Independent social worker jobs

Positive Pathways Coach (IAG Worker)

Salary: £32,000 | Contract: Permanent, Full-time | Location: St Helens

Are you passionate about empowering individuals to build skills and confidence for independent living? YMCA St Helens is seeking a Positive Pathways Coach (IAG Worker) to design and deliver a high-quality programme of training, activities, and events for residents and beneficiaries. You’ll work closely with stakeholders and internal teams to create opportunities that transform lives.

Key Responsibilities
✅ Design and deliver engaging training, workshops, and events covering:
              • Health and wellbeing literacy
              • Financial literacy
              • Cultural understanding
              • Tenancy maintenance
              • Domestic skills (cooking, cleaning)
              • English language and other development opportunities
✅ Provide 1:1 support to help residents develop skills for independent living
✅ Build strong partnerships with community organisations and facilitators
✅ Organise venues, resources, and manage programme budgets
✅ Maintain accurate records and contribute to reports for stakeholders
✅ Continuously improve the programme based on participant feedback

About You
Essential:
☑️ Experience in delivering high-quality information, advice, and guidance
☑️ Proven ability to design and deliver workshops and training programmes
☑️ Strong understanding of challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness
☑️ Experience working with diverse stakeholders and multi-disciplinary teams
☑️ Excellent communication and organisational skills
☑️ Cultural competence and commitment to equality and inclusion
☑️ Ability to work flexibly and independently

Desirable:
☑️ Experience delivering IAG to people experiencing homelessness
☑️ Knowledge of UK welfare benefits and housing rights
☑️ Training and development qualification (e.g., NVQ in Learning & Development, PTTLS, CTTLS)
☑️ Experience supporting refugees or those with humanitarian protection status
☑️ Lived experience of homelessness

Why Join Us?
✅ Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals
✅ Lead innovative programmes that empower people to thrive
✅ Be part of a supportive, values-driven team

�� Closing Date: 12 noon, 6th February 2026
�� Interviews: Week commencing 16th February 2026
 

Specialist Support Worker - Co-Production Lead

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Specialist Support Worker to join our homelessness Social Care Service in Tower Hamlets.

£29.073 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel valued? You'll feel at home here.

Our benefits include:

Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
Free DBS
Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
Fully paid induction programme and further training
ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
Cycle to work scheme
Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
Online wellbeing resources
A generous pension - we will contribute up to 4% and life assurance cover up to £10,000 (T&Cs apply)
Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

What you'll do:

Support customers with job searches and employment search as well as support with completing job applications and CVs
Carrying out holistic assessments of new customers which incorporate relevant statutory referral information
Conducting regular key work sessions that are innovative and engaging in order to achieve Support Plan goals
Key-working the most complex service-users with particular needs aligned with the post holder's specialism - Co-Production
Create support plans for providing appropriate services based on on-going assessment and reflecting the services and resources available to enable customer to progress in their recovery
Ensuring ongoing assessment and management of risks associated with customers within an attitude of 'positive risk taking'
Provide support and access to relevant services to enable customers to continue their recovery and empower customers to self-manage their medication regimes through individual re-enablement programmes and informed decision making

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead

About you:

Embraces a Psychologically Informed approach
Is capable of maintaining unconditional positive regard
Views challenging behaviour as a support need.
A strong specialist support worker with excellent interpersonal skills
Socially adept, networks widely, well connected in sector, influential
Approachable, open & professional behaviour
At ease in directing others, is assertive and independent minded, will challenge others, and skilled in resolving conflict
Drives change, enjoys dynamic diverse environments and demonstrates entrepreneurialism, creativity and innovation
Demonstrates significant confidence and high levels of self-esteem
Demonstrates significant levels of emotional resilience and a positive attitude
Is respectful, articulate and sensitive in style of communication
Is passionate and enthusiastic about the business
Is motivated towards excellence and improvement of personal performance with a can do attitude
Is Customer focussed
We welcome applications from individuals with lived experiences of using services
What you'll bring:

Essential:

Up to NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in a relevant area (e.g. psychology, Health and Social Care, Mental Health) OR experience in the social care/charity sector.
Experience building and develop strong professional partnerships with external providers aligned to their specialism
Desirable:

2-3 years experience providing targeted recovery focussed support to individuals with needs around trauma, mental health, substance use and dual diagnosis.

For our full job description please visit our website

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:

We focus on Excellence and innovation.
We are Caring and Compassionate.
We are Inclusive and Trusted.
We work in Partnership and are One-Team.
Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

About Us

Our vision is for every child and young person to be safe, loved and happy, to achieve their potential and have a bright future.

St Christopher's is a leading charity for children and young people and we are proud of our history for providing fostering, children's homes and a range of innovative leaving care services across the UK & Isle of Man.  We have a passionate commitment to our young people, placing them at the centre of everything we do.  We provide positive life experiences for young people who are unable to sustain a placement in their parental or foster home.

We are an equal-opportunity employer keen to develop an inclusive workforce where people feel they belong.  We hope to attract applications from under- represented groups, including people from different cultures, nationalities, socioeconomic backgrounds, ages, disabilities, religions, faith, sex, orientation, childcare responsibilities, and gender-diverse identities.

St Christopher’s Academy

At St Christopher's we can offer you a career where you can develop your skills and knowledge while making a difference to young people’s lives.

When you join St Christopher’s, we will set you up in your career with a tailored development plan. Whether you want to move across to a different service, become a Manager or just explore further your current role, we will support you to map out your career trajectory and help you achieve your professional ambitions. If you want to learn more about St Christopher’s Academy, please visit our website.

We are proud that 84% of all our Team Leaders, Deputies and Managers are internal promotions. 

Watch our short video to gain an insight into our working life here at St Christopher’s

About the Role

As Team Leader, you will assist the Manager in the running of a 16+ semi-independent supported accommodation service, supporting the delivery of high quality transition services for young people that promote their independence and increase their life skills.

