Jobs in Northamptonshire

This is not a “keep things ticking over” role.

This is a build, grow, and lead role.

We are looking for someone who sees opportunity everywhere. Someone who doesn’t wait for funding rounds to open—but creates them. Someone who can turn a powerful mission into compelling investment cases that unlock serious income.

If that’s you, keep reading.

About Us

The Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre (MDSC) is a specialist charity transforming access to physical therapies for people with muscular dystrophy across the Midlands.

Founded by people with lived experience, we now support 700+ individuals through long-term therapy and community support—something almost no one else in the UK provides at this scale.

We’re ambitious. We’re growing. And we’re ready to take our income generation to the next level.

The Opportunity

This is a brand-new senior role, created to drive our next phase of growth.

You’ll work directly with the CEO to:

• Build a bold, multi-year income strategy
• Secure unrestricted and multi-year funding
• Open up new income streams (corporate, major donors, partnerships)
• Shape the story of MDSC so it lands powerfully with funders
• Build relationships and keep them for the support of our long term journey

Right now, fundraising is full of potential.
With the right person in post—it becomes transformational.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

Strategy & Leadership

• Design and deliver a 3-year income generation strategy
• Build a strong, diverse funding pipeline
• Spot and secure high-value opportunities
• Work with the CEO to influence and report to the Board

Income Generation

• Lead on trusts & foundations, corporate partnerships, and major donors
• Develop new fundraising models and propositions
• Create compelling cases for support and funding bids
• Build long-term, strategic partnerships

Relationships & Impact

• Own supporter stewardship—make funders feel like true partners
• Lead on impact reporting and storytelling
• Ensure everything we communicate shows real, measurable change

Systems & Performance

• Strengthen internal fundraising systems and CRM use
• Track pipeline, performance, and return on investment
• Ensure compliance (GDPR, best practice, etc.)

Growth

This role is designed to grow.
You won’t just deliver income—you’ll help build the future fundraising team and structure.

Who We’re Looking For

You’ll likely bring:

Experience

• A strong track record of securing funding (£££)
• Experience developing and delivering fundraising strategy
• Success with multi-year and unrestricted income
• Confidence working across multiple income streams

Skills

• A brilliant storyteller—you can make people care, fast
• Commercial mindset—you think in terms of investment and return
• Strong organisation—you can manage pipeline, priorities, and pressure
• Financial confidence—budgets, forecasts, funding models

Mindset

• Proactive. You don’t wait—you make things happen
• Creative. You see opportunities others miss
• Tenacious. You follow through until it lands
• Collaborative. You bring people with you
• Values-led. You care deeply about impact

Why This Role

· You’ll work directly with the CEO—high influence, high visibility

· You’ll shape a function from the ground up

· You’ll have real freedom to innovate and build

· You’ll see the direct impact of your work on people’s lives

This is the kind of role people look back on and say:
 “That’s where everything changed.”

Our Offer

• Salary: £42–45k per annum – reviewed annually
• Pension contribution (3%)
• 22 days annual leave + bank holidays (+ increases with service)
• Discretionary organisation Christmas Shutdown 
• Generous training & development budget
• Real opportunities for rapid progression and growth
• Supportive, ambitious, and purpose-driven team

About Eden Project

Eden Project is an educational charity with a unique community outreach programme with UK wide reach demonstrating engagement, positive action for people and planet and the creation of real social capital on a mass scale.  The post holder will co-lead the community engagement and development of participation in activities for the Big Lunch programme, building skills and confidence in community action. Building a variety of entry points for Big Lunch Organisers to join the peer-to-peer Network across the UK, the role holder will provide support, signposting and networking opportunities for participants as they develop their own ideas. 

About the role

We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Community Engagement Lead to co‑lead the development of our community engagement offer across the UK.

This role focuses on growing year‑round participation in The Big Lunch, strengthening peer‑to‑peer networks, and supporting people to build skills, confidence and momentum for community action and nature connection. You will design and deliver engaging online and in‑person activities, nurture relationships with participants and partners, and help ensure that community‑led action is visible, celebrated and sustained.

You will work closely with colleagues across Communities, Partnerships, Research and PR, and alongside another Community Engagement Lead, to shape shared objectives and a collective action plan.

• Flexible, home‑based working
• The opportunity to work on a nationally recognised community programme
• A supportive, passionate and values‑driven team
• The chance to make a meaningful impact for people and planet

About Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis

Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis (APF) is the UK’s leading patient charity dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by pulmonary fibrosis. Our mission is underpinned by values of compassionate, bold, expert and collaborative. We believe in creating a supportive environment in which both our employees and beneficiaries can thrive.

Role purpose

The Senior Individual Giving Manager is responsible for driving the growth of Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis’ individual giving income through data-led acquisition, engaging fundraising campaigns and exceptional donor stewardship. This role owns the income targets and leads the strategy and execution of individual gifts, regular giving, direct mail appeals (digital and print), inmemory giving and lottery. They will coordinate direct mail campaigns and support the Operations team to deliver meaningful stewardship. Collaborating with teams across the organisation, the post holder will proactively identify opportunities to introduce fundraising asks within engagement journeys, helping convert new audiences into long-term supporters. They will ensure APF’s campaign planning and engagement pathways are designed with inclusion and lived experience at their core, while driving sustainable income growth through acquisition and retention. Combining strategic thinking with storytelling, data insight, careful planning and management of warm stewardship, you’ll ensure donors feel valued and inspired to continue supporting APF.

