Community development jobs

Here at the Royal British Legion, we are currently embarking on an exciting new phase within our Membership directorate. As part of our new ten year strategy, we are pleased to be seeking a Director: Membership and Communities in a newly created, senior leadership role.

Reporting to our Executive Director: Membership, Armed Forces and Community Engagement, this role will see you lead the development and delivery of a comprehensive Community Engagement plan which will be a key contributor to the delivery of our strategy with the key focus on identifying and developing key partnerships that advance our vision of ‘‘Bringing Society Together to Recognise, Remember and Support the Armed Forces Community’.

You will work collaboratively with key senior leadership and the membership staff team to support the current membership model to provide more and better opportunities for the armed forces community to come together, strengthen camaraderie and grow our branch level support.

You will lead a high performing team of Heads of Department within our Membership directorate. Key areas of responsibility will include:

· Community Engagement

o Working with the Heads of Scotland/Wales/NI&ROI, develop a compelling community engagement plan which seeks to build the RBLs relationship with key groups and/or partners in all parts of the UK to recognise, remember and support the armed forces community

· Membership

o Ensure a high-quality support service to counties/branches/members ensuring that they are engaged and empowered to assist in the delivery of RBL strategy

o Develop a training and development plan which enables current and future members to be great ambassadors for RBL

· Membership Development

o Working with the Director of Armed Forces, Youth and Partnerships, develop a vision for Membership 2035, which refocuses membership on the AFC and drives a transformational change in the membership offer

o Lead on the development of membership events and ensure they are strategically led and professionally facilitated to ensure alignment with strategy

o Create an AFC learning programme for members that supports members to understand and respond to the diverse and changing needs of the armed forces community at a local level

You will be contracted to our London Haig House hub with a minimum expectation of two days per week working in person at the hub and flexibility for working remotely/at home when not on site.

Should you wish to explore a Remote opportunity where you will be contracted to your home address with occasional travel (which will not include additional £4,452 London Supplement to salary), this can be discussed at interview.

This role requires a full UK driving licence.

Employee benefits include -

· 28 day’s paid holiday (plus bank holidays) increasing with service, with optional annual leave purchase scheme of up to 5 working days

· Private Healthcare

· Generous pension contributions, with Employer contributions ranging from 6% to 10%

· Range of flexible working options may be available, depending on your role

· Employee Assistance Programme providing confidential counselling, financial and legal advice

· Range of courses delivered by learning specialists to support your development goals and objectives

· Opportunities to volunteer

· Travel loans, Cycle to Work, and more!

For more detailed information about the role, please see our Vacancy Information Pack attached to our direct advert. Our shortlisting is performed on the evidence provided in your application against the Essential and Desirable criteria in the Person Specification.

RBL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive organisation, reflecting the diversity of the armed forces community and of wider society. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and personal characteristics.

We may close this vacancy early if we believe we have enough strong applications to be able to successfully fill the role. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Contract: 12 month FTC

Salary: £29,843.40-£35,493.06

Closing Date: Tuesday 14th April 2026

Interviews will be held w/c: 20th April (in person)

Centrepoint, the UK’s leading youth homelessness charity, is looking for a Development Worker to join our Rent Deposit Scheme team based in Lambeth.

About us

We help vulnerable young people by giving them the practical and emotional support they need to find a job and live independently. Centrepoint provides homeless young people with accommodation, health support and life skills in order to get them back into education, training and employment. We want to end youth homelessness by 2037.

Together with our partners, we support over 16,000 young people each year.

About the team

Our Rent Deposit Scheme supports young people to access safe, affordable accommodation in the private rented sector. We work closely with landlords, letting agents and local authorities to create housing opportunities and support young people to successfully move into and sustain their own tenancies.

Centrepoint operates a hybrid working model. The requirement is a minimum of 50% of your working week. For most full-time colleagues, this means attending the office for five days over a two-week period (e.g., two days one week and three days the next). For colleagues on different contracts (including part-time or compressed contracts) this will be adjusted accordingly.

About you

You will have experience working with young people or vulnerable groups and a good understanding of the challenges they may face when moving towards independent living.

You will be confident working both independently and as part of a team, with the ability to build strong relationships with a range of external partners including landlords, letting agents and local authorities.

You’ll be organised, proactive and able to manage a varied workload, while maintaining a strong focus on delivering positive outcomes for young people.

