Jobs in hackney
Action for Refugees in Lewisham (AFRIL) are recruiting for an Expert by Experience Coordinator to join our supportive and growing team. The Expert by Experience Coordinator is a new role in our small dynamic charity. The postholder will work to ensure the voices and perspectives of individuals with lived experience of asylum and forced migration are integrated into the design and delivery of AFRIL services and policy work. This role involves facilitating communication, promoting co-production, and empowering individuals to share their expertise to improve services and guide policy priorities.
The post involves coordinating our monthly Members Forum, and working with the core team to feed this into policy and service development, alongside thematic and sometimes practical support to our Allotment Steering Group, Rainbow Club Youth Council and Asylum Hotel Residents Forum. The postholder will develop the AFRIL ambassadors scheme, creating opportunities for former clients to continue to be involved in shaping AFRIL, and work with the Director to develop a governance level co-production structure as agreed with the Board of Trustees.
We are looking for a good people person, able to engage and inspire others, who demonstrates a collaborative approach to working with a range of stakeholders and in particular AFRIL clients who come from a variety of backgrounds. The postholder will be highly organised, have good project planning and execution skills, and a good working knowledge of the issues affecting refugees and asylum seekers in the UK. Community language skills are an asset.
About AFRIL
Action for Refugees in Lewisham (AFRIL) is a registered charity that supports asylum seekers, refugees, and vulnerable migrants in South East London. We support people to lift themselves out of poverty, assert their rights and rebuild their lives in the heart of our community. We provide both crisis support to meet immediate need, and longer-term, flexible programmes to tackle the underlying problems that lead people to be in crisis, supporting people to integrate, contribute and thrive. Our work is grounded in the values of professionalism, inclusivity, and solidarity. Our clients are at the heart of what we do and our approach is one of co-production and empowerment.
AFRIL delivers the following core services in the London Boroughs of Lewisham, Greenwich, Southwark, Bexley and Bromley:
-
Rainbow Club Supplementary School - providing weekly supplementary education in English and Maths, arts, music and sports activities to children from refugee, migrant and asylum seeking backgrounds from 4-11 years old, plus youth volunteering programme and Youth Council (NRCSE and Sanctuary Status).
-
Casework and Advocacy Service: providing AQS accredited advice, casework and legal interventions in asylum support, community care, housing, welfare benefits and related matters. Pre-Action Protocol letters to challenge unlawful public law decisions. The service currently provides Level 1 immigration advice under the Immigration Advice Agency.
-
Destitution Support - a fortnightly Food Bank in partnership with St Peter’s Church providing food, food vouchers, toiletries, and other essentials, alongside a warm hub with free cafe, information and support. Small grants for essential items and cash payments for food in emergencies. Securing and distributing gifts in kind, e.g. winter coats, laptops and data.
-
Allotment of Refuge - a welcoming community of food growers that supports improved health, wellbeing and integration of members, whilst protecting the local environment.
-
Immigration Project in partnership with Southwark Law Centre, providing free legal advice and representation to support people to regularise their immigration status.
We also use our frontline experience, together with our clients, to engage in Policy and influencing work to improve the services and policies that impact our client group. This includes advising the GLA on 3 asylum related working groups, and as a member of the London Housing Panel.
AFRIL is an equal opportunities employer. We are a diverse staff team and particularly encourage applications from BAME candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates and those with lived experience of asylum/irregular migration. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support our staff to flourish.
We are proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network which aims to increase representation of people with lived experience in the charitable sector. Please feel free to use their information and resources which may help in preparing your job application.
Please read full Job Description and Person Specification. Applications will only be accepted through CharityJob - please submit a CV and cover letter (no more than one side of A4) detailing how you meet the person specification.
Please submit your CV and a cover letter – no more than one side of A4 – detailing how you meet the person specification for the role by 23:30 on Wednesday 27th August 2025.
We support asylum seekers, refugees and vulnerable migrants to lift themselves out of poverty and rebuild their lives in the heart of our community.




Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Urban Saints (formally known as Crusaders) equips youth leaders to disciple young people in today's changing world. Our vision is to see every young person given the opportunity to explore faith, wherever they are.
About the role
As our Support Care Coordinator, you will be the friendly and professional first point of contact for our valued Crusaders Associates, those who have been on the journey with Urban Saints since we were known as Crusaders. You’ll play a key role in delivering exceptional supporter experiences. Your work will help continue and build lasting relationships that inspire ongoing support for our mission from those who have journeyed with us over many years.
You'll be responsible for:
- Responding to associate enquiries via phone, email, and post in a timely, warm, and professional manner, with empathy and attention to detail throughout.
