Children activity support volunteer jobs

As our current CEO steps down after five successful years, we are looking for an outstanding candidate to lead our charity in the next stage of its development.

As Chief Executive Officer you will provide strategic and operational leadership to our well-established community charity, ensuring that our activities and projects continue to meet the changing needs of our local community.

You will work closely with the board of trustees to shape the next stage of our charity’s development. You will lead our staff team and ensure that all the resources and structures are in place that allow them and the charity to flourish. This means successfully securing grant funding, leading our community fundraising efforts, ensuring the charity meets its legal and regulatory obligations, managing the operational finances, and building effective partnerships within the local voluntary, community, and faith sector.

You will be equally comfortable writing a funding bid, supporting a member of staff, navigating a spreadsheet, working directly with beneficiaries, and providing concise and accessible reports to trustees and stakeholders. This is a varied role where no two days are quite the same. Your work will make a real difference to the lives of those we support and this is what makes it so rewarding.

For more information please see the recruitment pack attached. The closing date for applications is Friday 17 April 2026.

Mary’s Meals is a global movement supported by people from all walks of life and we are focused on one goal – that every child receives a nutritious daily meal in a place of education. We offer more than just a career, we offer the opportunity to support our global movement in a dynamic and inclusive environment with a real focus on personal development.

We are looking for a Regional Development Officer for Glasgow. In this role, you will be a warm, visible ambassador for Mary’s Meals – igniting enthusiasm, inspiring action, and helping people across your region join our mission and help feed more children. We require someone to be based in or a short commutable distance to cover the region.

By building genuine, values‑driven relationships and using insight to guide your priorities, you’ll nurture local networks, identify high‑potential opportunities, and confidently grow income, participation, and supporter engagement. Through strategic, outward‑facing work, you’ll turn first conversations into committed, long‑term support that strengthens our movement and fuels our mission.

Working closely with the Head of Scotland you will co-create and deliver a tailored local growth plan that reflects your region's communities and opportunities. You will represent Mary’s Meals across schools, churches, corporates and community partners and playa pivotal role in activating supporters, mobilising volunteers, and sharing compelling local stories.​

Operating with high autonomy, you will use insights and data to focus on high potential and growth areas, and collaborate closely with our Philanthropy & Partnerships, Supporter Experience and Communications teams to deliver seamless supporter journeys and strong storytelling. Everything you do will reflect Mary’s Meals’ warmth and dignity, helping us reach more children through relationship-led growth.

To apply for the role of Regional Development Officer based at Mary’s Meals UK, please follow the apply instructions on Charity Job and you will be directed to our website.

Applicants must hold full right to work in the UK.

We welcome applications from candidates of all different backgrounds and identities to apply. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse charity providing a supportive place for you to do the best and most rewarding work of your career.

Closing date for applications is Thursday, 2 April

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Please note: If you have any special requirements or adjustments before an interview, please let us know.

Does this sound like you?

If you love being outdoors, enjoy talking to people and have amazing organisation skills, then our Events Fundraising Officer role is for you. Each year, almost 1,000 people take part in a Youth Adventure Challenge Event. We are looking for a dynamic Events Fundraising Officer to help recruit and support our fundraisers, assist with the organisation of events and help us to develop this significant income stream.

Working alongside the Challenge Events Manager, the Events Fundraising Officer is instrumental in every step of delivering well-managed, fun and safe events for our corporate partners and event participants, as well as ensuring the fundraising success of each event.

Excellent communication and people skills will be essential as you will play a key role in building up relationships with the clients, the participants and their supporters. Furthermore, you will be involved in the whole process of event organisation, including developing the event, preparing the resources, helping with logistics, maintaining accurate records, reporting and banking and thanking. 

The Fundraising Officer must be self-motivated, well organised, able to multi-task, a strong administrator, a fantastic team player, have excellent inter-personal skills and enjoy being outdoors.  Paid or voluntary experience in a fundraising environment is essential.  This is a great opportunity for somebody looking to take the next step in their career, with plenty of scope to develop your skills and experience within a supportive team. Whilst the role is home-based you must live in the South West to ensure easy access for in-person meetings.

The Charity

At the Youth Adventure Trust, we use outdoor adventure to empower vulnerable young people from Swindon, Wiltshire and Somerset to fulfil their potential and lead positive lives in the future. We work with them to build resilience, develop confidence and learn skills that will last a lifetime, helping them to face the challenges in their lives. Dedicated support, guidance and mentoring from our staff and volunteers ensures young people receive the maximum benefit from our long-term intervention. Our aim is to make a lasting improvement to the lives of vulnerable young people. All our services are provided completely free of charge to the young people who are nominated by schools and other youth organisations to take part.