We have an enthusiastic team including Support Workers, Waking Night Staff and Management who all have different interests which they bring to the service. If you’re ready for a challenge and think you have the skills to drive St Christopher’s forward we would love to hear from you!

Applicants should have

· At least two year’s relevant experience providing housing and/or support services to vulnerable individuals

· A good understanding of the regulatory framework relevant to the provision of housing services for young people

· Knowledge of the welfare benefits system in relation to young people.

· Ability to lead, motivate, supervise and support staff and be a positive role model.

· Ability to prioritise own workload and to work flexibly to meet deadlines or service requirements.

· Ability to use own initiative as well as be an active team member.

· Flexibility to occasionally work evening and weekend shifts and participating in the On-Call system.

In return we offer:

· Salary of £30,784 per annum.

· Competitive pay and reward structure offering salary progression based on performance.

· A friendly working environment, a fun, open and honest culture.

· 25 days holiday rising to 27 days after 3 years’ service, plus Bank Holidays, pro-rata.

· Industry leading training programme including access to level 3 qualifications, children’s right and participation, CSE, empowerment, mental health and social pedagogy.

· Contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity and company sick scheme.

· UK Life Assurance (Death in service) to the value of 3 times your annual salary.

· BUPA employee assistance programme, offering counselling, financial advice and legal support.

· Cycle to work scheme.

· Bluelight card; discount shopping scheme at hundreds of retailers across the UK.

· Discretionary funded training programs.

· Employee awards based on performance and length of service.

· Fantastic opportunities to develop your career within our range of services.

Recruitment Process

At St Christopher’s we are committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people in our care. During the recruitment process you will be expected to complete an online application form to ensure we capture essential information to meet legislation, best practice and vetting requirements.

Applicants will ideally already be on the DBS Update Service; if this is not the case St Christopher's will carry out a DBS (police) check prior to starting.

Your online application must include a supporting statement addressing the criteria stated in the Person Specification. For the full Job Description and Person Specification visit our website. CV’s will not be accepted.

For more information or assistance during the application process, please contact us via our website.

Closing date:  30th January 2026

We advise to apply as soon as possible as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Please note that it is against the law to apply for work with Children/Young People if you are barred from working in Regulated Activity and if your name is added to a Children Barred List.

All shortlisted candidates invited to interview will be asked to submit a Self-Declaration and Disclosure form which will need to be returned prior to an interview being booked.

Please note this post has a minimum age restriction of 21 for roles working directly with children and young people in our residential and semi-independent Homes in line with the Equality Act ‘occupational requirement’.

Birmingham and Solihull Women’s aid have for over 45 years supported women and children with services around domestic violence and abuse. Could you be a part of our team as we continue our mission to end domestic violence and abuse? 

The region’s leading charity in tackling violence against women and girls, BSWA offers a helpline, webchat, drop in and and community support as well as emergency accommodation in six refuges across the area.  

Projects supports women in the criminal justice system, in healthcare settings, and throughout the community, offering support to women and children experiencing domestic violence. Alongside this, we also have staff offering training and consultancy to businesses and health and social care professionals alike, raising awareness on gender based violence issues.  

We seek like-minded women to join our enthusiastic team of workers, all of us passionate about the vital and valuable work we do to support women and children who have experienced domestic abuse, and tackling the wider issues of violence against women and girls. 

To provide specialist expertise on DVA within the Public Protection Unit (PPU) and the local policing unit (LPU) across Coventry and Solihull police stations, covering Solihull Borough. This role will support the improvement of police practice by providing tailored guidance, advice, and professional support to officers and staff, strengthening their understanding of safe, trauma informed and appropriate interventions with women and children affected by DVA.

 To provide information, support and signposting for women accessing WMP  disclosing experiences of domestic violence/abuse.

- Influencing professional practice, including delivering training and awareness sessions
- Carrying out needs and risk assessments and support of women experiencing abuse
- Working within safeguarding guidelines to protect and promote the well-being of children and young people
- Monitoring and evaluating projects

Benefits  

• 31 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays) 

• Up to 6% matched pension contribution 

• Free access to Employee Assistance Programme 

• Life Assurance scheme while in employment (a lump sum of 4 times salary) 

• Cycle to Work scheme 

• Health Cash Plan scheme available to all employees from day one 

• Successful candidates may have the opportunity to work under hybrid working arrangements, subject to the role and to the terms of our Hybrid Working Policy 

BSWA is a Disability Confident Employer. We want everyone to have equal chance at being considered for our jobs. Should you be unable to submit your application online and would prefer an alternative method, or you are experiencing another barrier to completing your application, please contact our recruitment team.

These posts are covered by a Genuine Occupational Requirement (Schedule 9; Equality Act 2010) and women only need apply.  

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is at 12 noon on Monday 9th Feb. Interviews will take place weeks commencing 2nd and 9th March.  

About You:

Those who know you describe you as kind, understanding, and open-minded. You listen without judgement and treat everyone with dignity and respect.

In the workplace, you are recognised as reliable, approachable, and professional. You communicate clearly, remain calm under pressure, and are confident managing competing priorities. You have a natural ability to encourage, empower, and motivate others to make positive changes, even in challenging circumstances.

You are reflective and emotionally intelligent, with a strong desire to support individuals to achieve greater independence and wellbeing. Making a meaningful difference isn’t just important to you — it’s what drives you.

You may already have an understanding of the complex challenges faced by people who are vulnerable or at risk of exclusion. This experience could come from previous employment, volunteering, training, or your own lived experience, and you are keen to use this knowledge to support others.

If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you and welcome you to join our dedicated and supportive team.

