Independence support services manager jobs

About Us

BeyondAutism is a UK charity dedicated to ensuring autistic children and young adults access the education and support they need to thrive. Founded in 2000, we provide specialist services from Early Years through Post-19, alongside outreach, training, and national influence.

Our approach is rooted in understanding behaviour as communication. We champion individuality, independence, and ethical, person-centred support that improves quality of life.

The Role

We’re looking for a creative and organised Digital and Content Officer to help bring our work to life online.

You’ll work across teams to create, manage, and publish engaging digital content that showcases our impact, strengthens our brand, and supports our mission.

This is an ideal role for someone passionate about storytelling, digital marketing, and making a difference.

Key Responsibilities

Content Creation & Management

• Capture and create engaging content (videos, photos, stories) across services and teams
• Manage and organise digital assets (SharePoint)
• Ensure content reflects diversity and follows consent guidelines

Social Media

• Plan and publish content across Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok
• Create graphics and video content using tools like Canva or Adobe
• Monitor channels, respond to messages, and engage with audiences
• Track performance and optimise content using analytics

Digital Communications

• Write and send email campaigns
• Create and update website content
• Maintain consistent brand tone, style, and messaging

General

• Support safeguarding and adhere to all organisational policies
• Collaborate across teams and support wider digital projects

About You

Essential:

• Experience creating content for digital platforms (written, visual, video)
• Strong social media planning and management skills
• Excellent communication and copywriting skills
• Good eye for design and attention to detail
• Photography and/or videography skills
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks
• Proactive, collaborative, and able to work independently

Desirable:

• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, or CapCut
• Knowledge of SEO, analytics, and content strategy
• Experience with email marketing platforms
• Understanding of accessibility and GDPR
• Experience working in the charity sector

Benefits

• Competitive pension scheme (matched contributions)
• Hybrid and flexible working options
• Season ticket and cycle-to-work loans
• Ongoing professional development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 support)
• Perkbox discounts and rewards
• Onsite counselling support
• Employee referral bonus (£400)
• Eye care vouchers

Additional Information

• Line Manager: Digital and Content Manager
• Probation Period: 6 months
• Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS required

BeyondAutism is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young adults.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Ambitious about Autism is looking for a passionate and proactive Job Coach to be based at Chessington World of Adventure, working as part of our Supported Internship Programme delivered by Ambitious College in partnership with Project dfn Search.

This is an exciting opportunity to support autistic young people to develop workplace skills, build independence and progress towards meaningful, sustained employment within a vibrant and inclusive working environment.

About the Role

As a Job Coach, you will provide tailored training and on-the-job support to interns placed within Chessington World of Adventure. You will work closely with interns, host business staff, parents and carers to ensure each intern is supported to succeed and reach their employment goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide individualised, on-site job coaching and training to interns within the host business
• Support interns to develop workplace skills, confidence and independence
• Work collaboratively with Chessington World of Adventure managers and staff to support inclusive employment practices
• Liaise regularly with parents and carers to share progress and address any support needs
• Monitor intern progress against agreed outcomes and contribute to reviews and reports
• Promote positive behaviour, wellbeing and professional workplace standards
• Support interns to transition into sustained paid employment where possible

About You

You will be committed to supporting autistic young people and have a strong belief in their potential to succeed in the workplace. You will be adaptable, patient and confident working in a busy employment setting.

You will ideally have:

• Experience supporting young people or adults with additional needs, disabilities or barriers to employment
• An understanding of autism and inclusive employment practices (or a strong willingness to learn)
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• The ability to work independently while also being part of a wider team
• A flexible, solution-focused approach

Why Join Us?

• Make a real difference to the lives of autistic young people
• Work in a unique and dynamic setting at Chessington World of Adventure
• Be part of a supportive, values-driven organisation
• Access training, development and ongoing support

Closing date: Tuesday 5th May 2026

Shortlisting Date: Wednesday 6th May 2026

Interview date: Monday 11th May 2026

Start Date: June 2026

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

Role purpose
Providing independent Health complaint advocacy for a statutory rights based service under the Health and Social Care Act 2014, empowering qualifying individuals to raise concerns, speak up, and participate in decisions about their care and treatment. The post focuses on ensuring individuals have dignity and respect, clarifying options to challenge decisions, and supporting involvement, independence, and wellbeing. It is also about helping in providing accessible information, facilitating advocacy escalation if necessary, in writing to the parliamentary and Health service ombudsman, whilst  monitoring outcomes of individuals to improve experiences towards suitable resolutions.