We’re proud to offer our programmes completely free of charge to participants which means the fundraising team is crucial. With ambitious plans to help more young people over the coming years, our Events Fundraising Officer role is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference. You’ll be well-supported as part of a small fundraising team with a big heart, with plenty of opportunities to visit our programmes and see the tangible impact of your work.

Safer Recruitment

The Youth Adventure Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and requires all employees to share this commitment. The suitability of all prospective employees will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment and in compliance with current employment legislation, and relevant safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance. 

The Wave Project is an innovative, expanding and award-winning charity that uses surf therapy and the healing powers of the ocean to help children overcome trauma and mental health challenges. The Wave Project transforms young lives - in 2025 we supported more than 2,600 surfers through our Surf Therapy, Surf Club and Adaptive surfing programmes.

The charity, with headquarters in Newquay (Cornwall), was founded in 2010 and has expanded to become the UK’s leading ‘surf therapy’ charity. We now employ nearly 35 staff at 16 sites around the UK, and have nearly 1,400 amazing volunteers.

Contributing to our impact doesn’t just happen on the beach and in the sea. This role is a great opportunity to use your skills, experience and passion to help transform young lives. We are a small but highly driven and creative team who are making a genuine difference in the lives of children and young people. We are strongly values-led:

Care, Safe, Brave, Integrity, Inclusive, Impactful, Thrive

We take our Safeguarding responsibilities seriously. All our volunteers and staff team work hard to ensure that everybody who comes into contact with The Wave Project is safe. Before applying for any of our roles, please have a look through our Safeguarding policy, especially our code of conduct, to ensure you are the right fit for our organisation.

Please read the recruitment pack on our website for more information. 

7.5 hours per week / £34,475 per annum, pro rata / permanent / working day to be discussed at interview.

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

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

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

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

YMCA Community Counselling Dialogue offer free short-term face to face, group and online therapy for young people aged 11 - 18 who live or have a GP in West Sussex. We offer a range of talking therapies, group sessions for young people who are struggling with their mental health. We see young people in different locations in the community such as youth centres, children and family centres and our own buildings. Our online counselling takes place over an electronic therapy platform.

We are recruiting for a qualified counsellor to join our team of therapists as a Community Counsellor based in Littlehampton. You will be passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young people.

Your contracted base will be our main office in central Hove, and you will deliver services in Littlehampton, West Sussex.

Key responsibilities

• Offer assessments to children and young people within the Tier 2 Counselling Service
• Manage a caseload of children and young people, delivering counselling within the West Sussex Dialogue service model
• Work with the project administrator and project manager to ensure high quality delivery of service
• Work systemically, e.g. liaise with and include parent/carers, educators, health professionals when appropriate and as agreed by the client
• Manage the tight time boundaries of the role and the often complex and varied workload
• To develop and co-facilitate groups for children and young people in the service
• Work at all times within the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions and follow YMCA Dialogue safeguarding procedures and policies
• Maintain individual membership of the BACP and to become a Registered Member (or other professional body such as HCPC)

Qualifications, knowledge, and experience

• Experience of working as a Counsellor post-qualified at diploma, graduate or post graduate level or equivalent, including working with risk issues
• You will have a BACP Membership; BACP Registered or Accredited. Or other professional body e.g. HCP
• You will also have a sound understanding of child protection and vulnerable adult safeguarding issues, policies, and procedures
• An in depth understanding of counselling theory and practice and working to short-term models
• You will have proven experience in safeguarding children and young people, responding to, managing, and referring safeguarding issues
• You will be familiar with using creative therapeutic approaches, along with experience of working with children and young people aged 11-18 in community settings

Please note we are also recruiting for a School Counsellor in Bognor Regis, (7.5 hours per week – term-time only / £34,475 per annum, pro rata / permanent / working one day per week 8.30am-4.30pm - working day to be discussed at interview) and there is an opportunity to combine this Community Counsellor role to make a two-day role. If you are interested in both roles, please let us know in your application. 

CLOSING DATE: Wednesday 22 April 2026 at midnight. 

PLEASE NOTE: We are unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorship for this role, so applicants must already have the right to live and work in the UK independently.

An inclusive workplace We are committed to policies and practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment. 

Accessibility If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us.

YMCA DLG requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. 

Successful applicants will undergo a thorough background screening process, conducted by an accredited third-party provider. This includes an Enhanced DBS check (with Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists) as well as comprehensive reference and activity check.

We are recruiting for 1 x Schools Coordinator post in the following regions and areas.

