Support worker volunteer jobs in Birmingham

We are looking for an experienced and compassionate Support Services Manager to lead BBS UK’s support services for children, adults and families living with Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS). 

BBS UK is a national charity supporting people affected by this rare genetic condition. We work closely with NHS specialist clinics and other services to help individuals and families access the support they need and navigate health, education, social care and welfare systems. 

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a small, dedicated team providing practical support, advocacy and guidance to people living with BBS and their families. 

The role includes team leadership, safeguarding responsibility and service development. You will help ensure people receive safe, responsive and person-centred support while continuing to improve and strengthen our services. 

About the Role 

As Support Services Manager, you will oversee BBS UK’s clinics support and advice services. Working closely with the CEO, NHS clinics and partner organisations, you will: 

• Lead and support a small remote-working team

• Provide supervision and safeguarding leadership to Patient Liaison Officers and Advice Workers

• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for the organisation

• Oversee caseloads, service quality and risk management

• Support staff wellbeing, learning and development

• Build positive relationships with NHS and external partners

• Help develop and improve BBS UK’s support services

This is a home-based role with travel to specialist clinics in London and Birmingham, plus occasional meetings and events. Travel expenses will be reimbursed in line with BBS UK policies. 

About You 

We are looking for someone who: 

• Has experience managing a team within health, social care, welfare or voluntary sector services 

• Has experience providing leadership, supervision or safeguarding oversight within a support service setting 

• Has strong safeguarding knowledge and can make sound decisions in complex situations

• Communicates well and builds positive working relationships

• Can manage competing priorities and support a busy team

• Is organised, practical and calm under pressure

• Is reflective, approachable and supportive

• Shares our commitment to inclusive, person-centred support

• Wants to make a meaningful difference to people living with BBS

Why Join BBS UK? 

BBS UK is a small, supportive charity making a real difference to the lives of people affected by Bardet-Biedl Syndrome. By joining us, you will: 

• Make a direct and meaningful difference to children, adults and families living with BBS

• Be part of a supportive and values-driven team

• Work flexibly from home while contributing to a nationally recognised rare disease support service

• Receive ongoing training, supervision and professional development

• Help shape the future of support services for people living with BBS 

Additional Information 

• An enhanced DBS check is required for this role

• Some evening or weekend work may occasionally be required, with time off in lieu provided

If you’re ready to use your skills and experience to make a meaningful impact, we’d love to hear from you. If you would like to discuss the role before applying, details can be found in the application pack. 

Application Deadline: Sunday 7th June 2026 (midnight) 

Interviews: Expected to take place in London on 16th and 18th June 2026 

Support Coordinator

We are looking for an innovative, passionate, and professional individual with excellent interpersonal and organisational skills to join our Stroke Recovery Service based in Bedford.

This is an exciting opportunity to work with stroke survivors and their families to support them following stroke.

Position: S11373 Stroke Association Support Coordinator

Location: Home base, Bedfordshire, however frequent travel will be required as part of this role (to include community visits, team meetings, and other work-related meetings).

Hours: Part-time, 28 hours per week

Salary: £22,600 per annum (FTE circa £28,300 per annum)

Contract: Services are contracted and there is currently funding for this contract until 31 March 2027

Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (this will increase with service up to 30 days, full time equivalent) cashback and discount scheme, employee assistance programme, learning and development, pension scheme, Life Assurance, Eye Care vouchers, Long Service Award, Tax-free childcare, Health Cash Plan, Working Pattern Agreement, flexible working opportunities available.

Closing Date: 21 June 2026

Interview Date: 1 July 2026. Interviews will be held via video conferencing. Please let us know if this will present any challenges when you email your application.

The Role

Reporting to the Service Delivery Coach in the East of England, you will have the ability to support stroke survivors to identify their goals. Using strong assessment skills and a person-centred approach enabling them to maximise their recovery and improve communication.

Key responsibilities will include:

· Supporting newly diagnosed stroke survivors and their carers from hospital discharge into the community.

· Supporting a diverse caseload including anyone experiencing communication or cognitive difficulties

· Providing support via a combination of face-to-face visits, telephone calls, emails or letters, and digital methods (such as video calls).

