Advocacy jobs

Advocacy Specialist

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Advocacy Specialist

We are seeking an Advocacy Specialist who can hit the ground running to support the Clean Air Fund’s friendly advocacy team across its diverse operations.

The Advocacy Specialist is a central player in our team, who supports the successful running and implementation of our advocacy strategy, engaging directly with grantees, policymakers, and leading experts in climate and air quality to achieve our strategic objectives. 

As Advocacy Specialist with Clen Air Fund you will play a central role in achieving our aims to increase understanding of the importance for air quality action, drive action on air quality at international, national and sub-national level and increase the amount, quality and geographical spread of donor funding for air quality work. Our work straddles engagement with multilateral processes, such as COP, G20, as well as the engagement with multilateral and bilateral development donors, UN agencies and country representatives. We do this through direct advocacy, as well as through funding others to do so.

This role provides the backbone of the advocacy function, coordinating events, diaries, developing of briefings, identifying, onboarding and managing grantee portfolios and much more. 

The advocacy specialist role would suit an early career professional with some experience working in national, regional or international advocacy roles, with an eagerness to work in a fast-paced environment where every day brings new and diverse learning opportunities.

To be successful in this role you will have the below skills and experience; 

• Strong project management skills and experience.
• Proven experience in context research, data gathering and analysis.
• Strong interest in international affairs, climate and environmental issues, politics and finance, and social change.
• Excellent communication skills including grant and report writing, minute taking, delivering presentations and keeping internal stakeholders updated and a proven ability to communicate persuasively both in writing and verbally.
• Proficient in using the latest Microsoft 365 tools, comfortable with cloud-based platforms like Microsoft Teams and SharePoint, adaptable to new ways of working, and an excellent understanding of basic cyber security and data protection hygiene. 

For more information on this role, as well as the full person specification please see the job description

• Closing date – 27th October
• Salary – GBP £34,000- £40,000/ KES 3,450,000- KES 3,750,000
• Type of employment- Permanent, full- time 

We encourage early applications, as the vacancy may be closed before the stated deadline depending on application volume

At Clean Air Fund, we’re guided by purpose and grounded in evidence. Our culture combines clear structures and rigorous frameworks with space for fresh thinking and collaboration across diverse perspectives. We value curiosity, openness and a shared commitment to making a measurable difference.

As an employer, we are committed to ensuring the representation of people from all backgrounds regardless of their gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, returning parents, carers or any other aspect which makes them unique. We particularly welcome applicants from under-represented groups  to apply and would encourage you to let us know if there are steps we can take to ensure that the recruitment process enables you to present yourself in a way that makes you comfortable. We are committed to ensuring the safety and protection of our employees from all forms of harm. 

Head of Communications & Advocacy

Location: Hybrid – 2 - 3 days to be worked from our office in Crayford, DA1 
Salary: £41,000–£46,000 per annum (depending on experience)
Contract: Permanent, full-time (35 hours per week)

At Allergy UK, the leading national charity supporting people living with allergic conditions, we are passionate about raising awareness, driving policy change, and providing trusted advice to millions. Every campaign we run and every story we share helps make allergy visible as a serious health issue and we’re looking for a new Head of Communications & Advocacy to help us take this mission even further.

What You’ll Be Doing

As our Head of Communications & Advocacy, you’ll shape and amplify the charity’s voice across the UK. Leading a dynamic team, you’ll drive strategy, lead high-impact campaigns, and ensure that Allergy UK remains a trusted, credible, and influential voice.

You will:

• Develop and deliver integrated communications and advocacy strategies

• Lead creative, impactful campaigns to raise awareness and influence policy

• Guide our media relations and secure high-profile coverage

• Provide expert advice on sensitive and strategic communications issues

• Build strong relationships with policymakers, healthcare leaders, and industry stakeholders

• Act as an ambassador for Allergy UK at the highest levels

• Inspire and lead a skilled communications and advocacy team

What We’re Looking For

We’d love to hear from you if you have:

• A proven track record in strategic communications and advocacy

• Experience leading multi-channel campaigns that achieve real impact

• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills — from media to government to industry

• Strong leadership experience, with the ability to inspire and develop teams

• Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal

• Confidence in providing senior-level advice on high-profile issues

It would be a bonus if you also bring experience of policy development, the UK health sector, or working with lived experience storytelling.

What We Offer

We believe in looking after our people and helping them thrive. As part of our team, you’ll enjoy:

• £41,000–£46,000 salary (dependent on experience)

• 28 days holiday + bank holidays

• Annual pay review in line with market rates

• Flexible hybrid working and free onsite parking

• Pension scheme and employee benefits hub

• Employee Assistance Programme (counselling, GP service, wellbeing support)

• Training and development opportunities

How to Apply

If you’re passionate about using communications to create real social change, we’d love to hear from you.

Please send your CV and supporting statement via Charity Job. Your supporting statement should highlight how your skills and experience meet the role requirements, and what you could bring to our team.

• Closing date: 12pm Sunday, 26th October

• Online interviews: Thursday, 30th October 2025

• In-person interviews: Wednesday, 5th November 2025

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, and are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive recruitment process. If you would like to apply in a different format or need adjustments, please get in touch.

Please note that this role will require a minimum in person presence of 2 -3 days per week in our office in Crayford.

Be part of something impactful. Join us and help shape the future of allergy care.

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

Do you have experience of working or volunteering in welfare, support or health and social care and are looking for a new challenge? 

Are you keen to make a difference to people who want to be heard? 

Then come and join us here at VoiceAbility. 

We have an exciting opportunity for an advocate to join our team covering Warwickshire and Coventry.  Your role will require you to travel to locations such as hospitals and care homes across the area to meet with clients and professionals and be home based for administration; therefore, a suitable home internet connection is essential. 

About us 

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

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

About you

Desirably you will have some experience of working as an Advocate, providing welfare, supporting or caring for Adults or young people who have support needs, ideally for those with a variety of communication needs, mental ill health, physical health issues or barriers to accessing education and support.

You should have worked or volunteered in health, social care, welfare, support services, education or young person’s services or advice and guidance.

How will you make a difference?

You will be responsible for ensuring the individual’s wishes, feelings, beliefs, needs, and values are met to create positive outcomes for the people you support.