Key Responsibilities

1. Individual giving strategy and stewardship

• Lead and grow APF’s individual giving programme, helping to build meaningful relationships with our supporters.
• Map out and improve the donor journey from first interaction through to long-term support, increasing acquisition, retention and lifetime value.
• Track and monitor income performance, contributing insight to forecasting and helping shape realistic and ambitious targets.
• Lead on the evaluation and analysis of the Individual Giving programme by monitoring performance against objectives and using sector trends, benchmarking and competitor insights to strengthen our approach.
• Identify and address any barriers in the donor journey to improve conversion and engagement.
• Support the Operations Team to deliver consistently meaningful and timely stewardship to individuals including those giving in memory of loved ones.

2. Direct mail campaign coordination

• Coordinate direct mail appeals and renewal campaigns from planning through to delivery, developing compelling fundraising requests aligned to organisational priorities and connect supporters with APF’s impact.
• Develop campaign briefs, segmentation plans and income projections.
• Manage campaign timelines and work with external suppliers where required to ensure activity runs smoothly.
• Monitor response rates, ROI and overall income performance.
• Capture and apply learning from each campaign to continually improve and strengthen future activity.

3. Regular giving programme development

• Lead the development and growth of APF’s regular giving programme, including the lottery product, helping to build a strong and sustainable base of monthly supporters.
• Create recruitment, onboarding and retention strategies that welcome and inspire regular donors.
• Develop tailored stewardship journeys that keep monthly supporters connected to the impact of their giving.
• Monitor and track acquisition, attrition and upgrade trends to inform future growth.
• Test and refine propositions to strengthen long term income and supporter engagement.

4. Data segmentation and insight

• Lead audience segmentation across individual giving activity to ensure supporters receive relevant and meaningful communications.
• Use CRM data and behavioural insight to inform targeting and messaging and campaign planning.
• Produce regular analysis of performance sharing insights and recommendations.
• Champion a culture of testing, learning and continuous improvement across fundraising activity.

5. Acquisition through engagement pathways

• Work collaboratively with colleagues across Services, Involvement and other teams to identify opportunities to introduce appropriate fundraising requests within wider engagement journeys.
• Use a mixture of digital and direct mail acquisition techniques to attract new supporters, increasing both the number of donors and their engagement with APF.
• Support the development of workflows that that define next steps following different types of engagement and shape clear engagement pathways that support conversion from initial engagement through to appropriate fundraising opportunities.
• Ensure lived experience and inclusive practice are reflected in all design and messaging.

6. Supporter care standards and compliance

• Support operational teams to deliver a high standard of supporter care at every stage of the supporter journey.
• Provide guidance on stewardship principles and help navigate more complex supporter relationships.
• Work with the Governance and Operations Manager to ensure all activities complies with GDPR and the Code of Fundraising Practice.
• Use data and engagement insights to identify high-value or high-potential supporters and refer them appropriately.
• Work in collaboration with internal stakeholders to achieve objectives, including attending and contributing to cross organisational meetings.

How to apply

Please submit a CV and a covering letter (maximum of two pages) highlighting your skills and suitability to the role, reflecting the key responsibilities in the job description.

First stage interviews to be held virtually on 1st May 2026, second stage interviews to be held at the Peterborough office on 8th May 2026.

About Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis

Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis (APF) is the UK’s leading patient charity dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by pulmonary fibrosis. Our mission is underpinned by values of compassionate, bold, expert and collaborative. We believe in creating a supportive environment in which both our employees and beneficiaries can thrive.

Founded in 2013 by people affected by PF and clinicians, APF has grown into a respected national charity rooted in community and evidence. We provide trusted information and support, help a growing network of support groups, campaign to improve access to care and invest in research to bring hope of new treatments. APF strives to be an organisation of equity and inclusion, welcoming people from all backgrounds – our team and volunteers aim to reflect the diverse communities we serve.

We have just launched an ambitious five-year strategy (2025–2030), co-created with the PF community, which focuses on expanding support, transforming care, and accelerating research. This strategy marks a step change with a clearer focus, stronger delivery model and greater ambition to ensure no one faces pulmonary fibrosis alone.

Role purpose

The Senior Challenge Fundraising Officer will lead the delivery and growth of APF’s third-party and mass participation challenge events portfolio.

This role exists to significantly grow income and participation by managing end-to-end third-party challenge events, developing community-facing charity-owned fundraising products and delivering excellent supporter stewardship

Working closely with the Head of Fundraising and colleagues across Communications, Services and the Operations Team, you will increase recruitment, empower supporters to raise ambitious funds, and create journeys that encourage long-term engagement with APF.

Success in this role means more people fundraising for APF, raising more income and feeling valued, supported and inspired to stay connected to our mission.

Key Responsibilities

1. Grow participation in third party

• Manage the full lifecycle of third-party and mass participation challenge events, from planning and recruitment through to stewardship and re engagement.
• Develop and execute creative marketing strategies to boost participation and attract new event participants.
• Draft engaging promotional content that inspires and engages our supporters in collaboration with the Communications team.
• Promote third-party events proactively across relevant channels and networks.
• Work with the wider Fundraising team to improve and refine the stewardship journey for challenge participants to maximise the participant experience.
• Identify and pursue opportunities to grow participation in new and existing events.
• Attend key events as required, managing on-the day logistics and volunteer coordination.

2.  Community Product Development

• Work with Head of Fundraising to shape and improve APF’s fundraising offer and remote products.
• Test and refine new fundraising concepts that increase accessibility and broaden participation.
• Work collaboratively across teams to ensure our community fundraising products align with wider campaigns and strategic priorities.

3.  Income growth and fundraiser mpowerment

• Inspire participants to achieve ambitious fundraising targets through engaging, creative communications.
• Develop and enhance fundraising materials, including participant packs and digital resources to support our fundraisers.
• Use insight and sector trends to identify opportunities to boost event visibility and maximise fundraising efforts.
• Monitor fundraising performance to ensure we’re meeting targets and delivering strong ROI on our challenge activities.

