Children charity jobs

Department: COO’s Office
Contract type: Permanent
Salary: Up to £115,000 per annum
Location: Home Based (UK wide travel as required)
Reports To: Chief Executive and Council Chair

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to help lead the organisation through the next phase of its development. Reporting to the Chief Executive and Council Chair, Phil Garrigan, and working closely with the Board of Trustees, the COO will play a critical role in driving organisational transformation and delivery. This will ensure NFCC is well positioned to achieve its ambitious new three-year strategy and delivery plan, including preparations for the proposed College of Fire and Rescue in 2029.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a professional, responsive and agile organisation that is focused on making a real difference to public safety.

NFCC is a charity and membership organisation dedicated to making communities safer by providing national leadership, coordination and professional expertise across UK fire and rescue services. Working at NFCC offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to public safety, national resilience and the continuous improvement of an essential public service.

Operating at the intersection of operational practice, policy, assurance and system leadership, NFCC supports fire and rescue services to collaborate effectively, respond to complex and emerging risks, and maintain the highest professional standards. We work closely with government, regulators, emergency service partners and sector stakeholders to ensure that the collective voice of fire and rescue leaders is influential, credible and evidence-led.

As a values-driven organisation and registered charity, NFCC is committed to ethical leadership, transparency and public benefit. We foster a culture that is inclusive, collaborative and rooted in service to communities. Our people are trusted professionals, empowered to lead, innovate and deliver meaningful impact, supported by robust governance, assurance and accountability frameworks.

NFCC is a modern, agile organisation with a fully remote workforce. This enables us to attract and retain talented individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, while supporting flexible, inclusive and high-performing ways of working. We place strong emphasis on wellbeing, professional development and continuous learning, recognising that our effectiveness depends on the capability, integrity and commitment of our people.

Joining NFCC means working on issues of national significance, influencing the future of fire and rescue services, and helping to strengthen the resilience and safety of the communities we serve. If you are motivated by public service and professional excellence, have a strong focus on delivery and impact, and bring experience in leading business transformation and organisational change, this role offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to operate at the highest level of leadership.

The Selection Process

How to apply:

If you are interested in this role and think you have the skills and experience we need, please do look at the Job description on the NFCC website.

Candidates are invited to submit their CV and a covering letter setting out how they can meet the requirements set out in the job description. Please email this to the Recruitment mailbox (details found on the NFCC Website) by 23rd April 2026.

Tests for shortlisted candidates are likely to be Week commencing 4th May 2026

Interviews taking place on the 18th & 19th May 2026

NFCC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults and will require a DBS check to be completed prior to commencing in post.

NFCC is committed to being an inclusive employer. We comply with the Equality Act 2010, and we believe that everyone deserves to work in safe environments that are free from bullying, harassment and discrimination, abuse, and harm, where they feel supported, welcome, and able to thrive.

NFCC acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard, protect and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice, all staff are expected to share this commitment.

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

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

Key responsibilities:

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

About you (essential):

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

What’s on offer:

• Based in Newham, East London (community-based with some remote working)
• Co-located within local authority hubs and spaces with some remote working and frequent community and home visits, and occasional travel to head office in London.

• 14 month Fixed Term contract (until to August 2027)
• 28 hours per week (0.8FTE)
• £32,406 FTE (£25,924 pro rata).
• Generous annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata)
• Strong training and development support
• Opportunity to contribute to a high-impact, evidence-based programme

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

Apply today for the full job pack and more information!

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

The Squad Club is looking for an enthusiastic and creative Club Leader to run our Juniors Club (ages 15–25) on Thursday evenings in Wimbledon, SW19.

This is a part‑time, fixed‑term role (8 hours per week, 40 weeks a year) paid at £13.85 per hour, with a mix of onsite and remote working.

The Squad is a small, volunteer‑run charity supporting young people and adults with learning disabilities through fun, inclusive weekly social clubs. Our members come to Squad to make friends, try new activities, build confidence, and enjoy a safe space where they can truly be themselves. Our clubs also give families and carers vital respite time.

About the Role

We’re looking for someone who can plan and deliver engaging weekly sessions, lead our Thursday night club, and work closely with volunteers, families, and our Operations Manager. You’ll help shape our annual programme, champion member voice, and make sure every session is safe, inclusive, and full of opportunities for learning and fun.

