Children and young people team manager jobs

Do you want to work with a leading advocacy charity organisation supporting those in need?   

Do you have experience of successful delivery of safeguarding strategies and initiatives?  

Are you keen to make a difference to people who want to be heard through a profound commitment to safeguarding, protection and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults? 

Then come and join us here at VoiceAbility.  

We have an exciting opportunity for a Designated Safeguarding Lead to join our team to Act as the expert organisational designated safeguarding lead (DSL) for all work 

covering children, young people (CYP) and adults in equal measure. Your role will be homebased but may require you to travel to locations such as hospitals and care homes nationally to meet with stakeholders; therefore, a suitable home internet connection is essential.

About us  

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.  

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.  

About you 

You will have at least 2 years’ experience of working as a Designated Safeguarding Lead with line management responsibility, developing, implementing and evaluating of CYP and Adult safeguarding policies, procedures, and training programmes, reflecting current legislation and best practices.You will also have demonstrable experience in leading, managing, influencing diverse teams on safeguarding, focusing on developing a positive culture and promoting continuous professional development. 

You should have experience in managing complex safeguarding cases, including conducting risk assessments, deciding on immediate actions, and coordinating with external agencies and key stakeholders. 

How will you make a difference? 

You will be called upon internally and/or by external bodies as a source of organisational expert knowledge. 

You will provide leadership and accountability for the advancement of safeguarding best 

practices. 

You will work resourcefully and collaboratively across agencies and adapt child protection systems to address risks in diverse social environments as part of a contextual safeguarding approach, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of young people, vulnerable groups and adults alike.

Benefits  

28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time colleagues) rising to 30 days upon 5 years’ service  

5% employer pension & minimum 3% employee contribution  

Salary sacrifices pension scheme  

Separate Life Assurance Cover (equivalent of two times your annual salary)  

Staff discount scheme including retail discounts, entertainment, holidays, gym membership etc  

24/7 Employee Assistance programme  

Access to remote counselling service  

Paid Disability Leave  

Paid compassionate Leave  

Home Working Allowance   

How are staff supported to work remotely?  

VoiceAbility has a small number of offices. Employees including Team Leaders are homebased for Administration and meetings will be held online as well as in person in the relevant community.  

When you need to travel for work, expenses will be paid (mileage or public transport costs).   

VoiceAbility offers the usual regular manager one to ones, Staff forums and communities of practice depending on role. Team meetings with a mix of virtual and in person approach.  

Equality and Diversity 

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential. 

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. 

Young People Support Worker

We promise you that no day will be the same, and you will get so much out of working with our residents as you ensure that they are well-cared for, and empowered to make progress into Independence.

Location: Whitley Bay (Depaul House)

Salary: £26,436 per annum

Closing date: 17 May, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

You’ll play a vital part in delivering our mission: tackling homelessness, widening opportunity and championing fairness. Whatever your specialism, you’ll help create a safe, inclusive and empowering environment where people can thrive and move forward with confidence.

As a Young People Support Worker (Whitley Bay), you will provide practical, emotional, and goal-focused support to young people, helping them develop the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to move towards independent living.

You will manage a caseload of young people with a range of support needs, building trusted relationships and delivering structured, person-centred support plans. The role involves supporting young people through key transitions, including leaving care, sustaining accommodation, and accessing education, training, or employment.

Your work will be underpinned by the Depaul Endeavour Model, an assets-based and psychologically informed approach, ensuring young people are supported to build on their strengths and achieve positive outcomes.

Please note that this job opportunity is offered as a full-time (37.5 hour per week), permanent role.

Shift Pattern: Monday - Friday - 15:00 to 22:30

In this role, you will:

• Provide safe, supportive accommodation and champion the wellbeing of every client.

• Deliver personalised support plans that empower individuals to achieve independence.

• Build positive, respectful relationships with colleagues, partners and the people we support.

• Encourage participation in education, training, employment, and volunteering opportunities.

• Contribute to a positive team culture and maintain a safe, welcoming environment.

• Commit to continuous learning and uphold Depaul’s values of respect, inclusion, and action.

About You

You believe in people — their strengths, their rights and their potential. You bring empathy, energy and a solution‑focused mindset to your work. You communicate clearly, stay organised and adapt well in a fast‑moving environment. You’re committed to inclusion, fairness and continuous learning, and you turn values into meaningful action, whatever your role.

What You’ll Receive

· Tailored training and development

· Flexible working options where suitable

· 26 days annual leave, rising with service

· Family friendly leave policies

· Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%

· Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access

· Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more

· Cash health plan for you and your family

· Death in service benefit

· Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About Depaul UK

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.

The Talent Set is delighted to be partnering with the Henry Smith Foundation on the recruitment of a Grants Database and Processes Manager. This is a pivotal role within the Grant Operations Team, responsible for leading the day-to-day management, development, and continuous improvement of the Foundation’s grants database and associated processes.

When grant-making systems work well, funding reaches the organisations that need it, and those organisations can reach the people they help without delay. When they don't, the gaps are felt by real people waiting for real support.

This role plays a critical part in ensuring grant-making activity is supported by robust systems, accurate data, and efficient, user-centred workflows. It combines technical system ownership with strong relationship building, project delivery, and a commitment to learning and improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as system lead for the Foundation’s grants database, ensuring data quality, integrity, and day-to-day reliability
• Design, implement, and continuously improve grant-making processes, tools, and workflows
• Lead system improvements and projects, including testing, configuration, and collaboration with external suppliers
• Provide guidance, training, and hands-on support to colleagues to ensure confident and consistent system use
• Oversee reporting and data outputs to support operational insight and organisational decision making
• Champion best practice in data management, documentation, and compliance across grant operations

Person Specification

• Proven experience managing or administering complex databases and systems
• Track record of designing and improving operational processes and workflows
• Experience delivering training or support to non technical colleagues
• High level of attention to detail, with confidence working with data and reporting
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• A proactive, solutions focused approach with a strong commitment to learning and continuous improvement
• Alignment with the Henry Smith Foundation’s values and commitment to equity and inclusion

What’s on Offer
Salary: £45,500 per annum
Hours: Full time (35 hours per week)
Contract: Permanent
Location: London – Typically one day per week with variation (core days: Tues & Wed) in the King’s Cross office

How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity
The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, or age. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.

Requesting reasonable adjustments
We are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you during the application or interview stages, please let us know. You can share your needs at any point in the process. Adjustments can be tailored to suit both physical and mental health needs. Our team will work with you to ensure you have what you need to perform at your best.