What you’ll be doing

• Supporting young people to access accommodation in the private rented sector
• Helping young people understand their tenancy agreements, rights and responsibilities
• Working with landlords, letting agents and partner organisations to secure suitable properties
• Building and maintaining relationships with external partners to increase housing opportunities
• Supporting young people with budgeting, accessing grants and setting up their home
• Ensuring properties meet required standards and all compliance checks are in place
• Contributing to positive move-on outcomes for young people

What we’d be looking for from you…

• Experience working in housing, support or a related setting
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work independently
• Confidence working with external partners and stakeholders
• A genuine passion for supporting young people to achieve independence
• Willingness to travel across London as required

Why join Centrepoint?

In return for your efforts you’ll receive a competitive salary, excellent training and development, and a host of staff benefits including:

• 25 days of annual leave per year, rising by one day per year to a maximum of 27 days
• Healthcare cash plan (Cover the costs of a wide range of medical treatment including Dental, Optical, Complementary and Alternative therapies).
• Private Medical insurance
• Income protection
• Employer pension contributions of 5%
• Access to Cycle 2 Work loan scheme
• An interest-free travel loan

At Centrepoint we challenge the discrimination within society that contributes to youth homelessness, and we are just as committed to fairness and equality within Centrepoint itself. We are passionate about ensuring all of our colleagues are made to feel included in the work we do and that we value the rich diversity within the organization.

We are an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications regardless of sex, gender, race, age, belief in any religion and none, gender identity, ethnic origin, class, sexuality, nationality, appearance, unrelated criminal activities, disability, responsibility for dependents, part time or shift workers, being HIV positive or living with AIDS, lived experience of homelessness or using young people’s services and any other matter which causes a person to be treated with injustice.

Centrepoint’s policy is to recruit, employ and promote people on the basis of their suitability for the work to be performed, and to this end, our aim is to ensure that all applicants, employees and volunteers receive equal treatment.

Our approach to applications

We recognise that candidates may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support their applications. While this is absolutely fine, all examples and statements included must be truthful, accurate and based on your own experience.

We’re keen to understand your individual skills, experience and motivations, so please ensure your application reflects your own voice.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to join our team as a Development Workerclick ‘Apply’ now!

JOB TITLE: Kinship Community & Family Support Worker

RESPONSIBLE TO: Kinship Services Manager

HOURS OF WORK Part-time 28hours (evening and weekend work will be required)

LOCATION: Hybrid – in person community delivery, with requirements to attend office base in Edinburgh/East Lothian, and home working possible

SALARY / GRADE: Fixed term 24 months (with potential for extension, funding allowing)

Grade 4 / £28,615 per annum fte – pro-rata

KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

•Kinship Services Manager

•Adoption UK Scotland and Kinship service colleagues

•The Adoption and Kinship Community in Scotland

•Local Authorities and external commissioners

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

·To support the community work of Adoption UK Scotland and their kinship services, to provide professionals, parents/carers, children, and young people access to information, resources, and services for kinship communities and to engage with families in their local communities.

·To offer a front-line service, primarily to kinship families based in the East Lothian Community, by supporting delivery and administration for activities and events, including regular support groups delivery, youth and family events. Support of events in other areas in Scotland based on resources and availability.

·To hold and manage kinship care family cases, providing direct family support within service guidelines and delivery model.

·Support planning, organisation of, and attendance at, in person and online events through funded projects and services to bring together kinship families and individuals, enable peer support, build a sense of community and promote an active and supportive Community Network.

·To respond to enquiries received via the Information and Support Service and relevant email inboxes with relevant information and/or signposting.

·To be part of the wider kinship service team within Adoption UK Scotland, working across teams and services.

·Work collaboratively with colleagues across all services areas of Adoption UK

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

·Working alongside service leads within the kinship teams, and with the wider community team members to plan and deliver specific events and activities for East Lothian Council Kinship community members, and kinship families in wider areas where resources and availability allows.

·Provide administrative coordination for community groups, including collating event materials, gathering feedback and evaluations for reporting purposes, supporting delivery of events, maintaining records using existing required systems, and responding to enquiries via our Information and Support line and relevant email inboxes.

·To facilitate referral meetings with new kinship carers accessing the East Lothian Kinship Support Service, including initial assessment of need to identify suitable support and signposting requirements

·To hold responsibility for administrative requirements relating to referrals and cases within the East Lothian Kinship Support Service, including setting up new cases and recording service delivery interactions, using existing Adoption UK systems and processes

·To work with colleagues in the Foundations for Families kinship support service to support delivery where time and resources allow, and coordinate activities between services where appropriate.