This role includes:

• Planning and delivering a varied programme of activities
• Leading the Thursday evening Juniors Club session
• Supporting and developing volunteers
• Communicating with families, referral partners, and the wider team
• Acting as a safeguarding lead for the Juniors Club
• Helping with admin, record‑keeping, and occasional community fundraising
• Joining off‑site trips and activities when needed

Who We’re Looking For

Someone who is:

• Creative and confident planning activities
• Experienced working with young people with additional needs (youth work or similar)
• Friendly, adaptable, and great with people
• Organised, reliable, and able to manage their own workload
• Committed to inclusion, safeguarding, and disability awareness
• Comfortable using Google Workspace and learning new systems

Experience in small charities or volunteer‑led settings is helpful but not essential if you have strong transferable skills.

This is a fantastic role for someone who loves working directly with young people, enjoys planning fun and meaningful activities, and wants to make a real difference in a small, community‑focused charity.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: £13.85 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexitime
• Work from home

Stella Maris is seeking a part-time to full-time Regional Community Engagement Officer for the North of England to strengthen connections with parishes, schools, and local communities. You will play a central role in raising awareness of the charity’s work, building relationships with clergy and lay leaders, and growing support through fundraising, prayer, and volunteering.

The successful candidate will develop and support a network of parish contacts, lead engagement around our annual Sea Sunday appeal, and build partnerships with Catholic organisations, schools, and maritime stakeholders. You will also organise events and visits that bring communities closer to the mission of Stella Maris.

This is an opportunity to help expand the reach of Stella Maris across the North of England, supporting seafarers and fishers by engaging communities to take action and make a tangible difference.

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

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

Key responsibilities:

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

About you (essential):

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

What’s on offer:

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

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

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

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

Apply today for the full job pack and more information!

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

Senior Research Officer

Bowel Cancer UK is the UK’s leading bowel cancer charity. We’re determined to save lives and improve the quality of life of everyone affected by bowel cancer. We support and fund targeted research, provide expert information and support to patients and their families, educate the public and professionals about the disease and campaign for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care.

We currently have employees working across four nations in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we’re in a privileged position to be able to deliver our ambitious new strategy, On a Mission. There are huge challenges facing bowel cancer patients across the UK and our community needs us now more than ever. We’re building a strong and united team to bring us closer to a world where nobody dies of bowel cancer.
 

Job Summary - Senior Research Officer

We are seeking a confident and organised Senior Research Officer to join our small but ambitious Research Team. This is a hands-on role with real scope to contribute to how we fund and manage research, and to make a genuine difference to a programme that's helping to save lives.
 

The Senior Research Officer will lead the delivery of our grant funding processes from end to end - managing application rounds, overseeing the active portfolio, coordinating our scientific committees, supporting our research events and leading our approach to patient and public involvement in research. Working in a small, specialist team means you'll also have real scope to contribute ideas, help improve how we do things, and play a meaningful part in the development of the research programme beyond the day-to-day.

Interviews will be held on Thursday 16 April.

If you have a track record in grants administration, bring experience, confidence and good judgement, and are genuinely committed to making research funding work well, we want to hear from you.

 

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and at Bowel Cancer UK we are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Successful candidates may be subject to either a satisfactory basic, standard or enhanced DBS check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dependent upon the role.

Youth Delivery Mentoring Officer

We are looking for a skilled, committed, and passionate individual with experience within the youth work sector (this could be in a voluntary capacity). Whilst developing our focus around youth engagement and early intervention techniques, we recognise the importance of having individuals who really want to make a difference in the lives of young people. The successful applicant will understand our values, ethos and principles as an organisation and will demonstrate a strong desire to contribute to and deliver meaningful and effective youth work. 

Main Purpose of this Role

This is an exciting role at Reaching Higher and demonstrates our uncompromising commitment to playing our part to positive impact the lives of young people and their families. This role has been designed to lead on the delivery of our work and play a central role in creating meaningful experiences for young people via school and community-based youth projects.The purpose of this role is help ensure high-quality support for young people across our various programmes, in line with our mentoring ethos, helping to build an even stronger rapport with those we currently serve and improving accessibility for new young people being referred to us. 

About Reaching Higher 

Reaching Higher is a youth organisation which works with almost 2000 young people aged 10 - 18 each year across Croydon and surrounding boroughs. Developed in partnership with local churches, we are a youth-led charity with a Christian ethos.We place particular emphasis on providing mentoring support to young people and facilitating their development as leaders. We have established strong links with key local, London and UK-wide organisations and our approach leads us into regular working contact with partner schools, community groups and churches. 