Our approach to candidates using AI in applications
We recognise that technology, including AI tools, can be helpful when preparing job applications, and we welcome the use of tools that support you in presenting your experience clearly. However, it’s important that your application genuinely reflects your own skills, experience, and voice. We therefore recommend reviewing any AI-generated content carefully to ensure accuracy and authenticity.

If you are invited to interview, we’ll want to hear directly from you about your skills and experiences. Any significant differences between your application and how you present yourself in person may negatively impact your application.

The Sutton Trust is the UK’s leading social mobility charity. We believe every young person should have a fair chance in life, regardless of their family’s income, the school they go to or where they grow up. But today in Britain, the opportunity to succeed is heavily shaped by socio-economic background. Our mission is to change this. Our programmes empower young people to access life-changing opportunities, and our research influences national change to deliver a fairer future.

Each year, together with our university and employer partners, we support over 14,000 young people to reach their potential through our university, apprenticeship and career access programmes. And our support doesn’t stop there. We engage our thriving alumni community to help them to succeed in their professions and to act as advocates for social mobility.

Our rigorous and extensive research shines a light on barriers to opportunity from the early years to the workplace, and we strive to influence national policy change with evidence-based solutions to tackle educational and workplace inequality. Using insights from our programmes and research, we also test and scale new ideas in education and employment practice.

As an independent charity, our work is entirely reliant on the generous support of our community of donors. The need to support our work to tackle Britain’s low social mobility has never been greater.

Fundraising at the Sutton Trust

We are seeking a dynamic and confident Philanthropy Manager to join our high-performing fundraising team. The Sutton Trust is at an exciting point in our organisational journey, with a new Chairperson and ambitions to significantly grow our impact and fundraising as part of our 2030 strategy.

Over the past five years the impact of the Sutton Trust has increased, especially in our programme numbers, securing a relatively stable income of c.£6m over a number of years. In recent years this has grown to c.£7m, and our organisational strategy to 2030/31 will continue this fundraising trajectory to increase income to £12m. With a growing portfolio of philanthropic income from individuals – currently accounting for c.£1.2m – there is considerable enthusiasm and opportunity to build upon existing relationships and establish new ones in support of the work of The Sutton Trust.

Our fundraising approach will continue to focus on major gifts, harnessing and increasing our networks, and multi-year partnerships to leverage a range of drivers to secure philanthropic support. We anticipate utilising the structured giving schemes designed for our individual supporters to build a robust pipeline for future major gifts. This will include a focus on building out our newly refreshed Fellowship scheme and, importantly, working with the Head of Philanthropy to implement a segmented fundraising campaign with our 40,000 strong alumni community. Additionally, there is significant opportunity to build upon recent successes and further develop our approach to legacy fundraising.

Main duties

New Business

• Managing and growing the Trust’s Fellowship scheme through scoping, developing and securing new four and five-figure gifts from individual supporters, working closely with the Director of Development, Head of Philanthropy, and senior volunteers appropriately to secure and steward.

• Work with the Head of Philanthropy to identify and cultivate a prospect pool of potential donors at all levels, including utilising the CRM, current low-level donors, stakeholder network mapping through the Board and Trustees, as well as prospects research of philanthropists with an active interest in education/ social mobility.

• Undertake prospect research across the spectrum of philanthropic income in collaboration with the Head of Philanthropy – including identification, due diligence, qualification, and creating briefings and outreach plans.

• Work with the Head of Alumni Engagement to proactively identify Sutton Trust alumni with the capacity and inclination to support our work, developing meaningful relationships, identifying relevant opportunities to deepen their connection to the Trust, and influencing alums to start and continue their giving journey.

• Work with the Head of Fundraising Operations and Head of Philanthropy to design, implement, and promote a low-level online giving journey, including automated stewardship activation.

• Supporting the Head of Philanthropy to implement a compelling legacy campaign.

• Work with colleagues across the Development team to identify, qualify, cultivate and secure prospects, using resources effectively where there are links between corporates, individuals, and trusts & foundations.

Account Management and Development

• Manage and grow the Trust’s Fellowship major donor scheme, creating meaningful, mutually beneficial and long-term relationships.

• Create meaningful and personalised donor plans for your portfolio, including reporting, regular written updates and in person meetings where appropriate.

• Working with the Director of Development and Head of Philanthropy to support the stewardship and management of the Board, and other major donors.

• Be accountable for achieving individual agreed income targets, looking for opportunities to grow funding and diversify philanthropic income.

• Support the Head of Philanthropy in developing high-quality Fellowship and philanthropy collateral and communications.

• Take responsibility for all elements of event management for individual donors, including creating, planning and managing events that create meaningful experiences for donors. This may include drinks receptions, small private dinners, panel events, and programme visits.

Fundraising, Line Management, Finance and Reporting

• Effectively line manage and coach the Philanthropy Assistant, supporting their development as a fundraiser.

• Work with colleagues to deliver impactful events to cultivate prospects and steward partners, with a focus on experience for individual supporters and prospects.

• Act as an ambassador for the Trust with external audiences, delivering presentations and providing expertise as required.

• Work with colleagues across Development and Finance to ensure accurate forecasting, income tracking, donor record keeping, and reporting for philanthropic income.

• Working closely with colleagues, provide philanthropy fundraising expertise to increase awareness of viable funding opportunities and develop organisational understanding of best practice when working with individual supporters.

• Ensure you and your line report appropriately follow policies and procedures on due diligence, Salesforce and data management, account management, stewardship, and reporting.

• Stay up to date with philanthropy fundraising best practice, embedding it across the Philanthropy team’s work, and keep abreast of developments and opportunities within the wider fundraising space.

• Other duties as necessary from time to time.

Person Specification

We welcome applications from individuals who have experience in:

• Experience building and managing donor relationships with individuals giving four-figures and above per annum in a philanthropy team or other fundraising capacity, and through structured giving schemes.

• Experience of all elements of the cultivation cycle, including prospect research via multiple sources, to develop a prospect pool of individual supporters.

• Experience of working with key senior colleagues across an organisation to secure major gifts and steward relationships, including making the ask for five-figure gifts.

• Experience of managing meaningful donor events and experiences, from concept to delivery.

• First-class interpersonal skills - a natural ambassador able to represent the Sutton Trust with gravitas and confidence in a range of settings.

• Excellent verbal and written communication, including the ability to write persuasive and engaging funding collateral, and to network with Sutton Trust stakeholders and donors to inspire and encourage giving.

• Experience of building or inputting into donor strategy and planning.

• Experience of managing line reports, including effective supervision, feedback and development.

• Experience with working with membership groups such as alumni, implementing online-giving schemes and supporting legacy campaigns (desirable).