Main Purpose Of Job:

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to join our team in a dual-role capacity, supporting two vital services run in partnership with Homeless Oxfordshire and Connection Support. The role covers both our Step Down provision—designed for individuals discharged from hospital under the Discharge to Assess model—and our service at Mawle Court, which provides temporary accommodation and support for people with complex needs, including those preparing for more independent living or in need of emergency provision. Working as part of a small, dynamic, and enthusiastic team, you will be responsible for delivering a safe and supportive environment across both services. You will lead on the case management of clients with complex needs, working collaboratively with partner agencies to develop and implement holistic, individualised support and move-on plans. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals, helping them on their journey towards stability and independence.

Main Areas Of Responsibility:

• To proactively and dynamically assess, monitor, manage and respond to risk for individuals and in the service.

• To assess risk and suitability of referrals to the service and book new clients in.

• Ensure the effective delivery of high-quality care, support and housing management according to Homeless Oxfordshire policies and procedures.

• To work collaboratively with partner agencies to ensure the creation and delivery of holistic wrap around support and risk management plans for clients with complex needs as well as to ensure clients have access to appropriate healthcare as needed.

• To work collaboratively with clients to identify and work towards suitable move on.

• To work with other agencies to provide client centred support & risk management plans for clients with complex needs to identify work towards a suitable move on option within 6 weeks.

• To work alongside the Client Engagement Co-Ordinator to ensure clients have access to opportunities to be empowered, build their confidence and develop independent living skills; to facilitate groups and activities as part of this.

• To make and maintain Housing Benefit claims.

• Ensure that IT systems are updated as required clear, concise and up to date record keeping is maintained and ensure information is shared with the team and external agencies as required.

• To represent Homeless Oxfordshire at interagency meetings, as required.

• Manage challenging situations and report any safeguarding concerns without delay in line with procedures and to ensure the safety of yourself and others.

• Maintain positive relationships with all stakeholders.

• Contribute to a positive working environment in which equality and diversity are valued and staff are enabled to do their best.

• To be a supportive and effective part of the team, including contributing to the induction of new colleagues and work of the broader team.

• To ensure that Homeless Oxfordshire’s Equal Opportunities Policies are complied with and promoted in carrying out duties of the post.

• Comply with Homeless Oxfordshire’s policies and procedures.

• To undertake any other duties that can be reasonably required to meet the operational needs of Homeless Oxfordshire.

About Us:

We are an open door for people experiencing homelessness whose lives have been shaped by trauma and disadvantage; providing safety, stability and support when it is needed most. We deliver this support across Oxfordshire by providing a range of accommodation with access to high quality support, offering a safe and welcoming space for people to take control of their own lives. We are an accredited Oxford Living Wage employer, and benefits to the role include: annual leave starting at 26 days (excluding bank holidays), flexible working, enhanced benefits with qualifying service, retail discounts with our Homeless Oxfordshire Benefits Hub, and life assurance up to four times your salary and a £250 bonus if you successfully refer a someone as a new colleague through our Employee Referral Scheme as a thanks from us!

What’s Next: Have a look at the job description to find out more about the role and apply on our website. Please be aware that this role is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure check and will be undertaken for the successful candidate .

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we identify a suitable candidate before the advertised closing date.

In Work Support Worker
Salary: £15 p/h
Place of work: Various London locations
Contract Period: Various hours as needed – Zero hours contract (Bank Staff)

About the Organisation

Action on Disability (AoD), founded in 1979, is one of London’s leading Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs).  As we believe in the Social Model of Disability, our values and principles embrace inclusive and accessible ways of working, seeking co-production and co-design from our Disabled members and encouraging and respecting diversity.

AoD is a medium sized charity with a Board of Trustees, 24 staff, a strong pool of casual staff and volunteers, including many with lived experience of disability – all of whom are passionate about removing the barriers faced by Disabled people.

AoD provides four key services: Youth, Employment, Welfare Benefits, and Independent Living.

AoD’s Employment Service

The Action on Disability Employment Service is setting the agenda for disability employment across London with great results. We are at the forefront of setting up and delivering supported internships for Disabled young people. We provide an holistic service from management and employer engagement to hands-on, supervised support work across all sites.

Our Employment Service welcomes external referrals and offers support for Disabled people via our in-work support service.

We are looking to recruit several support workers to expand our pool.

The Post

The purpose of the job is to provide face to face support work and guidance to Disabled people within their workplaces. The post holder will provide the necessary support and encouragement to enable them to be successful, which will lead, eventually, to independence. The post holder will also work closely with, and take guidance from, their supervisor within AoD. They will work closely with the employer of the Disabled person to ensure the employer has the skills and confidence to manage and train their intern/employee.

Main duties and responsibilities

• To work face-to-face with individual Disabled people, under the guidance of their AoD Supervisor, in accordance with their personalised support plans
• To be fully cognitive of the workplace of the Disabled person to identify the requirements of key tasks
• To follow bespoke Support Plans plans which will enable the Disabled person to fulfil their role to meet the requirements of the employer
• To provide weekly feedback to their AoD Supervisor to ensure continued progression, identifying new areas in need of support, and advising on the amendment of support plans accordingly
• Together with their Supervisor, to plan, discuss and implement a timely reduction of support as and when the Disabled individual becomes familiar and competent with their role
• To negotiate note disability-related reasonable adjustments required for individuals and feedback to their AoD Supervisor
• To liaise with managers to discuss individual progress, respond to issues and implement next steps

Organisational responsibilities

• To work in accordance with Action on Disability’s Aims, Objectives and Values
• To comply with all organisational and departmental procedures
• To ensure safe, fair and responsible working practices, specifically AoD’s Health & Safety, Equal Opportunities, Safeguarding and Confidentiality policies
• To promote the work of AoD and the Social Model of Disability
• To keep accurate records and provide monitoring statistics and evaluation information as required for internal and external purposes
• To participate in, and actively contribute to, individual Supervision, training, team and organisational meetings
• To work flexibly, being prepared to perform other duties commensurate with the role, which may include new areas of operation
• Any other task as directed by AoD management

Person Specification

Successful applicants must be:

• Professional
• Positive
• Motivated
• Dependable
• Flexible
• Patient
• Empathetic