4. Stewardship and re-engagement

• Foster personal connections with supporters through thoughtful, tailored stewardship that keeps them engaged and feeling valued.
• Create clear re-engagement plans to encourage repeat participation and long-term loyalty.
• Collaborate with wider Fundraising and Services teams to support acquisition and ensure our supporters have a smooth, high-quality supporter journey.
• Represent APF publicly when required, acting as a confident ambassador for the charity at events and in public settings.

5. Data, insight and compliance

• Support on the management of CRM data to enable accurate segmentation, performance tracking and reporting.
• Monitor recruitment, participation, income and ROI to help inform future planning and improvements.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge with GDPR regulations and compliance and ensure personal data is handled responsibly and securely.
• Work closely with the Governance and Operations Manager to ensure our fundraising activities are fully compliant with GDPR and the Code of Fundraising Practice.

How to apply

Please submit a CV and a covering letter (maximum of two pages) highlighting your skills and suitability to the role, reflecting the key responsibilities in the job description.

First stage interviews to be held virtually on 1st May 2026, second stage interviews to be held at the Peterborough office on 8th May 2026.

As our Online Communities Specialist, you’ll step into a newly created role where your experience in online forums and digital community support will make a real difference for people affected by motor neurone disease (MND).

You’ll lead the development and delivery of our online community services, ensuring they remain safe, accessible, and people-centred. You'll take a forum with real potential and develop it into a professional, sustainable peer support service - building the systems, processes and relationships to support long-term growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the growth, improvement and day-to-day delivery of online peer-support services
• Manage the forum platform, including configuration, security and performance
• Act as product owner, ensuring technology supports safe community connection
• Lead and coordinate online community support volunteers, including training
• Handle content moderation, complaints, conflict and crisis escalation
• Manage relationships with external suppliers and internal teams
• Ensure safeguarding, legal and regulatory compliance across the service
• Develop service policy, process and business continuity planning
• Analyse community data and contribute to service impact reporting
• Advocate for community needs while balancing organisational priorities

About You

Essential

• Proven experience managing online community platforms, including forums
• Strong understanding of data security, GDPR and Online Safety Act requirements
• Skilled in conflict management, complaints handling and crisis escalation
• Confident with data metrics and reporting
• Able to communicate with care and clarity, including representing an organisation externally
• Experience managing volunteers or staff remotely, supporting their development

Desirable:

• Understanding of person-centred digital support and accessibility considerations
• Experience contributing to digital service or product development
• Experience working with external agencies or suppliers

Hybrid working expectations: home-based role

Further information about MND Association and full job description is available in the attached Candidate Pack.

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders.

As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.

What We Offer

• 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays
• Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies
• 24/7 GP access via phone and video
• Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines
• Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave)
• Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping
• Enhanced pension scheme
• Opportunities for training and personal development

About Us

Motor Neurone Disease moves fast. It takes away time, it takes away independence and it has no cure. Every day we support people affected by MND. We fund ground-breaking research. We campaign for better care. We’re here for everyone who needs us. Because with MND, every day matters.

As a Community Team Administrator, you’ll support our wider Community Fundraising Team with a range of administration activities. This role is ideal for someone who takes pride in accuracy and is motivated by supporting a team that makes a real difference. If you’re looking for a role where your administration and organisational strengths truly matter, this could be the right next step.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the community events email inbox and respond to supporter enquiries
• Record correspondence, actions and new supporter details on our CRM database
• Run basic CRM reports, including participant lists for fundraising events
• Use digital fundraising platforms to ensure accurate supporter allocation and reporting
• Coordinate fulfilment tasks, including ordering merchandise, event packs and certificates
• Maintain supporter consent records and upload personal stories following internal processes
• Support financial administration, such as invoice tracking and checking fundraising targets
• Coordinate bookings for staff team meetings, travel and accommodation, and record meeting actions where required
   

About You

• Strong administrative and IT skills, including Microsoft Office
• Ability to use CRM databases
• Ability to organise, manage and prioritise your own workload
• Excellent accuracy and attention to detail across written, telephone, virtual and in-person communication
• Ability to deliver excellent customer service
• Understanding of data protection requirements
• Ability to work flexibly and support multiple teams

Hybrid working expectations: office attendance two days per week

Further information about MND Association and full job description is available in the attached Candidate Pack.

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders.

As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.

What We Offer

• 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays
• Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies
• 24/7 GP access via phone and video
• Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines
• Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave)
• Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping
• Enhanced pension scheme
• Opportunities for training and personal development
• Hybrid working

About Us

Motor Neurone Disease moves fast. It takes away time, it takes away independence and it has no cure. Every day we support people affected by MND. We fund ground-breaking research. We campaign for better care. We’re here for everyone who needs us. Because with MND, every day matters.

About the role

At some point in our lives, we or someone we love will need hospital care. At UHCW Charity, we’re here to make those moments better - funding the extras that go beyond NHS provision, from life-saving equipment and pioneering research to more comfortable, welcoming spaces and support for patients, families and staff when they need it most.

We’re looking for a Fundraising Assistant to support the delivery of our fundraising activity and help ensure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. This is a varied, hands-on role where no two days are the same, from supporting events and coordinating fundraising materials to managing data and providing excellent supporter care.

You’ll work closely with the Fundraising & Events Lead and wider team, playing a key role in delivering a positive experience for our supporters and helping us grow income across the charity.