South West and Channel Islands – Dorset. 1xfull time 35 hpw, fixed term contract until 31/8/2027

• Home based.
• Must live within the advertised areas, as frequent travel is a requirement of the role.
• Access to a car for work travel and broadband are essential for the role.

About the role and the Schools Service:

Would you like to drive forward NSPCC's schools offer?

In 2021, the NSPCC announced a new 10+ year strategy to make the biggest impact we can to stop child abuse and neglect. Our Local Services teams are an essential part of how NSPCC's three main strategic goals will be delivered:

1. Everyone plays their part to prevent child abuse.
2. Every child is safe online.
3. Children feel safe, listened to and supported.

Local Services brings together our work in schools, local campaigning and our direct services across 9 regions and nations. The Schools Service team plays an integral part of our mission as it's responsible for delivering the wider schools offer.

Do you; 

• have experience of delivering or arranging programmes in either an educational or safeguarding setting; 

• work well towards set targets/KPIs and objectives; 

• have experience of management, retention and recruitment of volunteers; 

• have well-developed communication and influencing skills; 

• have experience of following safeguarding procedures; 

• work with diverse groups of people; 

• have effective time management, planning and organisation skills; 

• work well as a team and work well remotely? 

If so, we would love you to apply for the Schools Coordinator position. 

As a member of our team, our organisational values and behaviours would be important to you. We want someone who will take a child-centred approach, has a strong belief in the rights of children, and has a clear understanding and commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of life and practice. 

Reporting to the Schools Service Manager, the Schools Coordinator role will mainly be responsible for delivering the Schools Service and local offer to primary and secondary school settings. This includes (not an exhaustive list): 

• Being the single point of contact for primary and secondary schools within the designated local educational authority areas, including non-mainstream settings; 

• Working to set targets, KPIs and reach plans as agreed by your line manager; 

• Responsibility for booking a minimum number of schools to deliver our Speak out. Stay safe programme; 

• Overseeing the booking and delivery of NSPCC volunteer led workshops (to 6-7- and 9–11-year-olds); 

• Actively engaging with and approaching secondary schools with our new Talk Relationships service and wider offer; 

• Leading, supervising and supporting a team of high calibre schools service volunteers; 

• Carrying out quality assurance visits through direct observations of volunteer deliveries, giving constructive feedback; 

• Ensuring training and sign off plans are in place for new volunteers, which may include some co-delivery with a Schools Coordinator in schools for some areas; 

• Providing effective individual and group volunteer supervisions; 

• Planning and implementing volunteer recruitment/attraction strategies; 

• Building and maintaining internal and external relationships, attending events or actively stewarding our offer with stakeholders; 

• Following NSPCC Schools Service safeguarding procedures to the required standards; 

• Collaboration with internal colleagues across the organisation in region; 

• Being an active contributor to priority projects; 

• Commitment to continued professional development and practice sharing.

How to apply

We will only consider a fully completed standard NSPCC application form, including a supporting statement.

The supporting statement is where you can provide your experience and clear examples that demonstrate each point of the person specification (1 to 10). The person specification can be found at the end of the job description (downloadable from this vacancy page).

It is a good idea to follow the order of the person specification in your supporting statement.

Please remember to state the area and post you are applying for at the top of your supporting statement. 

Closing date: midnight on the last date advertised. 

We encourage early applications, as we reserve the right to close the advert before the closing date if we receive a high volume of applications that meet the minimum criteria.

First stage Interviews will be held via Microsoft Teams within two weeks of the closing date. Successful candidates from stage one will be invited to a second interview (dates tbc).

In 30 years we've helped transform over 10,000 children's lives around the world, giving them the chance of a brighter future. We're feel we are just getting started and are looking for a confident, relational communicator with a heart for transforming children's lives to join our team. 

We're looking for someone who loves fundraising and will thrive in an outward facing role which blends strategy, storytelling and relationship-building. You’ll be as comfortable speaking from a church platform as you are meeting one-to-one with a key donor.

Please read the job description and if you feel this sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you. 

We’re looking for a talented Challenge Events Fundraiser to join our team in delivering our ambitious events strategy. This role is vital as we continue to develop incredible relationships with new and existing supporters helping them to network, influence and fundraise via challenge events. 

Through excellent supporter care and stewardship, the Challenge Events Fundraiser is required to increase income for our challenge events portfolio. Working with the Challenge Events Manager, the post holder will deliver the events strategy as well as contribute to its ongoing development.