Our client is a young, growing grant‑making charity dedicated to transforming mental health support for young people aged 11–25 yrs across the UK. Founded in 2020, they invest around £8m each year in services and research that prevents and treats anxiety and depression, strengthens the evidence base for what works, and helps proven approaches reach the young people who need them the most.

Prospectus is delighted to be working with our client to recruit an Operations Assistant to join its small but busy and experienced team, in a key role based at lovely offices in Central London.

The Role
As Operations Assistant, this person will play an important part in keeping the grant‑making and organisational operations running smoothly. Reporting to the Head of Grants, this person will support the day‑to‑day administration of funding programmes, maintaining accurate records in Salesforce, will help to coordinate and facilitate charity visits and events, and provide general office and administrative support across the organisation. The person will also assist with diary management, meeting preparation, minute‑taking and occasional EA support for the CEO and wider team when needed.

This role will play a key role in bringing the work of the wider team together in a smooth and coordinated way with a strong systematic, helpful and organised approach.

The Person
The successful candidate will be highly organised, detail‑focused and comfortable managing multiple tasks at pace. They will bring a proactive, “can‑do” approach, strong communication skills and the confidence to work with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. They will naturally enjoy keeping systems tidy, will be comfortable working with databases (ideally Salesforce), and will have solid IT skills across Microsoft Office products. This person will understand the importance of discretion, confidentiality and accuracy in addition to being highly numerate and comfortable with figures and preparing reports.

This person will have a natural sense of responsibility for their own role and will be a supportive and collaborative team player. They will be motivated by working with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds, connected by the mission of improving young people’s mental health in the UK.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their career or a returner to work, who wants to learn how a charity works and to gain hands‑on experience across grant making, operations and events.

As a specialist Recruitment Practice, we are committed to building inclusive and diverse organisations, and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you in your application.

Careers Specialist

We are looking for an experienced and passionate Careers Specialist with a strong background in supporting people facing various barriers to employment, including those from disadvantaged or underrepresented backgrounds.

You will play a key role in guiding and empowering young people aged 16–26 to develop their skills, confidence, and aspirations, helping them to achieve sustainable employment and realise their full potential.

Position: Careers Specialist

Location: London/Hybrid

Salary: £33k - 35k per annum (depending on experience)

Hours: 37.5 hours per week (Monday to Friday)

Contract: Fixed term for 12 months (with possibility of extension)

Start date: April - May 2026

Benefits: 27 days holiday per year PLUS the 1st Friday of every month is a half day. Pension and contributions are payable 3% after 3 months of service, employee assistance programme.

Closing Date: 24th April 2026

About the Role

As a Careers Specialist, you will demonstrate a genuine passion for making a difference in young people’s lives. You’ll have the ability to build trusting relationships, broaden horizons, and inspire young people to be ambitious about their future.

You will be working for a charity that transforms the lives of young people facing barriers to employment. Through personalised guidance, mentoring, and access to meaningful opportunities, you’ll help them develop the skills, confidence, and direction needed to achieve their full potential and thrive in sustainable careers.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Provide individual, person-centred Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) to young people on the programme, supporting them to identify and work towards their career goals.
• Identify and create opportunities for employment, training, and education that align with participants’ interests, abilities, and aspirations.
• Deliver workshops, group sessions, and outreach activities to engage young people across multiple London boroughs.
• Support young people in their job search by assisting with CVs, applications, interviews, and professional skills development.
• Maintain a client-centred and inclusive approach, ensuring sensitivity to the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and needs of each young person.
• Record and monitor progress accurately using internal databases and contribute to evaluation and reporting for funders and partners.
• Collaborate with delivery partners to achieve agreed milestones and outcomes, ensuring a coordinated and effective service offer.
• Represent the programme at internal and external meetings, promoting good practice and sharing insights to continuously improve service delivery.
• Contribute to a positive, supportive, and learning-focused team culture, sharing ideas and best practice to enhance the organisation’s impact.

About You

To be successful in the role of Careers Specialist, you will have resilience, a belief that there is always a way forward, and an innovative approach to youth engagement.

If you have the experience and skill set that meets the requirements in this job advertisement, then apply today and enjoy a job that really makes a difference in the lives of young people!