What you’ll be doing

• Supporting the delivery of fundraising activity across events, community, corporate and individual giving

• Assisting with event preparation, logistics, registrations and supporter communications

• Preparing fundraising packs, materials and resources for supporters

• Responding to enquiries and ensuring a friendly, professional supporter experience

• Maintaining accurate records on our CRM (Beacon) and supporting income processing

• Coordinating thank you communications, certificates and stewardship activity

• Supporting volunteer coordination and engagement

• Assisting with basic prospect research and identifying fundraising opportunities

• Supporting social media content and fundraising communications where needed

About you

This role would suit someone who is organised, proactive and keen to build a career in fundraising. You might already have experience in an administrative, customer service or charity role, or be looking for your first step into the sector.

You’ll bring:

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail

• Excellent communication skills and a friendly, approachable manner

• The ability to manage multiple tasks and work to deadlines

• Confidence using IT systems and databases (or willingness to learn)

• A genuine interest in fundraising and making a difference

Most importantly, you’ll be someone who takes pride in their work and enjoys being part of a supportive, collaborative team.

Why join us?

This is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience across a wide range of fundraising activity within a busy and supportive NHS charity. You’ll develop valuable skills, build relationships and play a part in work that has a real and lasting impact on patients, families and staff.

We offer:

• 27 days annual leave plus public holidays

• Pension scheme with matched contributions up to 7%

• Blue Light Card discounts

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Opportunities for training and development

Join us and help make a real difference for patients, families and staff across Coventry and Warwickshire.

About the role

At some point in our lives, we or someone we love will need hospital care. At UHCW Charity, we’re here to make those moments better - funding the extras that go beyond NHS provision, from life-saving equipment and pioneering research to more comfortable, welcoming spaces and support for patients, families and staff when they need it most.

We’re looking for a Fundraising and Events Lead to play a key role in delivering and growing income across corporate, community and events fundraising. This is a hands-on role where you’ll lead day-to-day fundraising activity, build strong relationships with supporters, and ensure every interaction reflects the quality and care at the heart of our charity.

You’ll work closely with the Head of Fundraising to drive forward plans, strengthen supporter journeys, and ensure our fundraising is proactive, well-coordinated and consistently delivered. You will also line-manage and support our Fundraising Assistant, helping them to develop and thrive in their role.

What you’ll be doing

• Leading the delivery of fundraising activity across corporate, community and events income streams

• Planning and overseeing a varied events programme, ensuring high-quality supporter experiences

• Building and managing relationships with corporate partners, community groups and key stakeholders

• Supporting and inspiring fundraisers across the Trust, local community and beyond

• Developing fundraising materials, campaigns and communications in collaboration with marketing

• Overseeing supporter journeys and stewardship to improve engagement, retention and income

• Managing and supporting the Fundraising Assistant

• Using our CRM (Beacon) to track activity, analyse performance and inform future planning

About you

You’ll be a proactive and organised fundraiser with experience delivering events and building excellent relationships that generate income. You’ll be confident managing multiple priorities, spotting opportunities, and ensuring a high standard of supporter experience at every stage.

You’ll also bring:

• At least 3 years’ experience in fundraising or a similar role

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills

• Experience planning and delivering events or fundraising activities

• The ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team

• Confidence using data and insight to improve performance

Most importantly, you’ll be motivated by making a genuine difference and helping us grow support for our hospitals and communities.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to take ownership of a broad and varied fundraising portfolio within a well-respected NHS charity. You’ll play a key role in shaping supporter experiences, growing income sustainably, and building relationships that have a real and lasting impact.

We offer:

• 27 days annual leave plus public holidays

• A pension scheme with matched contributions up to 7%

• Blue Light Card discounts

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Opportunities for professional development

Join us and help make a real difference for patients, families and staff across Coventry and Warwickshire.

Rock UK – Sales, Marketing & Communications Team

Hours: Full time 37.5 hours per week (or minimum 0.8 FTE)
Salary: £31,253 per annum plus pension
Contract: Permanent, subject to references, a basic DBS check and a 6 month probation period
Location: Hybrid (home and office) with Frontier Centre, Northamptonshire, as the office base.

Are you passionate about seeing young lives transformed through outdoor adventure? At Rock UK, our mission is to ensure no child misses out, and we are seeking a talented Fundraising Manager to help grow our income across trusts, foundations, individuals, churches and corporate partners.

You’ll work closely with our Director of Operations and Income Generation to write compelling funding applications, build meaningful donor relationships and develop initiatives that increase our reach, impact and sustainability.

This role is central to supporting our Christian mission.
It is subject to an Occupational Requirement (OR) that the successful applicant is a Christian who is committed to the values, beliefs and behaviours set out in our Statement of Christian Beliefs and Ethos.

If you are an experienced fundraiser looking to use your skills to make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Harris Hill is supporting a leading national charity seeking a Kinship Navigator to deliver intensive, one-to-one support to family and friend carers raising children in challenging circumstances.

This is a unique opportunity to be part of an innovative, research-led programme designed to improve outcomes for vulnerable families. You’ll work directly in the Oxfordshire community and in family homes, supporting kinship carers to navigate complex systems including social care, education and health.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide tailored 1:1 support to a caseload of families over a structured 6-month programme  
• Complete needs assessments, support plans and regular reviews
• Facilitate local peer support groups
• Work closely with local authorities and partner agencies
• Maintain accurate case records and contribute to programme evaluation

About you (essential):

• Experience supporting vulnerable families or carers in a community or statutory setting (Knowledge of policy, guidance and support available for Kinship carers highly desirable)
• Strong case management and organisational skills
• Ability to maintain high-quality case records and accurate data collection is critical
• Confident working with multi-agency professionals
• Knowledge of safeguarding and trauma-informed approaches
• Able to build trust and manage a varied caseload
• Professional, empathetic and resilient when supporting families.