To succeed in this role you’ll need to:
• Develop and grow networks of event supporters, volunteers and community organisations to increase participation in fundraising events and generate sustainable income for the charity.
• Deliver an effective supporter journey, providing high-quality stewardship which motivates and enables supporters to complete successful fundraising activities within their communities.
• Support the delivery of the charity’s event fundraising strategy, working closely with the Challenge Events Manager to achieve agreed income targets.
• Plan, coordinate and evaluate key challenge events within the fundraising calendar (e.g. Abseil, London Marathon, Great Birmingham Run), ensuring successful delivery and supporter experience.
• Act as a visible ambassador for the charity’s events programme, building and maintaining strong relationships with supporters, community groups and partners.
• Ensure all fundraising activity is delivered in line with relevant legislation, including UK charity law and Fundraising Regulator guidance.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the charity and wider organisation, providing support and cover where required to ensure the effective delivery of fundraising activities.
• Work with internal teams to develop and deliver engaging fundraising products and events, ensuring effective donor stewardship and supporter engagement.
• Monitor performance against agreed targets, identifying opportunities and potential risks and provide regular income and KPI reports.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date supporter records, including the use of Salesforce and contribute to the development of effective internal processe

What we offer: 

• Flexible and hybrid working to support work-life balance 

• Generous annual leave entitlement with additional leave for long service  

• Enhanced sick pay 

• Enhanced Maternity Pay 

• Employee Assistance Program and Lifestyle Savings

• Free flu jabs 

• Cycle to work scheme 

• Charity events throughout the year 

• Employer enhanced auto-enrolment pension scheme with 8% employer contribution 

• Ongoing commitment to education and professional development 

The Charity is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.  

Successful candidates will have access to vulnerable beneficiaries therefore the role is subject to Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance.  

If you think you have the qualities we are looking for and the desire to contribute, please download the Job Vacancy Pack and then send us a CV and covering letter explaining how you meet the criteria for the role and making clear why you would like to be considered for it. 

We will be interviewing for this role on 23rd April at our Charity Office based in Birmingham City Centre.

Operation Smile is an international medical charity specialising in cleft surgery and care for babies, children and adults. Since 1982, the organisation has transformed lives through safe surgery and comprehensive cleft care, while strengthening local health systems through training, education and partnerships

Operating in more than 30 countries, Operation Smile raises around $100m globally each year. Operation Smile UK plays a vital role within this international network as a fundraising office, working closely with Operation Smile Inc. to fund programmes and support medical volunteers delivering care around the world.

The organisation is entering an exciting phase of development through its Operation 100 strategy, which focuses on strengthening surgical systems by supporting district hospitals closer to the communities they serve. This approach creates compelling opportunities for philanthropy, enabling donors to support highly tangible, life-changing interventions while helping build sustainable surgical capacity in low-resource settings.

Operation Smile UK has a strong individual giving programme and well-established relationships with corporate partners, trusts and institutional donors. Major donor fundraising, however, is still developing, presenting significant untapped potential and an exciting opportunity to help build a structured and sustainable philanthropy programme.

Operation Smile UK is now seeking a Philanthropy Manager to help grow major donor fundraising, building new philanthropic relationships and expanding support from HNWIs.

As Philanthropy Manager, you will:

• Develop and implement Operation Smile UK’s major donor strategy alongside the Director of Partnerships
• Identify and cultivate new major donor prospects through research, networking (internally and externally) and peer-to-peer introductions through supporters and board members
• Steward a small but warm portfolio of existing donors while focusing primarily on developing new prospects, delivering full lifecycle stewardship from cultivation through to long-term relationship management
• Develop compelling restricted funding propositions aligned with programmes, including geographically or thematically focused projects
• Lead cultivation activity including donor meetings, proposals, events and programme visits
• Represent Operation Smile UK confidently with major donors, prospects and senior stakeholders
• Contribute to the continued development of philanthropy fundraising within the wider Partnerships team
• Occasionally travel internationally to visit programmes and accompany donors, providing first-hand insight into Operation Smile’s impact

Essential skills and experience:

• Experience in major donor fundraising with a track record of securing five-figure+ gifts from HNWIs
• Experience managing the full lifecycle of major donor fundraising, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation and stewardship
• Strong prospect research and pipeline development skills, including identifying and developing new donor relationships from cold
• Experience and confidence in building rapport and trust with prospective major donors
• Experience engaging trustees, senior volunteers and colleagues in fundraising and leveraging networks for peer-to-peer introductions
• Confidence and credibility when representing an organisation to HNWIs and senior stakeholders
• Strong relationship-building and influencing skills, with the ability to champion major donor fundraising in a collaborative and thoughtful way across the organisation
• A proactive, self-starting approach and the ability to identify and develop opportunities within a growing fundraising programme

Desirable:

• Experience in international development or global health fundraising
• Experience helping to develop a major donor programme from a low base or early stage

We are open to receiving applications from early career major donor fundraisers for this role. The role offers an opportunity to work alongside an experienced Director of Partnerships who has previously built major donor programmes and is committed to supporting the successful candidate through coaching and mentoring.