You will support people to speak up for themselves and grow in confidence, equip them to understand and exercise their rights and options, and will assist them in the decision-making process relating to their care, treatment, and support.

You will work resourcefully and collaboratively with the individuals you support.  You’ll be creative in your approach to empower our clients by ensuring you meaningfully explain people’s options and rights to them.  You’ll support individuals to fully participate in decisions affecting them and will make sure they have their voices heard. 

Benefits 

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

5% employer pension & minimum 3% employee contribution 

Salary sacrifices pension scheme 

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

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

24/7 Employee Assistance programme 

Access to remote counselling service 

Paid Disability Leave 

Paid compassionate Leave 

Home Working Allowance  

Support with continuous professional development 

Access to Clifton Strengths Coaching for development  

Personal Development Plans 

How are staff supported to work remotely? 

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

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

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

Equality and Diversity

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

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

How to apply

To apply for this role please sign up for a recruitment account by clicking the apply button on this page. Follow the instructions to create your account, upload your CV, and complete our short application form. 

Important Dates:

Closing date for applications; 11pm on 09 November 2025, however, VoiceAbility reserve the right to withdraw this vacancy before this date. 

Don’t forget to read the person specification so you can tell us about yourself and how your skills, abilities and experiences match the criteria outlined in the person specification. 

Hint: you can use work, personal and/or voluntary experiences, and examples to tell us why you should be our next Advocate. 

Job Title:                     Case Worker – CAPSA Services (Culturally Appropriate Peer Support and Advocacy)  

Reports to:                  CAPSA Team Manager

Geographic focus: Lambeth

Salary:£30,500

Hours of Work: 37.5 per week (flexible working available)

Duration:1 Year Contract (with a potential to extend)

Benefits:26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, pension contribution, Employees' Assistance Programme.

Purpose of the role

The CAPSA (Culturally Appropriate Peer Support and Advocacy) Worker role has been specifically designed to support Black people using the secondary mental health system. As a CAPSA Worker, you will provide both Generic Mental Health Advocacy and Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA) to eligible individuals, including people detained under the Mental Health Act(MHA) 1983/2007, conditionally discharged restricted patients, those under Guardianship, and those on Community Treatment orders, as well as individuals considered for section 57 treatments.

You will play a key role in ensuring that the perspectives of Black service users are recognised and respected, addressing their unique and multiple needs, and promoting access to advocacy for all eligible individuals. You will raise awareness of advocacy, rights under the MHA, and the CAPSA service among professionals, individuals, and agencies.

In addition to direct advocacy, you will contribute to service development by supporting an effective administration system and helping evaluate the impact of advocacy for both service users and commissioners.

As part of CAPSA’s race-led approach to systems change, you will also help challenge systemic racism in mental health services, embed culturally competent practice, and promote equitable care within South London and Maudsley NHS Trust (SLaM).

Job summary

Black Thrive Lambeth has developed a co-designed, culturally appropriate peer support and advocacy service (CAPSA) on behalf of the Living Well Network Alliance (LWNA). CAPSA provides support to Black community members with mental health needs through peer support and advocacy, led by individuals with lived experience or lived understanding of mental health challenges. The service creates a space where experiences are respected, accepted, and valued equally.

The role involves building positive relationships with Black service users; offering one-to-one and group advocacy; supporting self-advocacy; gathering and sharing information to inform decision-making; and preparing monitoring reports and feedback. Advocates ensure that the views, wishes, and needs of Black service users are heard and acknowledged, addressing the impact of racism within traditional mental health services.

Duties and responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

Advocacy & Support for Black Service Users

• Work with individual Black service users to provide culturally informed advocacy, support, and representation to assist them in decision-making related to their care, treatment, and legal status.
• You will manage a caseload of up to 10 clients.
• This will consist of weekly meetings with clients and supporting them around their care in the mental health system, this will be both within inpatient services and CMHTs (Community Mental Health Teams) as well as in the community.
• Support Black service users in developing and maintaining their cultural identity by identifying strengths and advocating for culturally relevant mental health interventions.
• Develop trusting relationships with Black service users within appropriate boundaries to help them express their mental health needs.
• Assist service users in preparing for meetings, attend appointments with them if required, and advocate on their behalf where needed.
• Provide information and updates on the progress of advocacy issues and ensure clients understand proceedings.

Culturally Informed Peer Support & Recovery

• Use lived experience and cultural understanding to promote positive self-esteem and recovery through a culturally informed peer support model.
• Provide practical guidance to Black service users, and where appropriate, their carers, on self-care, resilience strategies, and managing mental health within a race equality framework.
• Promote service user involvement by empowering individuals to communicate their culturally lived experiences and mental health needs to professionals.
• Challenge peer support models, stigma, and discriminatory practices that fail to recognise the cultural needs of Black service users.

Community Engagement & Stakeholder Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with key stakeholders and community members to develop a culturally informed advocacy and peer support model.
• Establish regular advocacy ‘drop-ins’ on wards and in the community, ensuring accessibility for Black service users.
• Signpost service users to culturally relevant community, inpatient, and online resources, as well as mainstream and specialist services.
• Liaise with, and when necessary, challenge NHS professionals, care teams, and local authorities to ensure due process and cultural competence in service delivery.
• To maintain a level of professionalism in all spaces always.

Role Expectations

• Maintain confidentiality, respect service users’ right to privacy, and ensure their dignity is always upheld.
• Keep accurate and timely records of advocacy and peer support work, providing regular verbal and written reports to the line manager.
• Attend team meetings, participate in one-to-one supervision, group supervision sessions, and complete mandatory training in peer support and other job-related areas.
• Raise safeguarding concerns following organisational policies and procedures.

GENERAL

• To attend and participate in meetings held by the CAPSA team and other bodies as required.
• To maintain records of hours worked and to complete accurate expense returns.
• To foster and develop an equality and diversity approach within the role, in line with Black Thrive’
• To promote the service through the distribution of publicity materials, liaising with statutory and voluntary services, and, where appropriate, through the media and presentations to local groups within the agreed company policies.
• To promote the role of advocates both within the Living Well Network Alliance (LWNA) and externally.
• To work well as part of the team in a way that promotes inclusivity and respect in a supportive environment.
• The above is not an exhaustive list of duties, and you will be expected to perform different tasks as necessitated by your changing role within the organisation and the overall business objectives of the organisation.