What’s on offer:

• Based in Oxfordshire (community-based with some remote working)

Co-located within local authority hubs and spaces with some remote working and frequent community and home visits, and occasional travel to head office in London.

• 14 month Fixed Term contract (until to August 2027)
• 28 hours per week (4 days a week) (0.8FTE)
• £29,000 FTE (£23,200 pro-rata)
• Generous annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata)
• Strong training and development support
• Opportunity to contribute to a high-impact, evidence-based programme

APPLY ASAP: Please apply today, the charity is keen to interview and hire quickly, due to the programme timelines. A short notice period (up to 1 month) is highly desirable.

Apply today for the full job pack and more information!

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

As Director of External Affairs across the Bild Group of four small charities (with collective turnover of approx. £3m/yr), you will have a deep commitment to human rights and improving people’s lives.

You will provide strategic direction and leadership to the External Relations function across all four charities in the group, taking overall responsibility for and providing thought-leadership on our strategic approach to policy, influencing, public affairs, stakeholder engagement. 

You will play a lead role in planning, developing, and implementing the communication and external relations and wider engagement strategic plan to grow awareness and profile of Bild, Respond, Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) and ACT.

By sharing the impact of our work and programmes in improving the lives of people with learning disabilities, autism and /or mental health conditions, you will support Bild in becoming the sector leading provider of organisational and workforce development (and RRN in becoming the leading charity in reducing restrictive practices globally – and Respond as leaders in trauma informed therapy).

You will champion Bild and RRN’s brand, vision, mission and values acting as an ambassador for the organisation both internally and externally to partners, stakeholders and media.

Key Responsibilities and Duties: 

Strategic Leadership:  

• Develop and implement an integrated communications and external relations strategy across the four charities in the group to raise our profile and to influence change which positively impacts on our beneficiaries, aligning media, campaigning, and public affairs with the charity’s mission and strategic priorities 

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team including Membership and Events Officer, Resources Coordinator and comms team as required 

Comms & Marketing:

• Plan, develop and implement strategic communications and marketing plans to maximise awareness of the Bild Group of charities across the broad spectrum of communications disciplines including media relations, stakeholder management, influencer engagement, ethical (impact focused) marketing, social and new media and the production of new materials and resources 

• Write, develop and produce materials such as infographics, press releases, briefing documents, media statements and online information suitable for stakeholders, including people with lived experience

• Ensure effective marketing across all four charities focusing on impact and including ensuring we attend a range of external events and that all four websites are best practice. 

Influencing & Public Affairs:  

• Working with the CEO, you will drive policy change by developing strategies to influence key decision makers through building relationships with parliamentarians, government departments, and sector stakeholders to ensure the charity's policy agenda is impactful 

• Lead proactive and reactive media engagement, calls and requests for information in order to capitalise on suitable opportunities for maximising the reach and impact of all four charities

• Build our credibility as a thought leader in the sector 

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships:  

• Build and sustain strategic alliances with senior civil servants, civil society groups, and community partners to increase the organization's influence and impact 

• Develop effective stakeholder relationship management processes that ensure partnerships of all levels are provided with a rich, immersive engagement experience with the organisation and the work that we do 

• Identify, liaise with and ensure positive relationships with key stakeholders – internal and external including media, government departments, partners, charities, providers, customers, other relevant parties to secure maximum impact for all four charities and their beneficiaries

Reputation, Brand Management & Marketing:  

• Champion the Bild group brands, promoting the mission, values and impact of the organisation and ensuring consistent, engaging narratives and high-quality storytelling across all external channels

• Shaping the charity's profile and protecting its reputation through media relations, digital engagement, and consistent key messaging and building our credibility as thought leaders in sector. 

Membership, Events & Communities:  

• By ensuring appropriate, effective and engaging communications to all relevant audiences and stakeholders, your role will support the growth and development of our membership, Communities of Practice and the event programme (including webinars and conferences).

• Effectively plan, manage and lead a range of events for the Bild group of charities and associated marketing and communications

• Develop framework for Communities of Practice and strategy for engagement and growth 

• Supporting Bild and RRN spokespeople with PR and media outreach

• Keep abreast of communications and engagement activity within the sector and demonstrate an awareness of the impact these may have on existing and future communications activity

General Responsibilities 

• Contribute to evaluation and assessment of results against KPIs and tracking activity

• Allocate, manage and evaluate budget spend

• Identify resource requirements for activity across Bild group

• Develop and maintain systems, databases and procedures to support Bild group communication activities

• Plan, monitor, appraise and report progress of activity regularly with an innate understanding of how this supports activity across the Bild group

• Plan, manage and oversee budgetary spend related to outsourcing specialist activities such as video editing and design

• Ensure communications and marketing work complies with data protection and other legal, professional and agency requirements, standards and policies

• Support the senior leadership team on any activity as required. 

Personal Development  

• Be part of a culture of quality in all areas of communications, PR and marketing

• Participate and contribute to individual performance appraisal and supervision sessions

• Keep abreast of relevant initiatives and developments within the adult health and social care, education & disability sector and the wider communications / engagement profession

• Undertake relevant training, as necessary including accessing new systems and software as required to support the role.

Organisational Responsibilities: 

• Access and work within Bild’s policies and procedures.  

• Attend internal cycle of team meetings relevant to this role.  

• Engage with line management, supervision (where appropriate) and appraisal process.  

• Comply with data protection regulations, ensuring that information on clients, employees, volunteers and other stakeholders remains confidential.  