· Using a person-centred and person first approach to provide specific, tailored information, advice, and support to stroke survivors and stroke carers.

· Empowering stroke survivors to make informed lifestyle changes which will help them to live life well after stroke.

· Working with other health and social care professionals across the stroke pathway to ensure high quality support.

About You

You will have experience in:

· Working with people within a caring profession or other caring capacity.

· Maintaining accurate records using IT skills and database systems.

· Effective caseload management and using a flexible working approach.

· Using excellent interpersonal skills to work with a diverse range of people.

This role requires extensive travel across the local service area to visit people at home and in community settings and also travel further afield for team and Locality meetings. Candidates must be able to demonstrate how they can meet this requirement of the role.

To fulfil the role, you must be a resident of the UK and have the right to work in the UK.

Applications

Please submit your CV, (including details of your current address), and a supporting statement of no more than two pages, demonstrating how you meet the person specification and what you bring to the role in terms of your skills and experience. If you are applying under the Disability Confident scheme, please indicate this in your supporting statement, and in the main body of your email when applying for the role.

You will be able to view the role profile when you apply.

Stroke Association

Finding strength through support

The Stroke Association is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. We provide tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. 

We’re here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of our supporters and donors that we can provide vital support. 

Stroke Association is driven by our ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means we’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by Our approach to solving inequity in stroke, we are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across our charity.

We are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Stroke Association and we are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how we work.

We are a Disability Confident employer, and we are making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work. Our charity has a variety of staff network groups and we're committed to continuously improving our diversity and inclusion efforts. If you have questions, or access needs, we’re happy to discuss any support and adjustments we can make throughout the recruitment process so that you’re able to contribute your best in a way that meets your needs.

You may also have experience in areas such as Care Coordinator, Stroke Support, Stroke, Care, Care Worker, Support Worker, Carer, Care Team Leader, Support Team Leader, Volunteering Manager, Volunteer Coordinator, Support Group, Support and Advice, Social Care, Carer Support, Support Service.

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

Support Coordinator

We’re looking for an innovative, passionate and professional individual with excellent communication and organisational skills to join our Life After Stroke Service based across Cornwall.

This is an exciting opportunity to work with stroke survivors and their families to support them following a stroke.

Position: S11376 Stroke Association Support Coordinator

Location: Home-based, Mid Cornwall and West Cornwall. However, Frequent travel will be required as part of this role (to include team meetings or other work-related meetings)

Hours: Part-time, 24 hours per week x 2 posts available (one is a maternity cover contract)

Salary: Circa £19,400 per annum (FTE circa £28,300 per annum)

Contract: This is a fixed-term contract until 31 March 2027. Our services are contracted; we currently have funding for these contracts until 31st March 2027

Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (this will increase with service up to 30 days, full time equivalent) cashback and discount scheme, employee assistance programme, learning and development, pension scheme, Life Assurance, Eye Care vouchers, Long Service Award, Tax-free childcare, Health Cash Plan, Working Pattern Agreement, flexible working opportunities available.

Closing Date: 14 June 2026

Interview Date: 17 June 2026. Interviews will be held via video conferencing. Please let us know if this will present any challenges when you email your application.

The Role

The service aims to identify and provide key worker support to meet the needs of stroke survivors and carers across the stroke pathway. Providing a range of innovative support solutions, supporting them to meet their desired outcomes.

The Stroke Association Support Coordinator will:

• Support new stroke survivors and their carers from hospital discharge into the community.
• Provide personalised information, advice and support.
• Support stroke survivors to make informed lifestyle changes which will help them to prevent further strokes.
• Work collaboratively with NHS colleagues and other areas of the community to make a difference in the lives of people affected by stroke.

About You

You will have experience in:

• Working with people within a caring profession or other caring capacity.
• Maintaining accurate records using IT skills and database systems.
• Effective caseload management and using a flexible working approach.
• Using excellent interpersonal skills to work with a diverse range of people.

This role requires extensive travel across Cornwall to visit people at home and in community settings. Candidates must be able to demonstrate how they can meet this requirement of the role.

To fulfil the role, you must be a resident of the UK and have the right to work in the UK.

