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This is an exciting role leading our committed policy team leading the fight to end child poverty in the UK. The development and implementation of a UK-wide cross-government child poverty strategy means this is a great time to join CPAG as we look to influence policy makers to adopt our evidence-based policy solutions to child poverty.

We are looking for someone to take a lead role in developing evidence-based policy positions to support CPAG’s influencing and campaigns work. You will have knowledge of political processes and how external organisations can effect change. You will have a track record of producing high quality research and analysis, including policy briefings, on social policy issues. You will have experience of managing a small team and working collaboratively to identify policy issues and develop solutions with colleagues across the organisation, as well as externally.

The postholder will be working in a fast moving, high profile and complex policy environment and will need to balance short term priorities with long term objectives. Current priorities include influencing the implementation of the forthcoming child poverty strategy, gathering and sharing analysis and expertise with the DWP as part of their review of universal credit, and monitoring the development of forthcoming changes to disability benefits.

We welcome applications from individuals with the skills and experience outlined and we can be flexible about working arrangements. We operate a hybrid working system and would be happy to discuss any flexibilities required. CPAG is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion which you can read more about in the job pack.

We welcome applications on a secondment basis.

For more information about this post and to apply download the Head of Policy job pack.

If you have questions or need specific arrangements or reasonable adjustments to take part in the selection process, please contact us.

Closing date for applications: Wednesday 14th January 2026 (midnight)

Interviews will take place: w/c 19th January 2026

The Senior Project Officer sits with the Chief Executives Office supporting the Project & Programme Manager and is responsible for championing project management best practice across the wider organisation via training, consultations, and effective stakeholder management. The post holder is also responsible for scoping, planning, and delivering small-to-medium cross-organisational change projects that bring us closer to achieving our 10-year organisational strategy, ARUK: Towards a Cure.  

Key Responsibilities:

Championing Project Management Best Practice

• Act as an advisor, mentor, and source of central project management expertise for colleagues across the charity; offering tailored project management consultations which empower colleagues to deliver their own initiatives effectively.
• Collaborate with the Project & Programme Manager to enhance and deliver ARUK’s flagship internal project management training, the ARUK Project Management Masterclass, promoting best practice and continuous improvement.

· Take ownership for maintenance and development of the Projects team intranet pages and resources, ensuring they remain relevant and accessible to colleagues across the organisation.

• Support the Project & Programme Manager with the development of a suite of project management resources to further embed project management best practice across the organisation

Project Management

· Deliver small-to-medium cross-organisational change projects, as determined by the yearly Operational Planning process, working with project teams to develop flexible, adaptable project plans. This might include but is not limited to the implementation of new third-party systems and tools, regulatory and compliance projects, new fundraising campaigns, and digital transformation projects.

· Apply sound judgement and problem-solving expertise to manage project risks, decisions, and dependencies within the wider organisational context, drive and monitor project progress against timelines, and ensure stakeholders are updated at key checkpoints.

· Demonstrate accountability by escalating project risks via appropriate channels as required.

· Proactively build and maintain strong relationships with project teams, internal stakeholders, and external partners to foster collaboration and drive successful outcomes.

· Lead project reviews to capture successes and learnings and ensure project outcomes are embedded into business-as-usual practices.

· Provide coordination support on larger programmes of work, as and when required.

What we are looking for:

· Experience managing cross-team projects, including developing project plans, allocating tasks, and managing risks, decisions, and changes.

· Sound knowledge of project management methodologies (Waterfall, Agile).

· Demonstrable ability to work with, influence, and advise a variety of internal and external stakeholders at all levels.

· Working knowledge of project management tools, such as Excel, Smartsheet, MS Projects or similar.

· Project Management qualification (e.g. PRINCE2, APM), or evidence of equivalent project management learning or experience.

· Excellent communication and people management skills, with an ability to build relationships, trust, and inspire confidence and respect at all levels.

· Strong team player who can work both independently and collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.

· Excellent planning and organisational skills, and the ability to manage a varied workload and reprioritise work in accordance with the organisation’s needs. 

· Excellent listening skills, demonstrating flexibility, curiosity, and an ability to learn.

· Strong team player who can work both independently and collaboratively with internal stakeholders at all levels of the organisation.

· Demonstrates good negotiation and influencing skills.

· Demonstrates a proactive and pragmatic approach to investigating and solving problems, strives for continuous improvement and identifies ways to deliver creative and innovative solutions.

· A good blend of strategic and analytical thinking; with an ability to see the bigger picture and make appropriate recommendations.

· Ability to absorb and process new information quickly.

· Strong ethical standards and a high level of personal integrity and empathy.