Employee benefits include:

• 25 days annual leave, excluding bank holidays, with 1-day additional holiday each year to a maximum of 30 days annual leave
• 6.1% employer pension contribution
• Enhanced maternity package (min. 24 months service)
• Employee Assistance Programme

Operation Smile UK are dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that supports everyone's needs. We're happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the application and employment process, and we particularly welcome applications from diverse backgrounds.

Operation Smile UK are a Disability Confident Committed employer, so we guarantee an interview to any disabled applicant who meets the minimum requirements for the job.

Role title: Senior Youth Engagement & Careers Lead
Salary: £29,000 – £34,000 (dependent on experience)
Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week
Location: Kettering (80% office-based)

Purpose of the role

The Senior Youth Engagement & Careers Lead increases the reach, use and impact of Youth Employment UK’s careers and skills support for young people.

The role focuses on promoting and embedding key products including Young Professional Online Courses and Virtual Work Experiences, while supporting development of new programmes. The postholder builds relationships with schools, colleges, youth organisations and partners, ensures youth voice is embedded, and maintains safeguarding standards.

Outputs (what is delivered)

• The role increases engagement with careers and skills products through relationships with schools, colleges, youth organisations and partners, promoting resources and delivering presentations.
• The role manages the Youth Ambassador Programme, including recruitment, onboarding and ongoing engagement through monthly sessions and events.
• The role acts as Designated Safeguarding Lead, maintaining policies, systems and reporting, ensuring safeguarding and Prevent responsibilities are met.
• The role contributes to development of careers and skills programmes, informed by youth insight.

Outcomes (what success looks like)

• Success is shown through increased numbers of young people accessing and using careers and skills products.
• Resources are actively and consistently used by schools, colleges and partners.
• The Youth Ambassador Programme is well-attended, with ambassadors contributing regularly, developing skills and reporting positive experiences.
• Safeguarding is compliant and embedded across all activity.
• Relationships with partners are strong and ongoing, supporting growth in engagement.
• Youth insight informs product development and organisational activity.

Behaviours (how the work is done)

• The role requires a professional, organised approach to managing a varied workload.
• The postholder communicates clearly and confidently, including presenting to young people, educators and partners.
• The role works collaboratively across teams, ensuring youth engagement supports organisational priorities and youth voice is represented.

Attitudes (ownership and judgement)

• The role requires ownership across product engagement, ambassador activity and safeguarding.
• The postholder manages their workload independently, prioritises effectively and delivers consistently.
• Sound judgement is required in safeguarding, stakeholder engagement and prioritisation.
• Risks and issues are identified early and escalated appropriately.

Skills and experience

• Experience of working with young people and managing programmes or projects is required.
• Strong communication skills are essential.
• Experience in careers education, employability or programme design is important.
• Safeguarding experience is required, ideally at DSL level or with strong knowledge of practice.
• Ability to build relationships with schools, colleges and youth organisations is essential.
• Understanding of the education, skills and youth employment landscape is desirable.

Working arrangements and benefits

• This role is based in Kettering with 80% office attendance.
• We offer a supportive environment and flexible working where possible. Benefits include annual leave, pension, wellbeing days, volunteering days and professional development.
• Additional benefits include on-site parking, office meals and team activities.

Values

Youth Employment UK is a professional, collaborative and purpose-driven organisation.

All colleagues are expected to demonstrate professionalism, integrity, collaboration and a commitment to supporting young people and employers.

Recruitment process

Initial online interview (approx. 30 minutes), followed by a second-stage in-person interview with a task.

Candidates will be informed of outcomes as soon as possible.

Please let us know if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage.

Join our Psychology and Therapy Hub (PATH) and make a meaningful difference in everyday life for adoptive, kinship and care-experienced families. We’re recruiting an Occupational Therapist with specialist expertise in sensory processing/sensory integration and attachment-informed practice to deliver practical, trauma-informed assessment and intervention that strengthens regulation, participation and connection. 

• Make a difference that families feel every day: co-produce practical strategies that support calmer routines, better sleep, smoother transitions and greater participation at home, school and in the community. 

• Bring specialist sensory expertise: assess sensory processing and regulation needs and translate findings into clear, realistic plans for parents/carers and partner professionals. 

• Work at the sensory–attachment interface: use a trauma- and attachment-informed lens to understand behaviour and build felt safety and co-regulation alongside sensory strategies. 

