Childhood jobs

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.

Farm School Manager – Farms for City Children

Location – Wick Court, Gloucestershire

Salary - £47,000 per annum

Contract – Full time, Permanent

An exciting new opportunity has arisen for a full-time Farm School Manger to join our amazing children’s charity. 

Farms for City Children works to ensure children and young people are happy, healthy, resilient and achieving their potential; and to be nature’s champions and to care about where their food comes from – today and tomorrow.

We achieve all this by giving children with limited access to nature the life-changing opportunity to live and work as farmers for a week, deep in the countryside. We have hosted well over 100,000 children on our farms so far, and we believe that these experiences should be a normal part of every childhood.

About the Role

This is a highly rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact to the visiting children and contribute to the continued success of Farms for City Children.

The Farm School Manager has overall responsibility for the success of our operations at Wick Court, a small mixed farm of high environmental value, including a large historic house and farm buildings, all nestled in a beautiful and peaceful location close to the River Severn. This is very much a hands-on role, acting as the key host for our visiting schools and groups and leader of a programme which ensures that our visiting children and young people enjoy a purposeful and engaging countryside, food and farming residential stay.

For full details about the role, please see the:

• Job description
• Job information pack

What we Offer

In return you will receive a starting salary of £47,000 per annum and a range of benefits, which include:

· 25 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays

· 6% employer contribution to NEST pension scheme

· Employee Assistance Programme

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.

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.

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.

About Us

At Children with Cancer UK, our vision is a world where every child and young person survives cancer. Every day, 10 children are diagnosed with cancer in the UK, 2 terminally. Of the 8 who survive, 5 will suffer long-term effects of their treatment. We fund vital research, raise awareness of childhood cancer and deliver support and welfare programmes for families.

We are the leading childhood cancer charity in the UK, supporting families and childhood cancer research since 1988 and have invested nearly £100 million in paediatric research. Over the last 35 years, research we’ve funded has improved our understanding of childhood cancer, helped develop kinder treatments, and improved the experience of living with and beyond cancer.

About the role

We’re looking for a proactive and organised temporary Research Officer to support the delivery of Childre with Cancer UK’s 2026 grant round.

The role will support research grant management, peer review coordination, Scientific Advisory Panel meetings and research communications, helping ensure funding processes run smoothly and effectively. The post holder will also support portfolio audit and research landscape activities, providing an opportunity to gain insight into a charity funded medical research and the childhood cancer research sector. The role would suit someone with strong organisational skills and in gaining experience of research funding within a national medical research charity.

Role purpose

To support the Children with Cancer UK research programme to ensure our research grant rounds run smoothly and efficiently and that our research is communicated effectively.

Main duties and responsibilities

Research Application Review

· Support the administration and coordination of research grant rounds and funding activities

· Assist with peer review processes, including identifying reviewers, allocating peer reviewers for applications with support from the Head of Research and Research Officer, and sending out invitations and reminders by email to ensure timely external review of grant applications.

· Maintain accurate tracking systems, spreadsheets and records relating to applications, reviews and panel activities

· Coordinate applicant response to peer review, collating documents and sending out clear requirements to applicants by email

· Help monitor timelines and flag potential issues or delays where appropriate

· Support on other aspects of the grant application and review process as required.

Scientific Advisory Panel Meeting Administration

· Support with the organisation of the Scientific Advisory Panel meetings, including:

· Coordinating meeting logistics

· preparation of the agenda and circulation of meeting papers

· taking minutes of complex scientific funding discussions with clear feedback for applicants

· Support on other aspects of the meeting administration process as required

Research Impact and Analysis

· Support background research, data gathering and funding landscape reviews to inform research activities

· Assist with portfolio audit, reporting and grant data analysis activities as required

· Support in maintaining accurate records of funded projects, outputs and strategic themes

· Provide examples of grant impact and aid in translating these for communications work as needed

Other

• The post holder will be working in a developing environment, and they will therefore be required to undertake other appropriate duties as necessary for the efficient operation of Children with Cancer UK’s research activities.

Skills and Abilities

• Excellent administrative and organisational skills and strong attention to detail (essential)
• Understanding of cancer biology or research (essential)
• Biomedical sciences undergraduate degree or in a related field (essential)
• Confidence to communicate by email, phone and face-to-face (essential)
• Good standard of written communication skills (essential)
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work to deadlines (essential)
• Ability to work independently and use initiative where appropriate (essential)
• Understanding of research funding or peer review processes (desirable)
• Experience of the Flexigrant grant management system (desirable)

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.