• Take responsibility for personal learning and development with support from line manager.  

• Work in a manner that facilitates equal opportunities and inclusion for all.  

• Remain professional and respectful at all times, promoting positive relations with all those we encounter in our work.  

• Maintain health and safety and risk awareness for self and others across the organisation.  

• Undertake any other duties that Bild may require within the remit of this role.  

This job description does not form part of the contract of employment. It is intended as a guide to the general scope of duties and is not definitive or restrictive. It is expected that some duties will change over time and this description will be subject to review with the postholder at their annual appraisal.  

Person Specification  

Job Title 

Director of External Relations 

• Exceptional copy writing and verbal communication skills

• Good presenting, negotiating and influencing skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build mutually beneficial relationships

• The ability to work effectively within a small team

• Ability to work under pressure, and plan, manage, and adapt own workload

• A flexible, proactive and problem-solving approach to work

• A motivated attitude and ability to work on own initiative 

• A commitment to human rights and modelling accessibility and inclusion throughout activity

• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as demanded by the post

• Fit to undertake the duties of the post. 

Experience/Skills/Competencies 

Essential 

• Significant experience working in communications, policy and PR with demonstrable success

• PR and media management experience, including both online and traditional PR

• Experience of managing and implementing social media plans, including post development, scheduling, evaluation and monitoring feedback

• Experience of overseeing the design and production of print and electronic publications, including website management and development

• Experience of managing CRM systems and ensuring effective data capture and utilising data to inform decision making

• Ability to analyse data and shape results into reports that inform decision making

• Ability to build effective relationships and networks and establish credibility for Bild, RRN, Respond and Bild ACT 

• Ability to work collaboratively and develop positive relationships with colleagues, members and wider stakeholders

• Demonstrated digital comms / social media skills and understanding of emerging digital marketing tools and platforms

• Ability to use a variety of IT packages/databases including CRM systems.

• Experience managing budgets and associated reporting

• Ability to work remotely and regularly travel to in person events

• Time management skills and ability to prioritise workload under pressure as part of a small but vibrant team

• Strong awareness and interest in news/current affairs/politics and the broader third sector, social care and education sector. 

Desirable 

• Experience working in the not-for-profit sector, preferably in another disability and/or membership charity

• Strong understanding of education, health, social care, disability and not for profit environment

• Strong media contacts within relevant trade sector publications

• Ability to use externally managed media databases (such as Agility etc.)

• Experience with conferences, webinars and hybrid events. 

• Experience supporting and manging a remote team

Education and Qualifications: 

Other Requirements: 

• Commitment to anti-discriminatory practice and equal opportunities and able to apply awareness of diversity issues to all areas of work.  

• Regular travel to attend meetings and events. 

• Occasional evening meetings.  

Legal requirements: 

• Enhanced DBS check. 

Introduction

the3million is the largest grassroots organisation for EU citizens* in the UK, formed after the 2016 referendum to protect the rights of people who have made the UK their home. 

Our work ranges from organising EU citizens’ communities and informing people about their rights, to holding the Government to account on the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement and advocating for social justice.

We are looking for an experienced, values-driven and thoughtful Communications Manager to help shape and strengthen the3million’s public voice. The role focuses on sharing our work as widely and effectively as possible, through social media, supporter communications and news media. You will act as a spokesperson for the3million, write and develop communications materials, and help grow our supporters and donors base through lived-experience focused communications.

The ideal candidate is a passionate communicator, motivated by social justice and passionate about amplifying the voices of EU citizens and other migrant communities. You are as comfortable shaping strategy as you are delivering high-quality content, and you are committed to challenging injustice and influencing decision-makers.

Key responsibilities

1. Communications strategy & leadership 

• Lead the development, delivery and evaluation of the communications strategy of the3million, working closely with the3million’s CEO, Head of Policy and Advocacy and Organising team to deliver timely strategic communications support
• Growing and safeguarding the3million’s brand identity, integrity and strategic positioning across all our external channels, networks and audiences
• Develop new initiatives to expand and improve the reach and engagement of the3million’s communications
• Regularly reviewing the effectiveness of campaigns and responding to opportunities that arise
• Use analytics tools to evaluate performance and inform strategic decisions
• Support the3million’s sustainability through effective fundraising messages and campaigns
• Maintain positive and productive relationships with partner organisations, working on shared campaigns and promoting strategic collaborations, opportunities for engagement and projects

2. Content and digital communications 

• Build the3million’s public messages, using the most effective frames to communicate complex issues clearly to targeted audiences, with lived experience underpinning these messages
• Take overall responsibility for developing the3million’s website content, creating written and visual content
• Oversee and manage the3million’s online presence, engaging with relevant online platforms
• Produce regular newsletters, with clear and effective calls to action 
• Develop effective fundraising content to disseminate to supporters 
• Manage the3million’s social media channels, leading on creating engaging social media content (written and visual), developing and expanding the3million’s social media presence using relevant up to date digital tools 
• Support EU citizens in having their stories heard, sourcing and writing compelling stories, ensuring safeguarding and consent policies are followed

3. Media relations 

• Monitor media outlets for issues related to our campaigns, respond to developments in an appropriate and timely fashion
• Write and disseminate press releases, opinion pieces and articles
• Manage press enquiries, liaising with journalists and other media contacts
• Proactively pitch, develop and maintain relationships with relevant media stakeholders, developing our contacts list
• Support people with lived experience in working with journalists to have their stories heard
• Develop key messaging and briefings for staff and spokespeople to ensure consistency across communications, as needed
• Lead on crisis communications and rapid response messaging in reaction to political or media developments 

