Advocacy Jobs in Birmingham

Job Title: Visiting Advocate

Service: Coram Voice

Contract Type: Part Time, permanent

Hours: 4.5 hours per week

Salary: £2,938.96 per annum (FTE £22,858.55)

Location: Home based with travel to a residential home near Ludlow

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 exists to enable and equip children and young people to hold the system to account, to challenge and support it to do its job properly and to uphold the rights of children and young people and empower them 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.

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 is a leading children’s rights organisation. We champion the rights of children. We get young voices heard in decisions that matter to them and work to improve the lives of children in care, care leavers and others who depend upon the help of the state.

Our Advocacy services we provide advocacy direct to children and young people in care, in need, in custody and to care leavers and children and young people with mental health needs. 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, Juvenile Young Offender Institutions, psychiatric hospitals, residential special schools and children’s homes.

About the Role

You will work directly with children and young people with learning disabilities who are living in a residential home near Ludlow, providing them with advocacy support on a fortnightly basis. You will have experience and a passion for working with children and/or adults with learning disabilities and complex needs.

You will empower and support them to ensure their voices are heard within decision–making processes that effect their lives and keep in regularly contact with children and young people to ensure their best interests are safeguarded.

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.

What you will receive

We wish to reward and recognise the valuable contributions our staff make to the organisation and offer an attractive benefits package to do so. Coram Voice benefits package includes a competitive salary, a matched pension scheme up to 5% of salary, generous leave entitlements of up to 25 days’ annual leave plus an additional 3 days paid leave between Christmas and New Year. A supportive work environment fostering a good work/home life balance and a suite of family friendly policies, which promote employee wellbeing.

You will get a genuine opportunity to make a difference every day.

Recruitment process

Shortlisting will be undertaken by our Children’s Rights Managers. Successful candidates will then be invited for interview. The interview process comprises of a written exercise and a panel interview. Successful candidates will have a further one to one interview in accordance within 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.

To apply for this role, please click on the 'apply now' button below to complete the application.

• We cannot accept 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.
• If you are a current Coram Voice employee, you may submit a supporting statement only addressing the person specification requirements for the post.

Closing date: Sunday 26th May 2024 at 23:59

Interview date: TBC

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 (Being a Voice) Safeguarding and Diversity
• 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 is an equal opportunities employer and we believe a diverse workforce enables us to improve the services to the children and families we help. We are genuinely committed to encouraging candidates from all sections of the community we seek to support. This includes those from, Asian, African, Caribbean and other minority ethnic backgrounds, those that identify as LGBQT+, those with disabilities, those with lived experience of care, those with neuro-diversity, and those from other groups who are underrepresented at Coram.

If applicants feel comfortable, we would encourage them to draw on lived experience as well as professional experience in their personal statement as part of their application.

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

Registered Charity No. 312278.

You have a professional qualification in health/social care, youth and community work, or experience in an Addictions or Social Care setting, plus a commitment to complete NVQ 3 Health and Social Care or equivalent. All you need is the perfect environment to put your skills to great use. Welcome to Aquarius as a Complex Needs Practitioner – Gambling.

Aquarius is a charity that helps people and communities overcome the harm caused by alcohol, drugs and gambling. Right now, we’re looking for a self-confident and energetic individual with a good understanding of gambling, substance misuse and health related issues, to provide a vital support service for individuals with gambling related needs.

Working flexibly across the community and within multi-agency partnership settings on an outreach basis, we’ll rely on you to engage people in a variety of interventions, using a person-centred approach. A core part of the role will involve addressing holistic support needs that could include employment related issues, family work interventions, issues of exploitation, physical and emotional health, domestic abuse and support to engage in rehabilitation. Whatever it takes, in fact, to empower them to reduce risk, increase resilience and achieve positive outcomes.

To succeed, you’ll need significant experience of engaging effectively with clients in an addictions or social care setting. You’ll also need knowledge of primary, secondary and other outreach settings and a good understanding of the functional model. Used to liaising with voluntary and statutory agencies and health professionals, you have a flexible approach and lots of initiative. You also have good IT skills (particularly Microsoft Office) and are willing to travel throughout the area in order to get the job done.

You will hold a caseload of complex cases requiring a case co-ordination approach. Requiring you to complete all recording and case management administration for your caseload accurately and promptly,

• Providing screening, co-produced assessment, psychosocial interventions, integrated and outcome focussed care planning, after-care support, and onward transition to other services as required
• You’ll also need a flexible approach, excellent record keeping and report writing skills and a willingness to work flexibly across the community and within our multi-agency partnership settings, on an outreach basis.
• Due to the geographical area of the role, a driving licence and access to a car is desirable

We have two positions available covering both Telford and Shropshire. Due to the geographical area of the role, a driving licence and access to a car is desirable

This is a permanent full-time role requiring the post holder to work 37 hours per week.