Applications

Please submit your CV, (including details of your current address), and a supporting statement of no more than two pages, demonstrating how you meet the person specification and what you bring to the role in terms of your skills and experience.

If you are applying under the Disability Confident scheme, please indicate this in your supporting statement, and in the main body of your email when applying for the role.

You will be able to view the role profile when you apply.

Stroke Association

Finding strength through support

The Stroke Association is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. We provide tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. 

We’re here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of our supporters and donors that we can provide vital support. 

Stroke Association is driven by our ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means we’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by Our approach to solving inequity in stroke, we are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across our charity.

We are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Stroke Association and we are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how we work.

We are a Disability Confident employer, and we are making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work. Our charity has a variety of staff network groups and we're committed to continuously improving our diversity and inclusion efforts. If you have questions, or access needs, we’re happy to discuss any support and adjustments we can make throughout the recruitment process so that you’re able to contribute your best in a way that meets your needs.

You may also have experience in areas such as Care Coordinator, Stroke Support, Stroke, Care, Care Worker, Support Worker, Carer, Care Team Leader, Support Team Leader, Volunteering Manager, Volunteer Coordinator, Support Group, Support and Advice, Social Care, Carer Support, Support Service.

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

JOB DESCRIPTION: Site Manager

Job Title: Site Manager

Department: Operations / Management

Reports to: Head of Operations

Main Function of the Job: To provide leadership and strategic oversight for a designated site, ensuring all activities align with the Charity’s objectives and budgetary targets. The Site Manager is responsible for the performance of their team, the safety of the environment, and the successful delivery of client development programs.

• Strategic Leadership: Display and install a passion for the charity’s aims, ensuring the site meets its targets and development goals.
• Team Management: Oversee Support Workers and volunteers, managing issues in line with organisational policy and fostering professional discipline.
• Operational Oversight: Ensure site security, maintenance, and the professional appearance of facilities.
• Client Advocacy: Champion the needs of Where Next clients, ensuring their welfare is paramount and that their personal goals are reviewed and recorded to schedule.
• Stakeholder Relations: Uphold high standards of customer satisfaction and represent the Charity professionally to all stakeholders.
• Financial Accountability: Ensure all monetary activities on-site are carried out in strict accordance with policy and procedure.

Location While primarily based at a specific site, the Site Manager will collaborate across all Where Next units to ensure organisational consistency and provide cross-site support as required.

Staff Supervisory Responsibilities

• Direct supervision of Support Workers, volunteers, and clients.
• Responsible for staff work planning, attendance monitoring, and performance reviews.
• Lead the team in implementing client-centred plans and ensuring paperwork quality is consistent.

Main Duties

• Program Management: Oversee the identification, preparation, and implementation of training and work opportunities for clients.
• Quality Control: Audit and ensure all client programs are monitored, assessed, and recorded as required by the organisation and external bodies.
• Health & Safety: Act as the primary lead for Health and Safety enforcement on-site, including infection control and safe equipment usage.
• Development: Identify and secure new development opportunities for the Charity and initiate new activity ideas.
• Communication: Facilitate effective communication within the team regarding client needs and organisational requirements.

Qualifications and Experience

• Education: Level 3 or higher qualification in a relevant field (Health & Social Care, Management, or Horticulture).
• Licensing: A valid driver’s license is essential.
• Experience: Proven experience in a supervisory or management role, preferably within a charitable or care-based environment.
• Certification: Must hold and maintain a valid First Aid Certificate.

Tools and Equipment

• Proficiency in the safe operation of hand and power tools relevant to the site (e.g., nursery or carpentry tools).
• Responsibility for ensuring all staff are adequately trained before using specific equipment.

Working Conditions

• Involves working in open-air nursery conditions, requiring physical effort for gardening, landscaping, and logistical tasks (loading/unloading).
• Requirement to work flexible hours, including outside traditional hours, to meet the needs of the Charity.

Aptitude/Skills

• Sensitivity: Deep understanding and sensitivity to the demands of working with clients with learning disabilities.
• Flexibility: Ability to adapt to different teams and lead through change.
• Proactive Growth: Committed to Continuous Personal Development and maintaining high standards of personal discipline. 