Essential

Successful applicants must have:

• Experience of disability
• Experience of training, education or employment support delivery
• Maths and English to GCSE Grade C or equivalent
• Be willing and able to undertake any specific training required for the role
• An understanding of the needs of employers and ability to articulate the benefits of having a diverse workforce in businesses
• An understanding of the Social Model of Disability and its practical application
• Ability and willingness to learn and carry out a variety of employment tasks to support the Disabled person
• Evidenced experience of success in building strong and positive relationships with a variety of people and organisations
• Demonstrable problem-solving skills and experience
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a diverse population
• Good organisational skills with an ability to keep accurate records
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint and the internet
• Be willing and able to travel easily within London
• To be available for work at unsocial hours according to the demands of the work (occasionally)

Desirable

• Support Work qualification or equivalent is preferred but not mandatory
• An understanding of pan disability and employment

Deadline: Ongoing. We recruit for this role on a rolling basis with regular interview days.

If you would like to apply and find out more about this position, please click the apply button to be directed to our website. 

We welcome applicants from all walks of life.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we actively encourage applications from Disabled people and people with long term health and mental conditions. We operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme in that we will guarantee an interview to all Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post. Please state in a cover letter if you wish us to consider you for this guaranteed interview scheme.

AoD is a Living Wage Foundation registered employer and all of our employees, casual workers and contractors are paid above the London Living Wage.

No agencies please.

Drug and Alcohol Support Worker

We're looking for a kind, compassionate and resilient Drug and Alcohol Support Worker to join our Homelessness Social Care Service Tower Hamlets.

£29,073 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel in control of your career? You'll feel at home here.

Our benefits include:

Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
Free DBS
Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
Fully paid induction programme and further training
ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
Cycle to work scheme
Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
Online wellbeing resources
A generous pension - we will contribute up to 4% and life assurance cover up to £10,000 (T&Cs apply)
Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

What you'll do:

Carrying out holistic assessments of new customers which incorporate relevant statutory referral information
Building supportive, trusting relationships with customers and external partners, creating a positive atmosphere
Conducting regular key work sessions that are innovative and engaging in order to achieve Support Plan goals
Key-working the most complex service-users with particular needs aligned with Drug and Alcohol dependency
Creating support plans for providing appropriate services based on on-going assessment and reflecting the services and resources available to enable customers to progress in their recovery
Ensuring ongoing assessment and management of risks associated with customers within an attitude of 'positive risk taking'
Providing support and access to relevant services to enable customers to continue their recovery and empower customers to self-manage their medication regimes through individual re-enablement programmes and informed decision making
Undertaking support work in partnership with external stakeholders to compliment their interventions, leading on partnering with specialist stakeholders;
Upskilling staff team in particular area of expertise - Drug and Alcohol dependency.
Developing productive relationships with partner organisations to improve service outcomes
Demonstrate strong commitment to the functioning of the staff team and to support colleagues in providing a high level of service and safety to customers

About you:

Excellent interpersonal skills
Socially adept, networks widely, well connected in sector, influential
Approachable, open & professional behaviour
At ease in directing others, is assertive and independent minded, will challenge others, and skilled in resolving conflict
Drives change, enjoys dynamic diverse environments and demonstrates entrepreneurialism, creativity and innovation
Demonstrates significant confidence and high levels of self-esteem

What you'll bring:

Essential:

NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in a relevant area (e.g. substance misuse, addiction, psychology, Health and Social Care,).
Experience building and developing strong professional partnerships with external providers.
A minimum of 2 years experience in complex needs services, community development, addiction counselling, drug and alcohol work or other related fields.
Good written and oral communication skills
Desirable:

2-3 years experience providing targeted recovery focussed support to individuals with needs around trauma, mental health, substance use and dual diagnosis.

For our fulll job description please visit our webiste

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:

We focus on Excellence and innovation.
We are Caring and Compassionate.
We are Inclusive and Trusted.
We work in Partnership and are One-Team.
Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

ABOUT THE CLINK CHARITY

The Clink Charity, founded in 2009, aims to prevent and reduce reoffending through training, rehabilitation, and support. We deliver hospitality and horticulture training behind the prison walls and in the community by creating an environment where our students are supported to gain the skills, confidence and qualifications they need to rebuild their lives.

Since that time, we have trained approximately 5,000 people in prison and delivered 2,600 City & Guilds qualifications in a variety of hospitality and food courses.
What makes The Clink so unique is our post-release support and mentoring programme that rehabilitates an offender back into society through assistance with health and mental health issues, housing, employment, family connections and friendships.

The charity operates an award-winning fine-dining restaurant open to the public inside HMP Brixton, training kitchens in the prison estate, horticulture projects at HMP Send and HMP Erlestoke, a commercial bakery in Brixton, and a bespoke delivery service, Catered by Clink.

Additionally, Clink Events is our social enterprise catering business with food produced by the women in HMP Downview and also in an additional kitchen at Herne Hill and then served by alumni on front of house at some of the best venues in London including: the Guildhall, the Science Museum, Cutty Sark, Kew Gardens and the Camden Roundhouse. In 2024, across 218 events, The Clink fed 36,000 people.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Support and Employment Worker will provide a high quality and responsive mentoring and advocacy service which creatively addresses the needs and risks of our students and graduates to enable them to avoid further offending and to obtain and maintain employment upon release.

Our students and graduates will come from multiple prison sites across the London and the South East region, so careful diary management, logistical planning and travel are key components of the role.

This is a flexible role, mostly based at HMP Brixton, but will also include travelling between

HMP Downview and HMP Send multiple prisons and our Clink Training Café site in Herne Hill, with some working from home and managing a community caseload of graduates who have been released.

The Support and Employment Worker will develop action plans with each student in prison to support them in obtaining employment upon release and also in developing independent living skills to work towards their long-term goals and aspirations.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Support and Employment Worker at The Clink, you are responsible for:

•Mentoring, supporting and being the point of contact for students and graduates as they transition from our hospitality and horticulture training programmes in prison and in the community for up to 12 months.