- Listening and responding to the needs of each supporter, understanding their motivations and experiences to foster long-term relationships.
- Developing a programme to regularly thank donors for their support.
- Ensuring supporters feel valued and appreciated.
- Maintaining accurate supporter records on our CRM system, ensuring compliance with GDPR.
- Working closely with the Head of Development to ensure consistent messaging and supporter journeys.
The role is home-based with regular travel required to visit supporters and to supporter events across the UK.
About You
We’re looking for a compassionate and highly organised individual who excels in building meaningful relationships and delivering exceptional supporter care.
This post is subject to an Occupational Requirement that the post holder is a committed Christian under Part 1 of Schedule 9 to the Equality Act 2010.
How to Apply
For full details, please see the recruitment pack. You'll need to send us:
- Your CV.
- A covering letter of no more than two sides explaining why you are a good match for this role, making reference to the responsibilities, skills and experience identified in the recruitment pack.
The closing date for applications is Friday 29th August, midday. Please note, we will be actively reviewing applications ahead of the closing date and reserve the right to close applications before this date.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This is a crucial and hands-on leadership role, responsible for overseeing the charity’s financial management. You will ensure accurate and timely financial and management reporting, maintain robust financial controls, support the Senior Leadership Team in strategic decision-making, and drive continual improvements in systems and processes.
You will oversee the preparation of statutory accounts and audits, ensure compliance with Charity Commission and Companies House requirements, and develop the Finance Team to deliver excellence. To read the full job description, including information on role particulars, and why New Wine is a fantastic place to work, please download the attached document.
Key Responsibilites:
Routine Financial Oversight
· Oversee all accounting, cash management, reconciliations and authorisation of payments.
· Monitor day-to-day financial operations: banking transactions, current and deposit accounts, payroll, and other transactions.
· Maintain the fixed assets register and monthly depreciation.
· Manage cash flow, investing excess cash where appropriate.
Budgeting, Forecasting & Reporting
· Manage and prepare annual budgets and forecasts in collaboration with the Director of Operations and senior leadership team.
· Provide timely, accurate and accessible management accounts and reports for senior managers, budget holders and Trustees.
· Interpret complex financial information clearly for non-finance colleagues.
· Regularly update forecasts with a target of quarterly reporting.
Statutory Accounts, Compliance & Audit
· Lead the preparation and audit of end-of-year statutory accounts, working closely with external accountants/auditors.
· Ensure all statutory obligations are met including VAT returns, Gift Aid claims, Companies House, Charity Commission and HMRC requirements.
· Stay up to date with Charity SORP and charity sector financial regulations, ensuring compliance and training the team accordingly.
Systems, Process Improvement & Controls
· Design and implement financial systems and process improvements to drive efficiency.
· Maintain strong financial governance and internal controls.
· Monitor the effectiveness of financial practices and policies and make recommendations for improvements.
Team Leadership
· Supervise, develop and motivate the Finance Team to achieve high standards.
· Carry out quarterly reviews and provide day-to-day support.
· Foster a collaborative, proactive working culture.
Event Finance Management
· Oversee financial management at New Wine events, including systems for income reconciliation, cash controls, onsite banking and petty cash.
· Ensure accurate reconciliation of income from the event booking system.
HR & Payroll Administration
· Oversee payroll preparation and submissions including HMRC and pensions.
Other Duties
· Respond to queries from Trustees, Director of Operations, budget managers and external stakeholders as required.
· Work well with all members of the wider staff team.
· Attend and sometimes lead staff prayers and other meetings.
Person specification:
Essential Attributes
- Strong planning and organisational skills
- Excellent time-management with the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines
- Analytical approach to problem-solving and sound decision-making capabilities
- Proactive and self-motivated, with a drive to deliver high-quality results
- Commitment to high standards, accuracy, and robust financial controls
- High attention to detail and accuracy
- Collaborative team player with a task-focused mindset and proactive attitude
- Ability to positively influence and persuade others
- Discretion and professionalism in handling sensitive financial information
- Ability to think critically and maintain good judgement under pressure
Essential Skills & Experience
- CCAB qualified accountant or equivalent substantial experience
- Significant experience in financial management, accounting, and budgetary control
- Proven track record in producing management and statutory accounts, and managing audits
- In-depth knowledge of Charity SORP, financial governance, and compliance within the charity sector
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Proficiency in Xero and Microsoft Office, including Excel (advanced), Outlook, Word, and Teams
- Experience in payroll administration, including workplace pensions and leave accruals
- Experience of financial governance and control mechanisms
- Proactive approach to adopting new and more efficient ways of working, using the latest software where appropriate, and providing timely, accurate and relevant reports to colleagues.