Qualities Required

Each quality is marked as either E (Essential) or D (Desirable).

Experience (E/D)

1. Understanding and/or experience of mental health legislation and the Mental Health journey process in numerous settings – E
2. Lived experience of racism or discrimination in wider society and in the provision of mental health services – E
3. Experience of identifying and meeting the needs of individual people – E
4. Experience and ability to develop and maintain relationships with various stakeholders – E
5. A commitment to working in an anti-racist and anti-oppressive way – E
6. Confidence in challenging stigma and discrimination within structural settings – E
7. Experience of working in an advocacy or healthcare setting – D

Knowledge and Skills (E/D)

1. Understanding and knowledge of assessment of needs – E
2. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work with people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences – E
3. Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including via telephone, in person, over video link, and through presentations, demonstrating confidence and assertiveness – E
4. Emotional resilience and the ability to cope with sometimes challenging people and environments – E
5. Ability to work flexibly to meet varying demands on the service – E
6. Good organisational skills, including timekeeping and ability to travel to different locations – E
7. Excellent computer literacy and a good working knowledge of Microsoft Office – E
8. An understanding and awareness of The Equality Act 2010 – E
9. Ability to act calmly and respond professionally to distress, disturbance, and unpredictability – E
10. Ability to work independently on own initiative and prioritise workload while working as part of a team – E
11. Commitment to learning through work-based learning and mandatory training – E
12. Knowledge of mental health legislation such as MHA 1983/2007, MCA 2017 – D
13. Understanding of the specific role, purpose, and responsibilities of an Independent Mental Health Advocate – D
14. Knowledge and/or awareness of safeguarding issues – D
15. An additional language (e.g., Portuguese, French, etc.) – D
16. Qualifications in Peer Support / Advocacy – D

We welcome applications specifically from Black people of African and Caribbean heritage, as the statutory requirement of the Equality Act 2010, Advance Equality in Mental Health 2020 and Parent Carer Race Equality Framework 2020, in order to address the importance of Black employee safety. These posts are therefore restricted to Black applicants under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9 and Part 1.

An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required. Still, we will treat applicants with a criminal record fairly and not unreasonably discriminate because of a conviction or other information revealed.

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

Do you have experience of working or volunteering in welfare, support or health and social care and are looking for a new challenge? 

Are you keen to make a difference to people who want to be heard? 

Then come and join us here at VoiceAbility. 

We have an exciting opportunity for an Advocate to join our team in Bradford.  Your role will require you to travel to locations such as hospitals and care homes across the area to meet with clients and professionals and be home based for administration; therefore, a suitable home internet connection is essential. 

About us 

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

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

About you

Desirably you will have some experience of working as an Advocate, providing welfare, supporting, or caring for Adults or young people who have support needs, ideally for those with a variety of communication needs, mental ill health, physical health issues, or barriers to accessing education and support.

You should have worked or volunteered in health, social care, welfare, support services, education or young person’s services, or advice and guidance.

How will you make a difference?

You will be responsible for ensuring the individual’s wishes, feelings, beliefs, needs, and values are met to create positive outcomes for the people you support.

You will support people to speak up for themselves and grow in confidence, equip them to understand and exercise their rights and options, and will assist them in the decision-making process relating to their care, treatment, and support.

You will work resourcefully and collaboratively with the individuals you support.  You’ll be creative in your approach to empower our clients by ensuring you meaningfully explain people’s options and rights to them.  You’ll support individuals to fully participate in decisions affecting them and will make sure they have their voices heard. 

Professional Development?

You will have plenty of opportunities to enhance your professional abilities and you will make a real difference every day. Advocates are expected to be willing to gain, or to already hold, the Level 3 Award in Independent Advocacy Practice with disciplines suitable for the role they work in.

Benefits

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

· 5% employer pension & minimum 3% employee contribution

· Salary sacrifices pension scheme

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

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

· 24/7 Employee Assistance programme

· Access to remote counselling service

· Paid Disability Leave

· Paid compassionate Leave

· Home Working Allowance 

Support with continuous professional development

Access to Clifton Strengths Coaching for development 

Personal Development Plans

How are staff supported to work remotely?

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

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

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

Equality and Diversity

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

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

How to apply

To apply for this role please sign up for a recruitment account by clicking the apply button on this page. Follow the instructions to create your account, upload your CV, and complete our short application form. 

Important Dates:

Closing date for applications; 3rd November 12:00

Interviews 10th & 11th November

Don’t forget to read the person specification so you can tell us about yourself and how your skills, abilities and experiences match the criteria outlined in the person specification.

We look forward to hearing from you.

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

Do you have experience of working or volunteering in welfare, support or health and social care and are looking for a new challenge?

Are you keen to make a difference to people who want to be heard?

Then come and join us here at VoiceAbility.

We are looking for a new Advocate to join our team in Tameside. We are seeking applicants who have transferable skills, a willingness to learn and a desire to help those in need of support.

About us

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

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

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity for an Advocate to join our team covering Tameside. Your role will require you to travel to locations such as clients’ homes, hospitals, care homes and within community settings across the area to meet with clients and professionals. You will be home based for administration; therefore, access to your own transportation and a suitable home internet connection is essential.  

About you

Desirably you will have some experience of working in advocacy, or providing welfare, supporting, or caring for Adults or young people who have support needs, ideally for those with a variety of communication needs, mental ill health, physical health issues, or barriers to accessing education and support.

You should have worked or volunteered in health, social care, welfare, support services, education or young person’s services, or advice and guidance.

How will you make a difference?

You will be responsible for ensuring the individual’s wishes, feelings, beliefs, needs, and values are met to create positive outcomes for the people you support.

You will support people to speak up for themselves and grow in confidence, equip them to understand and exercise their rights and options, and will assist them in the decision-making process relating to their care, treatment, and support.

You will work resourcefully and collaboratively with the individuals you support.  You’ll be creative in your approach to empower our clients by ensuring you meaningfully explain people’s options and rights to them.  You’ll support individuals to fully participate in decisions affecting them and will make sure they have their voices heard. 

