - our first ever paid role - to lead and grow our flagship Young Ambassador Programme. This is a brilliant opportunity to shape a life-saving initiative and drive real impact in education, youth engagement and public health.

About Give Blood 4 Good

We’re a Scottish registered charity dedicated to improving awareness and education around blood donation - especially among young people. By working with schools, universities and community groups, we’re breaking down misconceptions and fear that can be associat4ed with the process, and encouraging people to give blood as soon as they're eligible at 17.

After a successful pilot of our Young Ambassador Programme over the last three years, we’re entering an exciting phase of growth. This role marks a milestone for our charity - and you’ll be at the heart of helping us reach more students and schools across Scotland.

About the role

You’ll lead the expansion of our Young Ambassador Programme — a digital e-learning initiative designed to empower students to become informed, confident blood donation ambassadors.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Building and managing relationships with schools

• Supporting and enrolling students

• Updating and improving programme content

• Coordinating with our e-learning platform provider

• Identifying and applying for funding to sustain and scale the programme

• Working closely with our small, friendly team of volunteers

Your role will also include additional tasks that support the day-to-day running of Give Blood 4 Good.

This is a fully remote role, with flexibility around working hours. You’ll be our only staff member, so we’re looking for someone who’s confident working independently and can take initiative while keeping others informed.

Person specification

We’re looking for someone who has:

• Strong organisational and time management skills

• Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder engagement abilities

• Proactive, independent worker with a solution-focused mindset

• Confident communicator, both verbally and in writing

Desirable (but not essential)

• Experience in fundraising, bid writing, or securing income from trusts/foundations

• Knowledge of the youth or education sector

• Previous programme delivery experience in a community or non-profit setting

• Existing contacts within Scottish schools or youth organisations

• Experience integrating fundraising within youth engagement activities

Benefits

• A unique opportunity to lead and grow a national programme from the ground up

• Flexibility and autonomy in your role

• Experience across programme delivery, fundraising, stakeholder engagement and more

• The chance to help save lives by building a more informed generation of blood donors

How to apply

To apply, please send your CV and a short cover letter explaining your interest and relevant experience.

In your cover letter, please include examples of how you’ve demonstrated at least two of the following attributes: proactive, independent, curious, and conscientious.

Applications close at 9am on Friday 25 July, though we may close early if we receive a high number of applications. Early submissions are encouraged!