• Strong analytical skills.

• Knowledge and experience of the education and/or not-for-profit sector.

• Knowledge of the UK fundraising environment, including trends in philanthropy and the different giving mechanisms utilised by individual donors (i.e. donor-advised funds, family foundations etc).

• Experienced at using Salesforce or other fundraising CRM software to accurately record funding relationships

We are also looking for an individual who:

• Sympathetic to the aims of the Trust and our mission to increase social mobility.

• High degree of initiative and the ability to take responsibility for a range of philanthropy fundraising activity.

• Strong communicator, skilled at persuading others through writing and conversation.

• Excellent attention to detail.

• Able to multi-task and prioritise multiple funder relationships.

• Able to work independently and as part of a team.

• Is eligible to work in the UK (see here for information about right to work)

Terms of Appointment

• Contract: Full-time, Permanent

• Salary: £42,025-£48,000

• Working location: Minimum of two office days per week. Our home working policy gives staff the option to work from home for up to 60% of the time, with approval from their line manager.

• Office location: The Sutton Trust, 9th Floor, Millbank Tower, 21-24 Millbank, London, SW1P 4QP

• Hours: The standard working hours are 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. This role is likely to also be required to attend events / meetings outside of normal working hours during weekday evenings and occasionally at weekends, in line with organisational policies.

Interviews

Applications should reach us by 10am, Monday 18th May, with first round interviews held with first round interviews held on Wednesday, 27th May, and second round interviews held on Tuesday, 2nd June. Both rounds will be held in our London office.

Safeguarding statement

The Sutton Trust believes that a child, young person or vulnerable adult should never experience abuse of any kind. We all have a responsibility to promote the welfare of all children and young people and to keep them safe. Therefore all posts undergo a safer recruitment process, including but not limited to, disclosure of criminal records where necessary and eligibility to work in the UK. We have procedures in place to promote safeguarding and a safe culture at the Trust.

Contextual recruitment

The Trust is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity and that all applicants receive equal consideration for employment. We strongly encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those underrepresented at present at the Trust, to apply for this role. As such we particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities, Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ and from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds. We are committed to being an inclusive and welcoming place to work and know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the young people we support.

We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for disabled candidates throughout our recruitment process and during employment.

We also operate contextual recruitment at the Sutton Trust. Our application process gives you the option to include information about your background, such as whether you were eligible for free school meals, whether your parents went to university, or whether you attended a state school. For more examples and information on contextual recruitment, please see our website.

About This Job

This is an exciting administration role with Army Cadet Charitable Trust UK (ACCT UK) responsible for the administrative support to the Northern Ireland branch of ACCT UK.

We are looking for a professional to bring their skills, enthusiasm, and personal credibility to the team. This role is key to ensuring The Northern Ireland branch runs smoothly and efficiently, following required process and procedure.

Essential Skills

· Understanding of the Cadet Forces

· Understanding of the branch’s Devolved Nation Area (Northern Ireland)

· Competent with MS Office

· Excellent written English

· Able to work under pressure

Availability

· Able to attend appropriate in-person events and activities anywhere in the Branch Area (branch, civic, cadet etc)

· Attend the weekly on-line team briefing

· Attend at least one national charity briefing day per year

Please refer to the attached Job Description for further information.

Our charity

ACCT UK is a national youth charity dedicated to improving the life chances of young people. The Combined Cadet Force Association (CCFA) is a charity dedicated to the promotion of the ideals and activities of the Combined Cadet Force in schools. Together we want to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to learn new skills, build confidence and be inspired through their cadet experience.

We want to develop the youth leadership and training abilities of adult volunteers whilst also helping young people to access cadet activities through fundraising, grant-making, developing new resources and direct support.

We strongly believe that everyone benefits when you help young people to develop their character and values through activities that stretch and mature them. We also know that when young people engage with others at a range of levels in their communities it builds confidence and improves empathy for other’s lives.

Who we are

By joining ACCT UK you will help us to reach more young people and make a greater difference and we look forward to working with you. We actively promote and encourage you to explore ideas that improve all aspects of the charity’s work in pursuit of its charitable aims.

The charities are proud of our diverse teams, with people on different working patterns, from different backgrounds and at different life-stages. Our experience has taught us that having people with different perspectives and different lived experiences leads to better outcomes for our beneficiaries. If you are wondering if our organisation is for someone like you, the answer is yes! Please apply and explain how you, your experience, your talent and your potential are the right fit for this role.

What we can offer you

In addition to your salary, we offer all staff:

· Flexible working arrangements (you agree a working pattern with your line manager)

· The ability to work both from home and from our offices

· Personal Accident Insurance, including loss of earnings cover and death benefit

· 15 days of sick pay in any 12-month period (after 12 months employment - pro-rata for part time staff)

· A contributory pension scheme (you contribute at least 5% and we will contribute 10%)

· Good leave allowances (which are offered pro-rata for part time staff):

o 20 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays

o Additional privilege leave, on set days each year, such as between Christmas and New Year

o An additional five days of volunteering leave

· Support for qualifications and personal development

· Employee Assistance Programme

· Season ticket loan

· Railcard (if you are eligible)

· A caring and supportive team environment

How to apply

Please send a CV and Cover letter that details how you meet the requirements of the job description by 2359hrs by Friday 29th May at 23:59.

Interviews will be held via Microsoft Teams shortly after.

While AI tools can be beneficial, we value the personal touch and authenticity in job applications. We encourage you to highlight your unique experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, ensuring all information is accurate. Please use AI tools responsibly and with integrity throughout the application and selection process.

Please note that as a charity dedicated to improving the lives of young people, we require staff to make a declaration about any relevant convictions, undergoing a DBS check. In addition, we will follow up with references.

Please be advised that this position may close earlier than the stated deadline if a sufficient number of high-quality applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, we strongly recommend submitting it as soon as possible. Candidates will be notified of the next stage in the recruitment process if they are shortlisted.

30 - 37 hours per week / Permanent / Monday - Thursday 0900 -1700, Friday 0900-1630 / hybrid working, requiring a minimum of three days working on sites each week, with up to two days working from home. Flexibility is essential, as the role involves regular travel across West Sussex and Surrey.

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.

The People Team are responsible for all aspects of candidate and employee experience across the organisation. We drive organisational performance, compensation, benefits, and people tools and technologies - and oversee the continuing evolution of the organisation's culture.

As a People Partner you will be proactive, curious, and solution focused partner to People Managers across the organisation. Working closely with the Head of People, you will play a key role in improving employee experience, strengthening leadership capability, and embedding a positive and engaging workplace culture.

