Childhood jobs

Context

Childhood First enables children and young people to recover from early life abuse and relational trauma, to enjoy life and to achieve their potential. We do this through the provision of specialist therapeutic residential care and treatment, together with family and network support. We are also a UKCP Training Organisational Member accredited with Middlesex University, providing in-house clinical training to its clinical staff.

Merrywood House, provides placements for up to 8 young people aged between 10 and 17 years old.

Purpose

The Clinical Case Administrator supports the Assistant Director of Clinical Practice in their role and is responsible for effective administration underpinning all clinical processes, documentation and recording. The post holder will also support the best clinical outcomes for children and the development of clinical practice.

What you’ll bring to the role

• Experience in an administrative role, ideally within a care, education, clinical or therapeutic setting.
• A methodical and well-organised approach, with a commitment to maintaining documentation to the highest standard.
• Confidence using databases and Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with clinical colleagues and wider teams.
• An understanding of the importance of accurate, confidential and timely record keeping.
• The ability to prioritise workload, raise issues constructively and support others with clinical administration processes.

Task

• Support the Assistant Director of Clinical Practice through effective administration of clinical processes, documentation and recording, helping to support positive clinical outcomes for children.
• Maintain and update children’s clinical information, assessment frameworks and outcomes data within relevant systems.
• Support the production of clinical, governance, management and evaluation reports as required.
• Provide administrative support for clinical staff training, accreditation processes, clinical audits and research projects.
• Support staff in the administration of clinical processes and recording, helping to maintain high standards of documentation.

What we’ll do for you

• • Monthly clinical supervision and weekly staff support groups.
  • 25 days annual leave plus public holidays.
  • Healthcare benefits and life assurance.
  • Up to 6% employer pension contribution.
  • Relocation package and recruitment referral scheme.

A recruitment pack including a job description and person specification will be available here via our Applicant Tracking Service (ATS). The link can be found at the bottom of this page. 

Closing date: Monday 6 July 2026

Interview Date: Week commencing 6 July 2026

Any offer of employment will be conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks, including right to work verification, background vetting, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (which may include overseas checks), verification of qualifications, receipt of satisfactory professional references, and medical clearance.

At Dandelion Time, we support children facing significant emotional challenges, often, but not always, rooted in adverse childhood experiences such as domestic violence, abuse, or neglect. Our systemic, trauma‑informed approach focuses on the whole family, helping them build healthier relationships, create positive change, and move towards brighter futures.

Nature is at the heart of everything we do. Through hands‑on activities in the natural world, children and families connect with the earth, plants, animals and with each other.

About the Role 

You will play a key role in delivering our therapeutic programme. Reporting to the Therapeutic Programme Manager and supporting the Family Caseworker, you will help plan, prepare and facilitate meaningful therapeutic sessions for children and their families. This may include leading group sessions supported by Teaching Assistants or collaborating with teaching staff involved in each child’s care.

Why Join Us?

You’ll be part of a welcoming, energetic and committed team making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children. The work is deeply rewarding, offering the opportunity to help families rebuild relationships and create new beginnings.

What can you bring to Dandelion Time?

To thrive in this role, you will have experience supporting disadvantaged children or those with SEND.  It would be helpful, but not essential, to have an understanding of the challenges faced by parents and carers managing their own wellbeing. Experience as a Youth Leader, Scout Leader, Forest School Leader, or in a similar child‑centred, outdoor or community role, will be a real asset.

You’ll have a genuine passion for hands‑on, creative activities, whether that’s crafting, working with the land, or caring for animals. An interest in our land‑to‑table ethos, including the preparation and cooking of healthy, nutritious food, will help you feel right at home.

Above all, you’ll bring a warm, joyful presence to the families you support, helping to create a safe, nurturing environment where children can grow, explore and flourish.

Temporary contract

This is a temporary position for 10 months, ideally commencing in early September and continuing until the end of the school year (July 2027). However, our priority is to appoint the right candidate, and we would be willing to offer some flexibility on the start date to accommodate this.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Events Assistant
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Full Time, 35 hours per week
Salary: £24,479 per annum
Location: London E8/ Belfast BT15, NI/ Newton Abbot TQ12/ Sheffield S1/ Remote within the UK
NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working with 2 days working in the office if based in London.

The Vacancy

This is an exciting opportunity in NCB’s newly formed Centralised support functions, supporting the Business Support and Events teams and linking with the Project Support team.