We are committed to increasing our diversity and we would welcome applications from those with lived experience and/or who are from a BAME background.

This is a rolling recruitment process. Candidates will be interviewed as and when they are shortlisted.

To apply, please send a CV and covering letter explaining why you feel you are right for the role.

Aquarius is a subsidiary of Richmond Fellowship, with both organisations being part of Recovery Focus, a national group of charities highly experienced in providing specialist support services to individuals and families living with the effects of mental ill health, drug and alcohol use, gambling and domestic violence. From 1st June 2024 Richmond Fellowship will be merging with the mental health charity Humankind to form a single organisation that provides the joined-up mental health, housing and drug and alcohol support we’ve all known has been needed for decades. At the same time, Aquarius will become a subsidiary of Humankind, with no impact to terms and conditions of employment. In October 2024, Humankind will then be renamed to reflect the new, bigger and better organisation, of which Aquarius will remain a subsidiary.

BACKGROUND

Habitat for Humanity Great Britain (Habitat GB) is part of the international Habitat for Humanity network.  We tackle housing poverty around the world by working in partnership with communities and families to achieve their dreams of a safe and decent place to live. You can find out more about our work on our website.

We are embarking on an ambitious new direction at Habitat GB; leveraging our global housing expertise and the learning from our flagship national programme “Empty Spaces to Homes” to work collaboratively with Habitat colleagues across Europe in effecting change at a policy level.

“Empty Spaces to Homes” is a ground-breaking initiative focused on a circular buildings approach that already has a feasible proof of concept from piloting, with strong upscaling potential. The premise is simple; unlocking the potential of long term empty commercial spaces to create affordable housing for vulnerable people. As well as the social benefits of adding to affordable housing stock, the Empty Spaces to Homes approach of retrofitting existing structures – at a much lower carbon cost - offers a greener and more sustainable way to meet the housing gap, in comparison to the environmental impact of the new build construction industry. Breaking down long-standing barriers to resource-efficient renovation is essential if the UK is to play its part in meeting ambitious global decarbonisation targets.

Purpose of The role

The UK Housing Advocacy Manager will play a pivotal role in advancing our mission by leading advocacy efforts, shaping policies, and promoting sustainable housing solutions for affordable housing in Great Britain, particularly through our groundbreaking initiative "Empty Spaces to Homes."

As this is a new role, and is being recruited alongside the Head of Global Affairs and Advocacy, key responsibilities will include the establishment of a new function at Habitat GB.  It involves working closely with colleagues across the Habitat GB organisation and contributing to advocacy efforts across the Habitat network at global and regional levels through engagement, strategy and shared learning.  Key responsibilities also include developing communication and advocacy strategies targeting professionals and decision makers in social, environmental and housing sectors, as well as undertaking research and writing policy papers.

Main Responsibilities 

1) Research and Analysis:

• Commission and conduct in-depth research into current British housing landscapes and related legislation, assessing the effectiveness of mechanisms for converting unused premises into social housing and its environmental impact.
• Identify legal changes necessary to facilitate such activities and advocate for their implementation.

2) Lead Policy Advocacy Efforts:

• Utilise research findings to develop policy positions and identify priority issues, setting policy goals, and mapping out related advocacy activities.
• Embed critical concepts such as embodied carbon and whole life cycle into policy communications to amplify Habitat GB's messaging.

3) Partnerships and Networks:

• Join and represent Habitat GB at existing coalitions or form new coalitions if necessary with stakeholders in the social, environmental, and housing sectors to advocate for climate and equity-related incentives in national and local legislations, policies, and funding mechanisms.
• Build a network of relationships among key stakeholder groups and individual decision-makers to advance Habitat's policy goals.
• Identify strategic events and ensure speaking roles for Habitat GB.
• Represent Empty Spaces to Homes and Habitat for Humanity’s wider UK programmes for awareness raising, advocacy and other priorities at key meetings and events.

4) Direct Lobbying:

• Cultivate strategic relationships with key decision-makers to further Habitat's policy objectives.

5) Collaboration:

• Develop collaborative partnerships internally with Habitat entities across Europe, aligning with the broader strategic objectives of the Empty Spaces to Homes initiative.
• Support communication efforts to underpin advocacy efforts effectively.

6) Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Work with the Impact Team to provide regular updates on advocacy strategy activities and evaluate their effectiveness.

Person Specification

· Proven experience in professional advocacy to influence key policy positions and decisions, preferably in housing or a related field.

· Track record in delivering targeted advocacy strategies and implementing communication strategies to support advocacy efforts.

· Experience in engaging stakeholders and decision-makers through events, networks, and meetings.

· Experience in community mobilisation or engagement.

· Understanding of housing poverty policies and related social welfare issues in Great Britain, with the ability to advise on effective mechanisms for influence.

· Familiarity with Local Authority Governance and opportunities for policy influence at local and regional levels.

Skills and competencies:

· Proficient in clear and effective written and verbal communication to convey complex policy matters to diverse groups.

· Strong relationship-building skills with government representatives, NGOs, and various stakeholders.

· Strategic thinking abilities and collaborative work approach towards organisational objectives and advocacy approaches.

· Ability to collaborate with diverse teams across multiple locations.

· Self-motivated, organized, and capable of working under pressure to meet deadlines and adapt to challenges.

· Enthusiastic, positive, and proactive with a solution-oriented mindset.

· Demonstrated interest in our work and commitment to continuous learning and development.

· Dedication to contributing to the inclusive, people-positive culture at Habitat.

The role and responsibilities will be carried out in a way which reflects:

· Habitat GB’s commitment to safeguarding children in accordance with the Safeguarding

Policy.

· A commitment to Habitat GB’s vision, mission, values and approach.

· A commitment to effective management of risk, by operating within the Charity’s code of conduct, policies, procedures and controls and by carrying out the risk management and assurance responsibilities of the role as set out in relevant Policy and Procedures.

This is not intended to be an exhaustive list.  Job descriptions may be subject to change.

Flexibility   

Habitat GB is seeking to rapidly expand its activities and impact to fight poverty across the world. This means that the organisation must be adaptable and flexible and have an ambitious, dynamic and flexible team.  It is a requirement of the post holder to be flexible in terms of location (within reason), line management, and duties and responsibilities.

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.

Start your Habitat journey

We want the recruitment process to give you the opportunity to share your skills and experience, and to find out more about Habitat. You are welcome to get in touch and arrange an informal chat with a member of the team before submitting an application. To apply for the role, please send us your CV and a cover letter telling us about yourself, how you meet the person specification, and your motivation for applying – we don’t expect this to be more than two sides of A4. 

The deadline for applications is 12 May 2024 (at 11:59 pm).

Interviews will take place online from the week beginning 20 May 2024. Selected candidates will be contacted to agree a suitable time for interview.

Please note that we do not reimburse any expenses incurred during interviews.

We’d prefer to hear directly from applicants – we won’t be working with third party recruiters on this role. 

This post profile is not set in stone. It gives insight into the main purpose of the role, and expected responsibilities, but it might be reviewed in the future to meet the changing requirements of Habitat for Humanity GB – any changes will be made in discussion with the post-holder. 

Habitat for Humanity requires that all employees take seriously their ethical responsibilities to safeguard our intended beneficiaries, their communities, and all those with whom we work.  Managers at all levels have responsibilities to support and develop systems that create and maintain an environment that prevents harassment, sexual exploitation and abuse, safeguards the rights of beneficiaries and community members (especially children), and promotes the implementation of our code of conduct.

At Habitat for Humanity GB, we aim to build, develop and retain a talented workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, skills and experiences. We welcome and actively encourage applications from anyone who feels they’d be a good fit for our organisation, regardless of race, religion, colour, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, neurodiversity or any other protected characteristics.

Unfortunately, because of high volume of applications we will not be able to contact unsuccessful applicants. If you haven’t heard from us within a month of the application deadline, please assume that your application has not been successful.

Salary: £34,000 to £37,000 per annum (FTE), depending on experience.

Hours: 35 hours per week FTE, we will consider flexible hours & 3 or 4 day week working.

Place of work: Remote/Hybrid.

Please note that the role will require some attendance at face-to-face meetings in either the Scottish parliament or Northern Ireland Assembly and therefore applications are welcomed from people living in, or with easy access to, Edinburgh or Belfast. You will also be required to attend our Hatfield Office for a minimum of 4 (all staff) days annually.

About us

We're the UK's leading charity for Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Right now, an estimated 500,000 people in the UK are living with a lifelong disease many people have never heard of and for which there is no known cure. Because of the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding these diseases, thousands of people are suffering in silence. But we’re here to support and champion their cause and our new ambitious plans will help to make a real difference.