- Experience supervising or line managing staff, with the ability to develop and motivate teams
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Experience managing restricted or trust funds
- Up-to-date and practical VAT knowledge
- Experience within a faith-based or charity organisation
- Experience engaging with Boards or Trustees
- Familiarity with the financial aspects of event operations
- Understanding of safeguarding, HR, or operational compliance processes
- Diplomatic approach and understanding in stakeholder engagement
Desirable Knowledge
- Strong understanding of charity finance regulations and sector best practices
- Commitment to the vision, mission, and values of New Wine
- Highly proficient in accounting systems and Microsoft 365 (Excel, Outlook, Word, Teams, Planner)
The above list of job deliverables is open and partial, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.
This job description is intended to summarise the primary responsibilities and qualifications for this position. The job description is not intended to include all duties an individual in this position might be asked to perform or all capabilities that may be required now or in the future. New Wine reserves the right to revise the duties outlined in this job description at its discretion.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
WHAT IS OUR SECOND HOME
We are a youth movement that empowers people with refugee backgrounds to build community, become leaders, and flourish into adulthood in the place that they call home.
We are looking for a highly engaging Leadership & Volunteering Manager to lead and grow our leadership training programming, and to lead on the recruitment, development and retention of our pool of volunteers. You will work across our various hubs to ensure all volunteers are well-supported, feel valued, and are making meaningful contributions to OSH’s mission.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership Training & Development
-
Oversee and continue to codify OSH’s LIT (Leaders in Training) course, including in-person and online sessions, and mentoring LITs on their first residential. This will include hands-on delivery, managing logistics, and working with volunteers and facilitators.
-
Co-design and develop other leadership programmes for young people.
-
Support young people from refugee backgrounds to move from participants to leaders within OSH.
-
Lead the delivery of training and induction for new and returning volunteers in hubs, at pre camp training days and leaders retreats. This includes safeguarding, group dynamics, facilitating groups, and OSH values, but will also include identifying gaps and trends in skills and experiences.
-
Help shape the pedagogy and outcomes of OSH’s leadership programmes.
Volunteer Strategy & Recruitment
-
Ensure there is an active pipeline of people signing up for the LIT course
-
Design and implement a volunteer recruitment strategy to attract a diverse range of volunteers from within OSH and externally.
-
Build partnerships with universities, youth networks, and professional communities to widen reach.
-
Develop inclusive recruitment materials and accessible application processes.
Volunteer Engagement
-
Develop progression pathways for volunteers.
-
Ensure an active culture of feedback and reflection within leadership and volunteering.
-
Track volunteer impact and progression.
-
Coordinate check-ins, socials, and wellbeing support for volunteers.
-
Work closely with the whole team to ensure volunteer experiences are safe, rewarding, and well-held.
Operations & Evaluation
-
Maintain volunteer records and communications using Beacon (OSH’s CRM).
-
Monitor data on volunteer recruitment, attendance, retention, progression, and impact.
-
Contribute to fundraising work, for example by ensuring there is a regular supply of case studies for OSH programmes.
-
Collaborate with colleagues to share impact and improve practice.
Other duties
-
Getting involved in OSH events in the evenings and at weekends, including residentials. These are overnight trips from 2 to 5 nights
-
Other duties as may be required from time to time
IDEAL EXPERIENCE
-
Excellent facilitation, training, and communication skills.
-
Strong experience managing volunteer programmes and/or leadership development.
-
Experience designing leadership training or curriculum.
-
Understanding of and training in safeguarding in youth settings.
-
A deep understanding of inclusive, trauma-informed, and youth-centered approaches.
-
Experience supporting young people from marginalised backgrounds, ideally those with lived experience of the asylum system.
-
Experience volunteering or working in residential programming.
-
Ability to build relationships across diverse groups and inspire trust and commitment.
-
Organised and systems-minded, with good project management skills.
-
Confident using digital tools (e.g. Google Workspace, CRMs)
-
Passion for OSH’s mission and commitment to centering people with refugee backgrounds.
-
Ability to speak in other languages relevant to our community, including Arabic, Pashto, Farsi, Tigrinya, Amharic, and Oromo.
On use of AI
We appreciate many use AI tools in applications, but encourage personal insight and genuine motivation. We may also use AI tools to support application sifting, under human supervision. Final decisions are always made by people, not machines.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
We know self-doubt can hold people back, especially if you don’t think you tick every box. But if you’re passionate about our mission and ready for a meaningful challenge, we encourage you to apply. We value diverse skills and experiences, and are committed to supporting the right person to grow and thrive with us. You might be exactly who we need.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.