Health and wellbeing worker jobs

Salary: £38,000 per annum pro rata, plus 15% ILW
Hours: 22.5 hours over 3 days 
Contract Type: Permanent
Location: London
Reports to: Head of Centre 
 
Suicide is the leading cause of death of men under 35 and three quarters of those who die by suicide are men. James’ Place exists to save the lives of men in suicidal crisis through delivering clinical services. We are a charity currently offering free, life-saving therapy to suicidal men at our centres in Liverpool, London and Newcastle. 
 
James’ Place was set up by Clare Milford Haven and Nick Wentworth-Stanley in 2008 after their twenty-one-year-old son, James, died by suicide ten days after a minor operation. James had no history of mental illness or depression and had sought urgent help for anxiety and suicidal thoughts but didn’t find it.    
 
James' Place was set up to make the experience of finding help as easy as possible. We offer men who are experiencing a suicidal crisis a brief, intensive, therapeutic intervention in a safe environment. Men who walk through the door at James’ Place will be in a space where they feel valued and respected.  We provide a calm and peaceful environment both inside the centres and in our outside spaces, accessible to men who visit us as well as their friends and families. We have so far treated over 5,100 men who might otherwise have been unable to access the support they desperately need.
 
In early 2026 we will be opening our fourth centre in Birmingham. Our new centre in Birmingham will be there to support suicidal men living in the West Midlands.
 
THE OPPORTUNITY 
We are recruiting Senior Suicide Prevention Therapists to deliver our clinically proven, life-saving intervention at our James’ Place centre in London. 
As a Senior Suicide Prevention Therapist, you will work closely with the Head of Centre to provide strong clinical leadership and oversight while also delivering direct therapeutic work with men experiencing suicidal crisis and their supporter(s). You will play a key role in supporting the clinical team to deliver our unique intervention and to co-produce effective, individualised safety plans to help men remain safe.
 
You will work closely with the Head of Centre in London and the wider James’ Place leadership team to ensure strong integration between the pilot service and our established centres.
 
This role requires an experienced mental health professional or therapist with a strong background in suicide prevention, excellent risk assessment and formulation skills, and demonstrable experience of clinical supervision, line management, and leadership. Training, induction, and ongoing support will be provided by the Head of Centre in London and the wider James’ Place team.
 
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 
 
Senior Clinical Duties

• Work as a duty therapist to triage and assess suitability of James’ Place referrals daily
• Take full clinical responsibility of the men under James’ Place care, as a co-leader of the clinical team and in consultation with Head of Centre 
• Lead and support peer support sessions, caseload discussions and reflective practice with the team
• Create an environment in which confidentiality, privacy and dignity are respected and be clear with clients about limits of confidentiality
• Deputise for the Head of Centre when required 

 
Clinical

• Conduct initial Welcome Assessments with men in a suicidal crisis, assessing risk and the suitability of the James’ Place intervention and co-producing effective safety plans 
• Deliver our therapeutic intervention, building trust and exploring the reasons for crisis
• Use the Lay Your Cards on the Table intervention to encourage men to talk about and explore their feelings, attitudes and behaviours and develop positive coping strategies 
• Escalate care to appropriate services when necessary, including emergency services and secondary mental health teams 
• Deliver one-off guidance sessions to supporters of men under the James’ Place care
• Work collaboratively with other professionals to coordinate comprehensive care
• Undergo clinical supervision with a qualified supervisor to reflect on clinical work and raise any issues or concerns arising from work
• Remain up to date with developments in law, theories and research 
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards
• Complete session notes in a timely and effective manner 
• Participate in continuous professional development and engage in training provided both internally and externally 
• Support the Clinical Administration team as and when necessary 

 
Leadership and Management

• Manage, support and lead Suicide Prevention Therapists, encouraging staff to develop and grow
• Conduct regular probation reviews, monthly 1:1s and annual appraisals with staff
• Conduct therapist case reviews to ensure work is completed safely, effectively and in accordance with James’ Place policies and procedures
• Confidently identify and sensitively communicate areas for development and conduct performance management reviews when necessary 
• Demonstrate and promote self-awareness and regularly dedicate time and space, inside and outside of work, to keeping yourself and the team well
• Provide support to access training and other developmental activities
• Support staff wellbeing 