The role

Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of those living with Crohn's and Colitis? At Crohn’s & Colitis UK, we are seeking a dedicated Policy Lead to play a pivotal role in shaping our policy and public affairs initiatives in alignment with our strategic objectives and UK-wide influencing priorities. As a Policy Lead, you will have the unique opportunity to contribute to the development of our policy and public affairs engagement plans that ensure a strong and influential voice for individuals affected by Crohn’s and Colitis.

Working closely with the Head of Policy and Campaigns and the Policy Manager, you will actively engage in effective policy development and advocacy efforts, making a tangible difference in the lives of thousands of people across the UK. Join our team and be a driving force in creating positive change for those impacted by these conditions.

This role will require some attendance at Scottish Parliament, or Northern Ireland Assembly and other Government offices for face-to-face meetings.

About you

• develop and deliver evidence-based policy initiatives to transform services
•  build and maintain relationships with decision makers across Scotland and Northern Ireland
• communicate with them succinctly and effectively to amplify our voice
•  keep track of policy developments in Scotland and Northern Ireland
• use your knowledge of health policy and build networks to change systems.

Together, we will achieve better diagnosis, better care and better lives for everyone affected by Crohn’s and Colitis.

How to apply

Closing date: Tuesday 7th May 2024 – 9am.

If you wish to apply for this role, please provide a cv and supporting statement giving evidence and examples of how you meet the criteria of the person specification and what you feel you would bring to the role.

Please note: no applications will move forward within the recruiting process without a supporting statement. Applications will be assessed as and when they are received, and interviews arranged, so we may close the position before the closing date if a suitable candidate is found

We are an inclusive employer and offer equal opportunities to all regardless of an individual’s age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.

We are not a licensed sponsor at this time. Any offer of employment will be made subject to valid right to work in the UK being provided.

We will not be accepting any contact from Recruitment Agencies or Media Sales

England’s National Parks represent our finest landscapes, famed for their spectacular beauty, varied wildlife and rich cultural heritage. National Parks are critical to supporting local communities, providing access to green spaces for the nation, and helping to tackle the dual challenges of climate change and declining biodiversity.

National Parks England’s purpose is to be the collective voice for English National Park Authorities, helping us to achieve our purposes through influencing policy.  We are a small team, working with a much wider team of colleagues across National Park Authorities.

As Senior Media and Communications Officer within NPE you will support a range of the policy and influencing work of National Park Authorities for a range of campaigns and projects including our work on Generation Green and the Protected Landscapes Partnership.

You will work alongside the wider team to ensure effective communication through the media to influence public opinion and political change. As well as high quality media relations, the post will support delivery of public relations activities, and support wider public affairs and stakeholder relations.

The successful candidate will have excellent media, public relations and integrated communications skills gained within a policy and influencing environment and will be confident to play both lead and supporting roles on a wide range of projects. They will have excellent writing and editing skills, an understanding of what makes media worthy content, and experience of building relationships with journalists. The post holder should also have experience of as supporting stakeholder engagement with those in and around government and in working with a range of project partners.

England’s National Parks represent our finest landscapes, famed for their spectacular beauty, varied wildlife and rich cultural heritage. National Parks are critical to supporting local communities, providing access to green spaces for the nation, and helping to tackle the dual challenges of climate change and declining biodiversity.

National Parks England’s purpose is to be the collective voice for English National Park Authorities, helping us to achieve our purposes through influencing policy.

The Policy and Public Affairs Manager will be an experienced public affairs professional with a passion for nature and understanding of National Parks. 

The successful applicant will join our senior management team, managing the Policy and Public Affairs team and work with the Executive Director  to help develop and drive the NPE policy and public affairs strategy, working closely with stakeholders in our member National Parks and the wider Protected Landscapes family.

£37,181 per annum and excellent benefits including flexible working

Fixed term until April 2026 – linked to funding

Full time hours a week – 37.5 per week

Closing date: Tuesday 7th May 2024 at 11.30 pm

Do you have proven experience of day-to-day staff and service management, including casework support and supervision? If leading a new financial resilience project sounds appealing, join Shelter as a Team Leader and you could soon be playing a vital role at the heart of our Birmingham Hub.

About Shelter

A home is a fundamental human need, as essential as education or healthcare. Yet millions of people across Britain struggle on a daily basis with homelessness, bad housing conditions, soaring rents, discrimination and the threat of eviction. So, we are striving for change, with individuals, in communities, across society, and leading the way to a safe home. We need ambitious people who are passionate about our cause to join us at this exciting time. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

At Shelter we are united by our purpose to defend the right to a safe home. Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. We believe that to win that fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement for change. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, fair, equitable and transparent.