Professional Development?

You will have plenty of opportunities to enhance your professional abilities and you will make a real difference every day. Advocates are expected to be willing to gain, or to already hold, the Level 3 Award in Independent Advocacy Practice with disciplines suitable for the role they work in.

Benefits:

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

• 5% employer pension & minimum 3% employee contribution

• Salary sacrifices pension scheme

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

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

• 24/7 Employee Assistance programme

• Access to remote counselling service

• Paid Disability Leave

• Paid compassionate Leave

• Home Working Allowance 

Support with continuous professional development  

Access to Clifton Strengths Coaching for development 

Personal Development Plans

How are staff supported to work remotely?  

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

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

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

Equality and Diversity

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

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

How to apply

To apply for this role please sign up for a recruitment account by clicking the apply button on this page. Follow the instructions to create your account, upload your CV, and complete our short application form.

Important Dates:

Closing date for applications: 00:00 on 02/11.2025, however, VoiceAbility reserve the right to withdraw this vacancy before this date.

Proposed Interview dates: November 2025

Don’t forget to read the person specification so you can tell us about yourself and how your skills, abilities and experiences match the criteria outlined in the person specification.

Hint: you can use work, personal and/or voluntary experiences, and examples to tell us why you should be our next Advocate.

NB: If you don't already hold the Independent Advocacy Practice qualification, and you are successful in your application, it is a requirement that you complete the core element within 12 months of commencing the training.  VoiceAbility will fund this training.

Glitch is going through an exciting period of transformation! We are developing our AI governance and algorithmic discrimination work, and further formalising our Black feminist underpinning. This role will be integral in ensuring that our mission, theory of change, and advocacy work sync up and fulfil their objectives and aims.

You’ll take a leading role in shaping and implementing our strategy to fulfil our mission. You will be responsible for setting the advocacy strategy alongside our Executive Director, which encompasses policy, research and campaigns elements of our overall advocacy strategy and work plan.

Our mission is to ensure that internet technologies in the information ecosystem do not replicate or further discrimination to Black women and other marginalised people. We’re a Black-led, transnationally-focused remote charity, with the majority of our staff in the UK. Our Executive Director (“ED”) travels frequently to Europe and elsewhere for business. This role will be expected to deputise for the ED at external events.

Our advocacy encompasses research, policy influencing and campaigning on tech-facilitated gender-based violence, algorithmic discrimination, platform governance and other technology-related harms impacting race and gender injustice.  We advocate on behalf of those excluded and ignored.

Role Overview

This position reports to Glitch’s Executive Director. Glitch is a distributed charity, and this is a remote position. You’ll work in a collaborative environment with a team and different stakeholders (civil society, parliamentarians, grassroots organisations, and our focal population) to achieve our mission. 

We are seeking a highly effective strategic leader and experienced team manager. To be successful at Glitch, the Advocacy Director must demonstrate an understanding of, and passion for Black feminist thought, and the ability to translate this critical social theory into organisational work, specifically towards systemic change with/in: tech policy, digital rights, AI governance and legislation, and tech-facilitated gender-based violence as it relates to broader social media platform governance. The Advocacy Director will also support fundraising and programme strategy (when necessary and appropriate).

Key Details

• Contract type: Permanent

• Hours: Full-time (32 hours per week - Monday to Thursday) 

• Benefits: 

  • Four-day work week (Fridays off) 

  • 5% employer pension contribution (with minimum 3% employee contribution)

  • Wellbeing budget; learning and development budget

  • 23 days annual leave (pro-rata for four-day work week, inc bank holidays)

  • Private healthcare & additional paid sick days

  • Two-week December shutdown for the holiday period (not deducted from annual leave).

• Location: Remote, home-based; anywhere in the UK (UTC-0)

Hiring requirements: must have the right to work in the UK.

Main Responsibilities

As Advocacy Director, you will play an important role in working towards our mission in several core areas: 

Advocacy - Policy (75%) 

• Identify new opportunities and respond to external developments, in the UK and transnationally where appropriate, on the issues of AI governance and platform governance, non-criminal redress for tech harms, and alt-right, fascism, and platform power.

• Ensure the delivery of the Mitigation strand of advocacy work.

• Oversee the updating of Glitch’s policy positions and recommendations and put forward proposals around new and emerging policy positions. 

• Manage associated advocacy budgets and feed into reporting requirements for all Mitigation strand work.

• Lead on all external policy requests (regulatory consultations, statements, joint letters).

• Develop and implement creative and influential campaigns to help us meet our strategic objectives and mission. 

• Work with the Programmes Director to ensure alignment with the Organising strand of advocacy work, identifying Mitigation opportunities to fulfil the theory of change.

• Maintain thorough knowledge of all aspects of our work and keep informed of external affairs - domestically and transnationally.

• Support in the development and commissioning of new research and campaigns in specific issue areas identified in our strategy, especially in the Imagining strands of our work.

• Maintain good knowledge of practices across the sector and relevant work happening in other organisations around our core issue areas. 

Influencing and Stakeholder Management (10%)

• Develop clear plans for influencing and change, working closely with the ED to agree allocation of responsibilities and areas to maximise impact. 

• Build strong relationships with external stakeholders. 

• Operate as the deputy to the ED for representing Glitch at meetings where a senior Glitch representative is required, especially for government and ecosystem events or meetings in the UK and Europe. 

• Develop briefings and agendas ahead of and for Glitch meetings with Ministers and officials, Parliamentarians and other key stakeholders.

• Maintain our records of interactions with key individuals and organisations in our CRM system, in line with good practice around data protection and GDPR.

• Represent Glitch through writing blogs and commentary on all of our core issue areas. 

Strategy and development (10%)

• Contribute to the development, delivery and evaluation of our organisational strategy.

• Lead on the implementation of the Mitigation and Imagining strand of our advocacy framework, supporting the ED with strategy development.

• Ensure that resources are deployed effectively to progress and achieve our aims for change, particularly within our Mitigation and Organising strands of work, in collaboration with the Programmes Director.

• Carry out measurement, evaluation and learning of our Mitigation and Imagining strands of our advocacy work plan.