 
Outreach and Engagement

• Work alongside the Head of Centre to actively increase contact with local community organisations able to refer to us or offer move on support for men completing our intervention
• Support the fundraising team to bring potential supporters into our building and showcase our work, including the facilitation of events

 
Values

• Demonstrate commitment to the James’ Place values of Focus, Bravery, Respect, Compassion, Professionalism, Collaboration and Hope through all aspects of work

 
PERSON SPECIFICATION
The role requires someone with a relevant qualification who can confidently lead a team and support men experiencing a suicidal crisis. You will need to be able to effectively conduct risk assessments and deliver our clinically proven therapeutic intervention to ensure client safety. Strong therapeutic communication, the ability to work autonomously and teamwork skills are also essential to this role, as well as the ability to build trust and hope. 
 
Essential
Qualification(s)

• A Core Profession such as Mental Health Nurse, Occupational Therapist or Social Worker, counselling or practitioner psychologist registered with NMC, HCPC, or Social Work England

or

• Accreditation as a psychological therapist, psychotherapist, or counsellor registered with BACP, UKCP, BABCP or equivalent, or have completed training and awaiting accreditation

 
You must hold a relevant qualification to be considered for this role.
 
Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Experience of leading, supervising and developing a team or others
• Experience of holding supervision, reflective practice and/or case management with colleagues 
• Experience of decision making, when asked by colleagues for advice and support 
• Experience of triaging referrals and demonstrating accountability for decisions made
• Experience of modelling best practice to others and working to address issues of performance and competency when they arise
• Willingness to cover Head of Centre delegated duties when needed (e.g. leave and other absence)
• Commitment to continued professional development and can evidence additional learning since completion of core training
• Demonstrable experience working with adults experiencing acute psychological distress
• Demonstrable knowledge of social and other factors which could lead to suicidal thinking and actions
• Demonstrable knowledge of the factors contributing to male suicide
• Evidence of being able to deliver a therapeutic session and work in a therapeutic environment  
• Effective communication skills (both written and verbal)
• Good interpersonal skills with the ability to manage difficult situations
• Ability to assess, plan, implement and evaluate therapeutic interventions
• An ability to collaborate with clients in the development of a person centred, individual intervention plan
• An ability to engage clients in the intervention plan, overcoming barriers to communication
• Ability to conduct effective risk assessments and collaborative safety plans with men who are presenting with high risk of suicide, or be willing and able to learn how to do so
• Ability to identify if the James’ Place service is not adequate to maintain the person’s safety and facilitate rapid transfer to the most appropriate service 
• Ability to maintain boundaries within a time-limited intervention 
• Ability to work as an effective team member
• Ability to manage and prioritise own workload, using own initiative and confidence in decision making
• Strong time management
• Ability to maintain up to date client records in line with James’ Place standards
• Ability to maintain own personal safety and the safety of others within the centre
• Knowledge and understanding of Safeguarding Procedures

 
Values

• Commitment to clinical supervision 
• Ability to engage with James’ Place values 
• Ability to promote people’s equality, diversity and rights 
• Ability to work collaboratively and demonstrate commitment to co-production
• Ability to be transparent, honest and show discretion when needed 
• Commitment to suicide prevention and working with men in a suicidal crisis 

 
WE OFFER

• A 7% employer contributory pension scheme
• Family friendly policies
• Death in service insurance scheme 
• 25 days plus bank holidays leave entitlement (FTE), including enhanced holiday allowance with incremental rises after qualifying period 

 
HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please use the online application system to submit your CV detailing your experience, roles and responsibilities, and answer the screening questions. 
 
If you have any queries or experience challenges with the application process, please cnotact us directly.
 
Closing date: Friday 22nd May, 5pm 
Interviews are expected to be held in person week commencing 1st June.
 
Our aim is to recruit clinicians who are representative of the communities of men who will access treatment at James' Place London. We particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups and those who have experience delivering therapy within culturally diverse communities, particularly in widely spoken languages within those communities.
 
James’ Place is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community. Our aim is that no job applicant, temporary worker or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender and transgender status, race and ethnicity, religion and belief (including no belief), marriage or civil partnership status or sexual orientation.
 
If you have a disability or health conditions which means you'd benefit from any adjustments to the interview process to help you perform at your best, please do let us know in advance.
 