This role will include listening and providing information and representing people’s views. You may be asked to support people by attending Best Interests Meetings, Review Meetings, Safeguarding meetings, Hospital PALS Manager’s Meetings, Community Mental Health meetings, Social Care Practitioners meeting, Mental Health Review Tribunals, Ward Round Meetings and Care Plan Approach meetings focussing on solutions to any NHS complaint

We must provide advocacy to Ealing residents over 18. You will ensure that people have their voice heard, views and rights understood and feel more in control of decisions affecting them.

Key Responsibilities

- Provide people with information about their rights

- Help people understand the information given to them and the options available

- Empower individuals to challenge and raise concerns themselves about their care and treatment.

- When required liaise with key health care professionals, parliamentary and health ombudsman on behalf of individuals when required

- Represent key meetings when required

- Delivering IHCA Advocacy Awareness campaigns and other workshops in person and online when required.

- Understanding Safeguarding and GDPR compliance.

- Administrative duties include the completion of case notes, quarterly reports, managing the inbox, triaging referrals to ensure they meet the eligibility requirements, and onboarding clients onto the database.

- Action planning with the client, identifying goals and empowering them to create this document and own it collaboratively

- Work in line with the Advocacy Charter

- Following our non-instructed advocacy policy to ensure those who have communication issues, still get effective representation.

- Also, an understanding of IMCA.

Person Specification

Essential:

• At least 2 years’ experience/knowledge of providing Independent Health Complaint Advocacy towards the NHS
• Excellent listening skills
• Strong communication and case planning skills
• Completed Kate Mercer Advocacy Training (formal external qualification) or equivalent.
• The ability to build good relationships
• Commitment to equitable access and digital proficiency.
• Ability to work to deadlines and work independently
• Flexibility, reliability, and confidence when speaking with a range of people
• Experience and good working knowledge in Microsoft Office products
• Excellent report writing skills
• Knowledge and experience of supporting people with learning and communication difficulties
• An awareness of diversity and ability to research complex and sensitive issues independently and quickly

Desirable:

· Lived experience of mental health

· Driving license

· Other Languages

Post is subject to a DBS check.

We are an equal opportunities employer and are proud to employ a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified people from all backgrounds.

This is a service commissioned by Liverpool City Council to deliver Children's residential support in line with statutory requirements, utilising therapeutic approaches.

The service provides a nurturing environment within our high-quality home, supporting the needs of children who have experienced trauma, neglect, rejection, and whose basic needs have not been met.

Our home offers children a safe space to enjoy themselves with activities such as karaoke, pamper, movie and games nights alongside encouraging them to enjoy a wide range of community based activities.

Children also benefit from having the opportunity to enjoy an annual holiday/short break. 

We support our children to learn independence skills e.g. cooking meals, baking, budgeting, completing domestic tasks etc.

In line with Barnardo's Equality, Diversity & Inclusion values, we promote awareness and acceptance in a variety of forms, including monthly theme nights.

On top of that, Saturday is takeaway night, so you even get a night off from cooking!

The support we provide today is vital in sustaining our children in the next chapter of their lives. You would play a huge part in this exciting role, making a real impact to changing the lives of our children.

The home provides a truly therapeutically focussed environment that can meet the needs of children who require support to manage their behaviours safely, develop their resilience and prepare them for the demands of future life with their own families or within other settings.

As a Senior Residential Children & Young People Worker you will, on a rota basis, undertake the following:

• 3 on 4 off pattern across the year, with rotas completed at least one month in advance.
• Sleep ins - approximately 2 per month with an additional payment of approximately £68/sleep,
• Waking nights (approximately 2 per month)
• Opportunities to complete additional hours at an enhanced rate of pay.
• Some weekend working, on a rota basis
• Some bank holiday working – enhanced rates of pay for bank holiday working.

Designated days off are given following sleep ins and waking nights to promote wellbeing and recovery.