• Thrive in an MDT: contribute an OT perspective to formulation-led work within PATH, collaborating with psychology and therapy colleagues to create joined-up support. 

• Flexible, UK-wide reach: deliver support primarily online with occasional travel for team days, training or commissioned work (as required and agreed). 

You’ll need: 

• HCPC registration as an Occupational Therapist. 

• Strong experience supporting children/young people and their parents/carers (including complex presentations). 

• Proven skills in sensory processing assessment and intervention, including regulation strategies, activity adaptation and environmental modification. 

• Confidence working in an attachment- and trauma-informed way with adoptive/kinship/care-experienced families (or closely related work). 

• Excellent communication and report-writing skills, able to translate specialist thinking into practical, non-judgemental guidance that families can use. 

ROLE PROFILE

JOB TITLE:

Occupational Therapist

ACCOUNTABLE TO:

Clinical Lead

RESPONSIBLE TO:

Clinical Director

HOURS OF WORK:

Full time / Part time

LOCATION:

Remote working with travel flexibility

DURATION:

Permanent

SALARY / GRADE:

Grade 8 - £43.471

KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

•      Clinical Director and PATH Clinical Lead
•      PATH team
•      AUK staff
•      Children and adults accessing our services
•      Referrers and external agencies as appropriate

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

The Occupational Therapist (Sensory & Attachment) will deliver high-quality, trauma-informed occupational therapy assessment and intervention to families with a history of adoption, kinship care and long-term fostering. The postholder will bring advanced expertise in sensory processing/sensory integration and the impact of early adversity, attachment disruption and developmental trauma on regulation, participation and family life. The role will work as part of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) within PATH, contributing to formulation-led support, practical strategies and therapeutic approaches that strengthen safety, connection, and everyday functioning at home, school and in the community.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

·Provide specialist assessment and intervention where sensory processing differences interact with attachment needs, developmental trauma, neurodiversity and emotional/behavioural presentations.

·Co-produce practical, strengths-based support plans with parents/carers and, where appropriate, the child/young person; provide clear strategies that are realistic for family life.

·Deliver evidence-informed interventions (1:1 and group-based as appropriate) including sensory-based regulation strategies, activity adaptation, routine design, environmental modification and caregiver coaching.

·Integrate attachment- and trauma-informed principles (e.g., PACE/connection-based approaches) into OT recommendations, ensuring strategies support safety, relational connection and felt security.

·Contribute to MDT formulation and case discussions, offering an occupational therapy perspective on function, participation, sensory-motor development and regulation

·Prepare high-quality written outputs including assessment summaries, recommendations, letters and reports suitable for families and professionals; contribute to documentation required for commissioning/regulated service evidence as needed.

·Support families to understand the sensory, neurodevelopmental and trauma/attachment factors that may underpin behaviour and distress, and to implement strategies safely.

·Maintain accurate, timely records in line with organisational policies, data protection and confidentiality requirements.

·Contribute to the development of resources (e.g., guides, webinars, workshops) that translate specialist OT knowledge into accessible tools for families and professionals.

·Contribute to delivery of training in your specialist area (sensory processing, regulation, sensory-attachment interface) internally and externally.

·Actively manage a caseload, prioritising risk and complexity, and working within agreed service pathways, timescales and outcome measures.

CRITERIA

Knowledge and Experience

•  Significant experience working with children and young people and their parents/carers.

•  Experience delivering assessment and intervention for sensory processing differences and regulation needs.

•  Experience delivering remote/online OT interventions and caregiver coaching.

•  Experience of group work (parents/carers and/or young people).

•  Experience of working with adopted children, previously looked-after children, kinship or long-term foster families (or closely related settings).

•  Strong understanding of attachment, developmental trauma and the impact of early adversity on regulation, behaviour and participation.

•  Ability to integrate sensory strategies with relational/attachment-informed approaches.

•  Training/experience in DDP, PACE, NVR, therapeutic parenting or other attachment-informed models.

•  Expert knowledge of sensory processing and sensory-based regulation strategies.

•   Ability to differentiate sensory needs from (and understand overlap with) trauma responses, anxiety, and neurodevelopmental differences.

•  Sensory Integration training (e.g., postgraduate modules) and/or recognised competency frameworks.

•  Knowledge of neurodevelopmental profiles (e.g., autism, ADHD, DLD, FASD) and how these can interact with trauma/attachment and sensory processing.

•  Ability to provide accessible psychoeducation to families and partner professionals.

Qualifications and Education

   •Degree/diploma in Occupational Therapy.