· Excellent IT skills in PowerPoint, Word and Excel.

Additional Information:

Ways of working:

As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £36,000 per annum, plus benefits

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 25th January 2026, with interviews being arranged once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.  We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, in particular those from ethnic minority backgrounds who are currently under-represented.  Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.

As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. While we strive to anonymise your CV where possible, there are certain sections, such as the application question, that cannot be fully anonymised. We kindly ask that you remove any personal information, including your name, when answering the application question. The hiring panel will not have access to your personal details, such as your name and address, until you are invited for an interview. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website. 

How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application.

About Alzheimer’s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure.  Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope. 

Assistant Benefits Advisor
Salary £24,000 FTE (rising to £27,000 per year FTE after 1 year and completion of training) 
17.5 - 21 hours per week, 6.6 weeks holiday   
Remote working with occasional travel for events and meetings in West Sussex

Are you passionate about working with SEND families? 
Do you have the transferable skills and qualities to train as a benefits advisor?

We have an exciting opportunity for someone to join a rapidly growing caring charity with the benefits of flexible family friendly working (from home), generous holiday, pension scheme, travel expenses, laptop and phone provided.  

Reaching Families was established in 2008 to empower, inform and support parent-carers and families of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities in West Sussex.  We achieve this through the delivery of our services providing information, training and peer support.

Our Benefits Advice Service provides support to parents of children and young people with SEND in West Sussex applying for Carer’s Allowance, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Personal Independent Payments (PIP).  Offering 1-2-1 advice sessions on the above benefits, support with claim checking of draft applications, information resources on benefits and other sources of financial support, and training workshops on DLA, PIP and Universal Credit.

We are looking to recruit a skilled and motivated Assistant Benefits Advisor to join our team
The post holder will be responsible for supporting our Benefits Advisor with the delivery of information, advice and guidance on Carers Allowance, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) to parent-carers of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in West Sussex.  This is a training role with the view to promotion to Benefits Advisor following completion of training. 

Person Specification (essential):
• Understanding of challenges facing parents and carers of children with SEND 
• Passionate about improving the life chances of children with SEND and their parents/carers, and families
• A highly motivated self-starter with a flexible approach to working life 
• A creative and strategic thinker 
• Committed to professional and personal development and lifelong learning 
• Ability to work independently and manage a diverse and demanding workload 
• Comfortable working with people from a diverse range of backgrounds
• Excellent inter-personal and communication skills
• Excellent writing and editing skills 
• Experience of using MS Office including SharePoint
• A good all-round education including GCSE’s (or equivalent) or NVQ level 2 

See attached job description for details and full criteria 

We welcome applications from all members of the community and value diversity in the organisation. Please contact us if you require any reasonable adjustments to be made to the application or interview process due to any disability or health requirements. 

Closing date for applications is 12th January 2026

Interviews to be held in Littlehampton on 21st/22nd January 2026

To apply please complete the attached application form and share why you feel you fit the role and person specification (see attached documents) 

Main purpose of job: To provide emotional and practical support and information to victims and survivors of sexual violence who have reported to the police, or are considering reporting to the police. 

Location: Hybrid: working from home, with regular attendance at CARA premises in Colchester and regular travel across mid and north Essex.

Preferred start date: ASAP (subject to enhanced DBS Check and satisfactory references)

Salary: £32,151 - £34,020 (pro rata).

Contract: This is a permanent contract.

Hours: 28 - 35 hours per week.  

Holiday: 25 days per year pro-rata, plus additional gift days at Christmas.

To apply: Please complete the application form, which can be downloaded from our website, explaining how your skills and experience relate to the person specification.

Application deadline: 9am, Monday 2nd February 2026.

Interviews:  Wednesday 11th February 2026.  

This post is restricted to women applicants under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1.

Job Description

Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs) provide emotional and practical support and information to victims and survivors of sexual violence who have reported to the police, or are considering reporting to the police. 

The role of an ISVA is to support victims and survivors by:

·Ensuring their voice is heard.

·Helping them make the choices that feel right for them.

·Accompanying them to important appointments and to court.

·Supporting them with their next steps after the legal process is over, regardless of the outcome of the case.

If victims and survivors are considering reporting to the police, ISVAs can also help them by:

·Providing impartial information to enable them to make an informed decision.

·Offering an overview of police processes and what to expect if they do decide to report.

·Supporting them in their next steps.

CARA provides an ISVA service to adults, young people and children who have been victims of sexual violence from across mid and North Essex, and Uttlesford.

Most ISVA clients are referred to CARA through the Police or the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC).  Clients can also refer themselves.