4. Campaign communications & messaging 

• Work closely with the policy and advocacy team to translate complex issues into compelling narratives 
• Work with the Community Organising team to ensure lived-experience led storytelling is embedded in the community organising strategy
• Support with the development of published materials (in print and online) such as leaflets and reports. Lead on the visual design of published materials
• Support people with lived experience (including community leaders) to be effective spokespeople for the3million, delivering relevant communications training and support their leadership development (working closely with the Organising team)

5. General: 

• Maintain relationships with relevant funders of the3million’s communications activities, providing regular reports and updates 
• Represent the views of the3million at events, conferences and in the media
• Provide assistance in other areas of the3million’s work as and when deemed necessary by the CEO

Person specifications

Knowledge and experience: 

• Demonstrable experience (minimum 2 years) in managing communications for a charity or an NGO in the UK
• Strong understanding of the UK media landscape, including experience securing media coverage and managing press relationships 
• Experience managing digital communications channels (website, email, social media) and growing engagement 
• Experience supporting or working alongside people with lived experience in communications, storytelling or campaigns 
• Experience using data and analytics to evaluate communications performance and inform strategy

Skills:

• Excellent writing, editing and storytelling skills, with the ability to adapt tone for different audiences and channels 
• Ability to identify and quickly respond to external opportunities and risks, including fast-moving political or media developments 
• Strong media relation skills, including pitching stories and handling press enquiries 
• Digital communications skills, including social media management, email campaigns (eg using Mailchimp or Action Network) and website content management 
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Ability to develop clear, compelling messaging and narratives grounded in lived experience
• Confidence in supporting and briefing spokespeople, including people with lived experience
• Good design and visual content skills (including using Canva for content production)

Personal attributes:

• Passionate about EU citizens’ rights and committed to supporting and advancing the rights of all migrants, irrespective of nationality, immigration status, or other matters
• Strong understanding of power, inequity and intersectionality
• Ability to work independently, managing competing priorities and thrive in a fast-paced environment
• A positive, proactive and solutions-oriented attitude, able to take initiative
• Willingness to occasionally travel across the UK

Desirable: 

• Experience with campaigning or political communications 
• Knowledge and experience in fundraising communications (donor messaging, appeals)
• Knowledge of migrants rights or the EU Settlement Scheme
• Experience delivering media or communications training 

Before you apply

One of the3million’s core values is equity - we are people led, we value diversity and are enriched by differences. We strive to listen to, engage with and represent the broadest range of people. 

We recognise our team is not currently representative of communities that experience racism and that our own ways of working may replicate wider societal oppression and injustices. We are actively working towards becoming an anti-oppressive organisation, including taking steps to create a more inclusive recruitment process.

You may not have worked in an organisation whose focus is campaigning for migrants’ rights. Or you may have experience in a grassroots setting which is not formalised. Please still consider applying as many other settings offer transferable skills.

If you are from a background that is underrepresented in the migration sector - for example you are from a community that experiences racism, or you have lived experience of migration, or you are a disabled person, or you did not go to University or had free school meals as a child - we strongly encourage you to apply.

We believe our work will be stronger with greater diversity. the3million welcomes the whole person to work, and we understand that each of us brings our experiences, our backgrounds and our own unique lens to what we do.

About applying 

Apply by submitting an up to date CV and cover letter through CharityJobs, detailing your motivations for applying for this post and how your skills, knowledge and experience fit the person specifications of the role. Please note we will not be reviewing applications which do not include a detailed cover letter.

Working conditions 

Position: Full time 
Duration: one year contract, with possibility of extension, subject to funding 
Salary: £35,000
Location: Remote, UK. Home working. Occasional travel required - within the UK (all travel expenses covered)
Benefits: 28 days holiday + bank holidays, contributory pension scheme, flexible working patterns.
Reporting to: CEO

Closing date: 21st April 2026. Please note we are reviewing applications on an ongoing basis and this vacancy may be closed early if we find a suitable candidate.

SMART CJS – Trust and Foundations Bid Writer

Role Overview

Are you committed to supporting people who are homeless or rough sleeping?

Are you proactive with a positive attitude?

Job Title: Trust and Foundations Bid Writer (with some responsibility for corporate fundraising)

Hours: 37 hours per week

Location: Working from our office in central Bedford, with some provision for remote working.

About SMART CJS

Founded in 1997, we are a charity that provides safe spaces for people who are facing or experiencing homelessness, are rough sleeping or have fallen on tough times. As times have changed, our services have adapted and grown, but we’ve always kept the people we support at the centre of all that we do. We believe that everyone needs a little help sometimes and, with trust, respect and honesty, people can make incredible changes. Our vision is to transform communities so that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential, participate in and contribute to all aspects of life. Our mission is to provide safe spaces to work with vulnerable people within our communities, empowering them to make positive changes and take control of their lives.

Why Join Us?

We believe in diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Benefits include:

• 27 days Annual Leave (rising to 30 after 3 years) + Bank Holidays (pro rata)
• Generous Pension scheme (after successfully completing a probation period)
• Excellent Development and Growth Opportunities
• Access to a Charity Worker Discount scheme
• Access to the company health and wellbeing service including support with mental health, legal advice and more
• Access to an online GP service

We require all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). This job description will be supplemented by annual objectives which will be developed in conjunction with the post holder.

The Role

SMART CJS is looking to recruit a Trusts and Foundations Bid Writer. The successful candidate will also have some responsibility for corporate fundraising with businesses based in Bedford and beyond; this responsibility will be shared with our Community and Corporate Fundraiser.

The main responsibility, though, will be to generate income by writing bids to charitable trusts and foundations, and to statutory funders.