This hands-on role requires the ability to shift between operational delivery and strategic priorities, balancing reactive needs with proactive planning to support short, medium, and long‑term organisational objectives. The role blends strategic people partnership with practical HR support, ensuring people practices are consistent, employee‑centred, and aligned with organisational values.

As a trusted People Partner, you will work closely with managers and leaders to build confident, capable people management across the organisation. Acting as a proactive and curious advisor, you will coach and support managers on employee relations, performance, engagement, and employment legislation, ensuring decisions are fair, consistent, and aligned with organisational values. You will lead on complex employee relations matters where needed, promote positive and informal resolution wherever possible, and role‑model a values‑led approach to leadership and culture.

In delivering the role, you will work in partnership with the Head of People to

• help shape an inclusive, engaging employee experience across the full lifecycle from recruitment and onboarding through to development, performance, and wellbeing.
• contribute to workforce planning, learning and development initiatives, policy development and compliance, and the effective delivery of HR operations, including HR data, records, and payroll support.
• build strong relationships with stakeholders across the organisation, you will use insight and collaboration to drive continuous improvement and deliver a professional, people‑centred HR service that enables both individuals and the organisation to thrive.

If you are enthusiastic about this opportunity but don’t meet every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Your skills and experiences may be more transferable than you think, and you could be exactly the person we’re looking for.

We are seeking an experienced HR Business Partner with a proven ability to deliver effective, high‑quality HR processes. You will bring a strong track record of working professionally and constructively with stakeholders and colleagues at all levels of the organisation. Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 is essential, while CIPD Level 7 qualification (or working towards it/equivalent experience) is desirable, alongside sound knowledge of ED&I legislation and safeguarding best practice.

You will be comfortable managing a varied employee relations caseload, applying sound judgement, discretion, and a working knowledge of employment law to support fair and consistent outcomes. You will recognise the value of building and maintaining strong, trusted relationships with stakeholders from the outset. Genuinely passionate about developing others, you will partner closely with People Managers to unlock their potential, enabling them to manage and lead their teams with confidence and effectiveness.

You will bring a positive, proactive approach and genuine enthusiasm for the organisation’s work, alongside excellent communication, organisation, and problem‑solving skills. Confident working independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment, you will demonstrate strong cultural awareness, professionalism, and attention to detail.

CLOSING DATE: Thursday 14 May 2026 at midnight, proposed interview date Wednesday 20 May.

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.

Ready to lead a finance function and play a pivotal role in shaping an organisation’s future?

Finance Manager
Contract type: Permanent
Working hours: Full Time - 37 hours per week
Salary: £45K - £50K per annum, negotiable dep on experience
Location: Head Office - Newton Aycliffe, DL5

About Us

Groundwork NE & Cumbria is a long established environmental and community charity with over 30 years of experience creating greener, healthier and more resilient places across the region. Our mission centres on Creating Better Places, Improving People’s Prospects, and Promoting Greener Living, helping communities thrive no matter the challenges they face.

We deliver hundreds of locally led projects each year, including initiatives that support young people and adults into education, training and employment, helping them overcome barriers, build life skills, and reach their full potential.

About You and The Role 

We are now seeking a forward thinking Finance Manager to lead our finance function and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our organisation. 

This is more than a finance role, it’s an opportunity to guide, influence and strengthen the financial sustainability of a charity creating meaningful, lasting change. The role requires strong financial management experience, including statutory reporting and VAT. Experience of charity accounting and SORP is desirable, but candidates from the private sector with the ability to learn charity‑specific requirements are welcome, further requirements of the role are provided below. 

As our Finance Manager, you will: 

• Provide financial leadership across the organisation, working closely with the Chief Executive, Trustees, and Senior Leaders. 

• Lead on financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and financial risk management. 

• Ensure robust financial controls, compliance with charity accounting standards (SORP), and oversee VAT, statutory requirements, and audits. 

• Manage and motivate the finance team, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement. 

• Strengthen financial systems, reporting, and automation to support operational efficiency. 

• Support project managers with financial planning, grant management, and contract delivery. 

• Drive improvements that support long term organisational sustainability. 

This is a high impact role that blends hands on leadership with strategic influence. 

We’re looking for an experienced and dynamic finance leader who brings: 

Essential 

• A recognised accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent). 

• Experience delivering a wide range of finance duties, including management accounts, budgeting, strategic analysis, payroll and year end processes. 

• Experience managing finance teams. 

• Outstanding analytical, organisational, and financial planning skills. 

• Excellent communication skills, able to present complex information clearly to colleagues and trustees. 

• High integrity, professionalism, and commitment to the values and mission of the charity. 

Desirable 

• Experience in community-based grant funded projects. 

• Experience strengthening financial controls and supporting fundraising or contract bidding. 

• Knowledge of procurement procedures or state aid regulations. 

• Familiarity with Sage Intacct. 

Closing Date: Thursday, 14th May 2026
Interview Details: To be confirmed after the closing date. 
Please note: should we receive a high volume of applications, we may look to close the role early, therefore we recommend an early application. 

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.

This role is subject to an Standard Disclosure endorsed by the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Make yourself at home

We want you to be yourself at Groundwork and we value everything that makes you unique. We recognise and celebrate your difference and together we make Groundwork a special and great place to work. As a Disability Confident employer we offer a guaranteed interview to applicants with a disability who meet the essential criteria for the role

At Groundwork we ensure that we provide a safe environment for adults, children and young people to take part in any activity or service that we organise. We are committed to creating a culture that promotes safeguarding and the welfare of all children, young people and adults at risk. Our safer recruitment practices support this by ensuring that there is a consistent and comprehensive process of obtaining, collating, analysing and evaluating information from and about candidates to ensure that all the people we appoint are suitable to work with our children, young people and adults.

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship – the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.

No agencies please.

Help Change Attitudes towards Childhood

At Barnardo's, we believe in children – and in the power of influencing attitudes to create lasting change. As part of our Strategy & External Affairs department, the External Communications & Engagement function plays a critical role in shaping public understanding of the issues facing children and strengthening support for our work to deliver positive change.

We're looking for an experienced and ambitious Senior Manager (Campaigns & Communications Planning) to lead our advocacy campaigning activity and help coordinate impactful communications across the charity.

What Will You Be Doing as the Senior Manager (Campaigns & Communications Planning)?