Post holders will support the operational delivery of activities across their team, working closely with colleagues in their own and aligned teams to provide consistent support.

Events colleagues support the planning, logistics and delivery of online and in-person events, while Business Support colleagues provide business administration, facilities and organisational support. Post holders will also provide flexible support across the wider organisation to help deliver business objectives as necessary.

The roles require close working with a range of internal and external stakeholders.

A key requirement is the ability to deliver consistent, high-quality work and maintain accurate, timely records.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Employee Assistance Programme

Closing date: 8am, Wednesday 15th July 2026
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible.

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 actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Research and Policy Manager
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Full Time, 35 hours per week (1.0 FTE) (We are open to flexible hours and working patterns, including accommodating part-time and compressed hours (0.8 FTE) where possible).
Salary: £44,167 per annum
Location: London Fields, E8. NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working with 2 days working in the office.

The Vacancy

The Policy and Communications Manager will act as a driving force behind our visibility and impact across key policy areas, bringing lived and learned experiences to the heart of our influencing. This role will work to elevate our profile, transforming our evidence and expertise into impactful communications and influencing strategies to build a momentum for meaningful policy, legislative and social change.

This position will bridge the gap between NCB’s evidence-based policy development and national advocacy, translating complex policy issues into powerful narratives that resonate with decision-makers and galvanise wider support. The role will manage and deliver key elements of NCB’s core work across policy and communications, lead the delivery of funded projects and provide robust project management, and actively contribute to project proposals and income generation.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Employee Assistance Programme

Closing date: 08:00am, Friday 10th July 2026
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible.

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 actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Research and Development Officer
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Part Time, 28 hours per week (0.8 FTE)
Salary: £34,408 per annum, FTE (£27,526 per annum for 28 hours per week), with annual salary increments for the first three years
Location: Homebased – however NCB and RiP has offices in Sheffield, Newton Abbot and Belfast that staff can work from should they choose.

The Vacancy

For over 20 years, Research in Practice has been at the forefront of supporting evidence-informed practice in adult social care. We are now looking for a passionate and experienced Research and Development Officer to join our adults’ team.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a skilled facilitator with strong experience in adult social care (or a related sector, e.g. housing, homelessness, mental health or criminal justice) who is motivated to make a real impact. While the role requires a solid understanding of research and its application, it is not a primary research post—instead, the focus is on translating evidence into meaningful learning and development opportunities.

You will play a key role in designing and delivering high-quality learning experiences, including programmes, full-day workshops, webinars, and events, working with diverse audiences such as senior leaders and practitioners.

What you’ll be doing

• Designing and delivering engaging learning and development activities for a range of audiences
• Translating complex research, policy, and legal frameworks into accessible, practical learning
• Developing high-quality outputs (e.g. publications, tools, and learning resources)
• Building strong relationships with stakeholders and supporting collaborative projects
• Managing multiple projects effectively in a varied and fast-paced environment

About you

We are looking for someone who brings:

• In-depth knowledge of adult social care, or related sectors such as criminal justice, housing and homelessness, or mental health
• Experience in facilitation and delivering learning, including workshops and webinars
• A strong understanding of research, policy, and practice frameworks
• Skills in knowledge mobilisation, with a passion for co-production and evidence implementation
• Proven experience in relationship management
• Excellent communication skills, including confident public speaking
• The ability to manage competing priorities and work flexibly (including occasional travel and overnight stays)

Research in Practice

Research in Practice is part of the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) family. For over 60 years, the NCB has been building a better childhood for all.

Research in Practice works with organisations across the adults and children’s social care, health and criminal justice sectors, supporting them to develop an evidence-informed approach to their work. Our focus is on using evidence from research, practice and lived experience, to provide resources that improve policy and services, in order to achieve positive outcomes for people of all ages.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break

Employee Assistance Programme

Closing date: 8am, Friday 10th July 2026
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible .

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 actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Business Support Assistant
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Full Time, 35 hours per week
Salary: £26,936 per annum
Location: London Fields, E8
NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working with 2 days working in the office.

The Vacancy

This is an exciting opportunity in NCB’s newly formed Centralised support functions, supporting the Business Support and Events teams and linking with the Project Support team.

Post holders will support the operational delivery of activities across their team, working closely with colleagues in their own and aligned teams to provide consistent support.

Events colleagues support the planning, logistics and delivery of online and in-person events, while Business Support colleagues provide business administration, facilities and organisational support. Post holders will also provide flexible support across the wider organisation to help deliver business objectives as necessary.