The role will include researching and identifying charity trusts and similar bodies which are able to make an award to SMART. It will also include keeping abreast of developments in fundraising in the charity sector as a whole, especially in the field of grant awarding and, to a lesser extent, of corporate giving.

There will be a probationary period for the role. As it generally takes six months for a grant to be awarded (though some arrive more quickly), the probationary period will need to be for a minimum of seven months, though its precise duration can be negotiated with the successful candidate.

Training will be given; the scope of the training will depend on the candidate’s previous experience.

This is an exciting opportunity to join SMART’s friendly and dedicated team. You’ll need to be able to manage your time effectively; the role is primarily self-directed. We envisage that you’ll be working primarily from our offices in Prebend Street, Bedford, though you'll be able to work from home for some of the time as well. Given the nature of our work, personal resilience is important; some of the stories we use when applying for funding can be emotionally challenging.

Our fundraising comes from regular gifts, donations from the community (individuals and groups), and corporate bodies (businesses). The majority of our fundraising income comes from grants. There will be a realistic target for the amount you need to raise; this will reflect the performance for grant applications in the charity sector as a whole and it will not be unrealistic. Fundraising is not an exact science; the assessment of performance against the targets will be fair and reasonable. The final responsibility for SMART’s fundraising rests with the trustees; they appreciate and understand the complexity of the issues involved.

Main Purpose of the Role

You will work closely with the CEO, the Chair of Trustees, the Head of Business and the fundraising team. The post involves gathering information, writing the bids, tracking the progress of submissions, and reporting back to grant awarders on how their money has been spent, if they require this.

There will also be a responsibility for corporate fundraising. This will involve building relationships with businesses in and beyond the Bedford area. The responsibility for this will be shared with our Community and Corporate Fundraiser.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising and Bid Writing

• Research and identify suitable grant and funding opportunities from charitable trusts, foundations, and statutory bodies.
• Write and submit high-quality funding applications and proposals in line with SMART’s strategic priorities.
• Work collaboratively with service leads and front line teams to gather accurate, up-to-date data and service information for applications.
• Tailor the applications to the funder’s criteria, using storytelling effectively.
• Manage a pipeline of applications and submissions, ensuring deadlines are met and income targets are tracked.
• Maintain and build relationships with key funders, providing timely reports and updates on grant-funded work.
• Work to realistic targets and be able to provide feedback on these.
• Organisational Development and Support
• Contribute to the strategic development of SMART’s income generation plans.
• Support development of strong internal bid and grant management systems.
• Monitor success rates and provide monthly reporting on funding performance to the Head of Business and to the Chair of Trustees.
• Represent SMART CJS at funding briefings, webinars, and networking opportunities where appropriate.

Other Responsibilities

• Participate in SMART’s performance management and appraisal process.
• Attend the monthly meetings of the Fundraising Committee (a sub‑committee of the Board of Trustees).
• Comply with health and safety policies and procedures.
• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the role, as required by the CEO, the Head of Business or the Chair of Trustees.

Person Specification

Whether you’re already an experienced bid-writer, or whether you think this is something that you could learn to do effectively, we’d like to hear from you. You need to have excellent skills in written English and be able to write in prose that’s clear and readily understandable to the general reader. The criteria for each grant awarder are different; you need to be able to match your bid to what they would like to fund (homelessness, mental health, relief of poverty, women’s issues and so on). You need, then, to tell SMART’s story in a way which appeals to each funder.

You need to have excellent inter-personal skills and be able to work as part of a team. While there is a strong element of self-direction in the role, you need to be able to work closely with senior management and also with the trustees; the trustees have the final responsibility for fundraising in the charity.

You will need, too, to have a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and to have a genuine interest in homelessness and the work of the charity, and a commitment to improving our clients’ lives and wellbeing.

Location: London (Hybrid. One day per week if commutable. One day per month for remote candidates.)
Salary: £38,000 to £42,000 DOE
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Employment Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 13 April 2026

Help secure transformational funding at a nationally respected charity
We are looking for a Senior Trusts Fundraiser who can inspire major funders and help unlock significant income. The Trusts team has grown strongly over the past two years and the area continues to be resilient. This vacancy has been open since Christmas and offers an exciting opportunity to join a team with strong leadership, a supportive culture and a wide portfolio of impactful projects.

You will work on substantial bids at the two hundred thousand pound level and above. The role involves navigating the breadth and complexity of a large national organisation. It also offers the chance to develop compelling cases for support, fuelled by recently funded capital improvements and innovative services such as online bereavement counselling. There is a wide range of fundraising opportunities and no shortage of inspiring work to present to funders.

This role is ideal for someone who is ready to take the next step and has the confidence and capability to work at the scale expected by major national charities.

About the role

• Build and steward relationships with significant trust, foundation and statutory funders.
• Lead on high value applications for five and six figure gifts, including bids worth two hundred thousand pounds or more.
• Produce persuasive, tailored proposals and budgets for major funders.
• Manage a forward looking pipeline and meet agreed income targets.
• Plan and deliver cultivation activity including meetings and service visits.
• Record and track activity using a fundraising CRM.
• Work collaboratively across teams throughout a complex national organisation.

About you

• Significant experience securing income from trusts and foundations at a high level.
• Strong written communication skills with the ability to produce compelling proposals.
• Confidence working with senior stakeholders and external partners.
• Ability to manage your own workload and take initiative in cultivating supporters.
• Strong relationship building skills and a collaborative approach.
• Willingness to travel nationally with occasional evening and weekend commitments.

Our values
You will bring supportive, connected and impactful behaviours to your work. You will listen with care, collaborate with colleagues and help deliver meaningful change for the people the organisation exists to support.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.