·To report to line manager and directors in Adoption UK Scotland relating to service delivery, including contributing to monitoring and reporting on activities.

·To work alongside Adoption UK colleagues to develop and improve resources and services for kinship carers

Knowledge and experience

• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the kinship legislation system, issues and challenges faced by kinship individuals. (Essential)
• Experience of engagement and direct work with families (Essential)
• Experience of facilitation of in person and online groups (or commitment to learn) and commitment to digital safeguarding (Essential)

Qualifications and Education

• Relevant degree or qualification (e.g. community work, social sciences) or equivalent experience (Essential)

Skills and abilities

• Report writing and record keeping (Essential)
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal (Essential)
• Ability to build and maintain relationships (Essential)
• The ability to use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) (Essential)

Accountability

• Liaise with colleagues to share updates and information
• Report to supervisor and relevant managers and external commissioners on activities

Behaviours

• Takes pride in Adoption UK and promotes its values and mission in all interactions with external stakeholders.
• Demonstrates commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of role at all times.
• Follows all policies and procedures relating to risk assessments, safeguarding and youth service delivery
• Contributes to an open and honest culture
• Encourages challenge and creativity, transparency and consistency.
• Leads by example.
• Offers outstanding service to members.
• Promotes cross functional team working, sharing skills and knowledge
• Communicates clearly, seeking clarity when unclear and valuing the opinion of others.
• Valuing the opinion of other. Treating colleagues and other stakeholders with respect.
• Takes pride in own development, committed to achieving high standards and agreed objectives

At Community Connections Lewisham we are passionate about helping Lewisham residents (aged 18+) improve their health and wellbeing through discovering what exists in their own community, and becoming more able to access it. We aim to tackle the problems of social isolation and loneliness by using a person-centred approach. This means we recognise that each person we support has their own unique story, with their own particular challenges, needs, and personal goals.

Partnership Coordinators are the face of the Community Connections Lewisham team. They provide valuable support to both clients and professionals by running the phoneline, giving guidance and advice on a wide range of topics by referring or signposting to relevant services that are available in the community. They play a crucial role in the triaging, coordination and effective administration of the entire Community Connections project and acting as a front door service to the rest of the voluntary sector.

As Community Connector you will play a vital role in fostering meaningful relationships between Raw Material and its diverse local communities, and stakeholders across the education, arts, youth work, community, and social and healthcare sectors. 

Working as part of the Programmes Team (and closely with other Raw Material staff) you will develop, coordinate and participate in the delivery of Raw Material’s CEP, building awareness of the charity’s creative and wellbeing programmes, facilities and broader services (e.g. workspaces).

You will develop creative ideas, partnership opportunities and produce and organise activities, events and initiatives that amplify Raw Material’s mission, and boost our reach, increase participation and engagement in our services, and enhance the accessibility, relevance and impact of our work, particularly amongst marginalised communities.

You will champion the use of music and creativity as tools to support wellbeing, personal development and social inclusion; communicate the benefits and value of Raw Material’s programmes and services; and create inclusive pathways for underrepresented and marginalised communities with lived experience to access Raw Material opportunities.

The South Willesborough & Newtown Community Association is a long-established community charity which runs the Swan Community Centre in South Willesborough, Ashford. 

We are seeking a part-time (15 hours per week - £11,700pa) Community Engagement & Development Coordinator to strengthen community connections, build partnerships, and expand the Swan Centre’s local impact.

This is primarily a community-facing development role. The postholder will:

* Engage with local residents, community groups and agencies to understand need

* Develop new opportunities for community use of the Swan Centre

* Build sustainable partnerships and encourage collaboration

* Recruit, support and develop volunteers

* Contribute to shaping the Centre’s future direction

A key strand of the role will be leading the development of the Cygnet Community Café as part of a wider community engagement strategy. This will involve consulting on the café’s purpose and offer, establishing appropriate systems and compliance, and ensuring it operates as an inclusive, welcoming space that supports social connection.

You will be the sole staff member dedicated to this area of work. The role requires confidence working independently within a small charity setting, strong organisational skills, and the ability to combine strategic thinking with practical delivery.