 Job Title: Grandmentors Project Coordinator

Reference Number:  V568

Location: Wolverhampton (Home-based with local travel)

Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Hours: 35

Salary: £25,625

DBS/PVG: Enhanced

Job Family: 3

Line Manager:                       Senior Project Manager

Closing date: 14th June 2026

Interview:                               W/C 15th June 2026

Anticipated start date: 4 weeks after job offer acceptance

Volunteering Matters  

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.

Our promise to volunteers

We are always looking for new ways for volunteers to make a difference. We bring people together across generations and backgrounds to learn from each other and create change. At the same time, we make sure that all our volunteers are trained, supported, and valued, so they feel confident in what they do.

It’s a brilliant time to join us. We’re evolving, growing our impact, and shaping a future where everyone can take part and feel they belong. 

Job Purpose

Grandmentors Wolverhampton is a well-established and successful project that has been connecting mature volunteers with care experienced young people since 2019. As Project Coordinator, you will lead the core programme while heading up our brand new ‘Through the Gates’ pilot, which provides vital support for young people transitioning from custody back into the community. Your role is to foster high impact mentoring relationships while ensuring clear professional boundaries are maintained, complementing the work of our statutory partners in the Local Authority.

Key Responsibilities:

· Project Coordination: Lead the day-to-day delivery of Grandmentors in Wolverhampton, ensuring the project meets match targets for both the core service and the new pilot.

· Volunteer Leadership: Recruit, train, and supervise a dedicated team of mentors, ensuring they feel supported and understand how their role fits alongside other professional services.

· Boundary Management: Act as the key link to statutory leads, such as Social Workers or Personal Advisors, ensuring support remains mentor-led and escalating any professional concerns appropriately.

· Partnership Working: Build and maintain strong, professional relationships with the Local Authority and other relevant partners.

· Safety & Compliance: Oversee risk assessments and strictly follow safeguarding procedures to ensure the safety of our volunteers and the young people we support.

· Impact Reporting: Use our CRM system to track progress and collate data for annual reports and meetings that demonstrate the project’s impact to our stakeholders.

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

Help shape the future of a national charity making a difference across the UK 

At Volunteering Matters, we believe stronger communities start with people. Every day, we bring people together through volunteering to reduce loneliness, improve wellbeing and create lasting social change in communities across the UK. 

As we deliver an ambitious new five-year strategy, we are looking for an exceptional Director of Financial Assurance with significant senior finance leadership experience to help shape our future sustainability, strengthen financial resilience and provide the strategic insight that enables confident, impactful decision-making. 

This is a rare opportunity to take on a senior leadership role with genuine influence across a national charity at a pivotal point in its journey. 

A strategic leadership role with real impact 

This new role is about providing the organisation with a clear, forward-looking financial picture, strengthening financial assurance, improving forecasting and helping ensure long-term sustainability in an increasingly complex funding environment. 

Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer, Board and Finance & Audit Committee, you will play a central role in helping the organisation navigate growth, investment, risk and opportunity. 

This role line manages the Finance Manager, ensuring strong operational finance while maintaining clear separation between operational delivery and independent oversight. 

Most importantly, you will be excited by the opportunity to help shape the future of a national charity that creates real impact in communities every day.   A

Why join Volunteering Matters? 

This is an opportunity to join an organisation with a clear social purpose, ambitious plans and a culture built around flexibility, inclusion and collaboration. 

We offer: 

• Flexible home-based working across the UK

• A senior leadership role with genuine strategic influence

• The chance to shape organisational sustainability and future growth

• A supportive and values-led culture

• Meaningful work that positively impacts communities across the UK

Our Values  

Everything we do is guided by our values: 

Empowering | Inclusive | Compassionate | Positive | Straightforward 

Disability Confident 

We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role. 

 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.   

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.   

Interested? 

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.   

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. 

Salary: £39,000–£42,000 per annum (£65,000–£70,000 FTE equivalent) 

Contract: Permanent – Part time, 3 days a week 

Location: London or Birmingham 

Working pattern: Hybrid. Cross-region travel up to twice a month for in-person SMT meetings. 

Envision is at an exciting moment. Our programmes are working, our partnerships are growing, and our team cares deeply about getting it right. What we need now is someone to help us build the infrastructure to match our ambition – reaching and impacting more young people from less-advantaged backgrounds across London, Birmingham and Bristol. 