We have committed to combat racism both within and outside Shelter and welcome you on our journey to becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.

About the team

In Birmingham our team has over 40 staff plus a team of volunteers. We specialise in housing advice and homelessness work, with a particular focus on families and people experiencing multiple disadvantage. We partner with a range of organisations to challenge the underlying systems that prevent people from living securely in suitable, safe, affordable accommodation.

About the role

We have a new three year partnership with a leading bank, which aims to build financial resilience and break the cycles that can see people experiencing financial problems and this having a negative effect on their housing situation.

Your role will be to provide leadership and line management for six team members, keeping up to date with legislation, mentoring and coaching your team on complex issues in housing, debt and welfare benefits. The views of people with Lived Experience is key to service design at Shelter and you will lead on making sure they are involved to deliver a service that is truly co-produced. We aim to empower communities, so you will develop and deliver training on rights awareness and build relationships within the community. Compliance is also a crucial part of the role - you will monitor and report on contract and financial performance, carry out casework supervision and file reviews and identify systemic housing issues.

We are happy to talk about flexible working, personal growth, and to promote a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit.

About you

You will need experience of working with people facing exclusion and disadvantage and in a multi-disciplinary context with partners, community groups and other agencies, acting as a safeguarding lead. A good understanding of housing, debt advice, and welfare benefits is essential. The communication skills it takes to line manage others, promote effective working relationships, with external agencies, people with lived experience and internally across Shelter, are key. You will be able to demonstrate the ability to manage externally funded contracts including reporting and financial oversight.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave (pro rata), enhanced family friendly policies, pension and interest free travel loans. Our employees also have access to a tenancy deposit loan, payroll giving, cycle to work scheme and an employee assistance programme.

Home is everything. We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Join us in ending the devastating impact the housing emergency has on people and our communities.

Safeguarding is everyone's business. Shelter is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. All our staff will be expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies.

£37,181 per annum pro rata and excellent benefits including flexible working

Fixed term contract until 31st March 2026 - linked to funding

30 hours a week

Closing date: Tuesday 7th May 2024 at 11.30 pm

Do you have proven experience of day-to-day staff and service management, including casework support and supervision? Then join Shelter as a Team Leader and you could soon be playing an important role at the heart of our Birmingham Hub.

About Shelter

A home is a fundamental human need, as essential as education or healthcare. Yet millions of people across Britain struggle on a daily basis with homelessness, bad housing conditions, soaring rents, discrimination and the threat of eviction. So, we are striving for change, with individuals, in communities, across society, and leading the way to a safe home. We need ambitious people who are passionate about our cause to join us at this exciting time. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

At Shelter we are united by our purpose to defend the right to a safe home. Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. We believe that to win that fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement for change. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, fair, equitable and transparent. We have committed to combat racism both within and outside Shelter and welcome you on our journey to becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.

About the team

In Birmingham hub we specialise in providing housing advice and homelessness work, with a particular focus on families and people experiencing multiple disadvantage. We work in partnership with a range of organisations to improve the underlying systems that prevent people from living securely in suitable, safe, affordable accommodation. This role will be to provide day to day leadership for our Peer Mentor Service, delivered in partnership with Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust. FIRST stands for Forensic Intensive Support Recovery Teams, where Peer Mentors use their own lived experience of complex needs to provide early intervention to improve client outcomes.

About the role

You will be responsible for the day to day service delivery and line management of the Peer Mentors, supporting them to deliver tailor made and holistic support packages, integrating joint working protocols within NHS services. You will allocate referrals and work closely with the Service Manager and Service Commissioners to identify gaps in provision. At Shelter we are aiming to change the systems that cause the housing emergency so you will identify examples of good and bad practice which will then be used to call for systemic change.

We are happy to talk about flexible working, personal growth, and to promote a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit.

About you

To succeed, you’ll need experience of working with people with complex needs and in a multi-agency context with partners, community groups and other agencies. A good understanding of housing, homelessness and welfare benefits issues is crucial. The communication skills it takes to line manage others and promote effective working relationships, with external agencies, people with lived experience and internally across Shelter, are key. Ideally you will understand employing individuals with lived experience of complex needs, the challenges and opportunities this presents and how best to provide effective support. You have experience of promoting take up of services both internally and externally.

We offer a wide range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave (pro rata), enhanced family friendly policies, pension and interest free travel loans. Our employees also have access to a tenancy deposit loan, payroll giving, cycle to work scheme and an employee assistance programme.