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.

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, London and Belfast that staff can work from should they choose.

The Vacancy

We are looking for a talented Research and Development Officer to join our children and families team at Research in Practice. In this role you will develop and deliver accessible content and learning activities that promote evidence-informed practice and policy across child and family social care, youth and family justice as part of our annual delivery programme for our partners. You will also be involved in the delivery of commissioned project work.

The successful candidate will have experience designing and delivering resources, workshops, webinars, and events for a range of audiences, including senior leaders.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with strong written and editorial skills, excellent facilitation skills and who is confident distilling complex information into accessible learning materials. While the position requires engagement with and understanding of research, it is not a primary research role.

Key responsibilities are:

• Producing evidence-informed practice and policy resources in a range of formats (e.g. publications, videos, podcasts, animations). This includes evidence scoping, content development, commissioning, project management, editing, writing and quality assuring resources from inception to publication.
• Leading the development and delivery of concise, accessible content and learning activities to enable the development of evidence-informed practice and policy in the sector.
• Developing and facilitating learning sessions and events with a range of participants, including senior leaders across the sector.
• Working on a range of commissioned project work, from development/design through to analysis; presenting findings on completion and representing Research in Practice in project teams with academic and practice partners.
• Building strong relationships with sector experts and effectively managing relationships with authors, facilitators, people with lived experience and those working in research, policy and practice.

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, 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.

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.

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

Senior CPD and Learning Officer (Adults)
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Part Time, 28 hours per week (0.8 FTE) (We are open to flexible hours and working patterns, including accommodating part-time and compressed hours where possible).
Salary: £40,855 per annum, FTE (£32,684 per annum for 28 hours per week)
Location: Belfast BT15 + Northern Ireland / Newton Abbot TQ12 + Devon/Sheffield S1 or Remote UK homebased.

The Vacancy

Research in Practice has supported evidence-informed practice in adult social care for 21 years. We now have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Continuing Professional Development and Learning Officer to join our adult’s team.

This senior role is ideal for an experienced facilitator who has substantial experience in adult social care or related sectors. While the position requires engagement with, and understanding of, research it is not a primary research role.

The successful candidate will have experience designing and delivering programmes, whole day workshops, webinars, and other events for a range of audiences, including senior leaders. The role requires a strong understanding of research, policy, ethical and legal frameworks relevant to practice and the ability to translate complex evidence into accessible learning. Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills are essential.

We are keen to hear from potential candidates who have detailed expert knowledge of adult social care and related adult services; knowledge of learning theory and its application to the development of learning activities; experience of developing and facilitating all-day workshops and other learning programmes and events with social care professionals; experience of leading quality assurance of learning activities and ensuring the quality of the work of others; a commitment to developing the work of others and sharing learning; a personal commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and anti-discriminatory practice, and in involving people with lived experience in effective, ethical and evidence-based ways; and experience of writing successful bids and tenders.

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.

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. This role is focused on our work with Adults. 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, Tuesday 30th June 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 apply and find out more about this position, please click the apply button to be directed to our website.

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.

Barnardo's is looking for an exceptional Responsible Individual to provide inspiring, values‑driven leadership across four residential children's homes, each committed to delivering therapeutic, relational care and each aspiring to be Outstanding.

This is more than a regulatory role. It is a chance to influence culture, strengthen practice, mentor Registered Managers, and ensure our homes are places where children feel happier, healthier, safer and more hopeful, fully aligned with Barnardo's vision of Changing Childhoods, Changing Lives.

Our homes are grounded in Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) and PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy). Every relationship, every team decision, and every child's plan is shaped by these principles. We are looking for a leader who not only understands trauma-informed, attachment-focused practice but lives it.

What Our Children Say They Want from the People Who Lead Their Homes

“Please make sure our staff feel supported. It helps us feel safe too.” – J, age 14
“We want people who don't give up on us… even when things get hard.” – S, age 11
“Help the homes be happy places.” – L, age 9

Who wouldn't want their work to be guided by such powerful voices?