•Working with and supporting people in prison and students prior to and after release from prison, or from graduation in our community café, to empower them in finding and maintaining accommodation, employment and a drug-free, offence-free lifestyle.

•Building relationships with Clink Chef Trainers, HMPPS Resettlement and Employment Teams, HMPPS Officers and Governing Teams in the prison and all parties invested in the training, support and employment of our learners.

•Working with students and graduates to identify their needs and risks, and to identify short and long-term goals.

•Motivating and engaging students and graduates and to provide practical and emotional support.

•Liaising with employers to secure opportunities for our students and for continuity of employment for graduates upon release.

•Supporting people dealing with drug and alcohol problems and to make referrals to other services as required.

•Undertaking risk assessments for each student, to recognise changes in risk level and take appropriate action.

•Maintaining case records and report on students' progress to external agencies and for our own Clink records on Clink Connect, our CRM system.

•Working in partnership with the team to enhance overall delivery of the service.

•Maintaining a professional approach that enhances the reputation of the charity.

DESIRABLE SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

• Experience of prisons and/or the criminal justice system. This can be lived experience.
• Experience of working with a variety of client groups both in custody and in the community, including men, women and 16-25-year-olds.
• Experience of working with young people in gangs and/or at risk of exploitation and county lines.
• Experience of working with neurodivergent people and those with disabilities and additional needs.
• Experience and skill in using a trauma informed approach with vulnerable people who present a risk of harm, including knowledge of mental health issues, drug and alcohol use and offending behaviour.
• Experience in setting up a strong employer network and using this to support our graduates into employment post-release.
• Experience referring to other services and using a multi-agency approach.
• A level of numeracy sufficient to carry out tasks such as budgeting with clients, calculating benefit entitlements and understanding rent arrears.
• An understanding of safeguarding issues and PREVENT Duty and the ability to assess risk in consultation with line manager.
• Some knowledge of the benefits system and ability to deal with housing agencies and landlords
• Driver with clean licence.
• IT literate - will need to maintain records about our students on our in-house CRM system and complete assessments for HMPPS.
• Able to adopt a supportive, confident and motivating approach to the client group.
• Willing to engage in training and development of your own knowledge and skills.
• Able to pass a prison security clearance.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Confident and resilient personality, with the strength of character to work in complex prison settings and with highly vulnerable people.
• Perseverence and tenacity — a desire to see our students be successful and to advocate strongly on their behalf which often requires a relentless optimism.
• Highly organised and efficient person - able to juggle multiple responsibilities, manage your own time and schedule, and be a consistent source of support for our beneficiaries.
• A strong networker - your key responsibility will be to manage stakeholders in the prison, in probation, in other third sector support groups, and with employers to advocate for our students to have the chance of quality employment outcomes.
• An assertive communicator - you will need to be patient, kind and compassionate and to communicate with our students with sensitivity and clear expectations.

REPORTING LINES MANAGEMENT EXPECTATIONS

You will report directly to the Support Lead for London and the SE, the Executive Leadership Team, but also work closely with the Operations team in the prisons and related Clink project leads in the community.

GENERAL CLINK CHARITY INFORMATION

All staff are expected to:

• Comply with all current legislation
• Comply with all prison operational policies
• Comply with The Clink Staff Handbook
•  Undertake such other duties within the scope of the post as may be requested by your Manager

Special Requirements:

• Must be able to pass prison security vetting process to be able to draw keys.
• Must have a valid driving licence .

Benefits:

• 28 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Company pension scheme
• Free meals on duty when based in a restaurant or visiting for business

HOW TO APPLY

If you would like to apply for this post, please send your CV and a supporting statement (maximum 2 sides of A4) to Lizann Barnwell.

In your supporting statement you should ensure that you try to address the desirable criteria set out in the person specification for the role. Make sure you give evidence which shows how you meet the criteria, not just telling us that you did it.

Interviews will be arranged on a rolling basis for this role, so early applications are encouraged. The deadline for applications is Friday 6 Feb at 0900.

We do not send individual acknowledgment of applications due to the high volume we receive, and we will only contact candidates who are shortlisted for an interview. If you do not hear from us within two weeks of the closing date, your application has not been successful on this occasion.

If you would like an informal chat about this role, we can offer a call with a member of The Clink Team. Even if you feel you do not meet some of the criteria listed above, we would still welcome applications from passionate candidates who are keen to make a difference.

Appointment process

Applicants who have demonstrated that they meet the desirable criteria set out in the person specification will be contacted and interviews arranged on a rolling basis.

Interview

If you are shortlisted for interview, you will be invited to a selection process. A panel of two or more, including the recruiting manager conducts all interviews. If there are any special arrangements associated with the selection process e.g. tests or presentations, you will be informed accordingly.

Interview outcome

If you are invited to attend an interview, you will be informed either verbally or in writing of the outcome. The successful candidate will have the decision confirmed in writing as an offer of employment. Unsuccessful candidates will be offered the opportunity for feedback.

References

If you are successful in your application, you are asked to provide us with the details of two referees. We only contact referees with your permission after an offer of employment has been made.

All offers of employment are conditional upon the receipt of references that are satisfactory to The Clink Charity, verification of right to work in the UK and where applicable, verification of qualifications and Disclosure and Barring Service (where required).

Personal information

The personal information that you have supplied will only be used for recruitment and selection purposes. You should refer to the Privacy Notice on our website, which sets out how The Clink Charity will deal with the personal and sensitive data you have provided in your application form and supporting information.

EDI

We welcome all applicants and are keen to enhance our team to reflect the diversity of the UK and the communities we serve. We would like to encourage applications from disabled people, those from LGBTQIA+ and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds and those experiencing other forms of marginalisation, as they are underrepresented at this level. In addition, as this role works directly with people in prison and those at risk of offending, those with lived experience are encouraged to apply.