This is a flexible 15-hour per week role. The pattern of work will vary according to community engagement activity and the development and operation of the Cygnet Café. As opening hours are not yet defined, and will be informed by local consultation, the postholder must be able to adapt their working hours accordingly. Much of the work will involve being in the Centre or consulting with people in the community, so although the desk work can be done remotely there will be a requirement to be on-site for a some of the working week, especially once the cafe is in development and opened. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

We are particularly interested in candidates who have experience in community engagement, volunteer coordination or grassroots development work. Experience in food service or community cafés would be beneficial but is not essential. The post is initially funded for 12 months by The National Lottery Community Fund and we will seek to attract further funding.

This is an opportunity to shape community provision from the ground up and to build something that responds directly to local need.

The application window closes on Monday 20th April at 5.00pm.

The Swan Centre is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.

We’re looking for an experienced, passionate, strategic and creative Head of Development to join us as part of a job share and lead our support and capacity-building offer. 

You will have strategic oversight of our support offer to the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector in Somerset, leading on the provision of targeted support and infrastructure services. You will also lead the Development Team, develop a programme of forums and events across the county that support the training and networking needs of the sector, and work with colleagues to build our partnerships with local agencies.

You will bring significant leadership experience working with or supporting the development of voluntary sector organisations, groups or networks. You will have demonstrable experience of partnership working – including with the Public Sector – and knowledge of the principles of asset-based community development and empowerment.

In return, we offer flexible, hybrid working options, a free Employee Assistance Programme, up to 7.5 hours of volunteering leave per year, and an additional day of leave for your birthday.

This is a full-time, job share role, though part-time and flexible hours will be considered for the right candidate. The salary is £40,000-£43,000 per annum.

Co-Head of Development (Job-Share) 

Part-time | Permanent | Hybrid Working

Salary: £49,774 FTE (pro rata)

Help grow local philanthropy across Kent and Medway 

Kent Community Foundation believes in a Kent and Medway where every community has the opportunity to thrive. 

For 25 years we have connected generous people with grassroots organisations creating change in their communities. By working with individuals, families, businesses and professional advisers, we help ensure funding reaches the local charities and community groups that need it most. 

As we celebrate our 25th anniversary and look ahead to the future, we are seeking a Co-Head of Development to help grow philanthropy across the county. 

Working in partnership with an existing Co-Head of Development, this role will focus particularly on developing new philanthropic relationships and opportunities - building partnerships with professional advisers, corporates and prospective donors to support communities across Kent and Medway. 

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is highly skilled at building trusted relationships, developing partnerships and connecting people with issues that matter. This role would particularly suit someone who enjoys developing new partnerships and opportunities rather than managing established fundraising programmes. 

About Kent Community Foundation 

Kent Community Foundation is a grant-making charitable foundation dedicated to funding and strengthening communities across Kent and Medway. 

We partner with individuals, families, businesses, trusts and foundations to fund grassroots organisations creating positive change across the county. 

Since our founding in 2001 we have distributed more than £60 million to thousands of charities and community groups, supporting projects that tackle local challenges and help communities thrive. 

Our work is guided by three core values: 

Community first 
Listening to and supporting grassroots organisations who know their communities best. 

Partnership 
Working collaboratively with donors, charities and partners to create lasting change. 

Purposeful giving 
Ensuring funding reaches where it is needed most and creates meaningful impact. 

Together, we are helping communities across Kent and Medway thrive now and in the future. 

The Role:

This is a strategic and outward-facing leadership role focused on growing philanthropic income. 

Working closely with the Chief Executive and your Co-Head of Development, you will help drive our fundraising strategy and develop a strong pipeline of new funding opportunities, with a particular focus on professional adviser engagement. 

You will also play a key role in developing our approach to legacy giving, helping to build long-term relationships and position Kent Community Foundation as a trusted partner for planned giving. 

Key responsibilities include: 

• Identifying and developing new philanthropic opportunities across Kent and Medway 
• Building relationships with professional advisers, including solicitors, accountants and wealth managers 
• Developing and stewarding relationships with professional advisors involved in estate planning, to strengthen the pipeline of potential legacy pledgers and legacy income 
• Developing corporate partnerships with businesses 
• Growing and managing a pipeline of prospective donors and fundholders 
• Representing Kent Community Foundation across networks, events and professional forums 
• Developing proposals and conversations that lead to new charitable funds, legacy pledges, and long-term partnerships 
• Contributing to the strategic leadership of the Foundation’s development work 

We are looking for someone who enjoys connecting people with purpose and who is motivated by the opportunity to grow philanthropy locally. 

You might currently work in philanthropy, partnership development, professional adviser engagement, or business development. 