Home is everything. We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Join us in ending the devastating impact the housing emergency has on people and our communities.

Safeguarding is everyone's business. Shelter is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. All our staff will be expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies.

Shelter does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

People living with Parkinson's value the services and opportunities Parkinson’s UK provides, delivered by committed and skilled colleagues, volunteers and partner organisations. Following an investment of 1.5 million we have the opportunity to build on the quality and reach of our community services. 

About the role

You’ll empower your clients to take actions for themselves or will advocate on their behalf for better service, support and outcomes, so they can live their life with Parkinson's in the way they choose.

You’ll deliver tailored information and support through a range of channels including telephone, video and email and, where appropriate, home visits and in community settings.

You’ll be responsible for building excellent relationships with healthcare professionals and other relevant agencies, as well as our network of volunteers and groups.

What you'll do:

• Provide professional person centred, in depth support to clients by a range of means, ensuring the most efficient and effective use of resources.

• Provide support on a variety of health and social care issues, including appropriate emotional, employment and welfare benefits support and advocating with and on behalf of clients. 

• Work flexibly across the service responding to enquiries through a range of channels.

• Work closely with clinicians, specialist nurses and other professional colleagues to raise the profile of the service, increase depth of support and achieve improved outcomes for people with Parkinson’s.

What you'll bring: 

• Experience of managing and delivering individual case work, including advocating for clients and supporting people to navigate  the health and social care system 

• Experience and understanding of safeguarding and your role in keeping clients safe and  implementing organisational policies and procedure

• Ability to be calm and use emotional intelligence in challenging casework

• Demonstrable digital competence, with experience of effective use of a range of tools including online case management systems

• The ability to build effective working relationships with others including working within multi disciplinary teams internally and externally 

You must live in the area you’re applying for in order to carry out this role. 

Please apply by sending us your CV, together with supporting statements. The supporting statement should fully demonstrate how you meet all the criteria as stated in the "What you'll bring" section of the role description.

We are operating rolling recruitment for this vacancy and reviewing applications as they are received. We reserve the right to close this vacancy when we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

The successful candidate will be required to: 

• live in the area specified, and be able to travel freely and flexibly throughout the area and occasionally further afield without reliance on public transport

• Preferably hold a full driving licence

• provide occasional cover on Saturdays and/or Bank holidays

• provide their own broadband service with a minimum download speed of 2Mb 

This role will require an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. You’ll be required to apply for one; refusal to do so will result in the offer being withdrawn.

Anyone can get Parkinson’s. It’s vital that the people who work for Parkinson’s UK are representative of our diverse community. We actively encourage people from all sections of the community to apply, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, disability, sexual orientation, or religion.

Bladder Health UK (BHUK) is a small national charity that has developed significantly over the last 10 years. We are now looking for a part-time charity manager who can continue this journey. The role gives a rare opportunity to someone who is enthusiastic to make a difference in this unique space and have a significant impact on both sufferers and healthcare professionals. As charity manager you will need a varied skillset including being able to build and nurture relationships, manage a small team of staff, develop new income streams, create, and develop imaginative projects and use innovative technology to boost the aims and objectives of the charity.

What you would do

Account management of existing and new relationships in the charity sector. • Research and write grant applications. • Support in making decisions and advise on the charity spend. • Work with the BHUK team to tell the story of ‘Bladder Health UK’ via its communication channels. • Support hosting and organising charity events. • Manage the general cashflow for the charity including reporting from a finance perspective. • Work on a multitude of projects throughout the year. • Outreach to relevant charities that the charity wants to work with and build long lasting, meaningful relationships with them. •. • Maintain all contracts, mailing lists, ensuring IT systems are kept up to date, and are compliant. • Manage ongoing governance of the charity, including developing and maintaining policy documents such as our grant making policy, conflict of interest processes, procedures and register, risk management policy and register. • Maintain charity commission register records. You will also be expected to be able to provide and present regular reports to the Trustees on the finance and operational activity of the charity.

To succeed in this post, it is essential that you have:

• Have been involved in charity campaign work previously.
• Have experience in charity operations and governance. 
• Have sales /marketing/fundraising experience.
• Be able to multi-task in a busy environment.
• Can demonstrate effective communication skills with ability to liaise with different audiences and be effective at developing long-lasting relationships.
• Evidence that you are highly organised and great with time management.
• Have experience developing social media, websites, and webinars to promote, inform and educate.

It would be desirable that you:

• Have either a clinical background or experience in urology issues.
• Are passionate about making a difference and are willing to understand how amazing our members, volunteers and supporters are.