• Develop reactive advocacy strategies in response to changing policy, legislative or government shifts.

Leadership and people management (5%)

• Lead and role-model a high-performance, inclusive culture that is grounded in our organisational values. 

• Ensure resources are applied effectively and appropriately within the advocacy function.

• Ensure that delivery of advocacy work is aligned with agreed objectives and key performance indicators, through the effective management of staff and other resources. 

• Work with the Finance Director to ensure accurate allocations of advocacy personnel time.

• Line manage and coach direct reports effectively, empowering them to thrive and fulfil their potential. Such work would include: developing learning and development plans for advocacy team members in collaboration with direct reports, and running annual performance reviews.

As a charity working to ensure technologies do not replicate or extend discrimination of marginalised communities, we are committed to providing equal opportunities for employment on our team. All applicants will receive equal treatment regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. We strongly encourage Black women and gender-expansive people to apply!

How to Apply

Please fill in the application form here: https://forms.gle/UahkQXowBB2m1Yan9

You will be required to upload your CV and answer some questions. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so we strongly suggest applying sooner rather than later. We will stop reviewing applications on 15th November, 2025. Ideally, we are looking for someone who is able to start immediately, but will wait for the right candidate.

Successful candidates will be contacted to schedule an interview within two weeks of the closing date.

About this role:

Your Voice Counts deliver high quality independent advocacy services that support people with a range of health and social care needs. We are looking for a Senior Advocate to support our Advocacy team, and to help us ensure delivery of an effective, high-quality service. The Advocacy team provides a range of advocacy services across the North East including non- statutory and statutory advocacy roles to clients under the Mental Health Act, the Mental Capacity Act, the Care Act and DOLS legislation.

As Senior Advocate, you will line-manage a team of advocates and be responsible for providing support, developing your team, and managing performance. You will work closely with our Head of Advocacy to review, maintain and improve the quality of our advocacy services, including analysing data and producing reports. You will support the effective and timely allocation of referrals, and you will be a point of contact for queries about our advocacy services.

You will also be expected to manage your own caseload of advocacy referrals. This will involve meeting with clients, professionals and other stakeholders and ascertaining and representing your client’s wishes, views and beliefs.  As such, the role involves travel to locations such as clients’ homes, hospitals, care homes, and community settings. While some work can be completed from home, particularly administrative tasks, access to your own transport and a reliable home internet connection is essential.

To learn more about Advocacy and the services we provide, please visit our website.

What we do:

Your Voice Counts’ advocacy services promote social inclusion, equality and social justice by supporting people to say what they want, to secure their rights and to represent their interests when they are unable to do so themselves. 

The Advocacy Charter

“Advocacy is taking action to support people to say what they want, secure their rights, pursue their interests and obtain services they need. Advocacy providers and advocates work in partnership with the people they support and take their side, promoting social inclusion, equality and social justice.” 

The Advocacy Charter, Revised 2018 

Main Responsibilities:

1. Provide appropriate line-management support and challenge to members of the advocacy team, including providing case support to advocates in your team. 

2. Oversee the training and development of your team. 

3. Monitor service capacity and support the allocation of referrals to Advocates. 

4. Ensure, through regular monitoring and feedback, the quality and accuracy of case notes, reports and record keeping from the Advocates in your team. 

5. Respond to relevant queries from referrers, service users, members of the public and other stakeholders. 

6. Maintain a focus on the delivery of a high-quality advocacy service. Review key statistical and qualitative data to ensure the service is reaching agreed targets.

7. Carry a case load of advocacy referrals – the size of your case load will be dependent on the size of the team you are managing and your hours of work. 

8. Promote and publicise the advocacy service in creative ways to ensure it reaches people who may require the service. Promote the service to other stakeholders such as partner organisations and professionals.

9. Keep abreast of developments in relevant legislation and good practice guidance. 

10. Assist the Head of Advocacy and Senior Management Team to determine any future development of the service and take lead responsibility for specific areas of work as required.

11. Be an active participant in the wider YVC team and seek to work with all YVC colleagues to deliver our strategy, maintain quality and embed the values of the organisation.

12. This is not an exhaustive list of duties, and you will be expected to undertake other duties commensurate with the duties of the post as may be reasonably directed and/or as necessitated by your changing role within the organisation and the overall business objectives of the organisations. 

Person Specification:

Just as our values are key to our ways of working, attitude is key to our staff team.  We work in challenging, changing circumstances with a very vulnerable client group. We are looking for someone with excellent interpersonal skills, an ability to develop team working, empathetic and supportive but not afraid to challenge when challenge is needed.  We are looking for someone who has good attention to detail and understands the importance of effective systems and processes.  We’re looking for someone who has a demonstrable belief in the rights of people who use our services. 

You will: 

• Have experience of managing teams of front line workers - ideally within the context of health and social care, and with experience of providing supervision to staff who provide 1:1 support to vulnerable clients

Or

• Have experience of delivering independent advocacy (or a similar type of role involving case work) in a range of health and social care settings

• Have strong interpersonal skills, with an ability to develop team working. Be able to motivate, support and drive high performance in your team. 

• Have a strong focus on collaborative working within a dynamic team and a commitment to helping everyone improve. 

• Be well-organised with an ability to handle a busy workload and prioritise effectively. 

• Have excellent IT skills - ideally experience of using Excel, databases and contact management systems such as CharityLog or equivalent, with an ability to produce reports.

• Be an excellent communicator, with an ability to adapt your approach in order to engage with a wide range of stakeholders 

• Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and be able to communicate effectively with vulnerable people who often have significant communication barriers. 

• Have a commitment to equal opportunities and confidentiality. 

• Approach issues objectively and diplomatically. 

• You must have a full clean driver’s licence and access to a vehicle you can use for work purposes during work hours. Alternative arrangements can be made for people whose disability prevents them from driving. 

Desirable:

• Hold an Independent Advocacy Qualification, including the IMHA, IMCA and/or Care Act modules 

• Good knowledge of Gateshead, Newcastle, South Tyneside and the surrounding area, including a good understanding of health and social cares services and local voluntary sector organisations. 