We would also welcome applications from candidates working in professional services, financial services or other relationship-led roles who are interested in applying their skills to growing local philanthropy. We are looking for someone who is:

• A confident relationship builder and natural networker 
• Strategic and proactive in developing opportunities
• Comfortable engaging with senior stakeholders and philanthropists 
• Motivated by supporting communities across Kent and Medway 

Why Join Us? 

• Be part of an organisation making a real difference across Kent and Medway 
• Work with generous donors and partners to support local communities 
• Join a friendly and collaborative team 
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements 
• Help shape the future of philanthropy in Kent 

Location 

Our office is based in Smeeth near Ashford, with hybrid working available. The role will involve meetings and events across Kent and Medway. 

Closing date: Midnight 15th April 2026

Interviews: 30th April 2026

The Community Events Executive will play a key role in delivering our Community Fundraising strategy. Working closely with the Senior Fundraising Executive - Community & Events, this role will oversee the planning, delivery and growth of community-focused fundraising activity across a range of channels. The postholder will manage a portfolio of community fundraising products and partnerships, tailored to engage specific audience groups and will be responsible for building and nurturing relationships with supporters, Community Champions and volunteers at a local level to maximise engagement, participation, and income.

About You: 

ESSENTIAL

• Experience delivering events or community-based fundraising activities.
• Proven experience of building relationships with community groups and/or volunteers.
• Strong relationship management skills with the ability to engage and inspire volunteers and supporters.
• Excellent organisational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proactive and self-motivated, with a collaborative approach.
• Ability to work flexibly, including some evenings and weekends, with occasional travel.
• Holds a current, valid driving license and access to a vehicle for work purposes.

DESIRABLE

• Knowledge of fundraising regulations and best practice.
• Experience using CRM systems and online fundraising platforms to manage supporter relationships and fundraising efforts.
• Knowledge and experience of using social media platforms to promote supporter events.

To view the full job description, please visit the Careers page on our website. 

About Us
IIED is an international policy and research organisation working to build a fairer, more sustainable world, in partnership with others across the globe.

• We stand up: challenging the systems and structures that perpetuate economic, social and environmental injustice – acknowledging our own role in this.
• We speak out: calling out the big blockers that prevent progress for communities and working to amplify voices, redistribute power and strengthen rights.
• We innovate: developing, co-producing and supporting evidence-based ideas to drive progress towards a thriving world for all.
• We collaborate: building connections at local, national and international levels, to support diverse partners to tackle the climate, nature and inequality crises so that people and the planet can thrive. Come and be part of this exciting journey with us.

We are now looking for a Head of Fundraising & Business Development to join us on a full-time, permanent basis, working 35 hours per week.

The Benefits

- Salary of £64,814 - £80,654 per annum
- 25 days' annual leave per year, plus bank holidays and additional leave over Christmas
- 7.5% employer pension contributions
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Cycle-to-work scheme
- Employee protection scheme (life, critical illness, income protection)

This is a pivotal opportunity for a proven fundraising leader with significant experience in international NGOs or charities and a strong track record of securing income across multiple streams to join our global organisation.

You will have the chance to utilise your fundraising expertise and leadership skills to close funding gaps and unlock new opportunities, making a lasting difference to our organisational sustainability and our international impact.

What’s more, this role offers both strategic influence and meaningful flexibility, allowing you to lead, develop others and grow long-term funding success, helping us to build a fairer, more sustainable world.

So, if you’re ready to lead ambitious fundraising that powers global change, read on and apply today.

The Role

As our Head of Fundraising & Business Development, you will lead efforts to secure and diversify funding, building a sustainable resource base to support our global mission.

Leading the Fundraising and Business Development Team, you will drive the implementation of our resource mobilisation strategy, focusing on increasing non-ODA income and expanding flexible and programmatic funding.

Working closely with colleagues across fundraising, finance, research and impact teams, you will help close funding gaps by developing strong donor relationships, negotiating funding agreements and shaping compelling funding propositions.

Alongside collaborating with the Director of Fundraising and Communications and supporting engagement with the Board of Trustees, you will manage systems, data and internal processes that strengthen fundraising performance and ensure effective delivery.