Duties and Responsibilities

For all clients

· To liaise with CARA’s Information and Referrals Coordinator and First Contact Navigators in supporting new referrals to the ISVA service.

· To undertake risk assessment and support needs analysis with clients.

· To develop individual service plans to address risks/support needs of clients. 

· To help clients access services to which they are entitled, e.g. through setting up fast-track referral systems to sexual health follow-up services, making referrals to mental health services, assisting with return to work/absence from work arrangements.

· To provide face-to-face and telephone support (non-therapeutic) to clients and their supporters where appropriate. 

· To help clients to develop their own support network.

· To explain criminal, legal and if relevant, civil remedies to clients.

· To provide information in relation to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme.

· Where relevant and with client’s consent, to keep other agencies informed about important changes in client’s situation.

· To consider safeguarding issues and follow CARA’s safeguarding policy and procedures.

If a client reports to the Police

· To support the client throughout their time in the criminal justice system, explaining the procedures and their role and rights within it.

· Subject to local arrangements and their wishes, to support the client at every step; from the provision of their witness statement through to a trial.

· To liaise with the police and CPS on behalf of the client.  To keep them informed about the progress of their case on behalf of the police in line with the requirements of the Victims Code of Practice.

· To participate in case conferences with the police and CPS. 

· To understand and support the need for some clients to access special measures.

General

· To manage a caseload of around 50 clients (pro rata), including adults, young people and children.

· To travel to client meetings in a variety of settings, including outreach premises and clients’ homes.

· To maintain and monitor records, using a purpose-built online database.

· To follow procedures and protocols so that the safety of the client is kept central to any process.

· To note and feedback to other agencies any difficulties clients are having accessing their service.

· To contribute to the development of service policies, protocols, guidelines and strategies within areas of practice as necessary. 

· To develop and maintain effective communication systems with key partners including the police, CPS, HMCTS, social services, education, primary care trust (mental and sexual health), Victim Support, Witness Service, CAFCASS and voluntary sector organisations.

·To participate in team meetings, supervision, training and development. 

·To participate in co-location working within Colchester and Chelmsford police stations.

· To provide specialist advice to other workers and agencies, including participation in the delivery of training sessions.

· To have a clear understanding of the myths surrounding sexual violence, and the trauma and long-term mental health effects it creates, including self-harm, suicidal feelings and suicide attempts.

· To be aware of resources available regarding interpreters, signers etc.

· To attend regular team meetings and to work with colleagues to further the objectives of CARA.

· To adhere in full to all CARA’s organisational policies and procedures, including safeguarding.

· To report to the ISVA Manager, Head of Operations, CEO and Trustees as required, including the production of written reports.

· To be administratively self-servicing.

· To undertake any other related activities as required by the ISVA Manager, Head of Operations, CEO or Board of Trustees.

About CARA

CARA (Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse) works with victims and survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse, providing independent, specialist support and promoting and representing their rights and needs. 

CARA is a registered charity working with adults of all genders, young people and children from across mid and north Essex.  We have a head office in Colchester and outreach premises in Braintree, Chelmsford, Clacton-on-Sea, Great Dunmow and Harwich.  We also provide remote services.

CARA seeks to be an inclusive organisation that actively encourages, supports and values diversity amongst both our service-users and our workers.  We wish to create a culture in which discrimination, in all its forms, is recognised and addressed.

You can read more about CARA’s commitment to diversity and inclusion on our website.  We encourage and welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds.

About Synergy East

CARA is part of Synergy East. We work closely with SERICC Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service and Southend-on-Sea Rape Crisis (SOS Rape Crisis) to deliver the contract for the Office for the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex for services for victims and survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse across Essex.

Join Emmaus Hertfordshire and use your finance skills to help transform lives and support people out of homelessness. As our Finance Co-ordinator, you'll bring accuracy, heart and organisation to a mission-driven charity making a real local impact.

Emmaus Hertfordshire is a charity supporting people who have experienced homelessness by providing stable homes, meaningful work, and skills development. Through its social enterprises, the organisation helps individuals rebuild their confidence and independence while contributing to a vibrant, supportive community.

Overall Purpose of the Role

The Finance Coordinator plays a key role in ensuring that Emmaus Hertfordshire maintains accurate, timely and compliant financial information in support of its charitable and social enterprise activities.

You will work closely with the Operations & Finance Manager, Trustees, Chief Executive, staff, companions, and external partners to provide clear financial reporting, strong financial controls, and expert guidance that supports good decision-making across the organisation.

As a proactive member of the Management Team, you will also contribute to financial policy development and continuous improvement of systems and processes, working within the Emmaus values, ethos and principles.