As our Chief Operating Officer, you will join our Senior Management Team and take clear ownership of Envision's finance, compliance, HR governance, and operational efficiency. This is a newly defined role – created to give the function the senior leadership it needs and to free the CEO to focus on external leadership, fundraising, and strategy. 

You will join an SMT of four, working alongside the Director of Programmes and Impact and the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, led by the CEO. It is a collegiate team that operates with a high degree of mutual trust and collective ownership – and we are looking for someone who is as comfortable in a strategic conversation about Envision's future as they are reviewing a set of management accounts. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Play an active role in SMT – contributing operational and financial insight to organisational planning, strategy development, and decision-making alongside the CEO and senior leadership team. 

• Lead finance oversight and board reporting: overseeing monthly and quarterly management accounts, leading the annual budget-setting process, owning the audit cycle, and preparing papers for the Finance, Audit and Risk Governance (FARG) Committee. 

• Own HR policy and governance: maintaining Envision's HR framework, handling complex employee relations matters, and overseeing the full employee lifecycle with execution led by the Business Admin and Finance Officer. 

• Line manage the Finance Manager and Business Admin and Finance Officer, providing clear direction and developing a high-performing team. 

• Lead operational improvement: conducting a review of processes and systems, building a live improvement register, and implementing agreed changes through to completion – not just to proposal. 

• Explore and pilot AI and automation tools for high-friction tasks. Genuine curiosity and willingness to experiment matters more than technical expertise. 

• Hold compliance and risk governance oversight – GDPR, Health and Safety, regulatory filings – ensuring a clear calendar of requirements is owned and met. 

Essential Experience, Knowledge and Competencies 

• Qualified or part-qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent), or demonstrable equivalent finance expertise. 

• Proven experience in a senior operational leadership role with finance oversight responsibility. 

• Experience of audit management and board-level financial reporting. 

• Track record of leading and developing small teams. 

• Working knowledge of GDPR and charity compliance obligations. 

• Demonstrable ability to operate at a strategic and governance level 

• Experience leading operational process or systems improvement, from diagnosis through to implementation. 

• Active interest in AI and automation tools, with a practical approach to exploring and applying them. 

• Commitment to Envision's vision, mission and values and ability to work well in, and contribute to, our organisational culture. 

Envision actively encourages applications from those from Black and Minority Ethnic backgrounds and from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, as they are currently under-represented in our organisation. We seek to ensure we achieve diversity in our workforce and that all applicants and employees receive equal and fair treatment, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability or nationality. Envision graduates will be guaranteed a first-round interview. 

Please note: we are unable to support visa applications and therefore applicants must have the right to work in the UK. 

To apply, please apply through CharityJob.

Closing date for applications- Wednesday 10 June (midnight) 

Round 1 interviews (online) : Thursday 18 June 

Round 2 interviews (in person- London): Thursday 25 June 

We will only be contacting candidates who have been shortlisted for interview. The safety and wellbeing of the young people we work with is paramount at Envision. Successful candidates will be subject to a full Enhanced DBS check and reference checks. All new staff must attend safeguarding training during their induction period. 

Today, 12 children and young people will be diagnosed with cancer. We’ll stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.  ​

• Directorate: Innovation, Policy & Systems Change
• Reporting into: Associate Director of Research, Learning and Systems Change
• Colleagues reporting into role: No direct reports at present. However, coaching and managing of volunteers and/or consultants is expected. 
• Location: You can be home-based anywhere in the UK, with travel for meetings. You can also choose to work from our Bristol or London offices.
• Closing date: Monday 8 June at 12 midday
• Interview dates: Monday 15 June and Tuesday 16 June (please tell us in your application if you cannot attend interview on one of these days)

Change lives in a life-changing career

When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it’s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain.

The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. And that impact can be felt by entire family. That’s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer.

We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise well-being. And we stop at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time.

About the role

We’re looking for a Head of Research & Evidence to join our ambitious Research, Learning & Systems Change Team. 

Young Lives vs Cancer has a strong and growing commitment to changing the system for children and young people with cancer, and their loved ones. Our North Star vision and Time is Now Strategy focus on influencing how the wider system works – from services and policy to practice on the ground – so that families get the support they need.