Accessible recruitment

The Clink Charity is committed to making our recruitment process and workplace accessible to all. If you are an applicant with a disability and/or have any specific needs or adjustments that you would like us to consider, at application, interview, or appointment stage, please make us aware in your application.

Birmingham and Solihull Women’s aid have for over 45 years supported women and children with services around domestic violence and abuse. Could you be a part of our team as we continue our mission to end domestic violence and abuse? 

The region’s leading charity in tackling violence against women and girls, BSWA offers a helpline, webchat, drop in and and community support as well as emergency accommodation in six refuges across the area.  

Projects supports women in the criminal justice system, in healthcare settings, and throughout the community, offering support to women and children experiencing domestic violence. Alongside this, we also have staff offering training and consultancy to businesses and health and social care professionals alike, raising awareness on gender based violence issues.  

We seek like-minded women to join our enthusiastic team of workers, all of us passionate about the vital and valuable work we do to support women and children who have experienced domestic abuse, and tackling the wider issues of violence against women and girls. 

·To plan and implement high quality support and advocacy services for women affected by domestic violence who are deemed as being high risk.

· To work within a multi-agency framework to ensure the safety of women is prioritised.

- Providing practical and emotional support to women and children affected by domestic violence.
- Offering advice and information and advocating for service users on a range of issues including homelessness, benefits, legal, social welfare issues etc.
- Developing and maintaining effective working relationships with external agencies
- Working within safeguarding guidelines to protect and promote the well-being of children and vulnerable adults.

Benefits  

• 31 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays) 

• Up to 6% matched pension contribution 

• Free access to Employee Assistance Programme 

• Life Assurance scheme while in employment (a lump sum of 4 times salary) 

• Cycle to Work scheme 

• Health Cash Plan scheme available to all employees from day one 

• Successful candidates may have the opportunity to work under hybrid working arrangements, subject to the role and to the terms of our Hybrid Working Policy 

BSWA is a Disability Confident Employer. We want everyone to have equal chance at being considered for our jobs. Should you be unable to submit your application online and would prefer an alternative method, or you are experiencing another barrier to completing your application, please contact our recruitment team.

These posts are covered by a Genuine Occupational Requirement (Schedule 9; Equality Act 2010) and women only need apply.  

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is at 12 noon on Monday 9th Feb. Interviews will take place weeks commencing 2nd and 9th March.  

Overview

Change Grow Live are a charity dedicated to the belief that we can make a difference to our Service Users lives.   

Our core values are ‘Be open, be compassionate and be bold’ and our teams apply these daily offering support and respect in a safe environment, treating each user as an individual and working with them to find the right treatment and care options.    

 We are looking for a passionate and experienced professional to lead the development of our Affected Others service, supporting children, young people (CYP), and families impacted by familial substance misuse. This is an exciting opportunity to shape and grow a service that makes a real difference in breaking cycles of harm and building resilience.

Where: Buckinghamshire (Countywide)

Full Time Hours: 37.5 per week

Full Time Salary Range: £32,002.35- £34,214.20*

*Please note: Full-time hours at Change Grow Live are 37.5 hours per week. For part-time roles, the salary and payments will be pro rata based on contracted hours. 

Responsibilities

About the Role
As the lead for this specialist area, you will:

• Drive the design and delivery of innovative interventions for children, young people and families affected by substance misuse.
• Develop group programmes, resources, and training to strengthen whole-family approaches.
• Build strong partnerships with key stakeholder such as adult substance misuse services, schools, children’s services, and health professionals to ensure seamless referral pathways.
• Develop and deliver training and consultation to external partners and stakeholders on the issues facing young people affected by substance misuse of others. 
• Champion safeguarding and best practice across the service.
• Hold a caseload of complex and high-risk cases involving children, young people, and families, delivering whole-family support, including parenting programmes and harm reduction strategies.
• Monitor and evaluate service impact, ensuring continuous improvement.

About You
We’re looking for someone who is:

• Experienced in working with families facing multiple risk factors, including parental substance misuse.
• Skilled in delivering 1:1 and group interventions and developing new programmes.
• Knowledgeable about safeguarding and child protection procedures.
• Qualified to Level 3 in Health & Social Care (or equivalent).
• A strong communicator and collaborator, able to influence and lead within multi-agency settings.
• You will need to work flexibly countywide across Buckinghamshire so must hold a full UK driving license and have access to a car.

 What we Offer 

• 25 days holiday (+ bank holidays) rising by 1 day for each years’ service “Capped at 30 days” 
• Paid ‘Wellness’ hour each week along with a ‘Wellness’ hub and Employee Assist Programme 
• Contributory pension scheme 
• A great selection of benefits incl. discounts for shopping, cinema, holidays, etc. 
• Opportunity to lead and shape a vital service alongside a friendly and supportive team 
• Training, career development & progression opportunities 
• Refer a friend scheme.

Please ensure that when completing your application form and supporting statement, you reflect on the details outlined in the job description. This will help us understand how your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the role. 

Please note: This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. For applicants with time-limited visas, unfortunately, we are unable to support new visa applications or extensions.

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Salary Range (pro rata if part time)

CGL points 28 to 30 (£32,002.35 - £34,214.20)

ILW / OLW /Fringe

N/A - Outside London Weighting Area

Closing Date

19/2/2026

This post is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check at an enhanced level.

Job Title:  Volunteer Coordinator 

Reference Number: V564 

Location: Fife(home based with regular travel across Fife)

Contract Type:  Permanent Contract

Hours: 17.5 hours per week  (0.5 Full Time Equivalent)

Salary: £12, 812 pro rata (£25,625 Full Time Equivalent) 

PVG: PVG Scheme Membership required

Job Family: Job Family 3 

Line Manager:  Delivery Leader for Scotland

Closing Date: Thursday 19th February 2026 at 10am 

Interview Dates: To be confirmed

Anticipated Start Date: April 2026

Who we are 
At Volunteering Matters, we believe people have the power to create change. Whether through volunteering by helping others and giving time, or through social action such as speaking up, campaigning, or leading change, everyone can make a difference. We bring people together to build stronger communities across England, Scotland and Wales, making sure everyone has the chance to get involved and create real change. 