Are you passionate about making a difference to how health and social care services are delivered to local people? Are you interested in a varied role, line-managing a small team where your input really matters with an employer who is committed to flexible working?

Healthwatch is all about people - capturing the views of local people on their experiences of using services, taking this feedback to NHS leaders and other local decision-makers to improve care.

In Hampshire, the Healthwatch service is provided by The Advocacy People who would be your employer. The Advocacy People and Healthwatch share core values which are all about people’s voices: empowering people to speak up; amplifying service user voices; enabling people to participate in, and influence decision-making about health and social care; and provide information which helps people make informed decisions.

A bit about The Advocacy People

We are an independent, Human Rights based charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy, advocacy-related and Healthwatch services who make sure people are heard when it matters most.

About the role

In this exciting role you will be

• Leading the feedback gathering activities to ensure that people’s views and experiences of health and social care are captured, listened to and taken account of by decision makers in Hampshire.
   
• Developing and leading the engagement activities and projects with a wide range of communities in Hampshire including those seldom heard or marginalised.
   
• Line managing and enhancing the leadership of the local Healthwatch team, deputising for the Healthwatch Area Director as required.

What we need from you

We are looking for someone with the creativity and enthusiasm to engage with people and take their experience of health and care services to help improve and shape services across Hampshire. Ideally, we are looking for someone with experience of working collaboratively in a team in a health or social care role, with great communication and organising skills. The role is home based with frequent travel within Hampshire attending meetings and events.

If this sounds like you, apply today!

About the Role

We have a variety of rewarding opportunities across Newcastle, South Tyneside, and Gateshead. These include roles ideal for those new to Advocacy as well as experienced Advocates with a background in statutory advocacy.

As an Advocate with us, you’ll support individuals in diverse circumstances to have their voices heard by health and social care professionals and other key stakeholders. Your work will help ensure people are empowered to make informed decisions about their lives and care.

The role involves travel to locations such as clients’ homes, hospitals, care homes, and community settings. While some work can be completed from home, particularly administrative tasks, access to your own transport and a reliable home internet connection is essential.

About You

We welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds. Ideally, you’ll have some experience in advocacy or in providing care, support, or welfare services to adults or young people—particularly those with communication needs, mental ill health, physical health issues, or difficulties accessing support.

You may have worked or volunteered in health or social care, education, youth services, support services, or in advice and guidance roles. Above all, we’re looking for people who are passionate about making a difference and supporting others to be heard.

How Will You Make a Difference?

· You’ll help clients understand their rights, entitlements, and choices; providing clear, accessible information tailored to their needs.

· You’ll support individuals to express what matters to them—or speak on their behalf when needed—ensuring their views, wishes, values, and beliefs are represented.

· You’ll promote self-advocacy and confidence-building at every opportunity, encouraging people to speak up for themselves.

· You’ll work creatively and collaboratively to empower individuals to participate in decisions affecting their lives.

· You’ll act in line with relevant legislation (including the Mental Capacity Act, Mental Health Act, Care Act, and Human Rights Act), and you’ll constructively challenge professionals and services to uphold their duties.

· You’ll escalate concerns appropriately to safeguard individuals and contribute to improved service delivery.

To learn more about Advocacy and the services we provide, please visit our website.

Professional Development

We’re committed to helping our team grow. Whether you’re starting your career in Advocacy or looking to expand your expertise, we offer a range of development opportunities. We’re proud of our track record in supporting staff to build knowledge, skills, and experience across various advocacy roles.

Equality and Diversity

At Your Voice Counts, we are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace. We value diversity, promote equality, and work to ensure everyone can reach their full potential.

We are a Disability Confident employer. Applicants who identify as disabled and meet all essential criteria will be offered an interview. If you require an alternative way to apply, please contact our HR team to discuss your needs.

Person Specification

We’re looking for passionate and committed individuals who can support people to be heard and make informed choices. Below are the qualities, experience, and skills we’re looking for in an ideal candidate.

Essential Criteria

Experience and Knowledge

· Experience of working or volunteering in health, social care, education, youth services, support services, or advice and guidance.

· Understanding of the challenges faced by people with mental ill health, physical health conditions, learning disabilities, or communication difficulties.

· Awareness of the importance of confidentiality, safeguarding, and professional boundaries.

· Knowledge of health and social care systems, and how to support people to access services.

Skills and Abilities

· Strong communication skills, including the ability to listen actively and adapt communication to meet individual needs.

· Ability to build trust and positive relationships with clients and professionals.

· A person-centred and empathetic approach to supporting others.

· Confidence in working independently, managing your own time and workload.

· Ability to write clear and accurate case notes and reports.

· Confidence using IT systems, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), and experience of using contact or case management systems such as Charity Log.

Commitment and Practicalities

· Commitment to upholding the rights of individuals and promoting equality and inclusion.

· Willingness to travel across Newcastle, South Tyneside, and Gateshead to meet clients and professionals in various settings.

· Access to your own transport and a suitable home internet connection for remote working and admin tasks.

Desirable Criteria

· Previous experience working as an Advocate or in a similar role supporting people to understand their rights and make decisions.

· Experience of supporting individuals with complex needs, including those who may lack capacity or have significant communication barriers.

· Familiarity with relevant legislation (e.g. Mental Capacity Act, Mental Health Act, Care Act, Human Rights Act).

· Understanding of different types of statutory advocacy (e.g. IMCA, IMHA, Care Act advocacy, NHS Complaints advocacy).

· Formal training or qualifications in advocacy, social care, counselling, or a related field.

We have an exciting opportunities for a Qualified and/ or Trainee Multidisciplinary Advocates to join our established and friendly Advocacy Team. 

We work for Rethink Advocacy, which is part of Rethink Mental Illness a national charity that has been transforming the lives of people severely affected by mental illness for over 50 years.

As an unqualified, inexperienced independent multi-disciplinary advocate, you will be required to enrol on the Level 4 Independent Advocacy Practice qualification and complete the course within a set timescale, using protected study time to focus on this. You will shadow experienced team members and then be observed providing advocacy to those who are eligible for our services until you are able to pick up a caseload of your own. You will receive training in the different remits of advocacy, instructed and non-instructed advocacy and safeguarding and be supported to develop a thorough understanding of the role and boundaries of advocacy. The role involves acting on the instruction of the people you support, empowering them to have a say in their situation, to understand their rights and any options open to them and supporting them towards self-advocacy. When providing non-instructed advocacy, you will ensure that the unique preferences and views of the person are taken into consideration in any decisions made by care providers.