Experience, Qualifications and Skills

• Experience supporting young people or adults from disadvantaged or underrepresented backgrounds to overcome barriers and move into sustainable employment, education, or training.
• Proven ability to build trust, motivate, and empower clients, particularly those with complex or multiple needs.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to adapt style for different audiences.
• Experience delivering training sessions, employability workshops, or group activities to young people.
• Sound understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and risk assessment when working with vulnerable individuals.
• Empathetic, engaging, and innovative, able to inspire confidence and encourage ambition while maintaining clear professional boundaries.
• Highly organised with excellent time management, administrative, and record-keeping skills.
• Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively as part of a supportive team.
• Confident using IT systems and databases (e.g., Salesforce or similar CRM tools) to record and monitor progress.
• Resilient, adaptable, and solutions-focused, with a genuine commitment to helping young people reach their full potential.

You may have gained relevant experience in roles such as Careers Advisor, Employment Coach, Youth Worker, Recruitment Consultant, HR or Training Specialist, Programme Officer, or any other position focused on helping people overcome barriers to achieve meaningful employment and personal growth.

What matters most is your ability to engage, motivate, and guide young people towards achieving their full potential. #INDNFP

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client, Not For Profit People.

22.5 hours per week / permanent / £27,110 per annum, pro rata / working at our central office in Hove, East Sussex (working pattern 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.

We are looking for an Income and Property Administrator to join our Income and Property Management team.

In this role, you will support the effective management of key housing and property functions by maintaining accurate records relating to rent collection, lease and housing management, resident information, and property compliance. You will ensure that all internal systems remain accurate, consistent, and up to date, including:

• Rent and former tenant arrears accounts
• Lease and housing management information
• Resident records
• Property and compliance data

This is a dynamic and collaborative role, working closely with Income Officers to build strong communication links across the service. You will provide essential administrative support with rent arrears cases and liaise with appointed Debt Management Agents where required.

You will be part of a small, dispersed Income team within Housing and Property Services. The team comprises the Income Team Leader, two Rent Officers, a full‑time Income & Property Administrator, and this vacant post.

Working alongside our Supported Housing services, the Income team is responsible for the effective collection of the organisation’s rent and associated property charges, contributing directly to the sustainability and impact of our housing services.

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 looking for an enthusiastic individual who can work both independently and as part of a team. Ideally, you will have experience in a busy and varied administrative role, with strong digital skills and confidence using the Microsoft Office 365 suite.

You will already have experience in a broad administrative position and be competent in using software applications, including MS Office and rent or payment‑related databases. Strong communication skills are essential, as you will be engaging with colleagues and external partners at all levels. You will be self‑motivated, able to use your initiative, and capable of managing and prioritising your workload effectively.

An eye for detail is important, along with demonstrable experience in reconciling data and handling financial information accurately. In addition, you will have a basic understanding of the key risks, challenges, and opportunities faced by young people that may impact their ability to pay rent, as well as a basic awareness of supported housing.

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 12 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.

Location: Camden (Head Office)/Hybrid

Salary: £44,052 - £46,770 per annum 

(Please note that applicants are usually appointed at the bottom of the relevant band based on fairness and our pay scales)

Hours: 37.5 hours per week 

Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: Tuesday 21st April 2026

Closing Time: 00:00am

Are you looking for a rewarding role working for an intersectional feminist organisation? If so, we have an incredible opportunity for you to join our team as a Philanthropy Lead at Solace Women's Aid.  

You will be joining a team of committed and inspiring individuals whose dedication has saved the lives of thousands of women, men and children in the capital. We are looking for friendly and diligent individuals to join our services and help us make a difference.

Our core values reflect our history and were developed in consultation with staff and service users. Feminism and intersectionality are key to our work and we are committed to the principles of being survivor-led, trauma-informed, empowering, diverse, anti-racist and anti-discriminatory.

About the Service

Solace is embarking on a new five-year fundraising strategy, with ambitious plans to double fundraised income to £3m by 2031. This voluntary income plays a pivotal role in the financial wellbeing of the charity, enabling us to do more to support the thousands of women and children who come to us each year as a result of violence against women and girls.

Fundraising at Solace works closely with colleagues responsible for winning and managing statutory funding contracts, and is situated within the Business Development Directorate, alongside our award-winning Communications, Partnerships & Public Affairs teams. You will collaborate with colleagues within Fundraising – including Corporate, Individual Giving and Community – as well as across the organisation including senior leadership and Solace’s wider support and volunteer networks such as trustees and its lived-experience-led Shadow Board.