Creating stronger communities through the power of volunteering 

Volunteering Matters is a nationwide charity that exists to create stronger communities through the power of volunteering. We work with local partners to develop impactful programmes that support individuals and communities across the UK.

Since 1962, we’ve used our influence to champion volunteering as a powerful tool to build a thriving, resilient society. Our projects are co-created with the people and communities we work alongside: an approach that encourages our participants to become future volunteers and leaders, not just beneficiaries. 

We understand the pressures of day-to-day life and create flexible, inclusive opportunities for people at all stages of life. And beyond delivering projects on the ground, we use our voice to shape policy and practice – ensuring volunteering stays recognised, supported and sustainable for generations to come. 

What we do 
We help people of all ages and backgrounds get involved in volunteering and social action. We focus on making sure that everyone, no matter their situation, has the chance to take part. We work with local people. 

How we do this 

We support people to share their time and skills to help others and tackle big challenges in their communities. 

• We remove barriers to volunteering and social action, making it easier for people who don’t always get the chance to take part. 
   

• We listen to and amplify voices that aren’t always heard, helping volunteers and communities influence change. 
   

• We help volunteers beyond their first experience, offering training, support, and pathways to new opportunities. 
   

• We connect businesses with communities, creating meaningful employee volunteering projects. 
   

• We show the impact of volunteering and social action, proving how it changes lives for the better. 

Role Purpose 
 
Grandmentors is our award-winning, inter-generational mentoring project running in almost 20 locations across the UK.We recruit, train and support Volunteer Mentors (normally people aged 50+) who are matched 1:1 with young people (aged 16-26) facing a range of life challenges and barriers. This includes young people with experience of the care system, or with Adverse Childhood Experiences. 
 
Through our mentoring support, young people are more likely to have improved physical and mental health and wellbeing, achieve better outcomes around Education, Employment or Training, build independent living skills, and generally enhance their life chances. In 2026, we are excited to be launching the Grandmentors project in Fife.
 
We are now looking to recruit a talented, dynamic and professional Volunteer Coordinator to join our team. In this role, you will lead all aspects of the coordination and delivery of Grandmentors Fife.
 
The right candidate would be someone with great experience of supporting and managing volunteers, working with young people facing a range of life challenges, as well as someone who can work flexibly and demonstrate a commitment to our organisational values.

Our Values & Way of Working 

In all that we are guided by our values: Empowering, Inclusive, Compassionate, Positive & Straightforward.  

Diversity & Inclusion   

Volunteering Matters welcomes all applicants and are keen to ensure our team reflects the diversity of the UK and the communities we serve. We encourage applications from disabled, LGBT and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, along with candidates with any protected characteristics and from disadvantaged groups.   

  
Disability Confident & Reasonable Adjustments 

We guarantee to interview anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the role. Please provide evidence in your application, which demonstrates that you meet the level of competence required in the Job Description under skill and experience. To be considered for a guaranteed interview or to discuss any reasonable adjustments during the process, please state this in your cover letter.    

Benefits   

Our employee benefits reflect our culture which is built on an approach of full flexibility with accountability, and designed to let you make your most positive contribution; we offer: 

• Flexible Working by Default (re hours & place of work)  

• Unlimited Annual Leave  

• Employee Pension scheme  

• Life Assurance  

• Cycle to Work Scheme  

• Season Ticket Loan  

• Employee Assistance Programme  

• Enhanced sick and family leave.   

• Lifestyle Discount Scheme   

We are also open to discussing job share applications.   

GDPR Statement   

If you apply for a role with us, we will retain your contact details including your name, address, email address and phone number to help us manage your application for up to six months.  We will not use your personal data for any other purpose or share it with any third party. You can contact us at any point to update your personal information or ask us to delete it from our records.     

Policy on AI-Generated Applications  

Applications are accepted on trust, and we expect all submissions to reflect the applicant’s own words, experiences, and motivations. While tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) may support the application process, applications should not be generated wholly by AI.  

To Apply   

Please send an updated, complete CV and cover letter via the Charity Job Apply button above. In your application clearly state which role you are applying for. In the cover letter please demonstrate how you would fulfil the role requirements, what previous relevant achievements you have (both in life and at work), what skills & experience you can offer, and what you believe you can contribute to Volunteering Matters.   

We welcome applications from everyone, but please note that if we receive an extremely large number of responses, we may close this advert early to fully consider applications. We encourage you to apply promptly so you don’t miss the opportunity to join our community. 

Right to Work in the UK 
Please note that while we hold a license to sponsor employees on a skilled worker visa, the number of applications we can make each year is very limited. Unfortunately, this role does not meet the criteria for sponsorship, therefore, you must already have the right to work in the UK to be considered for this position. 

If you have any questions about current vacancies, the recruitment process, or need support, our team is here to help. 

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Step Down Support Worker to play a pivotal role in our Complex Needs Service in Kingston.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

This role is responsible for delivering recovery-focused, person-centred support to service users across Kingston's supported accommodation services. You will develop and maintain independent living skills, wellbeing, and tenancy sustainment through key-work and personalised SMART support plans. Working in partnership with housing providers and external agencies, you'll assess referrals, manage risks, and support move-on planning to help prevent relapse or hospitalisation. The role includes supporting access to health, substance misuse, education, training, and employment services, as well as promoting social inclusion and skills development. You will work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure service coverage, meet contractual obligations, and deliver high-quality, empowering support that maximises independence.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

You will have experience supporting people with a wide range of needs, aspirations and associated risks, and a proven ability to deliver high-quality, person-centred support services. You will bring a strong understanding of welfare benefits, housing options and relevant legislation, alongside sound knowledge of health and safety when working in service users' homes. You will be confident in undertaking key working, support planning and risk assessments to promote independence, with a good understanding of mental health, substance misuse and related treatments. The role requires effective partnership working with external professionals, accurate record-keeping using computer-based systems, and a solid understanding of safeguarding and how to respond appropriately. You will be committed to ongoing professional development, flexible in your approach, and able to travel across the borough as required.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

• Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!
• Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia.