Additionally, you will:

- Gather and share intelligence on trends within the funding landscape
- Generate new fundraising ideas and opportunities with existing and new funders
- Support teams to develop fundraising plans, donor scoping and funding bids
- Analyse data to inform fundraising strategies and income generation
- Design and manage internal fundraising support processes and systems
- Oversee the team budget and support staff development and wellbeing

About You

To be considered as our Head of Fundraising & Business Development, you will need:

- Significant experience leading fundraising functions in an international NGO or charity
- A proven, impressive track record in fundraising
- Experience in partnership and consortium development
- Management experience with the ability to co-ordinate, support, motivate, energise and develop diverse teams
- The ability to design and deliver income-generation strategies across multiple streams
- A strong understanding of the evolving landscape of finance and resource mobilisation for sustainable development
- A strong understanding of policy and research related to sustainable development at an international level, particularly related to Africa, Asia and/or Latin America
- Strong influencing, negotiating, stakeholder engagement and diplomacy skills
- A degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent work experience
- The willingness and ability to travel internationally

This role requires a Basic DBS check.

IIED is a hybrid working organisation, and you are likely to be working from home most of the time. As such, you will need a suitable place to work and a reliable, fast internet connection.

The closing date for this role is 5th April 2026.

Other organisations may call this role Head of Fundraising, Head of Income Generation, Head of Partnerships and Fundraising, Head of Strategic Partnerships, Business Development Director, Head of Philanthropy and Partnerships, or Head of Grants and Partnerships.

IIED is a Global organisation that serves the Global Majority. We are committed to equity of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in IIED’s workforce, including members of minority groups and those with lived experience of the work we do. Even if you don't satisfy all the criteria, we still encourage you to apply, as we will offer training and development to upskill the right candidate for the role.

Help secure the future of a 120-year-old youth charity At The Shewsy, we support over 100 children and young people every day in one of the most deprived communities in the UK. Founded in 1903, we provide meals, mentoring, and a safe space, but more importantly, we build relationships that change lives. Our motto is “People Matter More Than Things".

We are now looking for a brilliant Fundraising & Engagement Manager to help us take the next step in building a stronger, more sustainable funding base so we can reach even more young people.

Salary: £40,000 per annum 

Hours: 37 hours per week (flexible working available and could offer 0.8) 

Contract type: Permanent

Benefits:  

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

• NEST Pension 

• Benefits & Discount Portal 

• 22 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays 

• Professional Training & Development

The Role (and why it matters) This isn’t just about writing bids behind a desk. It’s about being a visible, energetic advocate for The Shewsy. You will champion our work face-to-face, engaging our local Everton community while nurturing our historic, vital ties with Shrewsbury School and the Old Salopian network. You will balance persuasive in-person communication with high-quality grant writing to unlock new opportunities and bring ideas to life.

What you’ll be doing

Building Relationships & Community Engagement

• Actively network and build face-to-face relationships with local businesses, community members, and potential corporate partners.

• Nurture and expand our vital relationship with the Shrewsbury School community and Old Salopians to encourage legacy giving, regular donations, and matched-giving support.

• Champion and support community fundraising events and campaigns, including our highly successful Big Give Christmas Challenge.

Securing Grant Funding

• Build and manage a £200,000+ annual funding pipeline by researching and applying for grants from trusts and foundations.

• Write high-quality, compelling, and tailored funding applications.

• Maintain a live pipeline of funders, tracking applications, success rates, and deadlines.

Telling Our Story Powerfully

• Turn powerful frontline youth work into compelling narratives for both written bids and in-person presentations.

• Work with staff to capture impact, stories, and data to strengthen how we evidence our outcomes.

What success looks like (Year 1)

• Strong, active relationships established with the Shrewsbury School community, Old Salopians, and local Everton stakeholders.

• A £200k+ funding pipeline established and actively managed.

• Consistent monthly/quarterly bid submissions balancing quick wins with strategic applications.

• Increased repeat funding, multi-year grants, and diversified community income.

Who we’re looking for You might already be a community fundraiser, a bid writer looking to step out from behind the screen, or someone ready to step up.

Essential

• Exceptional in-person communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences from local residents to major donors.

• Experience writing successful grant applications in the charity sector.

• A track record of securing funding from trusts, foundations, or major donors.

• Highly organised, able to balance desk-based bid writing with out-and-about relationship building.

• Ability to work independently and make things happen.

Desirable

• Experience in youth, community, or social impact organisations.

• Knowledge of the Liverpool funding landscape.

• Experience with community campaigns or matched-funding appeals (e.g., the Big Give).

The kind of person who thrives here

• You care deeply about young people and social impact.

• You are proactive, outgoing, and don’t wait to be told what to do.

• You spot opportunities others miss and can turn a conversation into a compelling bid or a new partnership.