Your role:

• Engage with and support children in all aspects of their lives, attending to their practical, physical, and emotional needs, whilst safeguarding each young person at all times.
• Support allocated keyworkers to ensure all information pertinent to the child's everyday life is completed and collated, to demonstrate the journey of the child whilst residing at the home.
• Provide practice based supervision to our As & When (bank) workers, liaising with managers to ensure continuity of care, Continued Professional Development and regulatory compliance.
• On a rota basis you will support the management team to provide out of hours on call cover, for which you will receive an additional payment.
• On a rota basis, you will also share the responsibility (alongside other SRCYW) of being allocated as shift leader; ensuring each day is purposeful and coordinated, enhancing opportunities for positive achievements and outcomes for the children.
• Support children to engage in education and enhance their social opportunities by accessing hobbies & activities in the home and in the community.

If you have residential experience, are passionate about making improved changes to childhoods and can show understanding, tenacity, consistency of care and the ability to engage with a wide range of children – this may be the opportunity for you!

For a full description of the role, please refer to the Job description & Person specification.

What you'll get from us

In addition to the extensive organisational benefits identified below, you will receive:

• A full induction within our trauma informed charity,
• Ongoing comprehensive training package,
• Be part of a team supported by a Therapeutic Co-ordinator and also receive reflective group/individual sessions with our consultant psychotherapist,
• Monthly practice focussed supervision,
• On successfully passing probation, enrolment on a fully funded residential Diploma (if not already held)

Quote from a young person who previously lived in the home:

“…You've all really helped me become the person I am today. The amount of love you all put in, you all wanted the best for me. I'm going to miss the team of great people I have had around me”

Pay & Reward Framework

We know that our colleagues go above and beyond in delivering our vital work, driven by their passion and commitment to Barnardo's values.  We also know that we can only realise our ambitions and achieve better outcomes for more children, thanks to the talent, hard work and creativity of our people. 

For all these reasons, we are committed to a new approach to pay and reward, to ensure it is fair, attractive and progressive, which was rolled out in April 2023. This is a positive change for the charity, and a part of our People & Culture Strategy. It will assist us in supporting colleagues to belong, thrive and grow in their colleague journey at Barnardo's and in time will offer clear routes of progression for colleagues in both their career and their pay. 

Whilst the full pay band and salary range is advertised, our approach to starting salaries is to appoint between the minimum to mid-point of the pay band – this ensures that pay steps are available to reward our colleagues annually based on their contribution to excellence and alignment to our values and behaviours.  More details on Barnardo's pay framework can be found upon application. 

Benefits

Workplace Offer: What it means for you

Our hybrid working initiative is based on trust, flexibility and empowerment. We understand our workplace offer means different things to different people, and we encourage those conversations. This may mean working at one of our stores, services, working at home, in the community, at one of our Collaboration Hubs or depending on the role any combination of these. Please read through the advert carefully to understand the remits of hybrid working that will be specific to the role.

• Barnardo's believe in creating equality of opportunity in the workplace and supporting people to manage their work-life balance; we are therefore open to offering flexible working arrangements.
• Annual Leave entitlement for full-time colleagues is 26 days per annum, increasing to 27 days per annum, after 3 years Barnardo's service, 29 days per annum, after 5 years Barnardo's service and 30 days per annum, after 7 years Barnardo's service. Those working less than full time are entitled to the same level of holiday pro rata
• The ability to buy up to another 5 days annual leave via our Buy Your Leave scheme
• A host of family friendly leave options including company Maternity Paternity and Adoption pay; together with all family additional leave options
• Service related sick pay from day 1
• Access to a Group Personal Pension with a matched 4% or 6% contribution from Barnardo's. Ability to pay via salary sacrifice to garner both tax and NI savings on your own contribution
• Death in service cover of 4x annual earnings for all staff contributing to our Group Personal Pension
• Cycle2work scheme
• Interest free season ticket loans
• Discounts and cashback from at high street shops including major supermarkets, cinemas, gyms, leisure/theme parks, holidays and much more via our Benefit Portal
• 20% discount at Barnardo's stores
• Opportunity to purchase a health cash plan to claim towards dental, glasses, therapy etc
• Free access to round the clock employee assistance program for advice and support
• Access to Barnardo's Learning and Development offer

*T&C's apply based on contract

About Barnardo's

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and cultivating a culture where everyone can belong and thrive through inclusion and connectivity. We want our workforce to be reflective of the communities we work with, and for equality, diversity and inclusion to be embedded in everything we do. We are a Disability Confident Leader, are progressing our ambition to be an anti-racist organisation with Anti-Racism Commitments and actions in place and have networks for colleagues who are disabled, LGBT+, Black and Minoritised Ethnic and Women. We particularly encourage applications from Black and Minoritised Ethnic and/or disabled candidates who are currently underrepresented in our workforce. For disabled applicants, we offer reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Our basis and values

Forensic Psychologist

When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed.