The roles require close working with a range of internal and external stakeholders.

A key requirement is the ability to deliver consistent, high-quality work and maintain accurate, timely records.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Employee Assistance Programme

Closing date: 8am, Wednesday 15th July 2026
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible.

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 actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Events Co-ordinator
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Full Time
Salary: £28,952 per annum
Location: Homebased – however NCB has offices in Belfast, Sheffield, Newton Abbot and London that staff can work from should they choose.

The Vacancy

This is an exciting opportunity within the newly formed Centralised functions at NCB supporting the Project Support, Events or Business Support teams.

The post holders will support the organisation’s portfolio of projects and/or complex learning event delivery of online and in-person workshops and conferences for the team they are working in, working closely with peers to provide coherent, consistent support to delivery teams. They will ensure that projects and events are well managed and delivered in line with internal processes and systems whilst balancing business needs achieving contracted requirements and targets.

The post holders will act as peripatetic support across projects, events and the wider business to deliver business objectives, including the administration of contracting processes, event hosting and logistics and business support administration as necessary.

This will include oversight and management of people, tasks and activities according to business need, and supporting teams and directorates.

Knowledge of budget management, risk mitigation and financial acumen is necessary to ensure efficient and sustainable operations.

The post holders will also work closely together drive a culture of continuous improvement informed by systems and data to optimise processes, enhance customer experience and improve delivery performance over time.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Employee Assistance Programme

Closing date: 8am, Wednesday 8th July 2026 
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible

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 actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Policy and Public Affairs Manager
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Full Time, 35 hours per week (1.0 FTE) (We are open to flexible hours and working patterns, including accommodating part-time and compressed hours (0.8 FTE) where possible).
Salary: £44,167 per annum
Location: London Fields, E8. NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working with 2 days working in the office.

The Vacancy

The Policy and Public Affairs Manager will act as a driving force behind our credibility and impact across key policy areas, working to influence national policy development and decision making and help enshrine good practice in law. It will also grow our presence in the sector as thought leaders, drawing on a range of evidence to take richer and deeper positions on the solutions needed to bring improvements.

This position will ensure that robust policy development is translated into effective public affairs and influencing strategies, ensuring that solutions to complex policy issues are understood and acted upon by decision-makers. The role will manage and deliver key elements of NCB’s core work across policy and public affairs, lead the delivery of funded projects and provide robust project management, and actively contribute to project proposals and income generation.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Employee Assistance Programme

Closing date: 08:00am, Monday 6th July 2026
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible

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 actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Project Support Co-ordinator
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Part Time, 28 hours per week (0.8 FTE)
Salary: £28,952 per annum FTE (£23,161 per annum for 28 hours per week)
Location: London/ Northern Ireland/Devon/Sheffield/Remote within the UK  
NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working with 2 days working in the office if based in London.

The Vacancy

This is an exciting opportunity within the newly formed Centralised functions at NCB supporting the Project Support, Events or Business Support teams.

The post holders will support the organisation’s portfolio of projects and/or complex learning event delivery of online and in-person workshops and conferences for the team they are working in, working closely with peers to provide coherent, consistent support to delivery teams. They will ensure that projects and events are well managed and delivered in line with internal processes and systems whilst balancing business needs achieving contracted requirements and targets.

The post holders will act as peripatetic support across projects, events and the wider business to deliver business objectives, including the administration of contracting processes, event hosting and logistics and business support administration as necessary.

This will include oversight and management of people, tasks and activities according to business need, and supporting teams and directorates.

Knowledge of budget management, risk mitigation and financial acumen is necessary to ensure efficient and sustainable operations.

The post holders will also work closely together drive a culture of continuous improvement informed by systems and data to optimise processes, enhance customer experience and improve delivery performance over time.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Employee Assistance Programme

Closing date: 8am, Wednesday 8th July 2026
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible

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 actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Senior Researcher
Contract: Fixed term for 24 months
Work Pattern: Full Time, 35 hours per week (We are open to flexible hours and working patterns, including accommodating part-time and compressed hours where possible).
Salary: £40,855 per annum, Nationwide – £44,167 per annum for London
Location: NCB has offices in London, Sheffield, Newton Abbot and Belfast that staff can work from should they choose, or this role can be homebased. NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working with 2 days working in the office if based in London.