As a qualified and / or experienced independent advocate, you will provide statutory and / or non-statutory independent advocacy to those who are eligible for the service within the community or care settings. This may include secure facilities, hospitals, care homes, supported living facilities and people within their own homes or temporary accommodation.

You will provide statutory and / or non-statutory independent advocacy within the community or care settings. This may include secure facilities, hospitals, care homes, supported living facilities and people within their own homes or temporary accommodation.

Advocacy is having someone by your side, and on your side, when you want to be more involved in decisions about your care, treatment and living arrangements. An advocate can talk through the situation you’re currently in and the options open to you. They can help you decide what you want and then communicate it to people. This is particularly useful if it’s difficult to understand things or to speak up and be heard.

Our Wandsworth and Richmond service provides a range of specialist advocacy services to Adults (and children) as appropriate across a range of disciplines.  We provide a range of statutory (instructed or non-instructed) and non-statutory advocacy support in secure units, hospitals, care settings or in the community, working with a range of health and social care partners.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion 

Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer.  We recognise and support staff networks and support groups for our ethnically diverse and LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter. 

We aim for our workforce to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve; for those who work for us to feel heard, valued and feel they belong; and for our work to help tackle wider mental health inequalities. We therefore actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including applicants with lived experience of mental illness, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual and any other gender identity not expressed here (LGBTQIA+); people who are neurodiverse, have a health condition, or a disability or hidden disability and people from an ethnically diverse background - regardless of your age, religious or spiritual belief, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, pregnancy, political view or socio-economic status.

Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation 

We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrates our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation. You can read more about our progress here. 

AAFDA was founded by Frank Mullane in memory of his sister Julia Pemberton and her son Will who were both killed by her ex-partner in 2003.

Each year, around 150 families lose a loved one to domestic homicide. The actual number of suicides as a result of domestic abuse remains unknown.  Most of these families suffer significant problems including relationship breakdown, job difficulties/loss and mental and physical health issues. We help these families in many ways, our prime function being to provide families in England and Wales with specialist peer support and expert and specialist advocacy for the range of statutory reviews that will take place after domestic homicide.

AAFDA (Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse) is a growing Charity and to meet the demands of this growth, we are looking for exceptional candidates to join our team in a highly rewarding opportunity. Although home based, some travel will be required - frequency will be commensurate to the role. We welcome applications from candidates with experience of domestic abuse.  We are also committed to diversity and strongly encourage applications from those with Black and/or Minoritised backgrounds.

Our Specialist Advocates support families impacted by fatal domestic abuse through provision of lay advocacy, for and on behalf of, families with a range of statutory service providers (e.g. those conducting reviews and inquiries, social services, police, housing) and work to build good relations between all parties.  To ensure that families get the support they need, you will use AAFDA’s Home Office endorsed seven-step approach to working with individuals and families, to ensure that they receive the best possible support and advocacy to restore dignity and relief for families and to help them cope and recover. Through trauma-informed approaches, you will:

listen to families and advocate for them in a complex system that too often treats them as passive participants and overlooks the value of their insight.
provide information, support, guidance, advice and advocacy on Domestic Homicide Reviews, Mental Health Reviews, Inquests, Independent Office of Police Conduct inquiries and other types of inquiries.
manage families’ expectations of the legal and procedural processes facing them by supporting families in meetings with agencies such as health, police and local authorities.
give families practical help on a wide range of issues - including help with letter writing or advocating with employers and local authorities on the families’ behalf.
Support AAFDA in our bringing families together in AAFDA’s peer support events, such as the Hear Our Voice weekend and the on-line peer support Zoom sessions, where families can speak with others to share their experiences and stories. This will involve occasional evening work.

In return for joining us, we will offer you:

25 days annual leave per annum, plus bank holidays
Excellent development and training opportunities
Pension Scheme
Healthcare Scheme
Employee Assist Scheme

Application Instructions

To apply for this role, please submit a supporting statement, outlining how you meet the person specification, along with your CV.

Applicants will be shortlisted according to how well they meet the criteria in the person specification. Please highlight and explain how you meet these in your supporting statement. If you have been shortlisted for interview, you will be informed by email. Regrettably, we are normally unable to acknowledge unsuccessful applicants. Please note that we will not progress applications where the supporting statement does not address the criteria for the role being applied for.

Finance Lead – Fundraising & Communications, Advocacy and Activism (CAA)

Are you ready to use your financial expertise to drive fundraising growth and help shape a more inclusive future for people with learning disabilities?

Join Mencap as our Finance Lead – Fundraising & Communications, Advocacy and Activism (CAA) and play a pivotal role in maximising the impact of our fundraising and advocacy work. 

About the Role

As part of our collaborative Finance Business Partnering team, you’ll support fundraising, communications, advocacy, and activism across Mencap. You’ll provide clear financial advice, insightful analysis, and strong financial management to ensure our fundraising income is used effectively to benefit people with learning disabilities. 

Over the next five years Mencap have big ambitions to significantly grow our fundraising income and increase our influencing and campaigning impact to ensure people with a learning disability can live life to the full. 

This role is a full time permanent position.There is flexibility around where the role is based. We have large offices in London and Peterborough and smaller offices located throughout the UK. You will need to travel occasionally for meetings. However, this role will primarily be working remotely. 

Key responsibilities include:

· Partnering with directorate teams to create robust budgets and forecasts, offering support and advice for realistic financial planning.

· Providing clear financial reports and analysis to help teams understand results, spot emerging issues, and make informed decisions.

· Supporting complex income forecasting (e.g. legacies), using scenario analysis to guide planning and assess risk.

· Delivering financial analysis and modelling to support investment decisions.

· Ensuring funding applications and management of restricted funds are accurate and compliant.

· Improving finance processes and reporting, including with our new Salesforce fundraising CRM system.

· Acting as key contact for external auditors and funders regarding fundraising financials.