   •     Current HCPC registration as an Occupational Therapist. Postgraduate       training/qualification relevant to sensory integration, sensory processing or advanced   paediatric OT practice.

•  Evidence of continuing professional development (Essential)

•  Training in a range of therapeutic modalities e.g. DDP, Theraplay, BUSS model, Sensory Attachment Intervention (Essential)

Skills and Abilities

   •         Experience of working within an MDT and contributing an OT perspective to shared          formulations and plans.

•Leadership and support skills

•Group work skills

•A reflective and empowering approach

•Strong application of theory

•Creativity and innovative approach to service delivery

•A commitment to the voice of children and families

Accountability

•Consultant Clinical Psychologist

•Responsible for maintaining own professional standards

•Responsible for delivering practice within the policies and standards of the charity

Behaviours

•Demonstrates commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of role at      all times.

•Contributes to an open and honest culture

•Supports, encourages, and motivates colleagues.

•Encourages challenge, creativity and innovation.

•Leads by example.

•Values transparency and consistency.

•Understands the role of individual and collective accountability.

•Actively contributes to Adoption UK’s mission.

•Has a clear understanding of other colleagues’ roles and responsibilities

•Shares skills and knowledge.

•Promotes Cross Functional team working.

•Offers outstanding service to members.

•Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values in all interactions with external stakeholders.

•Identifies and uses the most appropriate form of communication.

•Communicates clearly, seeking clarity when unclear and valuing the opinion of others.

•Treats colleagues and other stakeholders with respect, honesty, fairness and courtesy

•Is responsive to colleagues, third party professionals and service users.

•Takes pride in own development.

•Enthusiastic and committed to achieving high standards and meeting agreed objectives.

•Takes an active interest in recognising professional and personal development needs and priorities within Adoption UK.

This role profile is a guide to the nature of the work required and may involve other such duties as deemed necessary by the Organisation. It is not wholly comprehensive or restrictive. The role profile will be reviewed with the post-holder at significant points for the Organisation.

Postholder is expected to abide by all organisational policies, codes of conduct and practice, and to work within a framework of equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice.

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Sessional Farm Education Assistant

Based at Oasis Southampton City Farm, Green Lane, Southampton SO16 9FQ

Hours: Flexible

Contract: Sessional

Hourly Rate: £12.73 per hour

Oasis Southampton City Farm is a community focused registered charity working in Southampton. We provide a range of supportive, wellbeing boosting, and nature-based activities for our communities, which include young people and adult learners with disabilities.

We are looking for sessional farm assistants who will support the Farm Lead in delivering the vision for the farm by supporting the delivery of the farm’s variety of activities, including:

 · To deliver youth activities on the farm, supporting young people to help care for the animals

· To deliver birthday parties on weekends to groups of up to 30,

· To deliver animal experiences, giving families the opportunity to meet and greet our rescued and rehomed animals

· To support our adult day service with caring for our animals

· To support with the animal cleaning and feeding rota, alongside groups or individuals.

· To support with the running of our café, which runs on the weekends. Working alongside our youth volunteers to serve refreshments and food.

The successful applicant will need to demonstrate:

· Relevant qualifications and experience in animal management/public sector

· Relevant qualifications and experience in youth work, teaching, or community based projects

· The flexibility to work across the week, including some weekends.

· Excellent verbal communication skills

· Proven ability to work alongside others in projects that work with the public.

· Punctuality, reliability, and honesty.

· Ability to always evidence the Oasis ethos and values.

This is a unique opportunity for a friendly, hardworking and driven individual, who is looking to make a difference in a growing and community focused field of work. In return we offer:

· Flexible working practices which encourage innovation and fresh ideas.

· A supportive network and friendly team in a motivating working environment.

If you are interested, please send your CV and Supporting Statement   In your supporting statement please address these questions:

1. Expand on your CV to explain how your skills and experience meets the Job Description.  Give specific examples.

2. What personal attributes does a person need to do well in this role? 

3. How do you see the Oasis ethos and 9 Habits being displayed in this role?

Applications will be looked at on a rolling basis with an invite to interview and a trial session.

We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and minority and underrepresented groups. If you require any assistance to overcome potential barriers, please let us know. 

Applicants must be able to prove their right to work in the UK. Oasis is committed to making a difference to the lives of the communities it works in, and as such you must show a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the values and behaviours which flow from the Oasis ethos.  We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to undergo appropriate checks, including enhanced DBS checks.

Oasis supports Equal Opportunities.  Registered Charity No. 1163889

We are seeking a proactive, strategic and donor-centred fundraiser to lead and implement our

Individual Giving and emerging Legacy Giving programmes. This role is ideal for a fundraiser with experience in donor stewardship, campaign development and relationship-based fundraising who is ready to play a key role in growing sustainable voluntary income.