We have an exciting opportunity to join us in making a difference!  

Citizens Advice Birmingham has partnered with Alzheimer's Society to deliver Welfare Benefits Advice for people living with dementia. This includes those with the condition and their carers. 

Are you an experienced adviser who has a strong background in the delivery of high-quality advice and a good working knowledge of welfare benefits? 

We are looking for an enthusiastic caseworker to join the team, to provide the following:

• You will undertake casework, assisting clients to access their entitlement to welfare benefits and other sources of financial help, up to and including tribunal representation.
• Advice will be delivered virtually according to the service user’s needs and preferences. This will include phone, secure email or secure video calls.
• Help to design welfare benefit information leaflets and upskill referrers, preparing and providing training on our referral processes.
• Working independently and building relationships with third sector colleagues will be important, as will the ability to achieve targets, and support the work of volunteers. 

Annual Leave:  25 days plus 8 bank holidays pro rata per annum from 1st January to 31st December. This rises to 30 days pro rata over the next 5 years

Previous applicants need not apply

Closing Date: Thursday 2nd May 2024 at noon

Interview Date: Monday 20th May 2024

Role Title: OISC Level 2 Immigration Advisor

Shropshire Supports Refugees (SSR) is a charitable organisation dedicated to supporting refugees and marginalised migrants who have come to live in Shropshire.

Our mission is to create a welcoming and inclusive community by offering practical help, resources and emotional support to those in need.  With a staff team of fifteen and fifty dedicated volunteers, we are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

Location: Shrewsbury and locations around Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin

Hours: 37.5 hrs per week 

Reports to: CEO

Salary: £31,200 - 2yr fixed term contract

Main Responsibilities:

• Conduct initial consultations with clients to assess their immigration needs and eligibility

• Provide comprehensive advice on various immigration matters, including visa applications, settlement, asylum claims, and appeals within OISC level 2 guidelines

• Maintain accurate records and case files, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients

• Advocate on behalf of clients by telephone, letter and email with appropriate agencies

• Keep up-to-date with changes in immigration laws and policies and provide training to colleagues as necessary

• Attend training events relating to asylum and immigration

• To supervise OISC level 1 colleagues

• Undertake other tasks within the organisation as required

Person Specification:

Essential:

• OISC Level 2 accreditation is essential

• Previous experience working as an Immigration Advisor or similar role within the immigration sector

• In-depth knowledge of UK immigration laws, policies, and procedures

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds

• Strong time management with the ability to work to strict deadlines

• Knowledge and understanding of the voluntary sector

• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills

• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral

• Ability to work independently and manage a caseload effectively

• Proficiency in the Microsoft suite

Desirable:

• Fluency in additional languages 

• Experience of Salesforce CRM 

• Full driving licence

Please note, a Welsh copy of the following job description is available on our website.

Rewilding Britain - Wales Advocacy Coordinator

Since Rewilding Britain was formed in 2015 rewilding has moved from being a niche idea to playing a significant role in the fight against some of the biggest global challenges we face. Rewilding Britain is at the forefront of this change, acting as a catalyst for debate and action, and demonstrating the power of working with nature to build a sustainable world where people thrive.

Imagine a Wales where the connection between culture and nature is reawakened. Where a rich tapestry of native woodlands, wetlands, wildflower meadows and grasslands is stitched back together. Where land and seas teem with life and where nature-based enterprises support thriving communities far and wide. And imagine that this has been led and achieved by local people.

Rewilding Britain wants to see rewilding flourishing across 30% of Britain, reconnecting us with the natural world, sustaining communities and tackling the interconnected nature and climate emergencies.

We influence policy, inspire public action and catalyse joined-up practical and financial support to help establish rewilding across Britain’s land and seas. Through a rapidly growing Rewilding Network we’re bringing together a community of rewilders - from land managers and farmers, to charities, community groups and national parks - to inspire and support each other to create a wilder, more prosperous Britain. It’s not too late - but we must act now.

We're now seeking a self-motivated Welsh Advocacy Coordinator to join our team and help steer Rewilding Britain’s policy and advocacy activities in Wales. The successful candidate will be an innovative, driven and forward-thinking individual with a proven track record of advocacy, policy or influencing work within a relevant sector. This is an exciting opportunity to join our fast growing charity and directly contribute to the growth of the rewilding movement.