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Controls

• Maintain effective financial control over all revenue, expenditure, and cash handling across the community.
• Prepare spreadsheets for monthly payroll and pension contributions.
• Support the Finance Manager, Chief Executive and Treasurer in preparing, setting and creating the annual budget.
• Maintain companion rent accounts, Housing benefit and Gift Aid applications.
• Lead the year-end process and liaise with external auditors to ensure an efficient and compliant audit.

2. Financial Reporting

• Produce accurate and timely financial information, including providing information to support monthly management accounts and forecast reports.
• Support the preparation of financial reports for the Board, Committees and senior leadership as required.

3. Financial Analysis

• Undertake financial analysis of business development and new income-generation opportunities to help minimise financial risk.
• Provide analysis and insight to support decision-making across social enterprise operations and to maximise trading income.

4. Additional Duties

• Contribute to the development and implementation of strategic and business plans.
• Attend and actively participate in staff, companion, Trustee and Board meetings where required.
• Review internal controls and identify opportunities for improving financial processes.
• Develop procedure manuals and promote best practice within the finance function.
• Work flexibly as part of the leadership team to meet the wider needs of the charity.
• Undertake any other financial duties required by the Finance Manager and Chief Executive.

Key Tasks

Daily / Weekly

• Manage day-to-day accounting using QuickBooks. (Experience with Zero accounting software would be advantageous)
• Maintain accurate accounting records and financial ledgers.
• Reconcile financial accounts and manage spreadsheets.
• Oversee credit control.
• Administer online banking, cheque handling and payment processing.
• Process invoices, expense claims and payment requests.
• Verify financial calculations in QuickBooks.
• Carry out bank reconciliations and cash management.
• Manage petty cash.
• Manage Companion Allowances.
• Provide ad hoc reports and information to the Finance Manager and Chief Executive.

Monthly

• Prepare and submit salary calculator spreadsheet for Payroll and submit HMRC returns. Manage PAYE payments.
• Manage companion rent accounts and housing benefit records.
• Prepare VAT returns.
• Work with the external accountants to produce monthly P&L and balance sheet reports.
• Complete gift Aid submissions.
• Support our external accountants in preparing documentation for Month End accounts

Annually

• Support the preparation of annual statutory accounts.
• Liaise with external advisers on statutory financial information.
• Assist the Finance Manager, Chief Exec and Trustees with annual budget setting.

 Person Specification

Essential Experience

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in financial reporting, planning, budgeting, and analysis.
• Experience using QuickBooks or similar accounting software.
• Ability to work both independently and within a diverse team.
• Experience developing and implementing financial systems and processes.
• Proficiency in IT, including Microsoft Office applications.

Desirable Experience

• Experience in the voluntary/charity sector or in working with a Board of Trustees.
• Experience working with vulnerable adults or those with complex needs.
• Project management experience.

Education / Professional Certification

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business, or related field.
• Desirable: Additional finance-related training or professional development.

Skills

• Strong financial and analytical skills, with proven expertise in financial reporting.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong understanding of business principles and practices.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and motivational skills.
• Discreet, trustworthy and reliable.
• Effective time-management and organisational skills.
• Ability to work methodically, independently and to deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving and prioritisation skills.
• Competent IT user (Word, Excel, email, internet).

Knowledge and Commitment

• Commitment to confidentiality, data protection and professional boundaries.
• Understanding and embodiment of the Emmaus ethos and principles.
• Desirable: Awareness of issues around homelessness and lived experience.
• Desirable: HR knowledge or experience.

Personal Characteristics

• Belief in the potential of every individual and the importance of community.
• A positive team player with the ability to lead, collaborate and delegate.
• Empathetic and supportive of people from diverse backgrounds.
• Self-aware, self-motivated and calm under pressure.
• Commitment to environmental sustainability and social development.
• Strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Welcoming, non-judgmental and respectful towards companions, staff and volunteers.

General Information

Emmaus St Albans operates its retail six days a week (Monday–Saturday). The Finance Co-Ordinators working hours will be agreed with the line manager, and flexibility is essential.

All roles at Emmaus Hertfordshire involve working with vulnerable people and therefore require strict adherence to professional boundaries and confidentiality. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Staff must uphold the reputation of Emmaus Hertfordshire by following all policies and maintaining positive relationships with staff, volunteers, companions and Trustees.
You are also expected to engage to some degree with the wider Emmaus movement at local, regional, national and international levels.

We expect all employees to work in an environmentally aware manner, applying value-for-money principles in purchasing decisions.
Volunteers are a vital part of the Emmaus mission, and all staff are expected to support and encourage volunteer involvement.