About the Role

Philanthropy has been identified as a key opportunity and will play a central part in future income growth. In this newly created role, you will lead the establishment and growth of philanthropy fundraising for Solace. Responsible for building and managing relationships with high-net-worth individuals, advisors, senior volunteers and trusts and foundations, you will use your entrepreneurship and excellent communication and influencing skills to secure and steward committed, high-value, mutually rewarding funding partnerships for Solace.

About You

You will be someone who is committed to the Solace values and is an experienced philanthropy fundraising expert who will embed best practice, and grow and nurture the relationships that drive sustainable income growth. As well as managing a portfolio of donors and prospects with major gift potential, you will work closely with colleagues and allies to build a culture of philanthropy.

We understand that you may not have all the knowledge, experience, and skills mentioned in the Job Profile Document. However, your interpersonal skills, passion to have a positive impact, commitment to our purpose, and ability to learn quickly and collaborate effectively will be equally important.

What we can offer you

We provide a comprehensive benefits package to all our employees, including:

• Flexible working
• Focus on learning and development (internal career progression and training)
• Generous holiday entitlement
• Employer pension contribution
• Family-friendly leave and enhanced maternity pay
• Access to Inclusion Networks
• Daily clinical debriefing
• Employee Assistance Programme providing free 24/7 support and advice
• Employee Benefits Platform offering staff discounts, benefits and savings
• Flow & Restore yoga classes
• Meditation sessions
• Cycle to Work Scheme

How to apply

When applying for this role, kindly highlight in your Supporting Statement how your values, knowledge, transferrable skills, and experience align with each point within the following sections of the Job Profile Document:

• Values, Behaviours & Competencies
• Knowledge, Experience and Skills

Solace Women's Aid values diversity, promotes equity, and challenges discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, abilities, perspectives, and lived experiences. We have policies and processes in place to ensure that all employees are offered an equal opportunity in recruitment and selection, promotion, training, pay, and benefits. Our Inclusion Networks support staff with protected characteristics and offer inclusive spaces to connect.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. We anticipate and provide reasonable adjustments as needed and support employees who acquire a disability or long-term health condition, enabling them to stay in work.

This service is run by women for women and is therefore restricted to female applicants under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, and Part 1. Section 7(2) e of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 apply. The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.

As part of safer recruitment practices, we carry out pre-employment checks including references, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and right to work in the UK checks.

No agencies.

Director of Commercial Services

Salary: £60,727
Location: University of Reading Students’ Union
Contract: Full Time – 37.5 hours per week (worked flexibly)

Are you ready to shape exceptional student experiences through vibrant and innovative commercial services?
Reading Students’ Union is seeking a progressive and values-driven Director of Commercial Services to provide strategic and hands-on leadership across all commercial services, helping to deliver outstanding spaces, services and experiences for the student community.

About Reading SU

Reading Students’ Union is an independent education charity led by, and for, students.

The Students’ Union is central to the University experience and works to support all aspects of student life for the 19,000 plus students studying at the University of Reading. Located in one of Britain’s top green spaces, the Students’ Union is an ambitious and diverse organisation, committed to supporting every student at Reading University in achieving personal success.

Reading SU sits at the heart of a thriving student community, with activities and initiatives inspired by students themselves. The Students’ Union is committed to promoting the interests and welfare of its members, representing their needs, and offering opportunities for personal development through a wide range of social, cultural, sporting and recreational activities.

This commitment to student experience also underpins the Union’s commercial activity. Reading Students’ Union’s venues, services and events are designed to be inclusive, welcoming and vibrant spaces where students can connect, feel a sense of belonging and create lasting memories. Guided by student insight, the commercial services play an important role in supporting the Union’s mission while enhancing student life across campus.

About the Role

Reading SU are thrilled to be searching for a Director of Commercial Services, a dynamic leader experienced in licensed trade, catering, events, and marketing. This role is not just about maintaining the status quo but about reimagining and diversifying the commercial services in line with student community needs.

The ideal candidate will be both strategic and hands-on, with an ability to develop Reading SU’s commercial services while also being involved in delivery of the operations.

The successful candidate will not necessarily come from the Higher Education sector but will be able to demonstrate a strong understanding of the trends, challenges and opportunities that shape student life and the Students’ Union sector. They will bring a sound understanding of charity governance and financial management, alongside the strategic and operational capability required to lead complex commercial services within a democratic, student-led organisation.