Your Role

As the Responsible Individual, you will:

• Provide strategic and operational oversight for four children's homes
• Drive quality and consistency, ensuring each home is safe, thriving, and inspection‑ready
• Embed DDP and PACE across teams, culture, and decision‑making
• Lead improvement journeys towards Outstanding
• Promote a strong safeguarding culture and regulatory compliance
• Champion the voice of the child and high‑quality relational practice
• Build collaborative working across internal and external partners
• Model reflective, compassionate, trauma‑informed leadership

What You'll Bring

• Significant leadership experience in residential childcare
• A Level 5 qualification (or equivalent) in Leadership and Management
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements across residential settings
• Experience in supporting and improving multiple sites/services
• Emotional resilience, reflective capacity, and clarity of purpose
• The ability to inspire, influence, and develop others
• A passion for helping children feel safer, more hopeful, and more connected

What We Offer

• Comprehensive leadership development and access to sector‑leading training
• Regular supervision and reflective practice support
• A values‑driven organisation where care, compassion, and curiosity are central

 Due to high application volumes, this vacancy may close earlier than the advertised date. We encourage early applications.

What Our Colleagues Say About Working for Barnardo's
“Barnardo's invests in us. The training, the support, the supervision… it's the best I've had.” – Registered Manager
“I love that our values aren't just words, they show up in decisions, relationships, and how we treat each other.” – Deputy Manager

As Responsible Individual, you will nurture this culture, one where colleagues feel valued, reflective, motivated, and proud of the care they provide.

Join Us

If you are a courageous, compassionate leader who wants to help children feel happier, healthier, safer and more hopeful, and if you're ready to support managers and teams to achieve Outstanding, we would love to hear from you.

Apply now and help us continue changing childhoods and changing lives.

Key responsibilities and duties

The Clinical Service Manager will be responsible for supporting the effective day-to-day management and development of The Maya Centre’s clinical services. Key duties will include:

• Providing clinical management across The Maya Centre’s therapeutic services and therapist teams.
• Managing the client journey from referral through to assessment and allocation.
• Overseeing referrals, triage, assessments and allocation processes for new clients.
• Acting, alongside the Clinical Director, as a senior clinical point of contact and providing case consultation where required.
• Supporting and managing therapists, including responding to clinical queries and ensuring compliance with policies and procedures.
• Undertaking clinical risk assessment and risk management as required.
• Ensuring outcome measures, including CORE, are completed and used effectively across clinical services.
• Maintaining high standards of clinical governance, record keeping, monitoring and evaluation.
• Supporting the recruitment, induction and professional development of therapists.
• Working with the Clinical Director, CEO and wider team to develop and improve The Maya Centre’s service model.
• Building positive relationships with partner agencies, community organisations, health and social care providers, funders and other stakeholders.
• Supporting consultation events, stakeholder engagement and the promotion of The Maya Centre’s services.
• Contributing to reports for trustees, funders and other audiences.
• Attending relevant meetings, including clinical team meetings, supervisors’ meetings, management meetings and CPD sessions.
• Representing The Maya Centre externally at relevant inter-agency and clinical meetings where appropriate.
• Supporting fundraising, events and wider organisational activities when required.

Person specification:

Essential

• Full membership, registration and accreditation with UKCP, BPS, BPC and/or BACP.
• A minimum of three years’ post-qualification clinical experience.
• Evidence of continuing professional development in line with relevant professional body requirements.
• Experience of working clinically with clients who have experienced childhood trauma.
• Experience of culturally sensitive clinical practice.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and its implications for clinical practice.
• Good knowledge and experience of a broad range of psychological therapies.
• A minimum of two years’ experience of clinical service management.
• Experience of management within an organisational context.
• Experience of working in different cultural contexts.
• Excellent people management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with community organisations, health and social care providers, partner agencies and funders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience of collecting and measuring clinical outcomes, including CORE.
• Good IT, numeracy and data skills, with the ability to collate and present information clearly.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to meet deadlines.
• A strong commitment to anti-discriminatory, trauma-informed and intersectional practice.

Desirable

• Qualifications or training in therapeutic modalities beyond psychodynamic or analytic approaches.
• Experience and knowledge of using CORENET.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Please note that this post is open to female applicants only, as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

We want our organisation to reflect the diversity of the women we serve, and we particularly welcome applications from women with lived experience of the issues we work with, and from women from Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic or Refugee communities