Practitioner Psychologist with Forensic Background

Job Title: Forensic Psychologist

Location: Elephant and Castle based within a residential setting, with regular travel to other services as required and our central office. Some work from home may be possible (to be discussed at interview). Please note that unfortunately, this service does not have step free access.

Salary: £60,000 

NHS Equivalent Band: 8B

Shift Pattern: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday between 09:00 - 17:00

About the Role

A stimulating and rewarding opportunity has arisen for a Practitioner Psychologist with a Forensic background. You will work alongside the Group Psychological Lead and other members of the team within our Independent Approved Premises (IAP) to deliver psychological services to residents and staff. In this role, you will apply your skills and knowledge in building new teams and expand our operational delivery within our IAP. You will play a strategic role in our organisational growth with new services, with a focus on shaping service delivery; offering specialist advice, supervising assistant psychologists and postgraduate research.

Our IAP's support people who have left prison and are based within a residential setting to reintegrate into the community. They are given support and guidance to aid their reablement, resettlement and rehabilitation post prison. You will contribute towards them achieving goals necessary for their personal development and move on within the community. 

Key Responsibilities include:

• Providing high quality psychological services, contributing to the delivery of Approved Premises aims as specified by the Ministry of Justice.
• Ensuring all services are delivered in accordance with HCPC standards of conduct, performance and ethics.
• Demonstrating clinical leadership by setting direction for the psychological service and driving high standards for quality, safety and ongoing improvement.
• Exercising clinical responsibility for residents’ psychological care, showing skill and judgement in selecting appropriate assessments and interventions.
• Consulting with other parties contributing to a resident’s diagnosis, formulation, treatment and risk management in the community.
• Create opportunities to collaborate with peers including AP-based psychologists nationally and OPD pathway psychologists delivering services to APs.
• Model and facilitate a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

About You

We are seeking a dynamic and compassionate Registered Psychologist with a strong clinical and forensic background to join our team. The successful candidate will be HCPC-registered with doctoral-level training and experience working with complex client groups. We’re looking for a proactive self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, evolving environment. You’ll be an excellent communicator, able to convey complex and sensitive information with clarity and empathy. A team player at heart, you’ll build meaningful relationships, champion diversity and inclusion, and embody our values of compassion, empowerment, and innovation in everything you do. We're looking for:

• Doctoral level training accredited by the HCPC in forensic, clinical or counselling psychology
• Experience working as a registered psychologist in the criminal justice system or forensic mental health setting
• Experience of the psychological assessment and treatment of clients presenting with a range of enduring mental health conditions, complex psychological difficulties and risks to self and others
• Experience working in a psychologically informed environment and providing informed consultation to others
• Ability to teach, train, consult, and deliver clinical supervision
• Understanding of criminology, psychology, and behavioural patterns, and how they link with different behaviours and engagement
• Ability to understand and apply safeguarding protocols as they arise
• Alignment with our values of Ambition, Empowerment, Inclusivity, and Transparency

Please refer to the JDPS attached for more details on the vacancy and our requirements/key criteria.

What we Offer

• 25 days (Full time equivalent) annual leave, increasing with the length of service
• Employer Pension Contribution
• Eligibility to register with Blue Light Discount Card
• Access to discounted tickets for music events, shows, sports and more
• Reflective Practice regular sessions with a therapist provided by an external provider to support Mental Health and Wellbeing at work
• Training and Development, including access to courses, upskilling, and progression plans
• Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Annual Staff Awards
• EDI Ambassador programme

About Social Interest Group (SIG)

SIG is a not-for-profit organisation providing thousands of people with good-quality support and care in residential, drop-in centres, community floating support settings, probation settings, and hospitals. We do so across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, Kent and Liverpool. Our goal is to transform lives through empowering change. 

We believe good care and support improves lives with the vision to create healthier, safer, and more inclusive communities. Join us on our mission to empower independence through trauma-informed solutions and dynamic partnerships that keep people out of prison, out of hospital, and off the streets.
Want to know how we work? Watch our short Theory of Change video to see how we support people towards a brighter future: Theory of Change Further details can be found on our website here: Theory of Change - Social Interest Group - Social Interest Group. 