Reading Students’ Union offers an inclusive and engaging working environment and is passionate about developing its people. The organisation is committed to ensuring its workforce reflects the diversity of the community it serves, respecting individual identity and celebrating differences. Applications are encouraged from all candidates regardless of background, and Reading Students’ Union particularly welcomes applications from candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds and from candidates with disabilities.

The SU offers a range of sector-leading benefits including enhanced leave, onsite nursery, occupational sick pay, access to campus facilities and winter shutdown over the Christmas period- a rare opportunity within the hospitality and commercial sector.

It’s a genuinely exciting time for Reading Students’ Union and we look forward to receiving your application.

Key Dates

Closing Date: Thursday 9th April, 12pm
First Stage Interviews (Remote): 20th April
Final Interviews (In-person): 27th April

Optional Q/A session with the CEO and Interim Commercial Director: 26th March, 12pm. Email to register (see below)

How to Apply

Please click 'Apply' to be redirected to our website, where you can download the Candidate Information Pack and apply.

For an informal conversation about the role and the application process, or to register to the optional Q/A session, please contact our recruitment partners at Atkinson HR Consulting. Their details can be found in the candidate pack.

London - Hybrid working with 2 days a week from the London Bridge office

We are looking for an experienced Policy and Public Affairs Manager to lead our policy and campaigning work. 

Whizz Kidz: the facts
Over 75,000 young people aren’t getting the wheelchair or support that fully meets their needs. Without the ability to be independent young wheelchair users are restricted in their ability to socialise and participate in society.

We’re here to change that.
As the UK’s leading charity for young wheelchair users (9 months - 25 years old), we empower young people by providing the wheelchairs, equipment, support and confidence-building experiences they need, and campaigning for a more inclusive society. 

And we won’t stop until they are mobile, enabled and included.

Our vision
A society in which every young wheelchair user is mobile, enabled and included.

Our values
We are young people focused, ambitious, collaborative and inclusive.

Job Summary
You will have a strong understanding of the UK political system and how to influence it, and will be confident in drafting reports, consultation responses and working with and disseminating data. Ideally, you will have worked within the youth policy or disability policy sector previously and will have strong knowledge of how to influence policy at local and national level (including devolved Governments).

The person
You must be pro-active in your approach to monitoring the external environment and seeking out opportunities for Whizz Kidz to have the most influence. You will be able to work in a small team and understand how we can make the most impact with our limited capacity.

You will be passionate about the rights of young wheelchair users and driving real change within the sector.

Key accountabilities

• Lead on determining how policy analysis, research and data are translated into campaign strategy, focussing on identified themes from Whizz Kidz beneficiary groups, particularly our Youth Board.
• Lead on external evidence gathering, surveys and data analysis including identifying priority campaign objectives, audiences and influencers, and ensuring campaigning effort is focused where it can have its greatest impact.
• Create a strategy and operational plan to widen our reach (including into devolved nations) including a full stakeholder engagement programme.
• Build compelling cases for change to drive national and local policy changes across the UK, and empower political and non-political stakeholders to engage in our campaigns to drive our policy goals.
• Proactively identify and review new research and policies in relation to relevant policy areas to help create a compelling case for change and investment from governments and other stakeholders
• Working alongside the Youth Board, you will ensure the voices of young wheelchair users are at the heart of all of our policy and campaign work. This will often include working with a variety of stakeholders including young people with lived experience, their families, Clinicians, and partners.
• Support the charity’s responses to government consultations and other relevant public consultations, policy developments and announcements
• You will support with ensuring the smooth running of the All-Party-Parliamentary Group on Access to Disability Equipment which Whizz Kidz is a co-partner Secretariat for.
• Ensure beneficiary led advocacy is at the heart of our policy work, including supporting wider team initiatives including the Collective, Family network and Research panel.
• Regularly review impact, ensuring funding requirements and reporting are met.

Please note: This post is subject to an enhanced level DBS Disclosure, which will be sought prior to the confirmation of a job offer.