Any job offers made are subject to the receipt of two relevant satisfactory employment references. We expect this to include one from your most recent or current employer. Any job offers made are also subject to a satisfactory DBS check and a Right to Work in the UK check.
 
REF-228 537

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We have embarked on our 10-year strategy for ending homelessness. We know it is not inevitable. We know together we can end it.

Crisis Skylight Merseyside offer direct services to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Alongside our frontline service offer, we develop and lead strategy and partnership projects to deliver positive change for homeless people in Merseyside.

Location: Crisis Skylight Merseyside, 96 Kent Street, L1 5BD

Hours: 35 per week between the hours of 8.30am – 5pm

Contract: We are currently recruiting for two permanent vacancies

Salary: £30,808 per annum

About the role

As a Reception/Administrator for the Skylight, you will play a key role in supporting the Skylight team to support individuals that are homeless or at risk of homelessness. You will ensure that the Skylight runs effectively and efficiently. You will deliver the right processes and support for your colleagues to have an effective and impactful role in supporting Crisis members to prevent and end their homelessness.

You will be the first point of contact for anyone contacting the Skylight Centre and will provide a positive welcome to Crisis, being an ambassador for our services.

The key to success will be your ability to collaborate constructively and effectively as part of the Crisis team.

As a Reception/Administrator as part of the front of house team you will:

· Cover all reception responsibilities providing a safe and welcoming area for Skylight staff, clients and volunteers, providing effective Information and Guidance (IAG) to the vulnerable client group.

· Be responsible for the official opening/closing of the office in line with the H&S policies.

· Assess members at reception upon presentation and take appropriate action as to whether it is safe for them or others to access the service at that time utilising a trauma informed approach in line with confidentiality policies and procedures.

· Provide efficient and effective administrative and logistical support to the Crisis Skylight team, ensuring that all systems and structures contribute to the delivery of high-quality services to members and the smooth running of the office.

The key to success will be your ability to collaborate constructively and effectively as part of the Crisis team. 

Skills, knowledge, and experience vital to succeeding in this role:

· Experience of providing customer service and advice within a reception environment, with a commitment to deliver the highest standard of customer care. 

· Experience of working with vulnerable or marginalised groups, assessing need and providing information, advice and guidance.

· Excellent organisation and prioritisation skills with the ability to successfully manage a busy and diverse workload. 

· Experience of providing administrative support including updating Case Management Systems, general office duties and maintaining accurate records. 

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work successfully with disadvantaged /or socially excluded groups and individuals. 

Please see the full Job Pack linked below, for a full list of requirements for this role. We realise that long lists of criteria can be daunting, and you may not want to apply for a role unless you feel 100% qualified. However, if you feel you have relevant examples to answer the screening questions in the application form, we encourage you to apply.

We believe diversity is a strength, and our aim is to make sure that Crisis truly reflects the communities we serve. We are actively working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can thrive and make their best contribution to our mission of ending homelessness for good. We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of homelessness, and people from all marginalised groups, communities, and backgrounds. 

Working at Crisis 

Our values, Bold, Impactful, Collaborative and Equitable, are at the heart of everything we do as we continue in our mission to end homelessness.

Our staff, members and volunteers are vital to getting the right government policies in place, providing breakthrough services, and building a supportive community. We’ll lead by example to nurture a positive and ambitious workplace guided by ending homelessness. 

As a member of the team, you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including: 

• A competitive salary. Please note, our salaries are fixed to counter inequity and we do not negotiate at offer stage
• Interest free loans for travel season ticket, cycle to work, and deposit to secure a tenancy
• Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8.5% 
• 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata) which increases with service to 31 days and the option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental, and adoption pay.
• Wellbeing Leave to be used flexibly And more! (Full list of benefits available on website) 

Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience, and career. 

When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.

How do I apply?

Please click on the 'Apply for Job' button below. Our shortlisting process is anonymised as part of our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We do not ask for CVs, instead we ask you complete the work history section and answer the screening questions for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively. At least two members of staff score all applications.

Closing date: Wednesday 20th May 2026 at 23:59

Interview process: Competency-based interview

Interview date and location: Wednesday the 3rd June or Thursday the 4th June, 2026. Crisis Skylight Merseyside, 96 Kent Street, Liverpool, L1 5BD

AI in Job Applications

We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences.

Accessibility 

We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please contact our Talent Acquisition team to discuss how we can help. 