Additional Information

Please note that this job advert may close early due to screening applications on an ongoing basis. We advise applying as soon as possible for your application to be taken into consideration at the early stages.

Please note that as part of our process, we complete an enhanced DBS check, some roles may require further vetting. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact us on the details below. . 

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide sponsorship, please ensure you have full right to work in the UK prior to applying to our positions. 

Additional information on our company policies including Gender Pay, Equality and Diversity, Company Benefits and our Candidate Privacy Policy can be found on our website.

Primary Care Practitioner (Guided Self Help & Social Prescribing)

Location: Vale of Glamorgan
Hours: 28 hours per week across 4 days
Salary: £28,000 pro rata
Holiday: 25 days per year (pro rata), plus bank holidays

Make a real difference in your community

We are looking for a compassionate and motivated practitioner to join our team in the Vale of Glamorgan, delivering wellbeing support, Guided Self Help, and social prescribing across community and primary care settings.

This role focuses on supporting individuals experiencing mild to moderate, or severe but stable, mental health difficulties. You will help people better understand and manage their mental health, while connecting them to the right services and community support.

You will provide structured one-to-one support, deliver psychoeducational courses and workshops, and help people build resilience, confidence, and independence.

Working as part of an established team, you will receive referrals from GPs, other health professionals, and self-referrals, ensuring people can access timely and effective support.

About you

You will have experience working in a mental health or wellbeing setting and feel confident supporting individuals with a range of mental health needs.

You will be confident:

• Providing person-centred, strengths-based support
• Managing your own caseload and completing assessments
• Building positive relationships with individuals and partner organisations

You will have a good understanding of safeguarding, risk management, and professional boundaries, along with strong communication and organisational skills.

An interest in the voluntary and community sector is essential, as is the ability to connect people with local services and opportunities.

While full training will be provided, experience of guided self-help approaches, outcome measures (such as Recovery Star or CORE-OM), or delivering group work would be advantageous.

Above all, you will be approachable, organised, and committed to making a positive impact in your community.

Why work with us?

At Mind in the Vale of Glamorgan, we are committed to improving mental health, promoting wellbeing, and ensuring people feel heard, valued, and supported.

You will be joining a compassionate, community-focused organisation that believes in early intervention, empowerment, and person-centred support.

This is an opportunity to work at the heart of community and primary care services while staying connected to a wider network of support across the Vale — making a visible difference every day.

What we offer

• A supportive and values-driven team environment
• Opportunities to develop skills in Guided Self Help, psychoeducation, and social prescribing
• Regular supervision and ongoing professional development
• Flexible, community-based working
• The chance to be part of a trusted local mental health charity

Apply now

If you are passionate about improving mental health and supporting people to thrive, we would love to hear from you.

Please use the buttons below to view the Job Spec and submit your application via the Job Application Form.

Please note: CVs will not be accepted. Applications must be submitted using the online application form. (please click the redirected button to complete the Mind in the Vale of Glamorgan online application form).

Closing date: 30 April, 4:00pm
Interview date: Wednesday 6 May (Barry office)

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Community Engagement Practitioner to play a pivotal role in our Barnet Voluntary Community Sector service.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

You will work as part of a multidisciplinary NHS team alongside clinicians, social workers, and community partners to support adults with moderate to severe mental illness. Holding a caseload of service users, you will act as their key contact, contributing to care planning, monitoring progress, and supporting safe discharge using the RiO clinical records system. Together with service users, you will develop person-centred recovery plans focused on social goals and community integration, building strong therapeutic relationships through trauma-informed and strength-based approaches. You will help individuals access local resources, attend appointments, and engage in wellbeing activities, peer support, and psychoeducational groups. Collaboration is central to the role, as you will liaise with statutory and voluntary organisations, attend clinical meetings and community events, and advocate for recovery-focused, jargon-free communication. You will ensure accurate documentation, uphold safeguarding and health & safety standards, and actively participate in supervision, training, and professional development.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

Here's what the team will be looking for

We are looking for someone with NVQ Level 4 in Care (or equivalent) or at least two years' experience in a mental health setting. You will bring a strong understanding of mental health issues, recovery, and co-production principles, alongside experience of working collaboratively with professionals, services, and communities. Knowledge of care planning, risk assessment, recovery tools, and the Mental Health Act is essential, as are excellent communication, relationship-building, and group facilitation skills. You should be confident using IT systems, resilient and adaptable, able to work independently or as part of a team, and committed to person-centred, trauma-informed practice.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

Mind BLMK works across our communities to support positive mental health and wellbeing. Working closely with a range of partners, we offer a number of activities from our wellbeing centres and local venues to make a difference to the mental health and wellbeing of people in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes, and our aim is to make sure that no-one has to face a mental health problem alone.