Person specification

Skills and knowledge

• Acutely political aware.
• Able to think strategically with excellent attention to detail.
• Exceptional communicator
• Strong understanding of the operation of Central Government, Local Government and Devolution.
• Deep understanding of at least one policy area: disability, health, youth services
•  An ability to work under tight deadlines
• A positive ‘can-do’ attitude and the ability to work on own initiative with limited supervision
• Able to work flexibly and creatively to respond to the emerging needs of Whizz Kidz

Experience

• Significant demonstrable experience of policy development for short, medium and long term impact
• Proven track record of interpreting national changes and developments into local and organisational context
• Provision of responsive and robust advice to leadership
• Experience of working within a policy / campaign environment
• Successful development and maintenance of policy frameworks and strategy
• Proven track record of maintaining appropriate networks and communities of practice for policy development best practice
• Degree or degree-equivalent qualification (desirable)
• Experience of working with young people / within the youth sector either in a policy or delivery capacity (desirable)
• Knowledge of how the health and care system works locally, regionally and nationally in all UK nations, and experience of how to influence these (desirable)
• Understanding of the barriers faced by young wheelchair users (desirable)

Personal qualities

• Alignment with our values – young people focused, ambitious, inclusive and collaborative
• Passionate about supporting young wheelchair users and creating societal change
• The ability to enthuse and engage others in the potential benefits of an engaging project
• Goals driven and creative problem solver
• We’re interested in you as much as your experience so we will welcome your application even if you don’t fully meet the ‘person specification’

A few perks
The wellbeing of our colleagues is of paramount importance to our success as an organisation, and we want to ensure that our benefits package provides something of value for everyone, whether it is our generous holiday entitlement, wellbeing days, Healthcare cash plan, long-service awards. We hope you agree!

Annual leave
25 days of annual leave per annum plus Bank Holiday (pro-rata for part time colleagues).

Christmas closure
In addition to annual leave, employees get three days of paid Christmas leave.

Pension
Automatic enrolment for all colleagues with the option to opt out. Contributions of 5% gross salary made by both Whizz Kidz and employees. We will match higher contributions of up to 6% of gross basic salary.

Simply health
Automatic enrolment in a fully paid for cash plan that assists you with everyday health costs. This scheme is also available to your families for an extra charge.

Season ticket loan
An interest free loan of up to £5,000 following the successful completion of the Probationary Period.

To apply, please visit our website via the Apply Button. 

Job Title: Two Part Time Wellbeing Project Co-ordinators

Salary: £27,527 - £30,831 per annum + 6% pension (pro rata)

Hours: Part-time (2 or 4 days/week, 14.4 or 28.8 hours/week)

Holiday: 25 days plus bank holidays per annum (pro rata)

Based at: Bridge Community Hut, Tewkesbury Road, N15 6SE

Contract: 2 years Fixed term contract (possible extension)

Closing date: 10 April 2026, 12 noon

Interviews: w/c 13 April 2026

Do you have a proven track record of engaging people from diverse communities in inclusive, community-based programmes? Do you have the skills and confidence to lead a weekly community café (including cooking), recruit and support volunteers, and build trust so residents feel welcomed, valued and empowered?

We are recruiting two part-time Wellbeing Project Coordinators to deliver integrated community programmes at the Bridge Community Hut. This includes the Community Café and weekly cooking sessions, a community belonging and cultural programme, and an inclusive physical activity programme for children, young people, adults and older residents.

The two roles will work collaboratively, with:

· One role focusing on community café and cooking activities, including planning menus and delivering weekly healthy cooking sessions

· One role focusing on inclusive physical activity, supporting and coordinating accessible sessions

Both roles involve coordinating and delivering community-based activities and helping to create a welcoming, inclusive and well-managed environment where residents feel safe and encouraged to participate.

You must be able to engage residents, support volunteers, and contribute to a varied weekly programme of activities.

This is an in-person role based at the Bridge Community Hut, delivered across weekdays and Saturdays, with occasional evenings.

This is a unique opportunity to join a community-focused organisation committed to inclusion, collaboration and learning.

To apply, please email or post your CV with contact details of two referees, a supporting statement demonstrating how you meet the requirements set out in the Person Specification and completed equal opportunities monitoring form to admin(AT)bridgerenwaltrust(DOT)org(DOT)uk or send by post to The Bridge Renewal Trust, Laurels Healthy Living Centre, 256 St Ann's Road, London, N15 5AZ.

For a full job description, please visit www(DOT)bridgerenewaltrust(DOT)org(DOT)uk or email admin(AT)bridgerenewaltrust(DOT)org(DOT)uk

Company registration No: 06949568, Registered Charity No: 1131941