For more information about our work please visit our website

Registered Charity Numbers: E&W1082947, SC040094 

A great opportunity to join our Sussex focussed charity as we embark upon a new 4 year strategy.

This is a senior, high-impact post. You will lead on business development and income generation — writing bids, building partnerships and developing strategy — working closely with the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team.

A key part of the role is dedicated to securing funding for our Lost Woods Project, a multi-agency community development initiative running until November 2027.

Key responsibilities include:

• Designing and driving an organisational Business Development Strategy
• Writing and submitting high-quality grant applications and competitive tender bids (including £150k+ bids)
• Maintaining a strong pipeline of funding and contract opportunities
• Building and sustaining strategic partnerships across the public, voluntary and private sectors
• Leading on AirS communications, marketing and profile-raising
• Supporting smooth handover of awarded contracts into delivery

What We're Looking For

Essential:

• Proven track record of securing grant funding and winning contracts, including large bids of £150,000+
• Experience of collaborative bidding and partnership development
• Management experience in a similar organisation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience of CRM systems
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills
• Knowledge of the national and local funding landscape and public sector commissioning
• Educated to degree level or equivalent

Desirable:

• Knowledge of the voluntary and community sector in Sussex
• Experience of Social Value and Theory of Change impact evaluation
• Formal fundraising or project management qualification
• Knowledge of community asset development, rural housing or nature-based solutions

Personal attributes: You are self-motivated, highly organised, calm under pressure, and a genuine completer-finisher. You can write compelling bids, build trusted relationships, and present confidently to a range of audiences.

Accountable to: Head of Finance and Operations Staff responsibilities: None initially (line management potential)

Salary: £45,000 (pro rata) Hours: 35 hours per week (part-time considered at 28 hours) Contract: Permanent Location: Lewes, Sussex — hybrid working.

AirS is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.

As Head of Finance, you will be a member of the Executive Team, supporting the Chief Executive with the overall direction and long-term financial viability of the Charity. You will be accountable for developing and implementing the organisation’s financial strategy, delivering effective financial planning, monitoring and reporting, and maintaining sound financial and risk management systems.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide sound financial advice to the Chief Executive, Board of Trustees and senior managers to support effective leadership and management of the Charity
• Lead financial planning, budgeting, cash flow management and resource allocation, ensuring strong processes for performance monitoring at all levels
• Establish and oversee financial reporting systems, monitoring key performance indicators and delivering management information to the Board
• Take responsibility for compliance with accounting, tax and regulatory requirements, ensuring internal financial systems and controls are robust and scalable
• Undertake the role of Company Secretary, ensuring all statutory and regulatory governance obligations are met
• Lead procurement of systems, products and services, driving cost savings and value for money in line with the Charity Governance Code
• Oversee relationships with banks, auditors, payroll providers, insurers and charity finance specialists, ensuring the Charity manages its assets effectively
• Ensure appropriate risk management techniques and financial controls are embedded at strategic and operational levels

About you:

This role will suit a fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) with senior-level finance leadership experience in a charity or not-for-profit organisation of comparable scale. You will bring strong technical knowledge of Charity SORP, charity law and financial governance, a collaborative leadership style, and the confidence to operate with minimum direction in a small Executive Team. Experience of company secretarial duties and charity governance is essential.

Benefits:

• Private medical insurance provided through Bupa after 1 years’ service
• Continuous training and professional development opportunities
• Staff wellbeing events throughout the year
• Team building days
• Employee Assistance Programme - this is a scheme run by Dudley Lodge for its employees. It enables staff to gain access to qualified advisors for a wide range of services day or night.
• Cash plan - After 1 year’s continuous employment, you can opt for free cover under this Cash Plan policy.
• A pension scheme with Standard Life, Dudley Lodge contributes 5% towards your pension, also matching additional employee contributions up to 7.5%. The company will increase its contribution to 10% after an employee has reached their 10 years’ service, on condition employees contribute the same.
• Life Assurance - Group Life Assurance Policy with Unun Life.  Life. The scheme provides a tax-free benefit to all permanent employees, paying a lump sum amount of 2 x salary in the event of death in service.
• Free tea, coffee, water and fruit for all staff
• Enhanced holidays:
• 27 days plus 8 bank holidays - up to 5 years continuous employment
• 34 days plus 8 bank holidays - over 5 years continuous employment
• Flu Vaccine: For Staff that do not qualify for the flu vaccine through the NHS
• Bike (Cycle) Scheme: Staff can purchase a bike (max, £1000 or 50% of monthly contractual salary). The employee cycle loan request form should be completed for validation.
• Long Service Awards: We value our staff and to show recognition we offer long service awards.