Community Connector (Mental Health Resilience Worker)
Post no: 654
Working base: Dunstable CMHT (Community Mental Health Team) LU5 – Occasional cover at Leighton Buzzard
Contract type: Permanent
Salary: £26,600 per annum
Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday

Thank you for your interest in this exciting role as a Community Connector.

About the Service

We work under the supervision of the NHS Community Mental Health Teams (CMHT) across Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Bedford, employed and managed by Mind BLMK, who receive funding for this transformational offer. We are privileged to be able to work holistically with people who are under the CMHT, struggling with a range of mental health issues.

Our service users are people with a range of mild/moderate/severe mental health diagnosis of anxiety, depression, paranoid schizophrenia, bipolar, EUPD, BPD, substance misuse including alcohol and people with suicide ideation. Often people present with high risks and once we take them onto our caseload we support them in managing their symptoms to reduce risk and to enable them to access wellbeing tools and services, leading to improved mental wellbeing and a better quality of life.

About the Role

Community Connectors work as part of an integrated, blended mental health offer to support people, for approximately a 6 - 12 week duration, with emotional, social and practical needs to access a range of local, non-medical and non-clinical services, to improve confidence, social inclusion and independence.

This role will involve working as part of a multi-disciplinary team with statutory, third sector and NHS colleagues to support clients who are suffering from moderate to severe mental health difficulties. You will need to have experience working with those suffering with mental health illness as well as being able to demonstrate in depth knowledge of the services, support networks and local resources that may assist in improved outcomes for those dealing with complex and enduring mental health issues.

The ability to be adaptable, work independently and the resilience to work in some challenging environments are key attributes for this role.

A typical day in the life as a Community Connector:

• 9.15 – 11.30: Attend MDT – discuss a number of patients and treatment. This is a weekly meeting at each CMHT for reviews of those under the CMHT and includes people who are currently on the mental health wards and individuals under a section.
  Discuss any high risk cases and next steps.
  Discuss those who are ready for discharge.
• 11.30 – 12:15: Add notes to database - that have been taken during the meeting – reporting on the discussion and outcome for patients (this includes identifying next steps for professionals and tasks which the admin team need to follow up on).
• 12.15 – 13.15: First Initial assessment with a new service user – introductions and getting to know them.
  Discuss goals and what recovery means to them.
  Carry out a dialog+ (diagnostic tool).
  Clarify areas for signposting and discuss wellbeing practical support.
• 13.15 – 13.45: Lunch break
• 3.45 – 14.30: Signposting for service user
  Update data base with notes from the initial assessment and upload any documents sent to services for the new service user.
• 14.30 – 15.30: Meeting with service user in local cafe. Review of goals and progress. Review any signposted services – has the service user attended? How are they feeling? What has worked/not worked and what could be improved? Set goals to be worked towards by next session – these could be simple practice of self-affirmation/ attending a yoga class/meditation or continuing work with P2R etc. OR more practical self-care – showering/ going for a walk etc.
• 15.30 – 17.00: Catch up on admin tasks; respond to new referrals; call service users to book in appointments or to offer any well-being check-ins.

Entitlements/benefits:

• 25 days (pro rata) Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays (pro rata)
• Auto-enrolment NEST pension scheme (employer contributes 3%, employee contributes 5%)
• Health Plan with a wide variety of benefits
• Discounts available through Blue Light Card & Tickets for Good
• In-house and external Learning and Development as appropriate for the role.
• Flexible Working On request (in line with Mind BLMK policy on Right to Request Flexible Working)

If you have a passion for working in mental health and possess the required skills, we would love to hear from you.

Closedown: 5pm on Friday 8th May 2026
Please note: We reserve the right to close this advert early if enough suitable applicants apply
Start date: ASAP

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Mind BLMK has been committed to the Mindful Employer charter and the Disability Confident Employer Scheme since 2008. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

Please note: Mind BLMK follows Safer Recruitment practices and we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Therefore all our roles are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

No agencies please.