You will lead on the end-to-end delivery of supporter acquisition, retention, and stewardship plans, ensuring that every donor feels valued and understands the impact of their support. Alongside managing an established portfolio, you will proactively build a strong pipeline of new prospects, driving year‑on‑year income growth.

In addition, you will lead the development of our first Legacy Giving programme. With no formal legacy activity in place and a large, engaged volunteer network, this is a unique opportunity to establish a long-term income stream from the ground-up – raising awareness, creating accessible materials and nurturing warm supporters who may consider leaving a gift in their Will.

This role blends strategic planning with “hands-on” campaign delivery. You will use insights from supporter data to refine supporter journeys across both digital and traditional channels, managing budgets and key relationships to achieve our growth targets. We are a growing charity, and this role offers the opportunity to innovate and shape the future of our Individual Giving and Legacy Giving programmes with strong support from Head of Fundraising and the CEO.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a year‑round Individual Giving strategy to acquire new supporters and increase donor loyalty.
• Plan and deliver multi‑channel fundraising campaigns including two established annual Big Give campaigns.
• Plan and deliver legacy awareness moments throughout the year (e.g., Remember A Charity Week).
• Monitor and strengthen donor retention, reactivation and upgrade strategies through consistent, high‑quality stewardship.
• Build strong relationships through meetings, events, tailored communications and impact reporting.
• Work with Head of Fundraising, SMT and Trustees to support high-value donor engagement.
• Lead the creation and delivery of Schoolreaders first Legacy Giving strategy.
• Develop clear and accessible legacy information for supporters, volunteers and the wider public.
• Collaborate closely with the Comms Manager to develop impactful campaign assets and compelling stewardship content and legacy messages across multiple channels.
• Ensure all donations and supporter interactions are promptly and accurately recorded in the fundraising CRM (Salesforce) and ensure donors receive timely and well‑managed acknowledgements.
• Create personalised cultivation plans, stewardship strategies and donor engagement touchpoints, particularly for the charity’s 100 Club members and HNWI’s.
• Represent Schoolreaders at face-to-face meetings and events to raise the charity’s profile and secure individual support.
• Work alongside colleagues and volunteer County Teams to maximise local and national fundraising opportunities.
• Identify PR opportunities generated by fundraising activities and coordinate with the Comms Manager to optimise visibility and income.

Benefits:

As part of our commitment to making Schoolreaders a great place to work, we offer access to the following employee benefits:

• 25 days annual leave (3 of which must be taken over Christmas), 1 day paid leave for your birthday, plus public/bank holidays (pro-rated for part-time staff)
• Contributory pension scheme
• Access to a free 24/7 support service providing legal, financial, emotional, and medical advice
• A positive, supportive working environment which actively supports a healthy work-life balance
• Charity away days and social events
• Free parking and on-site facilities such as a canteen

Join us and help transform lives.

We are looking to recruit a talented fundraising administrator who wants their work to make a real difference. In this pivotal role, you’ll be the backbone of our fundraising team, helping us secure the resources that change lives.  This is an exciting role that will work alongside our Fundraising and Legacy Administrator, and you’ll ensure that all our supporters, whether individuals or organisations, feel valued and appreciated, receiving superb customer care.  

As first point of contact for enquiries, you’ll take pride in ensuring that every donation is accurately logged and processed flawlessly and that all enquiries are managed with care.  A team-player, you’ll thrive in supporting your line management and recognise the opportunity to be part of something meaningful.

Please refer to the job description for further information.

In your cv and cover letter please outline how you meet the requirements of the role and why you would like to work for us. You must account for any gaps in your employment history.

The Centre is an equal opportunities employer.  We are always looking for talented people from all backgrounds to join us and help improve the lives of homeless young people, insecurely housed families and their children.  We particularly want to encourage people from under-represented groups in the not-for-profit sector to step forward and apply to work with us. We require our staff to recognise the valuable role that volunteers play in our work and to welcome and support volunteers with whom they work.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We require job applicants, staff and volunteers to complete a criminal records self-declaration and to undertake a basic DBS check for this role.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. We are unable to sponsor visas.

Benefits

· 26 days’ leave, rising to 28 days’ leave after two years’ service (pro rata for part time staff)

· Discretionary wellbeing and celebratory days

· Workplace pension scheme and we’ll match employee contributions up to a maximum of 6%

· Life assurance cover (after probation passed)

· Employee assistance programme

· Season ticket loan

· Training and development opportunities

· Access to Blue Light Card discounts

First interviews: 27 April 2026