Our Commitment Statement

Our expectation of all staff is to demonstrate kindness, empathy, and fairness to all.

Dudley Lodge strive to provide an inclusive working environment and experience, where employees can bring their best, and authentic self to work. Where difference is recognised, respected, valued, and celebrated.

Our approach to inclusion and diversity is rooted in listening, learning and acting. This includes conducting ongoing listening forums across the company, the implementation of Inclusion & Diversity talking/support groups, workshops and training, good quality supervision, surveys and collaborative working parties. All with the core aim to receive honest feedback, reflect and continuously strive to be the best that we can be. 

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.

Dudley Lodge is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

• Location: Birmingham, Bristol, or London 

• Permanent contract  

• Term Time - 35 hours per week over 48 weeks (Sep-July with August as leave)   

• 23,833 (+£1,833 London Weighting where applicable) paid over 12 months (£26,000 FTE equivalent) 

• Start Date: 1st September 

A fantastic opportunity for individuals with experience in youth facilitation and stakeholder management to join our team as a Programme Coordinator. You will join a team that is determined and energetic; reflective and collaborative; and values the experiences and backgrounds of each person we work with.    

As a Programme Coordinator (PC) you will be at the frontline of our work, working directly with schools and colleges, young people and local businesses to make an impact! You will be responsible for all aspects of programme management and delivery of the Envision programme in a cluster of schools/colleges in your region.   

Key Responsibilities:  

• Programme delivery and facilitating work with young people  

• Programme management and logistics  

• Stakeholder management   

• Impact management   

Essential Experience, Knowledge and Competencies:  

• Experience of facilitating activities with young people – including preparing engaging sessions in advance by utilising resources available to them  

• Experience of project management – highly organised, with the ability to manage your own time to meet deadlines  

• Experience of working on projects which have multiple stakeholders – communicating effectively through written and verbal communication  

• Commitment to Envision’s vision, mission and values and ability to work well in, and contribute to, our organisational culture  

Desirable Experience, Knowledge and Competencies:  

• Experience of data handling – collecting and recording data in a timely manner using an online CRM system  

• Understanding of, and/ or lived experience of, the barriers that young people face, that contribute to the education and employment gap  

Envision seeks to ensure we achieve diversity in our workforce and that all applicants and employees receive equal and fair treatment, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability or nationality. We encourage applications with lived experience to apply as they are currently under- represented in our organisation. Envision graduates will be guaranteed a first round interview.   

To apply you must please read the application pack and apply through CharityJobs.  

Deadline - Midnight 31st May 2026 

Please note:   

- We will be interviewing as we go along, so early applicants are encouraged.   

- Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Unfortunately we are unable to sponsor visas at this time.   

- We will only be contacting candidates who have been shortlisted for interview. Therefore, if we do not contact you, please assume you have been unsuccessful.   

- We also regret to inform you that, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we will be unable to provide you with feedback regarding your application.   

Contract:  12 months fixed term contract, maternity cover, full time

Salary:  £52,200 – £56,400 per annum         

Location:  Burford, Oxfordshire, with hybrid working, minimum two days per week in the office

Closing date:  Friday 22 May 2026

Interview date:  1, 4 or 5 June 2026

At Blue Cross, data plays a critical role in how we deliver services for pets and the people who care for them. We are looking for a Head of Data and Insights to provide senior leadership across our data and insight capability, ensuring data is used as a strategic asset to inform decision making, improve performance, and strengthen our impact as a charity.

A key focus during this 12-month period will be supporting critical transformation activity across the organisation, including the Central Platform project and the migration of data from the outgoing Rehoming and Fostering application into Microsoft Dynamics 365, alongside the continued development of our wider data and insights capability.

More about the role

As Head of Data and Insights, you will shape and deliver our data strategy, driving improvements in how we capture, manage, and use data across the organisation. You will lead the development of high quality insight and reporting that supports both strategic and operational decision making, while strengthening data governance, quality, and compliance.