• You want your work to actually make a difference.

The Community and Events Fundraiser will join the Income Generation Team and work alongside the Head of Income Generation and Corporate Partnership Lead. The Income Generation Team drives the charity’s fundraising success by developing supporter relationships, delivering campaigns and events, and securing income from individuals, communities, businesses and trusts and foundations. The team works collaboratively to maximise opportunities, grow sustainable revenue, and ensure our mission has the resources it needs to thrive.

​

Role Purpose

You are responsible for developing and delivering a range of community and event-based fundraising initiatives. Your role involves engaging supporters, building strong relationships within the community, and maximising income through creative and impactful fundraising activities.

Role Outcomes

• Working with the Head of Income Generation to develop and implement strategies to support the growth of our organisation from community fundraising activities.
• Owning the delivery of the community fundraising plan which results in a growth of income from our grassroots activities with individuals and associations across our region.
• Acting as a key point of contact for community fundraisers, providing guidance, resources, and support to help them achieve their goals.
• Develop an annual calendar of participation events and appeals, including leading on the creation and delivery of marketing activity for these initiatives, in collaboration with the wider Marketing and Communications Team to maximise promotion, engagement and results.
• Planning, organising and delivering fundraising events, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and meet income targets.
• Recruiting, training and managing event volunteers to ensure successful delivery of events and show them a high standard of care and support to retain them.
• Cultivating and manage relationships with supporters, ensuring excellent stewardship and engagement.
• Identifying and develop opportunities to grow the charity’s supporter base (including working collaboratively with other teams to integrate community and event fundraising with other areas of the organisation).
• Acting as an ambassador and represent BDC Mind at external functions, events, giving talks and presentations as required.
• Leading on the planning and delivery of marketing activity for all fundraising events and initiatives, taking responsibility for generating content, scheduling activity and driving audience engagement, while collaborating with the communications team to maximise reach and impact.
• Evidencing progress towards in-year and longer-term goals by building a robust fundraising pipeline across multiple income streams, monitoring and evaluating the success of community and event fundraising activities, producing regular reports and data analysis.
• Setting and manage income and expenditure for all fundraising initiatives, ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Keeping accurate records of donor interactions, income, and expenditure on the charity’s database.
• Consistently working in alignment with our aims, objectives, policies, core values and standards set out in our Employee handbook.
• Fully participating in all relevant training to develop and maintain your performance in the role.
• Demonstrating an ongoing commitment to our values: Caring Always, Working Together, Supporting Everyone, Enabling All and Continually Improving.
• Performing other duties as reasonably required within the role.

Person Specification

BDC Mind is committed to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and improving the quality of life for people with mental health challenges. We value diversity, inclusion and lived experiences when recruiting our staff and volunteers.

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Qualifications

Essential:

• Proven track record of successful income generation/business development activity, including successful fundraising activity on behalf of an organisation.
• Full driving licence and own vehicle.

Desirable:

• Strong academic background in English Language.
• Fundraising, Events Management or Marketing qualification.

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​Experience

Essential:

• Experience of developing and successfully launching new community and/or events products.
• Proven experience of delivering income growth in an events and/or community fundraising setting (preferably both) and evidencing progress towards agreed income targets.
• Experience of providing exemplary supporter stewardship to strengthen and cultivate relationships with fundraisers.

​Desirable:

• Working in the charity sector.
• ​Experience of volunteers management.

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Skills and Abilities

Essential:

• ​Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
• ​Creative and innovative approach to developing fundraising initiatives.
• Excellent organisational and project management skills, with the ability to prioritise and meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to think strategically.
• Manage budgets/campaigns/initiatives and evidence progress towards agreed income targets.
• Ability to plan and deliver effective promotional activity for fundraising campaigns and events, using a mix of digital and offline channels to drive engagement and income.

 Desirable:

• Ability to manage volunteers

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Knowledge

Essential:

• Knowledge of fundraising regulations and code of practice.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and fundraising databases or CRM systems.
• Proven knowledge of online fundraising tools

Desirable:

• Using the Beacon CRM system.
• Using Canva
• Knowledge of third sector services.