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.  

• Salary: £38,834
• 21 - 35 hours a week (Part time/full time hours available: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage)
• Up to 1 year fixed term contract (maternity cover)
• Hybrid working - home and hospital based – various possible locations available;
  • Bristol Childrens Hospital
  • Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital
  • Gloucestershire Royal Hospital
  • Derriford Hospital Plymouth
  • Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
  • Royal Cornwall Hospital

• Closing date: Sunday 26 April 2026
• Interview dates:  W/C 4 May 2026

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. 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 wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.

We challenge the systems and policies that surround children and young people, we highlight gaps and campaign for change. Because we know what a better future could look like. And we know what we need to do to make that future a reality. We need to push harder, reach further and work smarter. And we need the right people on our team to help us get there. People like you.

About the role

We’re looking for a Social Worker to support children and young people diagnosed with cancer in our South West Team. 

We pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality support tailored to the needs of the children and young people and their families using a needs based assessment framework. The work we do is rewarding but also complex and demanding. You will be part of a close-knit Young Lives vs Cancer social work team, working with an established NHS multi-disciplinary team and services in the community.

This role is part home, part site-based. Your contractual base will be both Home and Hospital.

This role is subject to a criminal record check. In the event of a successful application, an enhanced 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.

This role is also subject to a Social Work Registration, with Social Work England.

What do I need? 

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

• A recognised Social Worker qualification and current registration with Social Work England/ Scottish Social Services Council/Social Care Wales/Northern Ireland Social Care Council
• Experience working with children, young people and their families/carers in a social care setting.
• Experience of working in a multi-disciplinary environment, ideally in an NHS setting.
• Sound knowledge of child and young people development.
• An understanding of the impact of serious illness for children, young people and their families.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.

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
• Wellbeing days: four days a year to do what works for you – from catching up on training to going for a walk
• 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. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. 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 arrange an informal chat, please contact Craig Pearce.

#ShowTheSalary

37.5 hours per week / permanent / working Monday to Friday 9am-5pm.

YMCA DownsLink Group is the leading charity for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey. We offer safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice.

We believe that every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside them to make that happen.

We are here for children and young people, many of whom face multiple challenges and need our support.

Our Values - we do what’s right, we work with heart, and we build real connections – guide us in all our actions.

Do you take pride in creating safe, welcoming homes that make a real difference in young people’s lives?

Our Maintenance team works across multiple properties to ensure our residents have safe, good‑quality homes. We work closely with service staff to identify and complete repairs, carry out ad hoc cleaning and decoration, ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, and prepare empty homes for new residents.

We operate across West Sussex, centred around our Foyers in Horsham and Crawley, which provide 24‑hour supported housing for young people aged 16–25. We also manage several larger shared houses (typically 4–8 residents) through our Transitional Housing teams, supporting young people on their journey to independence.
In total, the team helps maintain safe homes for approximately 300 residents across the county.

As a Maintenance Worker covering sites across West Sussex, you will take on a hands‑on role combining practical maintenance tasks with caretaking responsibilities. You will help create and maintain safe, welcoming, and psychologically informed accommodation for the people we support.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide a comprehensive maintenance, caretaking, and cleaning service to ensure safe, welcoming, and psychologically informed accommodation.
• Carry out day‑to‑day maintenance across our West Sussex sites, with occasional support to other housing schemes.
• Complete maintenance, cleaning, repair, and redecoration works within agreed timescales, delegating tasks where appropriate.
• Perform or delegate general caretaking and cleaning duties, including cleaning communal areas, litter‑picking, and waste removal.

If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t match every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply. We know that skills and potential come in many forms, and your background may offer valuable transferable strengths.

We’re looking for a someone with a positive, flexible attitude and a genuine desire to contribute to young people’s wellbeing.

Experience and Knowledge

We are searching for someone with:

• Strong maintenance experience across a range of trade or repair tasks, including delivering high‑quality maintenance and decorating work
• Experience working in supported housing, residential, or community‑based settings
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and resident wellbeing
• Good understanding of health & safety requirements and compliance processes
• A proactive, organised approach to workload and prioritisation

Qualifications and Training (Desirable)

It would be beneficial, though not essential, if you have:

• City & Guilds or equivalent qualification in one or more maintenance skill areas
• Manual handling training
• Training in handling bodily fluids
• Boundaries training
• First Aid training