The Vacancy

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Researcher to make a significant contribution on a 2-year fixed term contract to the design, delivery and management of research and evidence projects at NCB. Research projects at NCB involve a range of methods, often using a mixed-methods approach, that include evidence synthesis and systematic reviews, literature reviews, primary research using qualitative and quantitative methods and secondary data analysis.

A key focus of this role will be leading and delivering high-quality evidence synthesis, as a core component of our research portfolio.

NCB’s research focuses on a broad range of topic areas on behalf of a range of trusts and foundations, statutory, academic, voluntary and community sector funders, including social care and the transition to adulthood; education; mental health & wellbeing; youth violence and early years.

The postholder will work across a range of projects including the topics above and using a range of methods as appropriate, ensuring their work is delivered to NCB’s quality standards.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Employee Assistance Programme

Closing date: 8am, Tuesday 7th July 2026
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible.

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 actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Business Support Officer
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Full Time, 35 hours per week (1.0 FTE) (We are open to flexible hours and working patterns, including accommodating part-time and compressed hours where possible).
Salary: £37,198 per annum
Location: London Fields, E8. NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working with 2 days working in the office.

The Vacancy

This is an exciting opportunity within the newly formed Centralised functions at NCB supporting the Business Support Team.

The post holder will lead the operational delivery of a range of activities for the Business Support Team, working closely with peers to provide coherent, consistent support to delivery teams. This will include oversight and management of people, tasks and activities according to business need, and supporting teams and directorates with business administration, facilities and organisation as well as project and event support.

A key requirement of the role is the ability to deliver consistent, high-quality outcomes at scale. The post holder will provide hands-on decision making across triage, planning, delivery and evaluation. They will work with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders, managing and directing the work of multiple concurrent activities in a fast-paced environment.

The role requires end-to-end ownership of tasks and projects, alongside strong stakeholder engagement, effective people management of a small team of staff, and the ability to balance competing priorities.

Financial oversight, including budget management and risk mitigation is essential to ensure efficient and sustainable operations.

The post holder will also work closely with peers to drive a culture of continuous improvement informed by a strategic, systems thinking and data driven mindset to optimise processes, enhance customer experience and improve delivery performance over time.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Employee Assistance Programme

Closing date: 08:00am, Monday 6th July 2026
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible.

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 actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

At Barnardo's, we're committed to changing childhoods and changing lives. We're looking for an experienced and data-driven Digital Marketing Manager (Acquisition) to help us reach new supporters, grow fundraising income, and increase awareness of our work with children and young people across the UK. 

This is an exciting opportunity for a talented digital marketer who thrives on delivering high-performing campaigns, optimising customer journeys, and using insight to drive meaningful results. You'll play a key role in helping Barnardo's attract new supporters through innovative, integrated digital campaigns across paid media channels. 

Travel will be required to quarterly meetings in London Hubs.

What You'll Be Doing 

As Digital Marketing Manager (Acquisition), you'll lead the delivery and optimisation of digital acquisition activity across channels including: 

• Paid social 

• PPC and search marketing 

• Display and programmatic media 

• Website and landing page journeys 

Working closely with internal stakeholders and agency partners, you'll: 

• Plan and deliver integrated digital campaigns that drive supporter acquisition and fundraising growth. 

• Optimise campaign performance through testing, insight and continuous improvement. 

• Support development of SEO and emerging AI search (GEO) opportunities. 

• Analyse performance data and turn insights into actionable recommendations. 

• Collaborate with fundraising, brand, web and digital teams to create seamless supporter journeys. 

• Help develop robust reporting frameworks focused on ROI, attribution and business outcomes. 

• Champion a test-and-learn culture, driving innovation and best practice across digital marketing activity. 

About You 

We're looking for someone who combines strategic thinking with hands-on digital expertise. 

You'll bring: 

• Significant experience managing paid digital marketing campaigns across social, search and other acquisition channels. 

• Strong understanding of performance marketing principles and optimisation techniques. 

• Experience working with digital analytics and reporting tools, including Google Analytics and Google Tag Manager. 

• Experience delivering multi-channel campaigns and managing agency relationships. 

• Excellent analytical skills and confidence using data to inform decisions. 

• Knowledge of SEO principles and evolving digital trends. 

• A collaborative approach and ability to work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders. 

• Passion for delivering outstanding supporter experiences and achieving measurable results. 

Experience within the charity sector is welcome, but we're equally interested in candidates from agency, commercial or consumer-brand backgrounds who are excited by the opportunity to make a difference. 