A key focus during this period will be providing direction and support to the Central Platform project, ensuring the safe, accurate, and effective migration of data into Microsoft Dynamics 365. You will also oversee the rebuilding of all reporting capability required by the Rehoming and Fostering teams within the new system, ensuring continuity of insight and decision making throughout the transition.

Alongside this, you will continue to lead the wider Data and Insights function, ensuring data is embedded as a trusted organisational asset. You will strengthen our approach to analytics, insight, and data maturity, while promoting a data driven culture across Blue Cross.

As a senior leader within the Information Services team, you will lead and develop a high performing team, contribute to wider technology and organisational strategy, and build strong relationships with senior stakeholders, including the Executive Team and Trustees.

About you

You are an experienced data leader with strong delivery capability in complex transformation environments. You are confident operating at both strategic and operational levels, able to balance long term data strategy with hands on delivery support in critical programmes.

You bring experience of leading data migration, reporting transformation, or large scale system change, ideally within complex organisations with multiple stakeholders and legacy systems. You are confident influencing senior leaders, providing clear direction, and ensuring delivery remains focused on organisational priorities.

You are collaborative, pragmatic, and solutions focused, with the ability to bring clarity to complex data and system landscapes and translate them into actionable outcomes.

Essential Qualifications, Skills, and Experience

• Significant experience in a senior data, insight, or analytics leadership role 
• Strong expertise across data disciplines, including data governance, architecture, analytics, and insight generation 
• Proven experience of developing and delivering data strategies that drive measurable organisational impact 
• Experience of leading, managing, and developing high performing teams 
• Demonstrable experience of influencing senior stakeholders and enabling evidence led decision making 
• Strong analytical capability, with experience of working with complex datasets to generate actionable insight 
• Experience working within complex organisations with multiple systems and diverse data sources 
• Sound understanding of data protection, information governance, and relevant legislation, including GDPR and PECR 
• The ability to demonstrate, understand and apply our Blue Cross values.   

Desirable qualifications, skills, and experience

• Experience working within a not for profit or charitable organisation 
• Experience of business intelligence and data visualisation tools, such as Power BI 
• Experience of working with cloud-based data platforms, such as Azure 
• Experience of implementing advanced analytics approaches, including predictive modelling or Artificial Intelligence 
• Experience of building organisational data capability through training or communities of practice

How to apply 

Click the apply button and complete the online application process before the closing date. 

Assessment process
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend a face-to-face interview which will include a presentation task provided in advance, followed by a Q&A session.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of suitable applications, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Blue Cross benefits

Our people are the most important part of delivering our purpose. If it were not for their amazing efforts and commitment, we would not be able to make the difference that we do today.  

In return, Blue Cross wants to ensure we provide you with the best working environment we can. We want you to be happy working for us and will do everything we can to make sure you are.  

Our generous benefits package includes: 

• Full time equivalent of 38 days holiday rising to 43 with service (including Bank Holidays)  
• Programmes for physical and mental wellbeing support  
• Free access to GP via MetLife- 24/7 GP services, private prescriptions and more for you and your family   
• Health cash plan  
• Unlimited access to an employee assistance programme  
• Pension scheme with enhanced employer contribution   
• Professional fees paid with Continuing Professional Development and personal development support.  
• Life assurance   
• 20% discount on Pet Plan pet insurance   
• Enhanced family friendly policies   
• Recognition scheme   
• Annual volunteer days  
• Charity worker discounts across a variety of retailers 

To read more about the benefits Blue Cross has to offer, please visit the 'why work for us' page on our website.

Today, 12 children and young people will be diagnosed with cancer. We’ll stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.  ​

• Directorate: Innovation, Policy & Systems Change
• Reporting into: Associate Director of Research, Learning and Systems Change
• Colleagues reporting into role: No direct reports at present. However, coaching and managing of volunteers and/or consultants is expected. 
• Location: You can be home-based anywhere in the UK, with travel for meetings. You can also choose to work from our Bristol or London offices.
• Closing date: Monday 8 June at 12 midday
• Interview dates: Monday 15 June and Tuesday 16 June (please tell us in your application if you cannot attend interview on one of these days)

Change lives in a life-changing career

When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it’s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain.

The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. And that impact can be felt by entire family. That’s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer.

We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise well-being. And we stop at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time.