Important Information for Candidates

If your application is successful, please be aware that you will be required to undergo pre-employment checks before a formal offer of employment can be confirmed.

We reserve the right to close this job advert early should we receive a high volume of applications or if the position is filled before the closing date. We encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure their application is considered.

Young People Support Worker

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

Location: Whitley Bay (Depaul House)

Salary: £24,136 per annum

Closing Date: 08 February, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

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

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

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

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

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

 In this role, you will:

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

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

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

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

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

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

About You

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

What You’ll Receive

• Tailored training and development

• Flexible working options where suitable

• 26 days annual leave, rising with service

• Family‑friendly leave policies

• Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%

• Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access

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

• Cash health plan for you and your family

• Death‑in‑service benefit

• Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

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

About Depaul UK

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

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

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

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

Overview of post: 

This is a 12-month paid internship starting in March 2026, supported by the Jack Petchey Internship 
Programme. The successful candidate must be available to take up the post by Monday 23rd
March 2026. This internship is designed to provide a structured learning and development 
opportunity for someone interested in building a career in the youth, charity, and/or community 
sector. The post-holder will gain specialist knowledge working with unpaid Carers and their 
families, as well as exposure to how the broader health, social care, and education sectors
operate.

The post-holder will support the delivery of activities and breaks for Young Carers (YCs) and 
Young Adult Carers (YACs), including social, educational, and wellbeing groups, groups which 
support YC and YAC personal development, create opportunities to build friendships and peer 
support networks as well as provide time out from caring roles. 

They will help raise awareness of Young Carers by attending e.g. outreach events and school 
assemblies alongside staff, will contribute to identifying new YCs, and undertake a specific 
project focused on engaging more YACs aged 18–25. This project will involve researching their 
needs and preferences and piloting activities to meet these.

Through Sutton Carers Centre’s support and the additional opportunities provided by the Jack 
Petchey Internship Programme, this internship offers a high-quality, developmental experience 
for someone starting out in the sector. It could be particularly rewarding for someone who has 
lived experience of caring and/or wants to develop specialist knowledge and skills in this area. 
Principal Tasks
Activity Delivery
• Support the planning, organisation, and delivery of creative, educational, therapeutic 
and/or social group activities, workshops, and trips for YCs and YACs. 
• Attend school assemblies and other outreach events with colleagues to raise awareness 
of Young Carers and help identify new referrals.
• Encourage YCs/YACs to participate in the planning and shaping of activities, including 
through forums and feedback.
• Contribute to creating safe, inclusive, and positive environments where YCs/YACs feel 
valued and supported.
Young Adult Carers Project
• Lead a time-limited project to engage YACs (18–25), engaging with currently identified 
YACs about their interests and barriers to participation.
• Design and pilot a programme of activities and breaks based on findings, with support 
from colleagues.
• Contribute ideas of how we can identify and support more YACs. 
• Share learning and recommendations with the wider team to inform future service 
delivery.
Learning and Development
• Take part in regular supervision, induction and a structured training programme, 
including safeguarding, project planning, group work, and communication skills.
• Shadow colleagues across Sutton Carers Centre to build knowledge of Carer support 
and wider health and social care systems.
• Receive mentoring to support professional and personal development.
Partnerships and Networking
• Work alongside staff to liaise with schools, colleges, and other community organisations, 
as well as colleagues in social care and health settings.
• Build relationships with external partners, providing opportunities to network with other
organisations and potential employers.
• Help promote SCC’s activities through newsletters, social media, and events.
Monitoring and Evaluation
• Support the collection of feedback and monitoring data from activities and events.
• Assist with record keeping, reporting, and communications.
Policies & Procedures:
• Carry out the above duties with due regard at all times to the Equality, Diversity & 
Inclusion, Data Protection & Confidentiality, Safeguarding, Environmental, Business 
Continuity, Health & Safety and all other policies and procedures of Sutton Carers 
Centre.
Other Duties
• To attend and take advantage of managerial and/or peer supervision, team/staff 
meetings and undertake appropriate training and any other professional or personal 
development.
• To develop and maintain current and accurate personal knowledge of unpaid Carers’ 
issues and any statutory or legislative changes.
• To participate in staff meetings, staff forums and training events.
• To be flexible with your availability for working hours, as the role will include very 
occasional, weekend and evening work, for which you will receive TOIL.
• To work as part of an overall team, contributing to the development of the Centre and 
participating in activities, fundraising and promotional events.
• To undertake other duties as appropriate to the post, as agreed with your Line 
Manager. 
Developmental Opportunities
As part of the Jack Petchey Internship Programme, (information here) the post-holder will also 
benefit from:
• An individual £1,000 training budget.
• A dedicated professional mentor for independent advice and guidance.
• Four personal development workshops during the year.
• The opportunity to be part of a peer support network of interns across London and 
Essex.
• Participation in Action Learning Sets with other interns.
• Attendance at a programme launch conference and an end-of-programme 
celebration.
In addition, the intern will:
• Gain experience of working directly with YCs and YACs.
• Benefit from working within a passionate, ambitious and supportive team environment as 
well as a wider community of Sutton organisations determined to effect positive change 
for young people and their families.
• Develop skills in activity planning, delivery, and evaluation.
• Learn about safeguarding, equality, and inclusive practice.
• Build competencies that will form a portfolio of evidence for future roles in the youth, 
charity and health and social care sectors.
This Job Description is not prescriptive; it outlines the key tasks of the post-holder and 
is subject to change in consultation with the post-holder.