 Why Join Barnardo's? 

Every day, Barnardo's supports children, young people and families facing challenges across the UK. By joining our Digital Marketing team, you'll help ensure more people discover, support and engage with our vital work. 

In return, we offer: 

• Flexible and hybrid working 

• A supportive and collaborative culture 

• Opportunities for professional development 

• A role where your work has a direct impact on children and young people 

• Competitive benefits package 

 Apply Now 

If you're an ambitious digital marketer who loves combining data, creativity and purpose, we'd love to hear from you. 

 Join Barnardo's and help us reach more supporters, raise more funds, and change more childhoods. 

Please note due to the high volume of applications for some posts, this advert might close before the displayed closing date.  We recommend that you apply for this role as soon as possible

We are seeking a compassionate HCPC-registered creative arts psychotherapist such as an arts therapist, dramatherapist or music therapist to join our team for one day per week to deliver therapeutic support through our in school support Project HOPE. 

This is an opportunity to be part of a small but ambitious organisation that places relationships, compassion, and community at the heart of everything we do, while working alongside a supportive team dedicated to improving outcomes for children, young people, and families. This position will initially be one day per week; however, there is strong potential for increased hours and days for the right candidate. Joining our small but fast-growing charity offers an exciting opportunity to develop alongside the organisation.

Project HOPE is a school based project offering therapy sessions as one-to-one or group work, making arts-based psychotherapy accessible to those who need it most. Project HOPE offers a creative lifeline for children who’ve encountered four or more adverse childhood expereinces (ACEs) and experienced or witnessed domestic abuse. It steps in where other local services can’t, providing support now and preparing children and young people for future life challenges.

We understand the emotional demands of therapeutic work and are committed to supporting practitioners to deliver high-quality, ethical, and sustainable practice. The successful candidate will receive regular clinical supervision and will have access to peer support, reflective discussions, and opportunities for ongoing professional development.

Newly qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, as we are happy to consider both those starting their careers and experienced professionals within the field.

Key Responsibilities include:

Therapeutic Delivery

• Deliver one-to-one and small group arts-based therapeutic interventions to secondary school-aged young people.

• Develop and facilitate creative therapeutic sessions tailored to the individual needs of participants.

• Build safe, trusting, and therapeutic relationships with young people experiencing complex trauma.

• Support young people to develop emotional regulation, resilience, self-awareness, and positive coping strategies.

Assessment and Planning

• Undertake initial assessments and contribute to identifying appropriate therapeutic support.

• Develop therapeutic goals and intervention plans in collaboration with young people and relevant professionals.

• Monitor progress and adapt interventions as required.

Multi-Agency Working

• Work closely with school staff, pastoral teams, safeguarding leads, and project partners to ensure a joined-up approach to supporting young people.

• Attend relevant meetings and contribute professional insight where appropriate or share relevant information with the manager to attend on your behalf. 

Safeguarding and Risk Management

• Maintain a thorough understanding of organisational and national safeguarding procedures and statutory responsibilities.

• Identify and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns, following organisational and school policies.

• Maintain accurate and confidential records in line with GDPR and professional standards.

Monitoring and Evaluation

• Maintain appropriate case notes and outcome measures.

• Contribute to project reporting, evaluation, and impact measurement.

• Support the collection of feedback and evidence demonstrating project outcomes.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

• MA Qualified Creative Arts Therapist (Art Therapist, Dramatherapist, Music Therapist, or equivalent HCPC-recognised profession).

• Experience working therapeutically with children and young people.

• Experience supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, adversity, or significant emotional challenges.

• Strong understanding of trauma-informed practice.

• Knowledge of safeguarding procedures relating to children and young people.

• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

Desirable Experience

• Experience working within schools or educational settings.

• Experience delivering both individual and group therapeutic interventions.

• Understanding of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and their impact on development.

• Experience working within multi-disciplinary teams.

• Knowledge of local support services and referral pathways.

Personal Qualities

• Compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgemental.

• Calm and emotionally resilient.

• Creative and adaptable in therapeutic practice.

• Able to build trust and engage young people who may be reluctant to access support.

• Strong professional boundaries and ethical practice.

• Committed to promoting the voice, wellbeing, and potential of young people.

Safeguarding

This role involves working directly with children and young people and is subject to an enhanced DBS check with barred list clearance. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to all safeguarding, confidentiality, and data protection policies and procedures.