About the role

We’re looking for a Head of Research & Evidence to join our ambitious Research, Learning & Systems Change Team. 

Young Lives vs Cancer has a strong and growing commitment to changing the system for children and young people with cancer, and their loved ones. Our North Star vision and Time is Now Strategy focus on influencing how the wider system works – from services and policy to practice on the ground – so that families get the support they need.

The Head of Research and Evidence sits in the Research, Learning & Systems Change team, within our Innovation, Policy & Systems Change Directorate. The role is responsible for ensuring our work is grounded in strong, credible and useful evidence, and that learning is actively used to shape decisions, practice and change across the system.

This is a leadership role within a small but ambitious team. You will set direction and provide thought leadership, but you will also be hands on – designing, commissioning, managing and using research alongside colleagues and partners.

Building trusted relationships and using evidence to influence thinking and action are central. You will work with colleagues, children and young people, families, and partner organisations (such as the North Star Cancer Collective) to learn, strengthen credibility and create change.

This role is subject to a Criminal Record Check. In the event of a successful application, a Basic Criminal Record Check will be completed. A previous conviction is not necessarily a barrier to employment. We encourage qualified applicants to apply, and we will consider each case individually.

What will I be doing?

No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your ‘day to day’ isn’t easy. You’ll work as part of a strong internal team, collaborating closely with colleagues across the organisation and with key external partners to generate, use and apply evidence that supports learning, influence and system change. Here are some of the main things you’ll be doing, but you’ll find more details in the job description and pack:

• You’ll be setting the direction for research and learning, leading a clear and purposeful research programme focused on the psychosocial experiences of children and young people with cancer. You’ll ensure research is high‑quality, ethical and impactful, including commissioning work with partners and contributing to research funding bids.

• You’ll be understanding needs and experiences to grow a strong, credible evidence base, building and using robust evidence on need, inequality, impact and progress to inform strategy, services, policy and system change. You’ll ensure children, young people and families meaningfully shape research and that insight is shared in clear, practical ways.

• You’ll be providing system insight and leadership, analysing how the system works, identifying trends and pressures, and using evidence to guide where change is most needed. You’ll build trusted relationships across the voluntary sector, NHS and research community, sharing learning and strengthening our credibility and influence.

• You’ll be turning learning into action and influence, helping teams apply research to real‑world practice and supporting testing, learning and improvement over time. You’ll put feedback and learning loops in place and assess how research‑informed change is affecting practice and outcomes.

What do I need? 

Diverse perspectives and unique skill sets are at the heart of Young Lives vs Cancer. If you're passionate about making a positive impact and eager to learn, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet the criteria and person specification fully. Your potential is what matters most to us, and we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment to help you develop.

The key skills we’re looking for in this role are:

• Experience leading and delivering research, including setting direction, choosing methods, commissioning or carrying out research, analysing data, and ensuring high quality and ethical practice.

• Strong research and analytical skills, with confidence working with both qualitative and quantitative data and evidence, and turning insight into practical action.

• Experience using evidence to support change, such as shaping strategy, influencing policy, improving services or supporting system change.

• Experience working across organisations, building trusted relationships with colleagues, partners, and where appropriate, children, young people and families.

• Ability to communicate complex research clearly and accessibly to different audiences, in writing and in conversation.

• A collaborative way of working, with strong people skills, curiosity and a learning mindset, and a clear commitment to equity, inclusion and anti‑oppressive practice.

What will I gain?

For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you’ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here’s how we do it:

• Flexible working: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage
• Well-being, Thinking & Growth Days: four days a year to to step back from the day-to-day and focus on your own learning and development
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Great family/caring leave entitlements
• Enhanced pension
• Access to our employee savings scheme

To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation – or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don’t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it.

We’re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren’t there yet, and we’re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more.

To ensure fairness and consistency to select the best candidate for this role, all our applications are anonymised up until an interview has been confirmed. We recognise the benefits of AI, but if you're considering using it to submit your application, we encourage you to reflect on the value AI adds. AI tools often lack the personal touch and authenticity that set candidates apart. We want to hear your unique perspective, experiences, and skills, so we encourage you to tell us about your skills and experiences in your own voice.

Accessibility

We’re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible. Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.

To hear more about this role, please sign up to one of our informal drop in sessions taking place at 12:30pm on Tuesday 26th May and 17:30pm on Monday 01st June.

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