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​Attitude and Personal Attributes 

Essential:

• A flexible and proactive attitude, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Entrepreneurial, results-driven, and able to meet deadlines under pressure.
• Understanding of and enthusiasm for BDC Mind’s delivery approach and mission and values.
• Passion, motivation and resilience to raise money to support the mental health and wellbeing of our local people.
• Demonstrate a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

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Location: 89 Addison Road, London, W14 8BZ, and other Trust sites across London

Contract Type: Full time, all year round

Salary: £31,980-£33,870

Start Date: As soon as possible

About the Role

Working closely with the Development Manager and the Development Director, you will play a key role in strengthening relationships with the Trust’s communities, supporting fundraising initiatives and delivering engaging communications and events that foster lifelong connections with the Trust and its schools.

Key Responsibilities

• Build meaningful relationships across school communities and alumni networks, bringing people together and inspiring them to support the Trust’s vision
• Lead creative fundraising and engagement initiatives, from community campaigns to reunions and events, helping to drive a vibrant culture of giving
• Boost the Trust’s growth and sustainability by supporting data‑driven fundraising, managing donor stewardship, maintaining accurate customer relationship management (CRM) records, and contributing to strong grant proposals

What We Are Looking For

The ideal candidate will be:

• A confident communicator with excellent interpersonal and writing skills who can engage a vast range of stakeholders
• Experienced in relationship management, fundraising or engagement
• Organised, detail-oriented and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Skilled in using CRM systems and digital communication tools
• Passionate about education and community building
• A team player with a proactive and positive approach

About the Trust

The Saint John Southworth Catholic Academy Trust is a growing family of Catholic schools (primary, secondary and post-16), a registered charity and a trading company committed to providing an outstanding education rooted in faith, aspiration and service.

Our Shared Services Team provides high-quality professional and operational support across the Trust, enabling schools to focus on teaching, learning and pastoral care.

What We Offer

• A supportive and collaborative working environment
• Opportunities for training and development to help you grow in your career
• The chance to contribute to a trust committed to delivering high-quality education and supporting staff wellbeing
• Hybrid working during school holidays
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and generous holiday entitlement

How to Apply

For further details on the role, please view the Job Description and Person Specification or visit our website to find out more about us.

To apply for this role, please complete the application forms available on our Vacancies webpage. Applications should be sent via email.

Shortlisted candidates will be called for interview upon receipt of application, therefore we advise you to submit your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

The Saint John Southworth Catholic Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people. All roles are subject to satisfactory vetting, including an Enhanced DBS check with Children’s Barred List.

The posts below are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. The amendments to the ROA 1974 (Exceptions Order 1975, (amended 2013 and 2020)) provide that when applying for certain jobs, certain spent convictions and cautions are protected and they do not need to be disclosed to employers. If they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account.  Guidance about whether a conviction or caution should be disclosed can be found on the Ministry of Justice website and further information about filtering offences can be found in DBS filtering guide.

Join us in our mission to cultivate an educational environment that inspires growth, respect and academic achievement!

Volunteer Centre Hackney is a thriving charity (annual income circa £1.1m, with 29 paid staff) providing volunteering infrastructure to the voluntary sector across the City of London and the London borough of Hackney. We support over 1500 residents a year to realise their skills and passions through volunteering and social action, and to share these for the benefit of others. We also provide volunteering resource, and advice and guidance on best practice in volunteer management, to hundreds of charities and community organisations.

Through our specialist programmes, our impact on the lives of residents is huge. We match volunteers to housebound residents to help them engage with communities and leave their homes; we provide long term personalised support to people with mental health conditions and learning disabilities to help them volunteer and find paid jobs; we support patients to deliver hundreds of their own activities and peer support groups at GP practices across City and Hackney; and in partnership with Public Health, we support over 250 Community Health Champions to share vital health messaging with their own diverse communities.  

This is a hands-on and strategic role for an experienced fundraiser who thrives in a small to medium sized charity environment. You will have autonomy to develop a whole new fundraising strategy, utilising diverse fundraising methods, and building and developing new project ideas and partnerships. You will lead on income generation primarily through sourcing and applying to multiple trusts and foundations, but diversified by building new corporate partnerships, community campaigns and individual giving. You will build authentic relationships with funders and supporters, and together with VCH colleagues, will identify new programme models as ways to generate income. You will contribute to the development and production of compelling stories, evidence and marketing and build and maintain the infrastructure needed to track and achieve progress against annual income targets.

Post holders need to have excellent communication skills, to represent the charity in writing and in person. You must be enthusiastic, self-motivating and confident to work primarily alone, but also able to engage and collaborate with staff from across the organisation to share information and impact evidence to support your role. If you are successful in securing funding there will be the potential to recruit additional support, and for you to become the Head of Fundraising of a small team.