The Head of Research and Evidence sits in the Research, Learning & Systems Change team, within our Innovation, Policy & Systems Change Directorate. The role is responsible for ensuring our work is grounded in strong, credible and useful evidence, and that learning is actively used to shape decisions, practice and change across the system.

This is a leadership role within a small but ambitious team. You will set direction and provide thought leadership, but you will also be hands on – designing, commissioning, managing and using research alongside colleagues and partners.

Building trusted relationships and using evidence to influence thinking and action are central. You will work with colleagues, children and young people, families, and partner organisations (such as the North Star Cancer Collective) to learn, strengthen credibility and create change.

This role is subject to a Criminal Record Check. In the event of a successful application, a Basic Criminal Record Check will be completed. A previous conviction is not necessarily a barrier to employment. We encourage qualified applicants to apply, and we will consider each case individually.

What will I be doing?

No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your ‘day to day’ isn’t easy. You’ll work as part of a strong internal team, collaborating closely with colleagues across the organisation and with key external partners to generate, use and apply evidence that supports learning, influence and system change. Here are some of the main things you’ll be doing, but you’ll find more details in the job description and pack:

• You’ll be setting the direction for research and learning, leading a clear and purposeful research programme focused on the psychosocial experiences of children and young people with cancer. You’ll ensure research is high‑quality, ethical and impactful, including commissioning work with partners and contributing to research funding bids.

• You’ll be understanding needs and experiences to grow a strong, credible evidence base, building and using robust evidence on need, inequality, impact and progress to inform strategy, services, policy and system change. You’ll ensure children, young people and families meaningfully shape research and that insight is shared in clear, practical ways.

• You’ll be providing system insight and leadership, analysing how the system works, identifying trends and pressures, and using evidence to guide where change is most needed. You’ll build trusted relationships across the voluntary sector, NHS and research community, sharing learning and strengthening our credibility and influence.

• You’ll be turning learning into action and influence, helping teams apply research to real‑world practice and supporting testing, learning and improvement over time. You’ll put feedback and learning loops in place and assess how research‑informed change is affecting practice and outcomes.

What do I need? 

Diverse perspectives and unique skill sets are at the heart of Young Lives vs Cancer. If you're passionate about making a positive impact and eager to learn, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet the criteria and person specification fully. Your potential is what matters most to us, and we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment to help you develop.

The key skills we’re looking for in this role are:

• Experience leading and delivering research, including setting direction, choosing methods, commissioning or carrying out research, analysing data, and ensuring high quality and ethical practice.

• Strong research and analytical skills, with confidence working with both qualitative and quantitative data and evidence, and turning insight into practical action.

• Experience using evidence to support change, such as shaping strategy, influencing policy, improving services or supporting system change.

• Experience working across organisations, building trusted relationships with colleagues, partners, and where appropriate, children, young people and families.

• Ability to communicate complex research clearly and accessibly to different audiences, in writing and in conversation.

• A collaborative way of working, with strong people skills, curiosity and a learning mindset, and a clear commitment to equity, inclusion and anti‑oppressive practice.

What will I gain?

For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you’ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here’s how we do it:

• Flexible working: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage
• Well-being, Thinking & Growth Days: four days a year to to step back from the day-to-day and focus on your own learning and development
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Great family/caring leave entitlements
• Enhanced pension
• Access to our employee savings scheme

To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation – or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don’t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it.

We’re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren’t there yet, and we’re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more.

To ensure fairness and consistency to select the best candidate for this role, all our applications are anonymised up until an interview has been confirmed. We recognise the benefits of AI, but if you're considering using it to submit your application, we encourage you to reflect on the value AI adds. AI tools often lack the personal touch and authenticity that set candidates apart. We want to hear your unique perspective, experiences, and skills, so we encourage you to tell us about your skills and experiences in your own voice.

Accessibility

We’re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible. Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.

To hear more about this role, please sign up to one of our informal drop in sessions taking place at 12:30pm on Tuesday 26th May and 17:30pm on Monday 01st June.

#ShowTheSalary #NonGraduatesWelcome