· Ensuring accounting and financial compliance with Charity SORP and other relevant regulations.

· Managing and coaching an FBP team member, supporting their development.

What You’ll Bring

· Qualified accountant (CIMA, ACA or equivalent).

· Proven experience in finance business partnering, ideally within a charity or fundraising environment.

· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret and communicate complex financial data.

· Excellent relationship-building and stakeholder management abilities.

· Clear communication and influencing skills, able to explain financial information to others.

· Motivation to improve systems and processes.

· Commitment to improving the lives of people with a learning disability.

Highly desirable:

· Knowledge of Charity SORP and charity finance regulations.

· Experience with restricted reserves and external reporting to funders.

· Familiarity with fundraising bids, donor engagement, and business development.

· Salesforce and/or Power BI experience.

If you are passionate about using your financial expertise to create real, positive change for people with learning disabilities, we want to hear from you!

Applications close on Monday, 3rd November. If you're interested in this position, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Interviews will begin once suitable candidates are identified, and the advert may close early.

Benefits

Here at Mencap, we offer an impressive range of benefits designed to support and reward our employees to ensure that our teams feel valued and appreciated.

Our benefits package offers 32 days of paid holiday (including bank holidays, pro rata), along with a range of perks such as discounts at leading high-street retailers, access to health cash plans, interest-free loans, and many more exciting offerings.

For more details on what we have to offer, please see the attached document outlining all the fantastic benefits available to you as a member of our team!

About Mencap

Our vision is for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

We're here to support people with a learning disability, their families and their carers. We fight for a kinder, fairer and more inclusive society for people with a learning disability to live in.

At Mencap, everyone works with people with a learning disability either providing support or advice, or alongside one another as colleagues.

Belonging at Mencap is for everyone, every day, everywhere.

· Everyone is expected to treat people well and make Mencap an inclusive organisation.

· Every day we grow and learn. It’s okay to make mistakes but we learn from them and make changes

· Everywhere people will feel respected, valued, and safe to be themselves.

We have Belonging network groups that meet online and are open to all colleagues. The groups include people who identify as Black and Asian, LGBTQIA+, disabled or with a long- term health condition, women, parents and carers, and their allies.

We want to encourage everyone to apply to work at Mencap and we offer a variety of different contract types and working patterns. We’re not looking for specific experience. It is your personality and values that will make you a great colleague. We will train and develop you to succeed in the role you’re applying for.

Job Title: Associate Advocate

Service: Coram Voice

Contract Type: Freelance

Hours: Freelance

Salary: £16.00 per professional hour; £12.00 per hour travel time; £0.45 per mile for mileage

Location: Home based with travel to the locations of young people accessing Coram Voice’s services. We are looking for Associate Advocates able to travel to locations across Greater Manchester

About Coram:

Coram is committed to improving the lives of the UK’s most vulnerable children and young people.

We support children and young people from birth to independence, creating a change that lasts a lifetime.

Coram is the UK’s oldest children’s charity founded by Thomas Coram in London helping vulnerable children and young people since 1739. Today, the Coram group helps more than one million children, young people, families and professionals every year by providing access to the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.

About Coram Voice:

Coram Voice is a national independent children’s charity established in 1975 and has grown to become one of the leading organisations for children and young people in the UK.

Coram Voice exists to enable and equip children and young people to hold systems to account, to challenge and support them to do their jobs properly and to uphold the rights of children and young people to actively participate in shaping their own lives.

Coram Voice strives for a society which recognises, and willingly accepts, its responsibilities to children and young people, where the inequalities and discrimination they currently face have been eradicated. Where those children and young people are fully engaged in all decisions that are made about their lives. Where the views, needs and feelings that they express are at the core of those decisions.

Our Advocacy services we provide advocacy direct to children and young people in a variety of situations. Advocates around the country support children and young people to get their voice heard in decisions about their lives. This may be through the telephone helpline or through an advocate working directly with a child, for instance, to support them at a review meeting or to help them make a complaint about their care. Coram Voice provides visiting advocacy services to most of the secure units nationally, to Secure Training Centres, Young Offender Institutions, psychiatric hospitals, residential special schools and children’s homes.

About the Role

You will work directly with care experienced children and young people and those on Child Protection Plans. You will provide advocacy in the way that the child or young person prefers, which may include face to face support in the community and remote advocacy via phone or Teams.

You will empower and support them to ensure their voices are heard within decision–making processes that affect their lives.

You will be a capable ambassador for Coram Voice with the ability to engage effectively with professionals, carers, other stakeholders and, most importantly, children and young people.

If you have the necessary experience and skills, and a commitment to promoting the rights of young people, we would like to hear from you.

Recruitment process

Shortlisting will be undertaken by our Children’s Rights Managers. Successful candidates will then be invited for interview. The interview process comprises a written exercise and a panel interview. Successful candidates will have a further one to one interview in accordance with Warner recommendations. Internal candidates will need to notify HR of their interest in the post and they will provide further information on the internal application process.

Returning your application:

• We cannot accept general CVs.
• When completing your application form, you need to address each point of the person specification and demonstrate how you meet it.
• Applications must be fully completed.

Closing date: Accepting applications on a rolling basis until 31st October 2025

Interview date: On a rolling basis until 31st October 2025

General consideration for applications:

• DBS checks: all posts are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring check.
• Training: All successful candidates are required to complete our compulsory training programme which includes training in Advocacy (Advocacy in Action), Safeguarding and EDI.
• Self-employed status: Associate Advocates are self-employed members of the Coram Voice team. Associates will be required to work using their own secure phone and laptop. They are also responsible for maintaining insurance to cover their work. Our HR team can advise further on this.
• Conflict of interest: the independence of the service is important to Coram Voice. Prospective applicants need to raise any other potential conflicts of interest when initially contacting Coram Voice about this post.

Coram Voice is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. We actively encourage applicants from Asian, African, Caribbean and other minority ethnic backgrounds to join our teams. Whilst we have a diverse team we recognise we are a predominantly white workforce and are genuinely committed to encouraging candidates from diverse communities in order to improve the services to the children and families we help.

We are committed to the safeguarding of children and will require the successful applicant to undertake a check from the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Registered Charity No. 312278.