• Lead and deliver advocacy campaigning activity that supports Barnardo's strategic aim to change attitudes towards childhood
• Oversee and manage a single, central communications grid bringing together activity from across the charity to maximise impact and audience experience
• Work closely with senior leaders and colleagues across Strategy & External Affairs, Fundraising & Marketing, Children's Services and other departments to plan, prioritise and integrate communications activity
• Collaborate with the Voice & Influence team to ensure children, young people, parents and carers help shape our advocacy and campaigning work
• Line manage up to five colleagues, providing clear leadership, support and development

This is a senior, influential role at the heart of shaping Barnardo's external voice which combines strategic oversight with hands-on leadership. You'll be part of a committed department that shares learning, supports wellbeing and is united in a clear mission: delivering change for children.

What Are We Looking For?

We're looking for a Senior Manager (Campaigns & Communications Planning) who has:

• Significant experience (at least five years) working in communications, advocacy and/or campaigning
• Experience of line management and operating effectively within matrix-managed environments
• A strong track record of communications planning in a large or complex organisation
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
• A creative, curious mindset, with the ability to adapt quickly in fast-changing contexts

You'll also be able to attend in-person meetings at least twice a month in central London, and occasionally elsewhere in the UK.

The Navigators is a Christian discipleshp charity working across the UK. We are seeking an organised and proactive Events Executive to provide maternity cover and lead the delivery of our key external events, including the National Conference and launch of our Alongside course.

The role involves co-ordinating event logistics, managing budgets, working closely with internal teams and helping ensure events are used effectively to engage people with our work and support the growth of a movment of 'Alongsiders'.

We offer a friendly and supportive team to work with, the opportunity to take responsibility for two high profile events based on solid foundations from previous successes and a competitive remuneration package.

We would ideally like to have a candidate working fully or hybrid from the Southampton Office. However we are willing to consider applications from exceptional candidates who would only be able to take the post working fully remotely from within the UK with the ability to travel to events. 

The attached candidate pack contains more details about our work, the role and the person description for this post.

Please note that there is an occupational requirement for the post holder to be a practicing Christian.

Do you believe every young person deserves the chance to dream big about their future? At MyBigCareer, that belief drives everything we do.

We're a small but mighty charity supporting young people aged 11–18 from underserved communities across London and the North East, helping them build the knowledge, confidence and connections to thrive in the world of work. Since 2013 we've supported over 20,000 young people through personalised careers guidance, coaching and employability programmes, working alongside schools, corporate partners and a network of more than 300 inspirational volunteers.

The role

This is a dual-focus role sitting right at the heart of how we deliver our impact. You'll lead our volunteer programme nationally; recruiting, training and supporting the coaches and volunteers who deliver our programmes, while also overseeing programme delivery across our London partner schools.

On the volunteer side, you'll manage the full volunteer journey from recruitment and DBS checks through to training, engagement and retention, and act as our organisation's DBS Lead. On the delivery side, you'll coordinate and deliver MyBigCareer programmes in London, acting as a key relationship holder for school partners and ensuring young people receive consistently high-quality careers guidance and employability support.

This is a hands-on role for someone equally comfortable with strategic coordination and direct delivery, who thrives in a close-knit, values-led small team.

About you

You'll bring experience in volunteer management, programme coordination or a similar role, ideally in the charity or education sector. You'll be a confident communicator, a natural relationship builder, and someone who cares deeply about equity and social mobility.

Essential experience and skills include:

• Experience managing or coordinating volunteers, ideally in a charity, education or community setting
• Experience coordinating or delivering programmes or projects with multiple stakeholders
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities
• Confidence delivering workshops, training or presentations to groups
• Sound understanding of safeguarding principles
• Competent with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace and CRM systems

Desirable:

• Experience in or with schools or education settings
• Experience as or supporting a DBS Lead
• Knowledge of or connections to London communities
• Lived experience of the inequalities faced by the young people we support

Our values

Compassion First. Dream Big. Empower Others. Act with Purpose. It's really important to us that whoever joins us lives and works by these values and is at their best working collaboratively in a small, mission-driven team.

The details

• Salary: £30,000–£32,500 FTE (pro rata for part time)
• Permanent contract, full time (37hrs) or part time (minimum 30hrs) considered
• Hybrid; home-based with at least weekly travel to London and occasional UK travel
• 27 days annual leave + bank holidays + Christmas closure
• Target start date: August 2026
• Enhanced DBS check required

We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of the inequalities faced by the young people we support, and from those with existing knowledge of or connections to London communities.

Closing date: 13th May 2026 1st round interviews: w/c 1st June | 2nd round: w/c 8th June

Employability Coordinator 

Our team is growing and we're looking for a skilled, people-focused coordinator to join us in making a real difference for young carers across Dorset.

We are recruiting an Employability Coordinator to plan, coordinate, and deliver our Employability Programme, supporting young carers aged 14 to 25 through key transitions from school into further education, higher education, and work. 

This is more than a programme delivery role. You'll be the primary point of contact for day-to-day activity, building trust with young carers, partnering with schools, colleges, and employers, and making sure every young person gets a consistent, high-quality experience. 

You'll play a key role in growing the programme's reach and impact, designing workshops and events including our Employability Celebration Event and Careers Convention, facilitating our TEMPO group for 14- to 25-year-olds, and opening up 'days in the workplace' that show young carers what's possible. 

We're looking for confident, organised communicators with a track record of delivering employability, careers, or transition programmes to young people. People who can engage a 14- to 25-year-old audience, build strong partnerships with schools and businesses, and manage competing priorities with ease. 

If you're ready to bring your expertise and energy to a cause that truly matters and help young carers unlock their futures, we'd love to hear from you. 

Please visit the website for more information 

��️ Applications close 14th May 2026 

​SUMMARY​

​Position Title: Head of Programmes (CMDP) Mat-Cover

Level: Level 6

Salary: £40, 000 - 46, 000 (FTE yearly) 

Reports to: Director of Programmes and Partnerships

Location: The Liberation centre Brixton, London (New office in Brixton)/ Remote working within the UK with at least 2 days’ work from our office (Pro rata for part time)

Contract: Fulltime (40hrs/weekly), fixed-term maternity cover contract for 1 year with potential for Part time (e.g., 32hrs/weekly) extension subject to funding.

Hours: TAA has flexible working hours, with some expected evenings (e.g. one 9pm finish once every two weeks) and weekends due to the nature of the role. All extra hours are reimbursed as Time off in Lieu (TOIL).

Start date: As soon as possible(potentially June with consideration for notice period)

Benefits:  TAA laptop (employee assistance and health cash package including staff supervision, counselling, dental, optical care and more.).​

The Advocacy Academy is an activist youth movement. We serve as the political home for grassroots youth organising and the catalyst for collective action. The lives of the young people we work alongside have been directly shaped by living in an unjust world, and we exist to turn their anger into action.