Job purpose:

There's already a growing rewilding movement across Wales. Increasingly, land managers are looking for ways to incorporate rewilding into their practices, at a time the Welsh Senedd is investigating ways for Wales to meet its net zero and nature recovery commitments. Building on this, you'll help support the development and delivery of a collaborative and locally-led rewilding vision and work to ensure that it is mainstreamed within Welsh Government policy and practice.

Objective of the Role:

In collaboration with key Welsh organisations and stakeholders, develop, research and lead the delivery of evidence-based policy influencing, public affairs and campaigning activities which support the mainstreaming of rewilding into policy and practice in Wales.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Coordinating the planning and delivery of policy and influencing activities in Wales, primarily through working with and developing new partnerships in Wales
• Keeping up to date with changing policies and legislation in relation to rewilding, identifying opportunities to deliver positive change
• Developing relevant policy positions and communicating these in order to influence the Welsh policy environment
• Gathering intelligence and research, summarising evidence and communicating learning in order to develop these policy positions
• Ensuring that the connection between localism, communities, culture and rewilding is integrated into Rewilding Britain’s work in Wales
• Building and maintaining effective stakeholder relationships, particularly with civil servants, policy makers, national and local decision-makers, and campaigning/landowning/marine bodies
• Working with Rewilding Network members in Wales to build broad engagement in joint advocacy activities, backing this up with compelling evidence of the benefits of rewilding
• Developing the creation of a co-operative approach to Rewilding in Wales (e.g. similar to that of the Scottish Rewilding Alliance)
• Providing political monitoring and intelligence to colleagues across the organisation and partners operating in Wales
• Working collaboratively with other organisations, influencers and campaigns

Skills, experience and behaviours

Skills and experience

Essential:

• At least 5 years’ experience of working in policy, public affairs and/or campaigns in a relevant field in Wales
• Demonstrable understanding of the political, economic and cultural landscape in Wales relevant to rewilding
• Highly organised with excellent networking skills
• Ability to analyse research and evidence to influence policy
• Persuasive communication skills which influence and motivate
• Ability to work autonomously, showing initiative while building excellent relationships with the wider team
• Skilled at combining policy, public affairs and campaigning activities, with clear evidence of impact

Desirable:

• Ability to speak Welsh is highly desirable.
• Experience managing work remotely
• Experience in and understanding of rewilding
• Experience of public speaking
• Experience of dealing with press and other media
• Project management experience

Behaviours

Essential:

• A self-starter with initiative and motivation who works to make things happen.
• Positive, collaborative attitude.
• Passionate, confident and adaptable.
• Focussed and results driven.

This job description is not all encompassing and may change to reflect need. Your duties may be reviewed from time to time and revised and updated in consultation with you to reflect appropriate changes.
 

Terms and conditions and staff benefits

This is a full-time role at 35 hours per week, but we're open to applications from those looking to work 28 hours or more per week.

The salary is £38k - £45k per annum (depending on relevant experience).

There will be some freedom for the person to determine their own working arrangements each week, within limitations, providing the work is delivered.

Rewilding Britain employees benefit from 25 days annual leave per year (pro rata for part time roles), rising to 30 days over 5 years. A generous employer-matched pension scheme is also available.

We are a virtual team who work from home and/or co-working spaces. We'll support you to achieve a suitable virtual working environment. Some meetings are held face to face across Britain, so a willingness to travel with occasional overnight stays is desirable.
 

Use of artificial intelligence tools: Rewilding Britain does not accept cover letters, presentations or answers to recruitment questions whose content is AI generated and we will actively screen for this as part of our recruitment process. Rewilding Britain does not use AI tools to review candidate applications; real people will review and shortlist applications.
 

Equality in employment: Candidates will be shortlisted and selected according to suitability for the post without regard to age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.
 

Rewilding Britain is not a licenced sponsor at this time. Any offer of employment will be made subject to the provision of a valid right to work in the UK.

As the Training Programmes Manager you will have oversight and responsibility for the healthcare professional training projects and activities, as well as growing the M4RD network within HCP groups and training institutions.

You will be key to rolling out Rare Disease 101 training for healthcare professionals all over the UK and potentially abroad. While you are not expected to deliver training yourself you will be pivotal to creating opportunities and facilitating all aspects of the programme.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Co-lead M4RD’s Ambassador Programme, managing the clinical and medical student ambassadors.

• Planning and delivering training events.

• Deliver educational and training projects inline with M4RD’s current strategy and work programme.

• Collaborate  with training institutions and NHS workplaces inline with M4RD’s current strategy and work programme.

• Potential to manage up to two members of the M4RD Team.

• Support the CEO and Operations & Finance Manager with recruitment duties, operational strategy and development and coaching any relevant staff.