About Adolescent Health Study

The Adolescent Health Study (AHS) is an ambitious new UKRI-funded initiative to establish a prospective, longitudinal population study that will generate a globally leading open science data platform and research resource. AHS aims to recruit at least 100,000 young people from across the UK and to follow their mental and physical health and wellbeing over at least 10 years. It plans to collect data through questions and measures; to obtain bio-samples for a wide range of genomic and other high-throughput assays; and to capture linked data relevant to health and wellbeing from participants’ health, education and other administrative records. There will be a strong emphasis on engaging with and involving young people, schools, parents and other relevant stakeholders in the design and delivery of the study, as well as on including young people that represent as wide as possible a range of backgrounds, experiences and characteristics. AHS will focus on enabling a wide range of research, including studies of the critical biological and social developments that occur during the transition from childhood to adulthood and the determinants of both mental and physical health and wellbeing in adolescents and young adults.

Purpose of the post

The administrative coordinator will play a key role in providing administrative, coordination and financial support across AHS. The role focuses on managing core systems, inboxes and documents, ensuring information is accurate, accessible and compliant. Acting as a central point for organisation, the postholder will coordinate meetings, support teams with routine administrative tasks, and contribute to smooth financial processes. They will help maintain effective workflows in a virtual environment, escalating issues as needed to keep daily operations running efficiently.

Main responsibilities

 Administration and systems management

• Manage AHS central inbox(es) and escalate matters to the business administrator and business operations team as appropriate
• Provide day-to-day administrative support including preparing, filing, archiving and retrieving documents
• Manage and update shared digital platforms, databases and documents to ensure accuracy and compliance
• Manage administrative functions such as task tracking in a fully virtual environment

Team coordination and support

• Coordinate in-person, hybrid and virtual meetings and workshops, including scheduling and logistics, for AHS team members and external parties as required
• Provide key administrative support during meetings, including business and study meeting minutes as required

Finance delivery and support

• Support invoice processing, including maintaining accurate records
• Prepare payment requests and documentation in line with internal processes
• Maintain up-to-date financial administration files across shared systems

Operational delivery and implementation

• Provide hands-on support to teams and managers in rolling out new tools, systems and operational processes that are critical for the success of the longitudinal study
• Support the smooth, day-to-day running of business operations, ensuring tasks and processes are completed efficiently
• Identify operational issues or bottlenecks, propose practical solutions where appropriate, and escalate matters to the relevant members of the AHS team

Knowledge, skills and experience

Essential criteria

• Qualified to A level or vocational qualifications, or equivalent, plus some experience in a relevant role
• Experience of working in an administrative role for a hybrid or virtual organisation, preferably a charity or small-to-medium (SME) organisation
• Experience of planning and delivering the logistics to in-person, hybrid and virtual meetings for 10+ team members across the UK
• Experience of financial administration
• Able to manage information electronically through databases and spreadsheets
• Excellent organisational and time management skills with the proven ability to prioritise, at times under pressure, produce accurate work to deadlines
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to take ownership of problems and find solutions
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite of software

 Desirable criteria

• Experience of working in a health and/or data research environment
• Understanding and experience of using project management tools and techniques

Dimensions

• This is expected to be a full-time post
• AHS is a national organisation, and our activities take place across the UK
• Primarily home working, with flexibility to travel across several geographical locations in the UK

Application Process

All candidates are required to complete the application form which can be found when clicking 'Apply Now' via Charity Job. 

Please refer to the ‘How to Apply’ section of the downloadable application form.

Please note that only applications submitted directly to Gravitate HR will be accepted for this position.

The closing date for this position is 11pm Sunday 26 July 2026.  

Interviews are currently expected to be held during the week commencing 24 August 2026.

Equal Opportunities Policy Statement

AHS is an equal opportunities employer, and as such aims to treat all employees, consultants and applicants fairly. AHS is an equal opportunities employer, and as such aims to treat all employees, consultants and applicants fairly. It is our policy to provide employment equality to all, irrespective of age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

Beyond these protected characteristics, we acknowledge the importance of socio-economic background, childcare and caring responsibilities, educational background, neurodiversity, and any other factors that shape an individual’s identity and opportunities. We strive to create an environment where all colleagues feel valued, supported, and able to contribute fully.

Values

It is an exciting time for the Adolescent Health Study (AHS) as we establish our senior leadership team in 2025. As the senior executive team evolves, the AHS values will be grounded in inclusivity, integrity, accountability, and collaboration.