Young people are often the catalysts for major social change, from the Student Non-violent Coordinating Committee at the heart of the Civil Rights Movement, to the Soweto Uprising mobilising young people to resist the apartheid regime's education policies, to the Sunrise Movement redrawing the electoral map across America, and more recently encampments and protests across the world protesting the genocide in Palestine. How successfully they achieve real and lasting change depends on whether they are organised and whether they have the right strategy and tactics to be effective.​

We want youth organising to be enshrined in the UK for generations to come, and for young people to have tangible political power to influence national policy. That’s why we have launched two national coalitions, one around climate, and the other around gender. Each will train organisations across the country to become youth organisers, and work together to bring 100 young people together to identify the strategy and tactics needed to achieve change. These young leaders will organise others and work collectively to build a campaign which shakes the status quo.​

We are looking for a Head of Programmes who believes in this vision and is capable of building the leadership of young people that enables them to turn the resources they have into the power they need to make the change they want. It will be your job to help grow the Changemaker Development programme, train and organise Changemakers, create magic and spark the hope for something more! If this excites you, then please apply.

Before you skim the job description, please remember you don’t have to tick all the boxes for each role to apply. Charity experience is not a requirement! We all experience a bit of imposter syndrome, including the staff here at The Advocacy Academy. Let’s name it for what it is - a manifestation of the oppression many of us face on a day to day.​If this role pulls you and you believe you could make a difference, then apply anyway or reach out to us to discuss more!​​

​AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY​​​

​1.You will be responsible for the Changemaker Development Programme (CMDP) including but limited to:

• Working with the Associate Director of Programmes and Associate Director of Partnerships to coordinate programmes planning and delivery timelines for CMDP.
• Managing cross programmatic projects to standardise processes and practices in the Programmes Department
• Designing and developing the recruitment process for Alumni to join the CMDP and create a targeted recruitment strategy to grow the Alumni Changemaker pool
• Managing the monitoring and evaluation of the programme including quantitative and qualitative data, and facilitate the process of ongoing learning being integrated into the programme
• Working with Programmes Leadership Team to coordinate and deliver a holistic safeguarding, wellbeing and pastoral care strategy across TAA’s work with young people
• Responsible for holding the CMDP budget and ensuring that it is managed and spent in accordance with TAA expenses procedure e.g. signing off expenses up to £1,000 expenditure and escalating to Director of Programmes and Partnerships for amounts exceeding this.

2.​You will be accountable for the learning design and delivery to include but not limited:

• Leading the design of the CMDP curriculum to agreed TAA standards engaging key stakeholders, e.g. alumni, programmes team, external partners 
• Supporting Alumni Changemakers to design, deliver and facilitate social justice workshops in line with established pedagogical approaches at TAA.
• Leading the development of learning journeys for Alumni Changemakers.
• Working during school holidays for camps, and in the evenings to accommodate school hours, which may include regular evening work and unsocial hours during programme delivery.​

3.You will be the port of call for the Changemakers and Community Organisers who will help run the programme, and a regular and trusted individual whom the young people know and can connect with. To include but not limited to:

• You will support the Changemakers in co-creating this space with young people in the community and helping them identify ways to bring participants along into the membership.
• You will be managing the Changemakers who are delivering the programme - and updating both the Community Director and Director of Programmes and Partnerships on their progress and development. 
• You will hold the budget for the programme - keeping track of expenses and thinking through ways to keep costs down. 
• You will ensure that you provide accurate and timely financial information to the budget lead for your work and to the Finance, HR & Operations team
• You will be responsible for holding relationships with Alumni Changemakers and holding the relational culture of the CMDP to ensure we have a brilliant atmosphere for learning, nurturing and growth for Alumni Changemakers, including but not limited to:
• Taking responsibility for the pastoral care of Alumni Changemakers on placement including building the pastoral care approach with the Programmes Leadership Team.
• Taking responsibility for building and nurturing key relationships with fellow social justice activists, organisers and educators in the sector who can support, challenge and inspire our Alumni Changemakers.
• Representing TAA at any applicable events, in the press and in activist circles 
• ​Building and nurturing relationships with alumni/members.​

4.You will be accountable for the learning design and development of the Leadership Development Framework. To include but not limited to:

• Designing and developing a cohesive, high-quality curriculum aligned to TAA’s strategic goals and organisational values
• Establishing and embedding a clear pedagogical approach that underpins all delivery and supports effective facilitation
• Creating structured learning journeys that support the progression and development of young people as leaders
• Developing and maintaining facilitator guides, resources and tools to ensure consistency and quality across delivery
• Working with staff and members to ensure curriculum and pedagogy are effectively understood and implemented
• Reviewing delivery, gathering feedback and insights from members, and iterating on the curriculum and approach to continuously improve quality and impact​

5.You will ensure that your programmatic activities are managed as well-oiled machines through pulling in the right people at the right time and ensuring that key milestones are met:

• Responsible for ensuring effective departmental administration including delegating key administrative tasks to relevant staff
• You will be working with the Director of Programme and Partnerships, Director of Community, the Safeguarding and Wellbeing Team and others to think about the safety, safeguarding, and wellbeing needs of the young people participating in the programme and beyond. 
  • You will ensure safeguarding and Health and Safety standards are met across the programmes team and other critical policies and practices within the organisation, working proactively with relevant leads to understand requirements and operationalise effectively
  • You will contribute towards risk management standards and ensure Health and Safety standards are met across programmatic and community team
  • You will be responsible for managing and overseeing a suite of behind-the-scenes systems, databases and resources which comply with UKGDPR, safeguarding and other legal requirements.
• You will be responsible for overseeing the logistics of the CMDP including the organisation and coordination of venues, food, travel, staff and risk assessments, individual care plans etc.
• Work closely with the development team to align work with fundraising targets and support them in identifying and securing appropriate fundraising opportunities
• You will be committed to learning, monitoring outcomes, and holding us accountable to ourselves, our communities, funders, allies and donors. This includes shaping thoughtful MEAL practices and developing systems that go beyond compliance, enabling genuine learning and innovation while respecting the integrity and privacy of the young people in the programme.​

6.Culture, values and wider strategy and mission. Provide senior accountability within your remit for ensuring the delivery of our strategic objectives by embedding our vision, mission, strategy, ideology and cultural values across your area and the wider organisation. Play a central role in shaping organisational direction and leading cross-departmental priorities and initiatives. To include but not limited to:

• Embodying and championing our commitment to social and economic justice, ensuring this is consistently reflected in organisational strategy, decision-making, delivery and partnerships
• Acting as a champion of organisational culture and values, setting the standard across teams and holding others to account in upholding these in practice
• Leading on identifying and driving opportunities that strengthen organisational impact, working closely with your senior leadership, including the Director of Finance, HR and Ops, and contributing to high-level strategic direction
• Holding ultimate responsibility for identifying, assessing and addressing risks to our integrity, authenticity and alignment with our ideology and culture, taking decisive and timely action within your area of responsibility
• Enabling and leading effective cross-departmental collaboration within your remit, ensuring teams are aligned, appropriately resourced and working cohesively towards shared goals
• Shaping and modelling a culture of openness, care and accountability, contributing to organisational wellbeing approaches and supporting leaders across the organisation to do the same
• Taking ownership of your continued leadership development, while also actively supporting the development of others and building leadership capacity within your area
• Taking responsibility for communicating your own wellbeing and needs and providing feedback on TAA wellbeing initiatives to your line manager, and contribute to living the TAA transformative culture​

7.Governance and Compliance

• Provide strategic leadership on governance and risk management within your portfolio, working in close partnership with the Finance, HR and Operations team.
• Lead and hold accountability for risk identification, analysis and mitigation, ensuring risks to strategic objectives are anticipated, escalated and managed effectively
• Maintain oversight of risk across your area, ensuring robust systems, controls and practices are in place and consistently applied
• Ensure strong organisational compliance with TAA policies and practices, taking responsibility for their effective implementation, continuous improvement and alignment with wider organisational standards
• You will support Campaigns and Community Departments by ensuring that the operations, structures, processes, and practices within CMDP and Open Access align with and support TAA's campaigning and organising goals, activating new allies' goals, and community goals​

A BIT ABOUT YOU​

• You are passionate about, and committed to, creating a more fair, just and equal world.
• You believe in the potential of young people to challenge the status quo and are dedicated to helping them become more powerful citizens.
• You’ve got a deep understanding of, and a personal relationship with, issues of social justice. From racism to the housing crisis to climate justice, you’ll be aware of how systemic injustice operates in our society, clued-up and well-informed on the big issues of our time and committed to changing them.
• You’ll be comfortable managing a “to-do” list of competing priorities and balancing your workload to meet competing deadlines.
• You’re a sensitive and thoughtful relationship-builder who is interested in building a network of relationships to support the Advocacy Academy’s work. You’re a great listener, and remember people’s names, faces, and stories.
• You’re a confident written and verbal communicator, who is comfortable with tailoring communication to reach a diverse range of audiences and stakeholders.
• You’re proactive, organised, and eager to learn, whether that’s chatting with potential funders, researching new opportunities or collaborating with teammates.​

​IDEAL SKILLS & EXPERIENCE​

• At least 5 years of experience in programmes delivery on issues of social justice working with young people and/or 
• At least 5 years of experience in supporting others to grow in confidence and capability to develop and deliver organising or campaign efforts, including leading and managing groups such as mentors, interns and young people
• Detail oriented
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience in identifying challenges within programmes and using insight, feedback and data to iterate and continuously improve delivery
• Detail oriented
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience working with different audiences or types of stakeholders 
• Strong project management and experience working collaboratively across teams both in person and online
• Excellent organisational skills with confidence managing multiple tasks at the same time/ balancing multiple priorities to meet deadlines
• Experience with our existing systems e.g., Gmail/ Google Doc/ Google Sheets/ Canva/ Slack
• Confidence working in a fast-paced environment

This is an outline of the responsibilities and duties of the Head of Programmes role; it is not intended as an exhaustive list and may change from time to time to meet the changing needs of the Liberation Centre and our young people. Any changes will be made in consultation with the post holder.

HOW TO APPLY​

Candidates will be asked to provide a CV and a Cover Letter OR a supporting video application addressing the following questions (no more than 1000 words or 10 minutes for all questions).​

• ​Tell us about a social justice issue that makes you angry and why it matters to you?
• ​Our Head of Programmes will train Changemakers (young people) to become confident leaders and organisers. Tell us about a training programme you were part of, what it achieved, what it didn’t, your role in that effort and any reflections you have about being part of it?
• ​Our Head of Programmes will support people to act on their developing political interests. Tell us about a time when you helped someone learn and develop their capacity to make change in the world?
• ​Include anything else you would like us to know as we consider your candidacy for the Head of Programmes role.

In addition, please also provide information on your notice period and your availability for interview. You may also attach any other content that would be relevant for us to have in order to showcase interest and experience. The content can come in any form of media, including but not limited to - a mind map of ideas, a timeline or portfolio of your work, life or experiences; a recording; a Powerpoint or other form of presentation; a song, article, poem or other writing samples.​

DATES​

• Closing Date: The deadline for applications 25th May 2026 by 10am.
• Task: If shortlisted you may be required to complete a brief facilitation activity with young people around organising or campaigns.
• First Round of Interviews: will be scheduled for 29th May 2026 (Dates are subject to change).
• Second Round of Interviews: will be scheduled for w/c 08 June 2026 (Dates are subject to change).​

Please be aware that we will be interviewing as we receive applications. The application date might be brought forward if we find the right person.​

ONLINE OPEN HOUSE​

We will not be hosting an online open house for this role.  However, if you have any questions about the role or are interested in hearing more about what The Advocacy Academy is about we are happy to do 15-20mins exploratory phone call. Contact us on the email indicated on the JD to indicate your interest for this.​

A NOTE ON USING AI TOOLS IN YOUR APPLICATION​

We understand that AI tools like ChatGPT can be helpful when preparing an application, and you’re welcome to use them as a support. However, we’re most interested in hearing directly from you. Please ensure your application reflects your own voice, experiences, and perspective.

We value the unique insights, lived experiences, and ways of thinking that each candidate brings. These are what help us understand who you are and what you would bring to the role, and they are an important part of how we assess applications.

If you require any adjustments or support during the application process, please don’t hesitate to let us know. we’re committed to making our recruitment process as accessible and inclusive as possible.​​

NOTHING ABOUT US WITHOUT US​

​We aim to be representative of the community we are working with. We encourage applications from people of colour, those who identify as LGBTQIA, working class as well as disabled people, those living with mental health conditions, refugees and migrants. We welcome people from all identities who are made to feel marginalised.​

We’re not just committed to being an equal opportunity employer, we actively celebrate diversity in all its forms. Let us know if we can do anything to make the application or interview process more accessible. If you are invited to interview, we will at that point ask you for any accessibility requirements or preferences.

As an employer we make all reasonable adjustments to support employees in their work if they are disabled or have a health condition. We support the Access to Work scheme which could provide you with financial support to get the help you need to do all tasks successfully. We are happy to facilitate Access to Work assessments and reclaims and would actively welcome applicants who would need this in order to do the job.​​

All staff who work on our programme must have, prior to starting work, a returned satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dated no earlier than 1st January 2021. The Advocacy Academy will assist the application for, and pay for the processing of, a new DBS for staff members where required.​

We welcome applications from people with convictions. Please disclose in your applications if you have any convictions, cautions, reprimand or final warnings that are not "protected" (as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013). We consider each person on their own merits, taking into account all the circumstances.

​

Job Title: Self-Employment Coach

Reporting To: Self-Employment Manager

Salary: £30,900 pro rata (£18,540 actual)

Hours: 21 hours per week

Contract: Permanent

Location: Currently one day in the office in Kings Cross N1 9LG

- working actively in the community for the rest of the week

DBS: This post is subject to an enhanced criminal record check under the arrangements established by the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Context of Job

AFK is a national charity creating opportunities for children and young people who are disabled or neurodivergent, to increase their independence, reach their individual potential and remove the barriers they face.

The Self‑Employment Programme is a growing initiative designed to help 18–25‑year‑olds transform their passions, skills and talents into real income‑generating opportunities. Through coaching, group delivery, mentoring, and practical business development activities, the programme provides accessible, person‑centred support to young people who want to pursue self‑employment as part of their pathway to independence.

The Self‑Employment Coach plays a key role in delivering high‑quality, empowering support to young people, working alongside the Self‑Employment Programme Manager to co‑design, deliver and evaluate a dynamic, inclusive and impactful programme.

Overall Job Purpose

To provide structured, person‑centred coaching to young people exploring or preparing for self‑employment. This includes delivering 1‑2‑1 and group sessions, supporting beneficiaries to develop viable business ideas, and helping them access tools, resources and opportunities needed to succeed. The role also contributes to the programme’s administrative, monitoring, partnership and outreach activities.

Working Conditions

The post is 21 hours per week, typically worked between 9:00am and 5:00pm. Contracted working days will be agreed with the Self‑Employment Programme Manager; however, Tuesdays are a mandatory working day. The post holder may occasionally be required to work evenings or weekends depending on programme needs.

The role includes 16.5 days of annual leave, in addition to public holidays.
AFK operates a TOIL (Time Off in Lieu) policy.

Working Relationships

The Self‑Employment Coach will work closely with young people, their families, education professionals, and colleagues across AFK to deliver tailored coaching and support.

The post holder will report regularly to the Self‑Employment Programme Manager and work alongside the Executive Director of Services as required, while actively engaging with external partners to ensure positive and sustainable outcomes for young people.

Principal Responsibilities

Coaching & Programme Delivery

• Deliver 1‑2‑1 coaching, small‑group sessions and workshop activities to support young people’s business development, confidence and skills.
• Work with young people to identify their aspirations, needs and goals, and translate them into practical action plans.
• Support trainees to develop essential components of their business ideas (e.g., value proposition, customer identification, pricing).
• Help young people understand the financial aspects of self‑employment, including budgeting, basic feasibility and potential benefits implications (with support from the Manager where specialist knowledge is required).
• Co‑facilitate specialist sessions with mentors, guest speakers or external partners.

Research & Business Development Support

• Research and suggest suitable platforms, markets and selling opportunities for trainees’ products or services (online and physical).
• Support trainees to understand and test their business ideas, including conducting simple market research and exploring feasibility.

Programme Co‑ordination & Administration

• Maintain accurate records, including session notes, trainee progress, KPIs and monitoring data.
• Contribute to evaluation processes, including collecting feedback, tracking impact and supporting continuous programme improvement.
• Support with scheduling, communication and preparation of delivery materials.
• Assist in maintaining a positive, accessible and inclusive programme environment.

Outreach & Partnerships

• Support delivery of outreach sessions in schools, colleges and community settings, promoting AFK’s offer.
• Develop positive working relationships with external partners, mentors and community organisations to enhance opportunities for trainees.
• Contribute to collaborative work across AFK departments, ensuring consistent communication and alignment with organisational objectives.

General Organisational Responsibilities

• Uphold AFK’s commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Engage in learning and development opportunities, and participate in supervision and appraisal.
• Carry out any other responsibilities reasonably associated with the role.

The Role

We're looking for an experienced community development worker to lead a portfolio of projects and support the wider Lost Woods team. Using an asset-based community development (ABCD) approach, you'll work with adults, children, young people and families — particularly those facing barriers to accessing nature.

Your lead projects will include:

• Woods on Prescription and sustainable community woodland wellbeing activities
• Five Ways to Family Wellbeing – building confidence to take children and YP into woodlands
• Networking for underserved groups engaging with woodland and nature
• Evaluating and legacy-planning for all lead projects by November 2027

Alongside the team, you'll:

• Engage communities, map needs and help overcome barriers to participation
• Support volunteer groups to develop their own sustainable woodland activities
• Work with landowners, local authorities and partners to improve woodland access
• Deliver training, events and networking for stakeholders
• Report accurately on outcomes and maintain GDPR-compliant records
• Represent AirS at events and through social media
• Contribute to fundraising for Lost Woods and future AirS projects

About You

Essential:

• Experience of community development, including asset-based approaches and mentoring community groups
• Experience delivering nature-based, outdoor or conservation activities across a range of ages and abilities
• Experience working with people from diverse backgrounds, including those with vulnerabilities or complex support needs
• Experience on multi-organisation partnership programmes
• Confident collecting, monitoring and evaluating data and writing funder reports
• Knowledge of ABCD and an understanding of barriers to community involvement, particularly in rural areas
• Strong interpersonal skills — able to influence and motivate volunteers, communities and stakeholders at all levels
• Good organisational skills and experience meeting monitoring and reporting requirements
• Qualified to GCSE level or equivalent; Forest School (level 2/3), Eco Psychology, Nature Connection or Counselling training also considered
• Current driving licence and use of own vehicle
• Outdoor First Aid trained, or willing to be — you'll lead risk assessments for woodland activities

Desirable:

• Accredited qualification or significant experience in community development or community organising
• Knowledge of rural Sussex, relevant statutory services and local conservation organisations
• Experience of line management or team leadership
• Coaching, mentoring or training facilitation skills
• Experience using social media to promote projects

Location: Lost Woods programme area (West, Mid & East Sussex) with home working Hours: 21 hours per week (some evenings/weekends – TOIL given) Salary: £30,833 pro rata Contract: Fixed term – programme ends November 2027 Annual leave: 28 days pro rata | Pension: 5% employer contribution

AirS is committed to equality of opportunity. This post is subject to a DBS check.